Sustainability

20 pages, 2325 KB

Open AccessArticle

Knowledge Management in Environmental Sustainability: The Roles of Financial and Social Integration

by Aldawaib Kriym and Hasan Yousef Aljuhmani

Sustainability 2026, 18(2), 735; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18020735 (registering DOI) - 10 Jan 2026

This study investigates how economic growth, financial integration, social integration, and knowledge management shape CO₂ emissions in Saudi Arabia using quarterly data from 1995Q1 to 2024Q4. It applies kernel-regularized quantile regression to capture nonlinear and state-dependent effects across the conditional distribution of [...] Read more.

This study investigates how economic growth, financial integration, social integration, and knowledge management shape CO₂ emissions in Saudi Arabia using quarterly data from 1995Q1 to 2024Q4. It applies kernel-regularized quantile regression to capture nonlinear and state-dependent effects across the conditional distribution of emissions without imposing restrictive parametric assumptions, while regularization mitigates overfitting and multicollinearity. The results reveal strong distributional heterogeneity. Economic growth is emission-augmenting and is strongest at the lower tail, weaker around the median, and positive again in the upper tail. Financial integration reduces emissions across quantiles, most strongly under low-emission states, while social integration is mostly near-neutral beyond the lower tail. Knowledge management increases emissions throughout, and quantile Granger causality is concentrated in the upper quantiles, indicating stronger predictive linkages when emissions are high. Based on these findings, this study proposes precise, quantile-specific policy guidelines across the distribution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Knowledge Management and Digital Transformation in Sustainability)

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22 pages, 2690 KB

Open AccessArticle

Integrating Nighttime Light and Household Survey Data to Monitor Income Inequality: Implications for China’s Socioeconomic Sustainability

by Li Zhuo, Qiuying Wu and Siying Guo

Sustainability 2026, 18(2), 734; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18020734 (registering DOI) - 10 Jan 2026

Abstract

Accurate monitoring of income inequality is critical for sustainable socioeconomic development and realizing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, assessing inequality for counties continues to be challenging because of the high cost of household surveys and the limited accuracy of traditional [...] Read more.

Accurate monitoring of income inequality is critical for sustainable socioeconomic development and realizing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, assessing inequality for counties continues to be challenging because of the high cost of household surveys and the limited accuracy of traditional nighttime light (NTL) proxies. To address this gap, we develop the Distribution Matching-based Individual Income Inequality Estimation Model (DM-I3EM), which integrates NTL data with household surveys. The model employs a three-stage workflow: logarithmic transformation of NTL data, estimation of Gini coefficients through Weibull distribution fitting, and selection of region-specific regression models, enabling high-resolution mapping and spatiotemporal analysis of county-level income inequality across China. Results show that DM-I3EM achieves superior performance, with an R² of 0.76 in China’s Eastern region (outperforming conventional NTL-based methods, R ≈ 0.5). By overcoming the spatiotemporal gaps of survey data, the model enables full-coverage estimation, revealing a regional divergence in income inequality across China from 2013 to 2022: inequality is intensifying in northern and western counties while stabilizing in the developed southern coastal regions. Furthermore, spatial agglomeration of inequality has strengthened, particularly in coastal urban clusters. These findings highlight emerging risks to socioeconomic sustainability. This study provides a robust, replicable framework for estimating inequality in data-scarce regions, offering policymakers actionable evidence to identify high-risk areas and design targeted strategies for advancing SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). Full article

33 pages, 1480 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Inverted U-Shaped Relationship Between Digital Literacy and Household Carbon Emissions: Empirical Evidence from China’s CFPS Microdata

by Weiping Wu, Liangyu Ye and Shenyuan Zhang

Sustainability 2026, 18(2), 733; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18020733 (registering DOI) - 10 Jan 2026

Abstract

In the context of China’s dual-carbon agenda and the Digital China initiative, elucidating the role of digital literacy in shaping consumption-based household carbon emissions (HCE) is essential for advancing low-carbon urban living and supporting a broader green transition. Existing research has rarely examined, [...] Read more.

