Sustainability

13 pages, 2304 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Recyclability of Intelligent Cardboard Packaging

by Patricija Pevec, Tea Kapun and Diana Gregor-Svetec

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 2924; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17072924 (registering DOI) - 25 Mar 2025

The circular economy, in which recycling plays a significant role, is increasingly becoming a primary requirement for packaging. Our research focused on the recycling of intelligent cardboard packaging. The focus of the study was to manufacture and recycle cardboard embedded with a printed [...] Read more.

The circular economy, in which recycling plays a significant role, is increasingly becoming a primary requirement for packaging. Our research focused on the recycling of intelligent cardboard packaging. The focus of the study was to manufacture and recycle cardboard embedded with a printed RFID antenna and a thermochromic indicator and to evaluate their recyclability. The Confederation of European Paper Industries (CEPI) method was employed to assess the recyclability of cardboard printed using digital printing techniques with integrated intelligent elements. The coarse reject and concentration following coarse screening were determined, and laboratory hand sheets were made for the adhesiveness test and visual evaluation. The fine screening procedure was performed. The acquired samples were evaluated for basic, mechanical, and optical properties. The analysis indicated that the recyclability of all examined materials was exceptionally good, confirming their suitability for normal recycling processes. Furthermore, the recycling efficiency exceeds 99% for all samples. Despite the variances in the samples, including metallic functional and thermochromic ink, they did not significantly impact the final outcome. Moreover, little variations in recyclability were seen between intelligent elements printed directly on cardboard and those printed on self-adhesive labels applied to the cardboard. The research has confirmed that the printed RFID antenna and thermochromic indicator have a negligible impact on the recyclability process and final score. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 3119 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Border Rejections Reported in the Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) in 2008–2023: Identification of Hazards and Overview of Their Potential Health Implications

by Marcin Pigłowski, Birutė Mockevičienė and Maria Śmiechowska

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 2923; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17072923 - 25 Mar 2025

Abstract

An important element of sustainability is food security, related to ensuring access to suitable food. Despite having an intensive agricultural economy and a developed food industry, European Union (EU) countries import some products. Within the Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF), [...] Read more.

An important element of sustainability is food security, related to ensuring access to suitable food. Despite having an intensive agricultural economy and a developed food industry, European Union (EU) countries import some products. Within the Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF), so-called border rejections are reported, which accounted for 38.7% of all notifications submitted in 2008–2023. The purpose of this study was to analyse border rejections reported in the RASFF in 2008–2023, considering hazards, hazard categories, product categories, notifying country, and country of origin. The data were pre-processed in Microsoft Excel and then subjected to two-way joining cluster analysis in Statistica 13.3. Taking into account the quantity of imports and the hazards, the greatest attention should be paid to fruits and vegetables from Turkey (presence of ochratoxin A, pesticides, and sulphites), nuts from Turkey (aflatoxins), poultry and spices from Brazil (Salmonella spp.), fish from China and Morocco (poor temperature control), and feed and fruits and vegetables from Ukraine (moulds). Through border rejections, the common European market is protected from hazards in food from outside the EU, which contributes to sustainability. However, ensuring safety in this regard requires close cooperation between border posts of all member countries. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 554 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Resource Benefit Evaluation of Lithium Recovery from New-Energy Vehicle Batteries

by Zhen Chen, Haizhou Zhou and Shuwei Jia

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 2922; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17072922 - 25 Mar 2025

Abstract

With the popularity of new-energy vehicles, the recovery and reuse of lithium-ion battery (LIB) resources have become topics of great concern. This study explores the risks of the lithium resource chain in terms of supply–demand balance and lithium resource criticality. We propose a [...] Read more.

With the popularity of new-energy vehicles, the recovery and reuse of lithium-ion battery (LIB) resources have become topics of great concern. This study explores the risks of the lithium resource chain in terms of supply–demand balance and lithium resource criticality. We propose a prediction algorithm for lithium production based on reverse-order MT-EGM-SD (metabolism–even grey model–system dynamics), upon which a system dynamics model for lithium resource recycling and reuse is constructed. We use dynamic simulation to evaluate the benefits of lithium resource recovery and the effects of different LIB recovery strategies. The results show that LIB recycling strategies, such as enhancing subsidy levels and strengthening public awareness initiatives, can significantly increase lithium resource recovery rates. From a medium- and long-term perspective, however, the technological progress strategy can greatly reduce lithium consumption intensity in the battery. Cascade use policy has significant economic benefits, but it delays the recycling of secondary raw materials. Under the joint strategy with the best resource efficiency (stringent government recycling regulations and significant advancements in battery production technology), the lithium supply–demand balance and the lithium resource recovery rate increase by 301.89% and 795.65%, respectively. Meanwhile, lithium resource chain risk, lithium criticality, and actual lithium demand decrease by 18.77%, 18.86%, and 75.11%, respectively. Full article

19 pages, 3553 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Housing Design for Circular Economy and Sustainability

by Avi Friedman

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 2921; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17072921 - 25 Mar 2025

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to explore the possibilities of bringing house development to a more sustainable and ecological level using the idea of the circular economy (CE) in the construction industry. Housing is an essential aspect of the economy and the [...] Read more.

The purpose of this paper is to explore the possibilities of bringing house development to a more sustainable and ecological level using the idea of the circular economy (CE) in the construction industry. Housing is an essential aspect of the economy and the building industry. The development of this sector is driven by an increasing urban population and the need to modernize existing residential buildings. Contemporary home situations should address reducing their detrimental impact on the natural environment. This is achievable by minimizing the consumption of natural resources and construction waste. This assumption is part of the core CE work, which allows for the recirculation of building materials. To discuss the underlying topics, this assumption was explored by employing a non-reactive desk research method. The review of scientific articles and studies covered the following topics: (i) the definition of CE, (ii) the shearing layers concept in building, and (iii) design for disassembly (DfD) in home construction. The second stage of evaluating the project “Domus Ex Machina” includes the following: (i) modular dimensions, (ii) prefabricated production, and (iii) adaptive designs and systems. In the discussion, this research identified several barriers to efficient CE adoption in the construction industry. The discussion highlights potential impediments to the application of the CE in housing contexts, including (i) storage and logistics issues, (ii) cost concerns and implementation challenges, (iii) policy inconsistencies across regions, and (iv) market demand and supply chain restrictions. The final paper conclusions demonstrate the significance of implementing the CE idea in housing building, hence reducing the negative impact on the environment. Full article

23 pages, 1722 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Temporal and Spatial Evolution Characteristics and Obstacle Factor Analysis of Rural Modernization Development Level in China

by Mingting Shi, Shenao Ma and Sheng Zhong

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 2920; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17072920 - 25 Mar 2025

Abstract

Rural modernization constitutes a crucial aspect in the modernization of socialism with Chinese characteristics. This paper assesses the level of rural modernization in China and investigates its spatiotemporal evolution characteristics and restrictive factors through a spatial autocorrelation analysis and the obstacle degree model. [...] Read more.

Rural modernization constitutes a crucial aspect in the modernization of socialism with Chinese characteristics. This paper assesses the level of rural modernization in China and investigates its spatiotemporal evolution characteristics and restrictive factors through a spatial autocorrelation analysis and the obstacle degree model. The research indicates that: (1) The overall rural modernization has escalated, with infrastructure and public services advancing at the fastest pace, while the modernization of the ecological environment and governance system lags relatively behind. The majority of provinces exhibit distinct internal imbalances and classified development traits, mainly categorized as the ecological priority type and economic priority type. (2) The eastern coastal areas and the southwest region have witnessed rapid development due to their well-established infrastructure and agglomeration of innovative elements; the northwest and northeast regions have developed slowly, influenced by geographical conditions and industrial structure. Regions exhibit the characteristics of both high and low agglomeration in multiple dimensions. (3) The modernization of governance systems and the ecological environment serve as the primary constraints, manifested as a low percentage of administrative villages, insufficient planning, excessive use of pesticides and fertilizers, and a low greening rate. Hence, it is necessary to address the shortcomings, optimize the spatial layout, and strengthen grassroots governance capacities to promote the coordinated advancement of rural modernization. Full article

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

19 pages, 219 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Teacher Responsiveness in Inclusive Education: A Participatory Study of Pedagogical Practice, Well-Being, and Sustainability

by Noam Lapidot-Lefler

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 2919; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17072919 - 25 Mar 2025

Abstract

This participatory action research study identified concrete responsive teaching practices that create sustainable, inclusive environments for vulnerable youth, focusing on two primary research questions: (1) How do teacher–pupil interactions shape learning experiences, and (2) What specific responsive practices create sustainable, inclusive environments? Thematic [...] Read more.