In the context of China’s dual-carbon agenda and the Digital China initiative, elucidating the role of digital literacy in shaping consumption-based household carbon emissions (HCE) is essential for advancing low-carbon urban living and supporting a broader green transition. Existing research has rarely examined, at the individual level, how digital capability shapes household consumption decisions and the structure of carbon emissions. Accordingly, this study draws on matched household-individual microdata from the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS). We employ a two-way fixed effects model, kernel density analysis, and qualitative comparative analysis. We test the nonlinear effect of digital literacy on household consumption-related carbon emissions and examine its heterogeneity. We also examined the mediating role of perceived environmental pressure, social trust and income level. The research results show that: (1) The net impact of digital literacy on carbon emissions related to household consumption shows an inverted U-shaped curve, rising first and then falling. When digital literacy is low, it mainly increases emissions by expanding consumption channels, reducing transaction costs and improving convenience. Once digital literacy exceeds a certain threshold, the mechanism will gradually turn to optimize the consumption structure, so as to support the low-carbon transformation of individuals. (2) The impact of digital literacy on HCE is structurally different in different types of consumption. In terms of transportation and communication expenditure, the emission reduction effect is the most significant, and with the improvement in digital literacy, this effect will become more and more obvious. For housing-related consumption, the turning point appeared the earliest. With the improvement in digital literacy, its effect will enter the emission reduction stage faster. (3) Digital literacy can reduce carbon emissions related to household consumption by enhancing residents’ perception of environmental pressure and strengthening social trust. However, it may also increase emissions by increasing residents’ incomes, because it will expand the scale of consumption, which will lead to an increase in carbon emissions related to household consumption. (4) The heterogeneity analysis shows that as digital literacy improves, carbon emissions increase more strongly among rural residents, people with low human capital, low-income households, and women. However, the turning-point threshold for emission reduction is relatively lower for women and rural residents. (5) Low-carbon transitions in household consumption are shaped by dynamic interactions among multiple factors, and multiple pathways can coexist. Digital literacy can work with environmental responsibility to endogenously promote low-carbon consumption behavior. It can also, under well-developed infrastructure, empower households and amplify the emission-reduction effects of technology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancing Sustainable Cities and Urban Regions Development: New Challenges and Prospects)

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31 pages, 475 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Implementation of ESG-Oriented Sustainable Development Strategies in the Banking Sector: A Case Study

by Przemysław Pluskota, Kamila Słupińska, Agata Wawrzyniak and Barbara Wąsikowska

Sustainability 2026, 18(2), 732; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18020732 (registering DOI) - 10 Jan 2026

Abstract

This paper presents a theoretical and empirical analysis of how banks apply artificial intelligence (AI) in digital and mobile banking to implement and communicate ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) strategies, with particular emphasis on environmental dimensions of sustainable finance. The study adopts a [...] Read more.

This paper presents a theoretical and empirical analysis of how banks apply artificial intelligence (AI) in digital and mobile banking to implement and communicate ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) strategies, with particular emphasis on environmental dimensions of sustainable finance. The study adopts a mixed methodological approach combining desk research, encompassing a synthesis of academic studies, industry reports, and European regulatory frameworks on AI and ESG, and case study analysis of selected banks implementing AI-based sustainability solutions. The findings reveal that AI supports ESG strategy implementation primarily through green investment recommendations, carbon footprint analytics, automated sustainability reporting, and ethical communication with clients. AI-driven tools enhance the operational efficiency, transparency, and customer engagement of financial institutions while simultaneously fostering low-carbon financial behaviors. However, the study also highlights ethical and governance challenges related to algorithmic transparency, data bias, and responsible AI oversight. The paper contributes to the growing body of literature on AI-driven digital transformation and sustainable finance by identifying research gaps and outlining future directions for exploring the role of AI in accelerating the transition of the banking sector. Full article

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

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27 pages, 1537 KB

Open AccessArticle

Improved Black-Winged Kite Algorithm for Sustainable Photovoltaic Energy Modeling and Accurate Parameter Estimation

by Sulaiman Z. Almutairi and Abdullah M. Shaheen

Sustainability 2026, 18(2), 731; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18020731 (registering DOI) - 10 Jan 2026

Abstract

Accurate modeling and parameter estimation of photovoltaic (PV) systems are vital for advancing energy sustainability and achieving global decarbonization goals. Reliable PV models enable better integration of solar resources into smart grids, improve system efficiency, and reduce maintenance costs. This aligns with the [...] Read more.