This participatory action research study identified concrete responsive teaching practices that create sustainable, inclusive environments for vulnerable youth, focusing on two primary research questions: (1) How do teacher–pupil interactions shape learning experiences, and (2) What specific responsive practices create sustainable, inclusive environments? Thematic analysis of data from eight teacher candidates, eight cooperating teachers, and seven pupils revealed a clear typology of sustainable, responsive practices organized into three core categories. The first category, the socioemotional response category, encompasses crucial practices including boundary-balanced relationships (creating safe spaces with clear expectations), ability-focused trust (communicating persistent belief in pupils’ capabilities), and non-abandonment approaches (illustrating unwavering commitment to each pupil regardless of challenges). The second category, the pedagogical response category, captured two essential practices: individualized learning adaptations (tailoring instruction to specific pupil needs) and strategic instructional pausing (recognizing when emotional needs must precede academic content). The third category, the systemic response category, highlighted the importance of collaborative professional networks, where mutual support among educators creates resilient teaching environments that enhance pupil outcomes. These findings underscore how responsive teacher–pupil interactions create inclusive environments that meet pupils’ academic, social, and emotional needs while fostering sustainable educational practices. This research contributes to sustainable education by (1) operationalizing responsiveness into actionable components for practice, (2) illustrating how sustainable, responsive teaching develops through structured collaborative inquiry, and (3) providing a framework showing how responsive relationships specifically support vulnerable youth in inclusive settings. The emerging themes illuminate how empathetic, responsive relationships build sustainable, inclusive learning environments empowering all participants for long-term development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Explore Sustainable Development in Multiple Dimensions for Human Well-Being)

17 pages, 2241 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Approach to Spatiotemporal Air Quality Prediction Integrating SwinLSTM and Kriging Methods

by Jiangquan Xie, Fan Liu, Shuai Liu and Xiangtao Jiang

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 2918; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17072918 - 25 Mar 2025

Abstract

Air pollution has become a major environmental issue, posing severe threats to human health and ecosystems. Accurately predicting future regional air quality is crucial for effective air pollution control and management strategies. This study proposes a novel deep learning-based approach. First, Kriging interpolation [...] Read more.

Air pollution has become a major environmental issue, posing severe threats to human health and ecosystems. Accurately predicting future regional air quality is crucial for effective air pollution control and management strategies. This study proposes a novel deep learning-based approach. First, Kriging interpolation was applied to meteorological indicators such as temperature, humidity, and wind speed, as well as climate-altering gas indicators like CO₂, SO₂, and NO₂ recorded at monitoring stations to obtain their spatial distributions over the entire region. Subsequently, a long short-term memory neural network (SwinLSTM) incorporating Swin Transformer feature extraction was employed to learn the correlations from regional meteorological data and historical air quality records. This model overcomes the limitation of traditional CNNs by capturing long-range spatial dependencies when processing two-dimensional meteorological data through its sliding window attention mechanism. Ultimately, it outputs air quality predictions in both spatial and temporal dimensions. This study collected data from 29 stations across four cities surrounding China’s Dongting Lake for experimentation. Predictions for PM2.5 and PM10 levels over the entire lake area were made for 1, 6, and 24 h. The results demonstrate that the proposed SwinLSTM architecture significantly outperforms the current mainstream ConvLSTM architecture, with an average R-squared improvement of 5%, establishing a new state-of-the-art model for spatiotemporal air quality prediction. Full article

20 pages, 1076 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Combining Novel Membrane Technologies for Sustainable Nutrient Recovery from Digestate: Effect of Solid Content

by Berta Riaño, Verónica Oliveira, Celia Dias-Ferreira, Beatriz Molinuevo-Salces and Maria Cruz García-González

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 2917; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17072917 - 25 Mar 2025

Abstract

Nutrient recovery from anaerobic digestate has gained increasing importance in recent years due to its potential to reduce resource dependency and to close nutrient cycles. The aim of this work is to evaluate the influence of a previous solid–liquid separation phase on nutrient [...] Read more.

Nutrient recovery from anaerobic digestate has gained increasing importance in recent years due to its potential to reduce resource dependency and to close nutrient cycles. The aim of this work is to evaluate the influence of a previous solid–liquid separation phase on nutrient recovery efficiency using two innovative membrane technologies, namely, gas-permeable membranes (GPM) and electrodialytic (ED) processes, applied individually or in combination. The obtained results were compared with those obtained through the centrifugation of the raw digestate and direct chemical precipitation followed by centrifugation in terms of the efficiency in the recovery of N (nitrogen) and P (phosphorous). A total of nine scenarios of digestate processing were compared. GPM technology allowed for the recovery of 65% of the N content in the raw digestate (41.5 g total solids (TS) kg⁻¹) and 67% of N in the liquid fraction (28.0 g TS kg⁻¹), without any significant difference between the two scenarios. However, the results revealed significant differences in the P recovery with ED from the raw digestate (15%) and the liquid fraction (34%), suggesting that phosphorous extraction can be improved by the application of a prior solid–liquid phase. The recovery of N with the GPM technology also enhanced the further recovery of total P with the ED processes. Furthermore, the combination of these technologies allowed for the recovery of N- and P-rich solutions, which were used to precipitate secondary struvite with an efficiency of up to 85%. This research provides a practical framework for sustainable nutrient management, advancing solutions for resource efficiency and environmental stewardship. Full article

35 pages, 3167 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Innovative Energy Efficiency in HVAC Systems with an Integrated Machine Learning and Model Predictive Control Technique: A Prospective Toward Sustainable Buildings

by Khaled Almazam, Omar Humaidan, Nahla M. Shannan, Faizah Mohammed Bashir, Taha Gammoudi and Yakubu Aminu Dodo

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 2916; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17072916 - 25 Mar 2025

Abstract

This study introduces a novel approach, combining radial basis function neural network (RBFNN) and model predictive control (MPC) techniques to enhance energy efficiency in HVAC systems for sustainable buildings. The proposed methodology is evaluated in a single-story commercial and residential building in Najran, [...] Read more.

This study introduces a novel approach, combining radial basis function neural network (RBFNN) and model predictive control (MPC) techniques to enhance energy efficiency in HVAC systems for sustainable buildings. The proposed methodology is evaluated in a single-story commercial and residential building in Najran, Saudi Arabia, utilizing new input parameters such as ambient temperature, cooling load, and compressor speed, alongside output metrics including room temperature and total exergy destruction and coefficient of performance (CoP) of the HVAC system. Significant improvements in energy management practices were observed, with a reduction in energy consumption by approximately 15% compared to conventional control models. The model’s predictive capabilities were validated against real-world electricity consumption data, demonstrating a high correlation with discrepancies ranging from 0.2% to 2.5%. Furthermore, the integration of machine learning techniques enabled more precise control of HVAC operations, addressing concerns regarding the system’s dynamic behavior and optimizing performance under varying occupancy patterns. While in the commercial building, the model achieves RMSE and CV values of approximately 1.0 and 0.61 for room temperature, 1.21 and 0.48 for exergy destruction, and 0.65 and 0.30 for CoP. However, for the residential building, RMSE and CV values are approximately 0.95 and 0.69 for room temperature, 1.08 and 0.31 for exergy destruction, and 0.55 and 0.27 for CoP. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Design and Control Solutions for Grid-Interactive Energy Efficient Buildings)

36 pages, 5908 KiB

Open AccessReview

Improving the Sustainability of Reinforced Concrete Structures Through the Adoption of Eco-Friendly Flooring Systems

by Chia Paknahad, Mosleh Tohidi and Ali Bahadori-Jahromi

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 2915; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17072915 - 25 Mar 2025

Abstract

Following World War II, the swift economic growth in construction and the soaring demand in urban regions led to the excessive extraction of natural resources like fossil fuels, minerals, forests and land. To tackle significant global challenges, including the consumption of natural resources, [...] Read more.

Following World War II, the swift economic growth in construction and the soaring demand in urban regions led to the excessive extraction of natural resources like fossil fuels, minerals, forests and land. To tackle significant global challenges, including the consumption of natural resources, air pollution and climate change, radical changes have been suggested over the past decades. As part of this strategic initiative, prioritizing sustainability in construction has emerged as a crucial focus in the design of all projects. In order to identify the most environmentally sustainable reinforced concrete (RC) slab system, this research investigates the carbon emissions associated with various slab systems, including solid, voided slabs and precast floor systems. The results demonstrate that beam and slab floor and solid slabs have the highest embodied carbon due to the significant use of concrete and related materials, whereas voided slabs and two-way joist floors exhibit lower carbon emissions. The results indicate that the two-way joist system is the most environmentally advantageous option. For precast floor systems, post-tensioned concrete and hollow-core slabs demonstrate the lowest embodied carbon levels. This research provides practical recommendations for architects and engineers aimed at enhancing sustainable design methodologies. It emphasizes the importance of incorporating low-carbon materials as well as pioneering flooring technologies in upcoming construction initiatives to support the achievement of global sustainability objectives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Building Materials)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 3718 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ontology-Based Retrieval System for Emergency Preparedness Documents in Urban Rail Transit Construction Projects

by Shiyue Xu, Ming Shan and Zhao Zhai

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 2914; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17072914 - 25 Mar 2025

Abstract

China’s urban rail transportation sector has been developing rapidly in recent years. However, frequent construction activities have led to more construction safety accidents, resulting in life and economic losses. To deal with safety accidents, emergency preparedness documents are fully developed. Based on the [...] Read more.