Accurate modeling and parameter estimation of photovoltaic (PV) systems are vital for advancing energy sustainability and achieving global decarbonization goals. Reliable PV models enable better integration of solar resources into smart grids, improve system efficiency, and reduce maintenance costs. This aligns with the vision of sustainable energy systems that combine intelligent optimization with environmental responsibility. The recently introduced Black-Winged Kite Algorithm (BWKA) has shown promise by emulating the predatory and migratory behaviors of black-winged kites; however, it still suffers from issues of slow convergence, limited population diversity, and imbalance between exploration and exploitation. To address these limitations, this paper proposes an Improved Black-Winged Kite Algorithm (IBWKA) that integrates two novel strategies: (i) a Soft-Rime Search (SRS) modulation in the attacking phase, which introduces a smoothly decaying nonlinear factor to adaptively balance global exploration and local exploitation, and (ii) a Quadratic Interpolation (QI) refinement mechanism, applied to a subset of elite individuals, that accelerates local search by fitting a parabola through representative candidate solutions and guiding the search toward promising minima. These dual enhancements reinforce both global diversity and local accuracy, preventing premature convergence and improving convergence speed. The effectiveness of the proposed IBWKA in contrast to the standard BWKA is validated through a comprehensive experimental study for accurate parameter identification of PV models, including single-, double-, and three-diode equivalents, using standard datasets (RTC France and STM6_40_36). The findings show that IBWKA delivers higher accuracy and faster convergence than existing methods, with its improvements confirmed through statistical analysis. Compared to BWKA and others, it proves to be more robust, reliable, and consistent. By combining adaptive exploration, strong diversity maintenance, and refined local search, IBWKA emerges as a versatile optimization tool. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Renewable Energy: Smart Grid and Electric Power System)

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21 pages, 267 KB

Open AccessArticle

Delivering Blue Economy and Nature Recovery in Coastal Communities—A Diverse Economies Perspective

by Alex Midlen

Sustainability 2026, 18(2), 730; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18020730 (registering DOI) - 10 Jan 2026

Abstract

Blue economy aims to bring prosperity to coastal communities whilst also protecting natural ocean resources for future generations. But how can this vision be put into practice, especially in communities in which dependence on natural resources is high, and food and livelihood security [...] Read more.

Blue economy aims to bring prosperity to coastal communities whilst also protecting natural ocean resources for future generations. But how can this vision be put into practice, especially in communities in which dependence on natural resources is high, and food and livelihood security are key concerns? This paper examines two cases of community-led nature-based enterprise in Kenya in a search for solutions to this challenge: fisheries reform through market access and gear sustainability; mangrove forest conservation and community development using carbon credit revenues. I use a ‘diverse economies framework’ for the first time in blue economy contexts to delve into the heterogeneous relations at work and in search of insights that can be applied in multiple contexts. Analysed through key informant interviews and field observation, the cases reveal a complex assemblage of institutions, knowledges, technologies, and practices within which enterprises operate. Whilst the enterprises featured are still relatively new and developing, they suggest a direction of travel for a community-led sustainable blue economy that both supports and benefits from nature recovery. The insights gained from this diverse economies analysis lead us to appreciate a sustainable blue economy as a rediscovered and reinvigorated relationship of reciprocity between society and nature—one that nurtures place-based nature-based livelihoods and nature recovery together, and which embodies a set of values and ethics shared by government, communities, and business. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainability, Biodiversity and Conservation)

28 pages, 9478 KB

Open AccessArticle

Integrating Agro-Hydrological Modeling with Index-Based Vulnerability Assessment for Nitrate-Contaminated Groundwater

by Dawid Potrykus, Adam Szymkiewicz, Beata Jaworska-Szulc, Gianluigi Busico, Anna Gumuła-Kawęcka, Wioletta Gorczewska-Langner and Micol Mastrocicco

Sustainability 2026, 18(2), 729; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18020729 (registering DOI) - 10 Jan 2026

Abstract

Protecting groundwater against pollution from agricultural sources is a key aspect of sustainable management of soil and water resources. Implementation of sustainable strategies for agricultural production can be supported by modeling tools, which allow us to quantify the effects of different agricultural practices [...] Read more.

Protecting groundwater against pollution from agricultural sources is a key aspect of sustainable management of soil and water resources. Implementation of sustainable strategies for agricultural production can be supported by modeling tools, which allow us to quantify the effects of different agricultural practices in the context of groundwater vulnerability to contamination. In this study we present a method to assess groundwater vulnerability to nitrate pollution based on a combination of the SWAT agro-hydrological model and the DRASTIC index method. SWAT modeling was applied to assess different scenarios of agricultural practices and identify solutions for sustainable management of soil and groundwater and reduction of nitrate pollution. The developed method was implemented for groundwater resources in a study area (Puck Bay region, southern Baltic coast), which represented a complex multi-aquifer system formed in Quaternary fluvioglacial deposits (sand and gravel) separated by moraine tills. In order to investigate the effects of different agricultural practices, 12 scenarios have been defined, which were grouped into four classes: crop type, fertilizer management, tillage, and grazing. An overlay index structure was applied, and ratings and weights to several factors were assigned. All analyses were processed using GIS tools, and the results are presented in the form of maps, which categorize groundwater vulnerability to nitrate pollution into five classes, ranging from very low to very high. The results reveal significant variability in groundwater vulnerability to nitrate pollution in the study area. Agricultural practices have a very strong influence on groundwater vulnerability by controlling both recharge rates and nitrogen losses from the soil profile. The most pronounced increases in vulnerability were associated with scenarios involving excessive fertilization and intensive grazing. Among crop types, potato cultivation appears to pose the greatest risk to groundwater quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Green Water Technologies for Effective Environmental Pollution Control)