China’s urban rail transportation sector has been developing rapidly in recent years. However, frequent construction activities have led to more construction safety accidents, resulting in life and economic losses. To deal with safety accidents, emergency preparedness documents are fully developed. Based on the theory of ontology, this study proposed a case-based reasoning method that can retrieve the most similar cases to the target case and help to develop emergency preparedness documents quickly and efficiently. Specifically, an ontological framework for urban rail construction safety was constructed first in the Protégé platform based on risk factors of urban rail construction projects. Then, a case retrieval method was proposed, calculating the similarities between source cases and target cases. The analytic hierarchy process was used to determine the weights of each risk factor to match the most similar cases and provide a reference for the rapid generation of emergency preparedness of target cases. This study contributes to the current body of knowledge by providing valuable examples for the application of ontology-based case-based reasoning technology in the field of hazard management, which not only realizes knowledge sharing and full and effective utilization of past experiences but also significantly improves the hazard prevention and emergency preparedness capabilities in urban rail transit construction projects. At the same time, this study makes hazard management more systematic and efficient and provides important support for the long-term sustainable development of the urban rail transit construction industry in both social and economic dimensions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Disaster Management: Theory and Practice)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 7049 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Application of Response Surface Methodology and Machine Learning for Predicting the Compressive Strength of Recycled Aggregate Concrete Containing Polypropylene Fibers and Supplementary Cementitious Materials

by Mohammed K. Alkharisi and Hany A. Dahish

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 2913; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17072913 - 25 Mar 2025

Abstract

The construction industry’s development trend has resulted in a large volume of demolished concrete. Improving the efficiency of the proper use of this waste as a recycled aggregate (RA) in concrete is a promising solution. In this study, we utilized response surface methodology [...] Read more.

The construction industry’s development trend has resulted in a large volume of demolished concrete. Improving the efficiency of the proper use of this waste as a recycled aggregate (RA) in concrete is a promising solution. In this study, we utilized response surface methodology (RSM) and three machine learning (ML) techniques—the M5P algorithm, the random forest (RF) algorithm, and extreme gradient boosting (XGB)—to optimize and predict the compressive strength (CS) of RA concrete containing fly ash (FA), silica fume (SF), and polypropylene fiber (PPF). To build the models, the results regarding 529 data points were used as a dataset with varying numbers of input parameters (out of a total of ten). The CS quadratic model under RSM exhibited acceptable prediction accuracy. The best CS was found with a 100% volume of RA consisting of coarse aggregate, 1.13% PPF by volume of concrete, 7.90% FA, and 5.30% SF as partial replacements of binders by weight. The XGB model exhibited superior performance and high prediction accuracy, with a higher R² and lower values of errors, as depicted by MAE, RMSE, and MAPE, when compared to the other developed models. Furthermore, SHAP analysis showed that PPF had a positive impact on predicting CS, but the curing age and superplasticizer dose had the highest positive impact on predicting the CS of RA concrete. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 10620 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multi-Scale Assessments and Future Projections of Drought Vulnerability of Social–Ecological Systems: A Case Study from the Three-River Headwaters Region of the Tibetan Plateau

by Zhilong Zhao, Lu Chen, Tienan Li, Wanqing Zhang, Xu Han, Zengzeng Hu and Shijia Hu

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 2912; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17072912 (registering DOI) - 25 Mar 2025

Abstract

The vulnerability of Social–Ecological Systems (SES) is a frontier research topic in the field of geography. Research on drought vulnerability has emerged as a key area of focus in the study of SES vulnerability, and it has increasingly been recognized as a critical [...] Read more.

The vulnerability of Social–Ecological Systems (SES) is a frontier research topic in the field of geography. Research on drought vulnerability has emerged as a key area of focus in the study of SES vulnerability, and it has increasingly been recognized as a critical step in formulating policies for drought prevention and mitigation. In this study, the indicator system for drought vulnerability evaluation of SES in the Three-River Headwaters Region (TRHR) was established. This paper revealed the drought vulnerability evolution process and characteristics, and key driving indicators of SES at county-town-village spatial scales in six time periods of 1990, 2000, 2010, 2015, 2020, and 2023, and predicted the drought vulnerability of SES in 2050 under two scenarios. Results indicate that the average drought vulnerability in the TRHR decreased from 0.526 in 1990 to 0.444 in 2023. Compared to 1990, among the 82 selected towns, 85.37% experienced a decline in 2023, and among the 152 selected villages, 95.39% showed a reduction in 2023. Hot spots of drought vulnerability were concentrated in the southeast of the TRHR, while cold spots were in the northwest. From 1990 to 2000, the drought vulnerability of counties and towns in the TRHR increased, but it decreased between 2000 and 2023. In 1990, Henan County exhibited the highest drought vulnerability at the county level. Waeryi Town in Jiuzhi County had the highest vulnerability among towns, while Suojia Town in Zhidoi County had the lowest. Of the 152 selected villages, 41.45% exhibited relatively high or high levels of drought vulnerability, while 23.68% showed relatively low levels. In 2023, Jiuzhi County became the most vulnerable county, with Baiyu Town in Jiuzhi County ranking highest among towns and Suojia Town in Zhidoi County remaining the least vulnerable. At the village level, 22.37% exhibited relatively high or high vulnerability, whereas 42.11% showed relatively low or low levels. Drought disaster records, the proportion of agricultural and animal husbandry output value, the proportion of grassland, the proportion of large livestock, and the per capita disposable income surface are the key factors influencing drought vulnerability in the TRHR. By 2050, under the first scenario, the average drought vulnerability of the TRHR is projected to be 0.428, indicating a medium level, while the second scenario predicts a further reduction to 0.350, representing a relatively low level. The adaptive governance strategies to mitigate drought vulnerability in the TRHR include developing an integrated drought management system; establishing an ecological management, protection, and financial support model; and so on. Overall, this paper can provide scientific references and policy recommendations for policymakers and researchers on the aspects of drought vulnerability and sustainable development of SES. Full article

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

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 247 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Leadership and Entrepreneurship in Education and Their Impact on the Management of Sustainable Educational Environments

by Andrea Gracia-Zomeño, Eduardo García-Toledano, Ramón García-Perales and Ascensión Palomares-Ruiz

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 2911; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17072911 - 25 Mar 2025

Abstract

The role of leadership and entrepreneurship in teaching is key to the management of sustainable educational environments, promoting inclusive and innovative teaching. This quantitative, cross-sectional study seeks to explore education professionals’ perceptions of their leadership, entrepreneurship, and empowerment capacities in education based on [...] Read more.

The role of leadership and entrepreneurship in teaching is key to the management of sustainable educational environments, promoting inclusive and innovative teaching. This quantitative, cross-sectional study seeks to explore education professionals’ perceptions of their leadership, entrepreneurship, and empowerment capacities in education based on a validated questionnaire applied to 623 education professionals. The results reveal that women, teachers in management positions, and those who are older and more and experienced perceive their skills in these areas to be better than those of men, classroom teachers, and those with less professional experience. However, gaps in teacher training in leadership and entrepreneurship have been identified, which hinders the implementation of effective strategies for educational transformation. In conclusion, there is a need to strengthen teacher training in entrepreneurship, leadership, and empowerment and establish educational policies that favor innovation, collaborative work, and the consolidation of inclusive and sustainable pedagogical practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Organization Management and Entrepreneurial Leadership)

18 pages, 878 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Conjoint Analysis Evaluation of Consumer Perspectives on Cricket-Based Snacks: A Case Study for Alberta, Canada

by Susana De Leon Siller, Temitope Awobusuyi, John Wolodko and Wendy Wismer

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 2910; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17072910 - 25 Mar 2025

Abstract

Insects have been proposed as a sustainable protein alternative to conventional meat sources. However, consumer acceptance of edible insects is still low in the Western Hemisphere. This study examined how product characteristics and consumer beliefs influence the liking and willingness to try cricket-based [...] Read more.

Insects have been proposed as a sustainable protein alternative to conventional meat sources. However, consumer acceptance of edible insects is still low in the Western Hemisphere. This study examined how product characteristics and consumer beliefs influence the liking and willingness to try cricket-based food products. An online survey was conducted in the province of Alberta, Canada. Alberta is a major site for beef production and plays a vital role in Canada’s agricultural and economic landscape. Participants (n = 548) were asked to indicate their overall liking (OL) and willingness to try (WTT) a cricket-based snack in a conjoint analysis experiment. A 2 × 2 × 5 design was used for the product characteristics (type of product, presence of an image of the product, and product benefit claims). Each participant was assigned five product profiles using a balanced incomplete block design. The type of product (cricket chips and whole roasted crickets) was the most important attribute for participants. Product benefit claims did not effectively increase the OL or WTT of the cricket-based snacks. Higher scores on the Entomophagy Attitude Scale and previous experiences consuming insect-based food products positively influenced WTT and OL. The findings of this study underscore the significance of the type of product and personal attitudes towards entomophagy in shaping consumer preferences for sustainable protein sources and offer valuable insights for the development and marketing of insect-based food products in a Western market where meat products are accessible and affordable for many. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Food)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 2232 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Research Progress on CO₂ Emission Simulation for Heavy-Duty Commercial Vehicles

by Yanyi Chong, Han Jiang, Gang Li, Min Guan, Yanjun Wang and Hang Yin

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 2909; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17072909 - 25 Mar 2025

Abstract

Carbon emissions are currently a hot topic in the international community. CO₂ reduction from heavy-duty commercial vehicles plays a significant role in slowing down the global greenhouse effect and promoting sustainable development. To control carbon emissions, many countries have tightened CO₂ [...] Read more.