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24 pages, 2699 KB

Open AccessArticle

Durability of Structures Made of Solid Wood Based on the Technical Condition of Selected Historical Timber Churches

by Jacek Hulimka, Marta Kałuża and Magda Tunkel

Sustainability 2026, 18(2), 728; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18020728 (registering DOI) - 10 Jan 2026

Abstract

In modern construction, natural materials with a low carbon footprint and full recyclability are becoming increasingly important. A typical group here is products made from solid wood, including glued wood, plywood, and wood-based composites. With their many advantages, however, they all burden the [...] Read more.

In modern construction, natural materials with a low carbon footprint and full recyclability are becoming increasingly important. A typical group here is products made from solid wood, including glued wood, plywood, and wood-based composites. With their many advantages, however, they all burden the environment with the costs of production processes, as well as the need to use harmful chemicals (adhesives and impregnants). Solid wood is devoid of these disadvantages; however, it is often treated as a rather archaic material. One of the arguments here is its low durability compared to, e.g., glued wood. The article discusses the durability of solid wood using the example of a group of wooden churches preserved in Poland, in Upper Silesia. Some of these buildings are over five hundred years old, making them a reliable source of information about the durability of the material from which they were built. A total of 85 churches, at least 200 years old, were analyzed, evaluating the technical state of the main load-bearing elements of their structures. In view of the number of facilities and the inability to conduct tests in most of them, the assessment was limited to a visual inspection of the technical condition, carried out by an experienced building expert. The assessment estimated the area of corrosion damage, probed its depth, and measured the depth of cracks. The relationship between their technical condition and the environmental conditions in which they were used was described and discussed. In this way, both the threats to the durability of solid wood and the ways to keep it in good condition for hundreds of years were identified, refuting the thesis that solid wood is a material with low durability. Its use in structural elements therefore supports efficient resource management and contributes to sustainable construction, especially in small and medium-sized buildings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Low-Impact Materials and Construction Strategies for Sustainable and Resilient Buildings)

18 pages, 534 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Impact of Gen-AI Usage on Academic Anxiety Among Vocational Education Students: A Mixed-Methods Study for Sustainable Education Using SEM and fsQCA

by Xinxin Hao, Jiangyu Li, Huan Huang and Bingyu Hao

Sustainability 2026, 18(2), 727; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18020727 (registering DOI) - 10 Jan 2026

Abstract

Within the global sustainable development agenda, Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) highlights improving the accessibility, quality, and learning experience of technical and vocational education and training (TVET). In China, students in vocational colleges often face greater disparities in academic preparation and access [...] Read more.

Within the global sustainable development agenda, Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) highlights improving the accessibility, quality, and learning experience of technical and vocational education and training (TVET). In China, students in vocational colleges often face greater disparities in academic preparation and access to educational resources than their peers in general higher education. Although artificial intelligence (AI) can provide additional learning support and help mitigate such inequalities, there is little empirical evidence on whether and how Gen-AI usage is associated with vocational students’ learning experiences and emotional outcomes, particularly academic anxiety. This study examines how Gen-AI usage is related to academic anxiety among Chinese vocational college students and explores the roles of class engagement and teacher support in this relationship. Drawing on Conservation of Resources (COR) theory, we analyse survey data from 511 students using structural equation modelling (SEM) and fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA). The SEM results indicate that Gen-AI usage is associated with lower academic anxiety, with class engagement mediating this relationship. Teacher support for Gen-AI usage positively moderates the association between Gen-AI usage and class engagement. The fsQCA results further identify several configurations of conditions leading to low academic anxiety. These findings underscore AI’s potential to enhance learning quality and experiences in TVET and provide empirical support for advancing SDG 4 in vocational education contexts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of AI in Online Learning and Sustainable Education)

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23 pages, 5292 KB

Open AccessArticle

Research on Rapid 3D Model Reconstruction Based on 3D Gaussian Splatting for Power Scenarios

by Huanruo Qi, Yi Zhou, Chen Chen, Lu Zhang, Peipei He, Xiangyang Yan and Mengqi Zhai

Sustainability 2026, 18(2), 726; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18020726 (registering DOI) - 10 Jan 2026

Abstract

As core infrastructure of power transmission networks, power towers require high-precision 3D models, which are critical for intelligent inspection and digital twin applications of power transmission lines. Traditional reconstruction methods, such as LiDAR scanning and oblique photogrammetry, suffer from issues including high operational [...] Read more.

As core infrastructure of power transmission networks, power towers require high-precision 3D models, which are critical for intelligent inspection and digital twin applications of power transmission lines. Traditional reconstruction methods, such as LiDAR scanning and oblique photogrammetry, suffer from issues including high operational risks, low modeling efficiency, and loss of fine details. To address these limitations, this paper proposes a 3D Gaussian Splatting (3DGS)-based method for power tower 3D reconstruction to enhance reconstruction efficiency and detail preservation capability. First, a multi-view data acquisition scheme combining “unmanned aerial vehicle + oblique photogrammetry” was designed to capture RGB images acquired by Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) platforms, which are used as the primary input for 3D reconstruction. Second, a sparse point cloud was generated via Structure from Motion. Finally, based on 3DGS, Gaussian model initialization, differentiable rendering, and adaptive density control were performed to produce high-precision 3D models of power towers. Taking two typical power tower types as experimental subjects, comparisons were made with the oblique photogrammetry + ContextCapture method. Experimental results demonstrate that 3DGS not only achieves high model completeness (with the reconstructed model nearly indistinguishable from the original images) but also excels in preserving fine details such as angle steels and cables. Additionally, the final modeling time is reduced by over 70% compared to traditional oblique photogrammetry. 3DGS enables efficient and high-precision reconstruction of power tower 3D models, providing a reliable technical foundation for digital twin applications in power transmission lines. By significantly improving reconstruction efficiency and reducing operational costs, the proposed method supports sustainable power infrastructure inspection, asset lifecycle management, and energy-efficient digital twin applications. Full article

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26 pages, 461 KB

Open AccessArticle

Project-Based Learning in Geography and Its Impact on Developing Students’ Values, Attitudes and Pro-Environmental Behavior

by Ivana Djordjevic, Slavoljub Jovanovic, Mina Markovic, Sladjana Andjelkovic, Zorica Prnjat, Stefana Matović and Aleksandar Valjarević

Sustainability 2026, 18(2), 725; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18020725 (registering DOI) - 10 Jan 2026

Abstract

Contemporary environmental challenges necessitate the adoption of active learning methods within educational frameworks, particularly those that foster the development of environmental awareness among young people. The 2030 Agenda underscores the importance of project-based learning as a strategy for building the competencies required to [...] Read more.

Contemporary environmental challenges necessitate the adoption of active learning methods within educational frameworks, particularly those that foster the development of environmental awareness among young people. The 2030 Agenda underscores the importance of project-based learning as a strategy for building the competencies required to achieve sustainable development goals. In this context, the attitudes and behavior of young people towards the environment serve as critical indicators of future social transformations within the sphere of sustainable development. The aim of this research was to determine whether project-based learning in geography, as opposed to traditional teaching methods, exerts a more pronounced influence on the formation of environmental values, attitudes, and pro-environmental behavior among students in their final year of primary school. The research was conducted using a convenience sample (n = 255) and employed pedagogical experimental surveys with parallel group designs. In the experimental group, project-based learning was implemented, whereas the control group continued with traditional teaching approaches. To assess environmental values and attitudes, the research employed a scale grounded in the EAATE framework, and pro-environmental behavior was evaluated using a measurement scale derived from the PEB and GEB scales. The obtained results are attributed to the influence of project-based learning. Although they cannot be generalized to the entire population, they indicate the potential of project-based learning as a more effective strategy in environmental education. Furthermore, these findings provide opportunities for further professional and scientific research in this area. Full article

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

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24 pages, 416 KB

Open AccessArticle

The EU–Mercosur Agreement: An Opportunity or a Threat to the Sustainability of the European and Polish Fruit and Vegetable Sector?

by Łukasz Zaremba and Weronika Asakowska

Sustainability 2026, 18(2), 724; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18020724 (registering DOI) - 10 Jan 2026

Abstract

This study examines the potential implications of the EU–Mercosur free trade agreement for the Polish horticultural sector, with particular emphasis on sustainability, trade competitiveness, and structural complementarities between the regions. Drawing on production, trade, and demographic data for the EU, Poland, and Mercosur [...] Read more.

This study examines the potential implications of the EU–Mercosur free trade agreement for the Polish horticultural sector, with particular emphasis on sustainability, trade competitiveness, and structural complementarities between the regions. Drawing on production, trade, and demographic data for the EU, Poland, and Mercosur countries, the analysis evaluates the alignment of horticultural supply and demand structures, the degree of intra-industry exchange, and the economic conditions shaping bilateral trade. The research applies the Grubel–Lloyd index and a Poisson Pseudo-Maximum Likelihood (PPML) gravity model to assess the determinants of Poland’s horticultural exports to Mercosur. The results indicate that trade remains predominantly inter-industry, reflecting substantial differences in agricultural specialisation and regulatory frameworks. At the same time, rising income levels in Mercosur, together with selected product-level complementarities, indicate emerging export opportunities for Poland. Poland’s trade with the Southern Common Market remains mainly as inter-industry, with the greatest export potential concentrated in high-value-added processed goods. Divergent sustainability standards, particularly in pesticide use, environmental regulation, and carbon-intensive transport, pose structural challenges that may affect the competitiveness and environmental footprint of expanded trade. Overall, the findings provide evidence that closer integration with Mercosur may support export diversification, but requires careful alignment with the EU’s sustainability objectives to ensure resilient and environmentally responsible development of the horticultural sector. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Agriculture)

35 pages, 2985 KB

Open AccessArticle

Decarbonizing Coastal Shipping: Voyage-Level CO₂ Intensity, Fuel Switching and Carbon Pricing in a Distribution-Free Causal Framework

by Murat Yildiz, Abdurrahim Akgundogdu and Guldem Elmas

Sustainability 2026, 18(2), 723; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18020723 (registering DOI) - 10 Jan 2026

Abstract

Coastal shipping plays a critical role in meeting maritime decarbonization targets under the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) and the European Union Emissions Trading System (EU ETS); however, operators currently lack robust tools to forecast route-specific carbon intensity and evaluate [...] Read more.

Coastal shipping plays a critical role in meeting maritime decarbonization targets under the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) and the European Union Emissions Trading System (EU ETS); however, operators currently lack robust tools to forecast route-specific carbon intensity and evaluate the causal benefits of fuel switching. This study developed a distribution-free causal forecasting framework for voyage-level Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) intensity using an enriched panel of 1440 real-world voyages across four Nigerian coastal routes (2022–2024). We employed a physics-informed monotonic Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM) model trained under a strict leave-one-route-out (LORO) protocol, integrated with split-conformal prediction for uncertainty quantification and Causal Forests for estimating heterogeneous treatment effects. The model predicted emission intensity on completely unseen corridors with a Mean Absolute Error (MAE) of 40.7 kg CO₂/nm, while 90% conformal prediction intervals achieved 100% empirical coverage. While the global average effect of switching from heavy fuel oil to diesel was negligible (≈−0.07 kg CO₂/nm), Causal Forests revealed significant heterogeneity, with effects ranging from −74 g to +29 g CO₂/nm depending on route conditions. Economically, targeted diesel use becomes viable only when carbon prices exceed ~100 USD/tCO₂. These findings demonstrate that effective coastal decarbonization requires moving beyond static baselines to uncertainty-aware planning and targeted, route-specific fuel strategies rather than uniform fleet-wide policies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Maritime Logistics and Low-Carbon Transportation)

27 pages, 2475 KB

Open AccessArticle

Façade Morphologies and Daylighting Strategies for Visual Comfort in Mediterranean Office Buildings: A Contextual Framework for Northern Cyprus

by Fatemeh Monzavi, Huriye Gurdalli and Pooya Lotfabadi

Sustainability 2026, 18(2), 722; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18020722 (registering DOI) - 10 Jan 2026

Abstract

The increasing adoption of highly glazed façades in contemporary office building has improved daylight penetration but has also intensified glare risk and sunlight overexposure in Mediterranean climates, with direct implications for occupant visual comfort and environmental sustainability. While daylight optimization has been widely [...] Read more.

The increasing adoption of highly glazed façades in contemporary office building has improved daylight penetration but has also intensified glare risk and sunlight overexposure in Mediterranean climates, with direct implications for occupant visual comfort and environmental sustainability. While daylight optimization has been widely discussed, fewer studies have examined how façade morphology systematically shapes the balance between daylight sufficiency and visual comfort in Mediterranean island contexts. This study investigates the relationship between façade configuration, daylight availability, and glare performance in office buildings in Northern Cyprus using climate-based daylight simulation. Six façade morphologies are evaluated across a range of window-to-wall ratios (WWR) using EN 17037-aligned criteria and metrics, including spatial daylight autonomy (sDA), annual sunlight exposure (ASE), and daylight glare probability (DGP). Usable daylight is not simply a function of more glass. As WWR increases, fully glazed façades in Mediterranean conditions tend to admit excessive direct sun and intensify glare, so daylight becomes less workable even when illuminance is high. Instead, hybrid and adaptive morphologies that control lighting through a combined approach of shade, diffusion, and redirection provide the most dependable performance, reducing both overexposure and glare while ensuring sufficient daylight sufficiency. The findings also indicate a distinct turning point at about 50–55% WWR, beyond which performance is mostly dependent on the façade’s ability to modulate its morphology and further glass offers minimal advantage. Based on this, the article suggests a contextual framework to encourage façade options for Mediterranean office environments that are more sustainable, aesthetically pleasing, and climate-responsive. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Lighting: Design for Human Wellbeing and Technological Development)

18 pages, 555 KB

Open AccessArticle

How Supplier Ownership Concentration Affects Bargaining Power: Evidence from China’s Manufacturing Listed Companies

by Haonan Sun and Hongliang Lu

Sustainability 2026, 18(2), 721; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18020721 (registering DOI) - 10 Jan 2026

Abstract

Against the backdrop of China’s economic transformation and the transition towards sustainable industrial systems, optimizing ownership structures to enhance the resilience and bargaining power of manufacturing suppliers has become crucial for building sustainable supply chains. This study empirically examines the impact of ownership [...] Read more.

Against the backdrop of China’s economic transformation and the transition towards sustainable industrial systems, optimizing ownership structures to enhance the resilience and bargaining power of manufacturing suppliers has become crucial for building sustainable supply chains. This study empirically examines the impact of ownership concentration on supplier bargaining power using data from manufacturing companies listed on the Shanghai and Shenzhen A-share markets from 2008 to 2022, integrating insights from principal-agent theory and industrial dynamics within a sustainability-oriented framework. The findings reveal: (1) Ownership concentration significantly strengthens the bargaining power of supplier enterprises, contributing to more stable and equitable supply chain relationships. (2) R&D investment plays a partial mediating role between ownership concentration and supplier bargaining power, suggesting that innovation efforts—often aligned with green and sustainable technologies—can reshape dependency dynamics. (3) Industry competitiveness negatively moderates the relationship between ownership concentration and supplier bargaining power, indicating that intense competition may undermine the governance advantages of concentrated ownership in sustainable value creation. (4) Heterogeneity analysis shows that the positive effect of ownership concentration is more pronounced in central and western regions, state-owned enterprises, and large firms, highlighting contextual factors in achieving sustainable supply chain governance. Full article

35 pages, 968 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Digital Economy and Urban–Rural Income Inequality: Implications for Sustainable Development in China

by Jingchi Zhu and Jianxun Shi

Sustainability 2026, 18(2), 720; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18020720 (registering DOI) - 10 Jan 2026

Abstract

Reducing urban–rural income inequality is a central objective of sustainable development and a critical challenge for inclusive growth in emerging economies. This study examines the impact of the digital economy on urban–rural income inequality in China. Using panel data across 279 cities in [...] Read more.

Reducing urban–rural income inequality is a central objective of sustainable development and a critical challenge for inclusive growth in emerging economies. This study examines the impact of the digital economy on urban–rural income inequality in China. Using panel data across 279 cities in China and Chinese Household Income Project (CHIP) data, we find that the digital economy significantly widens urban–rural income inequality. Specifically, digital industries and innovations are the main drivers, contrasting with inclusive infrastructure. Although we observe a positive association between the digital economy and educational attainment among rural residents, such improvements do not appear to be fully translated into higher income. One possible explanation is that the digital economy is more effective in alleviating skill mismatch among urban residents than among their rural counterparts. Finally, our results suggest that Public Employment Services may help mitigate this negative effect through channels such as fiscal subsidies and improving skills training accessibility. Our findings highlight the need for caution regarding the inequality implications of digital economy development in emerging economies and underscore the crucial role of institutional arrangements in promoting socially sustainable and inclusive development. Full article

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

25 pages, 1154 KB

Open AccessArticle

Experimental 3E Assessment of a PLC-Controlled Solar Air Heater with Adjustable Baffle

by Ayşe Bilgen Aksoy

Sustainability 2026, 18(2), 719; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18020719 (registering DOI) - 10 Jan 2026

Abstract

This study presents an experimental 3E (energy–exergy–environmental) assessment of a PLC-controlled solar air heater (SAH) equipped with adjustable internal baffles. Unlike conventional passive systems, the proposed design enables active airflow regulation to maintain stable outlet temperatures of 54 °C and 60 °C, achieving [...] Read more.

This study presents an experimental 3E (energy–exergy–environmental) assessment of a PLC-controlled solar air heater (SAH) equipped with adjustable internal baffles. Unlike conventional passive systems, the proposed design enables active airflow regulation to maintain stable outlet temperatures of 54 °C and 60 °C, achieving rapid stabilization within 3–10 s under outdoor conditions. Experimental results show that increasing the baffle inclination significantly enhances convective heat transfer and thermal efficiency, while the friction factor remains primarily governed by the Reynolds number and exhibits minimal sensitivity to baffle angle. Exergy efficiency values remain relatively low (1.24–2.69%), and the sustainability index stays close to unity, reflecting the inherent thermodynamic limitations of low-temperature solar air heaters rather than deficiencies in system design. A regression-based airflow velocity model is developed to support fan-speed optimization and to clarify the trade-off between thermal enhancement and auxiliary power demand. Long-term projections based on regional solar data indicate that the proposed SAH can deliver approximately 20–22 MWh of useful heat and mitigate nearly 9 tons of CO₂ emissions over a 20-year operational lifetime. Overall, the results demonstrate that PLC-assisted dynamic baffle control provides a flexible and effective approach for improving the performance and operational stability of solar air heaters for low-temperature drying applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancing Regional Environmental Evolution: Integrating Sustainable Energy Resource Management and Green Consumption)

14 pages, 1030 KB

Open AccessReview

How Can Grazing Mitigate Wildfires? A Review of Fuel Management, Ecological Trade-Offs, and Adaptive Frameworks

by Shiying Xu, Xilong Zhu, Hang Ren, Xiangxiang Yan, Xiangyang Fang, Sazal Ahmed and Qiuhua Wang

Sustainability 2026, 18(2), 718; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18020718 (registering DOI) - 10 Jan 2026

Abstract

Under the influence of multiple factors such as climate change and human activities, the frequency, intensity, and destructiveness of forest fires are increasing, which may trigger multiple ecological crises. Forest fires can be scientifically prevented, and their risks can be mitigated through specific [...] Read more.

Under the influence of multiple factors such as climate change and human activities, the frequency, intensity, and destructiveness of forest fires are increasing, which may trigger multiple ecological crises. Forest fires can be scientifically prevented, and their risks can be mitigated through specific approaches, particularly by managing forest combustible materials. Common methods include mechanical clearance, prescribed burning, and the establishment of biological firebreak belts, along with the application of grazing to regulate forest fuels. This paper presents a review of studies on grazing and fire risk, both domestically and internationally. Research indicates that livestock grazing has complex effects on forest fire risk: appropriate grazing can manage fuels and modify ecosystem structure to reduce fire hazards—for instance, by decreasing the accumulation of surface flammable materials and promoting the regeneration of fire-resistant tree species. Conversely, overgrazing may disrupt ecological balance and increase fire risk, such as by exacerbating soil erosion and encouraging the invasion of flammable weed species. Case studies from different ecological regions worldwide demonstrate varied effects of grazing on fire prevention, though research in this area exhibits geographical disparities. Adaptive management should integrate targeted grazing, prescribed burning, and mechanical treatments in a synergistic manner. Future efforts should prioritize cross-scale studies, investigate the mechanisms of woody fuel modulation, and refine fire ecology models to enhance the precision and global applicability of grazing-based fire management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Sustainable Forest Management in the Context of Climate Change)

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16 pages, 1484 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Comprehensive Understanding of Technologies, Materials, and Strategies for Net-Zero Energy Buildings

by Linita George and Xianhai Meng

Sustainability 2026, 18(2), 717; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18020717 (registering DOI) - 10 Jan 2026

Abstract

The building sector is significantly responsible for the world’s energy consumption and carbon emissions. Net-zero energy buildings (NZEBs) have become an effective solution to move towards sustainability, maximizing energy efficiency, and minimizing carbon footprint. However, achieving net-zero energy targets requires a comprehensive understanding [...] Read more.

The building sector is significantly responsible for the world’s energy consumption and carbon emissions. Net-zero energy buildings (NZEBs) have become an effective solution to move towards sustainability, maximizing energy efficiency, and minimizing carbon footprint. However, achieving net-zero energy targets requires a comprehensive understanding of building performance from the perspectives of technologies, materials, and strategies, for which existing studies have a knowledge gap. This study aims to bridge the knowledge gap within existing studies through an empirical investigation. Based on a review of the literature, this study employs semi-structured interviews in the United Kingdom (UK) with industrial professionals experienced in NZEBs. The qualitative data collected from interview participants are analyzed minutely using NVivo to identify key themes and patterns, including 14 technologies, 12 materials, and seven strategies for NZEBs. Based on the literature review and, more importantly, the interview analysis, a conceptual framework is well established to describe an NZEB as a complex system that must incorporate appropriate technology adoption, careful material selection, and successful strategy implementation into consideration. This study provides a comprehensive understanding of NZEBs from a systematic point of view. It also contributes to the full fulfillment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) established by the United Nations (UN). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Building: CO₂ Emissions in the Construction Industry)

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