Carbon emissions are currently a hot topic in the international community. CO₂ reduction from heavy-duty commercial vehicles plays a significant role in slowing down the global greenhouse effect and promoting sustainable development. To control carbon emissions, many countries have tightened CO₂ emission regulations and policy requirements for heavy-duty commercial vehicles in recent years. Various CO₂ emission simulation models have been developed, such as the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Model (GEM) in the United States and the Vehicle Energy Consumption Calculation Tool (VECTO) in the European Union, to evaluate the real CO₂ emission levels of commercial vehicles and provide a scientific basis for formulating corresponding emission reduction policies and control measures. This paper systematically analyzes the CO₂ emission regulations and policy requirements for heavy-duty commercial vehicles in the United States, the European Union, China, and other developed countries. It also analyzes the GEM software in the United States, the VECTO software used in Europe, and the energy consumption simulation software for commercial vehicles in China. The influencing factors of CO₂ emission simulation are explored in detail. This study found that, although GEM and VECTO software are recognized for their high accuracy, their applications are still dependent on local policies. In other countries and regions, VECTO software has broader applicability. On the other hand, China’s commercial vehicle energy consumption simulation software and other reported studies have only been validated for specific vehicle types. The accuracy and generalizability of these models should be further promoted and verified. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Control of Traffic-Related Emissions to Improve Air Quality)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 698 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Digital Transformation and Social Inclusion in Public Services: A Qualitative Analysis of E-Government Adoption for Marginalized Communities in Sustainable Governance

by Gatot Hery Djatmiko, Obsatar Sinaga and Suharno Pawirosumarto

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 2908; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17072908 - 25 Mar 2025

Abstract

Digital inclusion is a critical component of sustainable e-government, ensuring equitable access to digital public services for all citizens. However, challenges such as limited digital literacy, infrastructural gaps, and institutional barriers hinder widespread adoption, particularly among marginalized populations. This study examines the key [...] Read more.

Digital inclusion is a critical component of sustainable e-government, ensuring equitable access to digital public services for all citizens. However, challenges such as limited digital literacy, infrastructural gaps, and institutional barriers hinder widespread adoption, particularly among marginalized populations. This study examines the key obstacles to digital inclusion in e-government and explores technology-driven and policy-based solutions. A qualitative approach was employed, integrating case studies from developed and developing nations to assess best practices and localized policy adaptations. The findings highlight that public–private partnerships, digital literacy programs, and the integration of emerging technologies—such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and cloud computing—play a crucial role in enhancing accessibility and security. Additionally, aligning digital inclusion policies with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), strengthens the long-term impact of digital governance. This study emphasizes the need for governments to adopt an inclusive, multi-stakeholder approach to e-government implementation, ensuring long-term investments in accessibility, cybersecurity, and user trust. Future research should explore mixed-method approaches and comparative analyses across different socio-economic contexts to refine strategies for digital inclusion. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

32 pages, 5388 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Long-Term Soil System Use and Diversified Fertilization on the Sustainability of the Soil Fertility—Organic Matter and Selected Trace Elements

by Agnieszka Andrzejewska and Maria Biber

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 2907; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17072907 - 25 Mar 2025

Abstract

It has been assumed that the long-term impact of a diversified soil use system (SUS) and the continuous application of manure and/or mineral fertilizers (NPK) affects the sustainability of soil fertility components. This influence is manifested through the content and distribution of nutrients, [...] Read more.

It has been assumed that the long-term impact of a diversified soil use system (SUS) and the continuous application of manure and/or mineral fertilizers (NPK) affects the sustainability of soil fertility components. This influence is manifested through the content and distribution of nutrients, as well as some bioavailable heavy metals in the soil. This hypothesis was verified in 2022 in a long-term field experiment that started in 1957. It consisted of a seven-course crop rotation: potato–spring barley–winter triticale–alfalfa–alfalfa–winter wheat–winter rye and monocultures of these crops plus black fallow. The studies were carried out on three separate fields: black fallow (BF), winter wheat grown in monoculture (WW-MO), and crop rotation (WW-CR). Each of these experimental objects consists of five fertilizer variants (FVs) fertilized in the same way every year: absolute control (AC)—variant without fertilizers for 75 years; farmyard manure—FM; mineral fertilizers—NPK; mixed variant—NPK + FM; mineral fertilizers plus annually applied lime—NPK + L. The second factor was the soil layer: 0.0–0.3 m, 0.3–0.6 m, or 0.6–0.9 m. The obtained results clearly indicate that long-term fertilization with NPK + FM, especially in rotation with legumes, strengthens the eluviation/illuviation processes, decreasing the sustainability of soil fertility. Liming is a factor stabilizing the content and distribution of silt and clay particles in the soil. The key factor determining the content and distribution of micronutrients and heavy metals in the soil was the content of organic carbon (C_org). Its content decreased in the following order: WW-CR (13.2 ± 5.8) ≥ WW-MO (12.3 ± 6.9) > BF (6.6 ± 2.8 g·kg⁻¹). The large variability resulted from a distribution trend with soil depth, which increased as follows: MO ≥ CR > BF. FVs with FM had the highest C_org content. NPK, regardless of the long-term soil use system (SUS), had the lowest content. Among the elements studied, the key one impacting the content of both micronutrients and heavy metals was iron (Fe). The Fe content decreased in the order BL (100%) > WW-MO (90.5%) > WW-CR (85%). The opposite tendency was found for the remaining elements, the content of which was consistent with the content of C_org, which was the highest in CR. The strongest impact of Fe, modified by the SUS, was found for Zn, Pb, and Cd. Despite the differences observed between SUSs, fertilization variants, and soil layers, the content of Fe and Mn was in the medium class, while Zn and Cu were in the high class of availability. The content of Ni was the highest for NPK + FM in WW-CR. The content of Pb was weakly affected by the long-term SUS but showed a strong tendency for accumulation in the topsoil layer. The content of Cd was the highest in BF, where it exceeded the threshold of 0.27 mg·kg⁻¹. The long-term diversified SUS, as the main factor determining the sustainability of soil fertility, makes it possible to indicate the directions of humus accumulation and its distribution in the soil. It turned out to be a key factor, but in cooperation with Fe, it determined the content of micronutrients and bioavailable heavy metals in the soil. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability of the Agricultural System and Agro-Ecological Environment)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 4613 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Physicochemical Aspects Regarding the Sustainable Conversion of Carwash Slurry as Coverage Admixture for Landfills

by Simona Elena Avram, Lucian Barbu Tudoran, Gheorghe Borodi, Miuta Rafila Filip, Irina Ciotlaus and Ioan Petean

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 2906; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17072906 - 25 Mar 2025

Abstract

Transport and vehicle traffic are closely connected with particulate matter (PM) pollution, inducing various fractions into the atmosphere, some of them forming significant deposits on the surface of the car. They are washed away during carwash-inducing slurries collecting the PM deposits, which are [...] Read more.

Transport and vehicle traffic are closely connected with particulate matter (PM) pollution, inducing various fractions into the atmosphere, some of them forming significant deposits on the surface of the car. They are washed away during carwash-inducing slurries collecting the PM deposits, which are characteristic of a large area. Crystalline PM matter was investigated by XRD coupled with polarized optical microscopy (POM). Organic matters were investigated by Fourier-Transform Infrared spectrometry (FTIR) and gas chromatography, GC-MS. Their microstructure and elemental composition were investigated by SEM-EDX. The crystalline features contain mainly quartz, calcite, and clay (muscovite and kaolinite) particles having traces of goethite and lepidocrocite. Slurry particle size distribution was established by sieving on the following meshes: 63 µm, 125 µm, 250 µm, 500 µm, 1000 µm, 2000 µm, and 4000 µm. Coarse fractions of 250–4000 μm are dominated by quartz and calcite particles. The quartz and calcite amount decreases with particle size, while the muscovite and kaolinite amount increases in the finest fractions of 0–125 μm. Organic matter was evidenced, firstly, by FTIR spectroscopy, revealing mostly CH₂; C=O, and NH₄ bonds that are more intense for the fine particulate fractions. The organic deposits form mainly amorphous crusts associated with micro- and nano-plastic particles related to the phthalates and traces of the washing detergents. Atomic Force Microscopy revealed their size range between 60 and 90 nm and evidenced nanoparticles within samples. The nanofractions adhere to the bigger particles in humid environments, assuring their immobilization to reduce their hazardous potential. Carwash slurry blending with fertile soil ensures proper grass seed germination and growth at mixtures of up to 60% slurry, allowing its sustainable reconversion as soil for landfill and dump rehabilitation, preventing the PM emission hazard. Blended compositions containing more than 60% slurry have noxious effects on the grass seeds, inhibiting their germination. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Control of Traffic-Related Emissions to Improve Air Quality)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Description

Sustainability

Latest Articles

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Highly Accessed Articles

Latest Books

E-Mail Alert

News

Topics

Conferences

Special Issues

Topical Collections

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI