Sustainability

19 pages, 1220 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Cooling the City? A Scientometric Study on Urban Green and Blue Infrastructure and Climate Change-Induced Public Health Effects

by Leo Capari, Harald Wilfing, Andreas Exner, Thomas Höflehner and Daniela Haluza

Sustainability 2022, 14(9), 4929; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14094929 - 20 Apr 2022

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 6395

Abstract

Climate change causes global effects on multiple levels. The anthropogenic input of greenhouse gases increases the atmospheric mean temperature. It furthermore leads to a higher probability of extreme weather events (e.g., heat waves, floods) and thus strongly impacts the habitats of humans, animals, [...] Read more.

Climate change causes global effects on multiple levels. The anthropogenic input of greenhouse gases increases the atmospheric mean temperature. It furthermore leads to a higher probability of extreme weather events (e.g., heat waves, floods) and thus strongly impacts the habitats of humans, animals, and plants. Against this background, research and innovation activities are increasingly focusing on potential health-related aspects and feasible adaptation and mitigation strategies. Progressing urbanization and demographic change paired with the climate change-induced heat island effect exposes humans living in urban habitats to increasing health risks. By employing scientometric methods, this scoping study provides a systematic bird’s eye view on the epistemic landscapes of climate change, its health-related effects, and possible technological and nature-based interventions and strategies in order to make urban areas climate proof. Based on a literature corpus consisting of 2614 research articles collected in SCOPUS, we applied network-based analysis and visualization techniques to map the different scientific communities, discourses and their interrelations. From a public health perspective, the results demonstrate the range of either direct or indirect health effects of climate change. Furthermore, the results indicate that a public health-related scientific discourse is converging with an urban planning and building science driven discourse oriented towards urban blue and green infrastructure. We conclude that this development might mirror the socio-political demand to tackle emerging climate change-induced challenges by transgressing disciplinary boundaries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Urban Green Infrastructure for Climate-Proof and Healthy Cities)

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21 pages, 1175 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

The Importance of Individual Actor Characteristics and Contextual Aspects for Promoting Industrial Symbiosis Networks

by Lovisa Harfeldt-Berg, Sarah Broberg and Karin Ericsson

Sustainability 2022, 14(9), 4927; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14094927 - 20 Apr 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2883

Abstract

Factors that affect and influence industrial symbiosis (IS) collaborations have been researched extensively in the literature, where they are mostly reported at a network level or for IS in general, and lack the individual actor’s perspective. This review article contributes to and expands [...] Read more.

Factors that affect and influence industrial symbiosis (IS) collaborations have been researched extensively in the literature, where they are mostly reported at a network level or for IS in general, and lack the individual actor’s perspective. This review article contributes to and expands knowledge of influencing factors and their effect on the individual actor. In a systematic review, guided by the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, this study reviews 53 scientific papers examining planned or existing IS networks. It examines literature from 1 January 2000 to 28 March 2022, and it identifies drivers, barriers, and enablers influencing actors to participate in IS. It explores whether and how the perception and impact of these factors differs depending on the characteristics of individual actors and their specific context. The main findings of this study reveal that an actor’s specific characteristics and the network’s context have a significant impact on decision making and how actors both perceive and are affected by factors influencing collaboration. Furthermore, an additional novel contribution to this field of research is that the study identifies three underlying and recurring considerations that actors appear to find critical, namely, perceived business opportunities/risks, regulatory and political setting, and potential inequalities in the network. The results show that an actor’s take on these critical considerations determines whether the actor is willing to engage in IS. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Industrial Symbiosis and Sustainability)

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22 pages, 11799 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Differential Impacts of Climatic and Land Use Changes on Habitat Suitability and Protected Area Adequacy across the Asian Elephant’s Range

by Wei Yang, Yuanxu Ma, Linhai Jing, Siyuan Wang, Zhongchang Sun, Yunwei Tang and Hui Li

Sustainability 2022, 14(9), 4933; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14094933 - 20 Apr 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 5226

Abstract

Climate change and human activities have caused dramatic impacts on biodiversity. Although a number of international agreements or initiatives have been launched to mitigate the biodiversity loss, the erosion of terrestrial biome habitats is inevitable. Consequently, the identification of potential suitable habitats under [...] Read more.

Climate change and human activities have caused dramatic impacts on biodiversity. Although a number of international agreements or initiatives have been launched to mitigate the biodiversity loss, the erosion of terrestrial biome habitats is inevitable. Consequently, the identification of potential suitable habitats under climate change and human disturbance has become an urgent task of biodiversity conservation. In this study, we used the maximum entropy model (MaxEnt) to identify the current and potential future habitats of Asian elephants in South and Southeast Asia. We performed analyses for future projections with 17 scenarios using the present results as baseline. To optimize the modelling results, we delineated the core habitats by using the Core Mapper Tool and compared them with existing protected areas (PAs) through gap analysis. The results showed that the current total area of core habitats is 491,455 km² in size and will be reduced to 332,544 km² by 2090 under SSP585 (the shared socioeconomic pathway). The projection analysis under differential scenarios suggested that most of the core habitats in the current protected areas would remain stable and suitable for elephants in the future. However, the remaining 75.17% of the core habitats lay outside the current PAs, and finally we mapped approximately 219,545 km² of suitable habitats as priority protected areas in the future. Although our model did not perform well in some regions, our analyses and findings still could provide useful references to the planning of protected areas and conservation of Asian elephant. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity in Terrestrial Ecosystems)

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15 pages, 483 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Back and Forth on Sustainable Development: A Focus on Healthcare Organisations

by Caterina Cavicchi, Chiara Oppi and Emidia Vagnoni

Sustainability 2022, 14(9), 4958; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14094958 - 20 Apr 2022

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3927

Abstract

The sustainability of healthcare systems represents a relevant target of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals Agenda. Nevertheless, academic research has neglected to study healthcare systems when focusing on the transition toward sustainable healthcare. This study addresses this gap by investigating the implementation of [...] Read more.

The sustainability of healthcare systems represents a relevant target of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals Agenda. Nevertheless, academic research has neglected to study healthcare systems when focusing on the transition toward sustainable healthcare. This study addresses this gap by investigating the implementation of the sustainable development (SD) principle in the Italian healthcare system, in light of international and national institutional discourses on SD. A questionnaire-based survey has been directed to the General Directors (GDs) of government-funded healthcare orgsanisations to investigate their perceptions about the SD principle applied to healthcare, their strategic planning for SD, their implemented projects for sustainability and the intellectual capital factors that influence the latter’s implementation. The study was conducted in two waves: a first survey was administered in 2016, with a second one in 2021. We used content analysis to identify the potential differences emerging over time in GDs’ perceptions in light of the changes in the institutional discourse; we then assessed the differences over time in the perceived contribution of intellectual capital factors to the implementation of sustainability actions. Results show a substantial decrease in strategic planning for sustainability, as well as in the volume of sustainability projects implemented, as organisations were found to be less involved in implementing SD strategies and projects in 2021 than in 2016. Policies at the country level have mainly focused on balancing cost containment with quality targets, leaving the environmental dimension of sustainability and its connection with healthcare with limited guidelines. Regarding intellectual capital factors, organisational culture and technologies are increasingly perceived as enablers of SD; nevertheless, further studies are needed to deepen their effective contribution to sustainable healthcare. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability Management in the Healthcare Sector)

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10 pages, 618 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Gender and Age Influence in Pre-Competitive and Post-Competitive Anxiety in Young Tennis Players

by Rafael Martínez-Gallego, Santos Villafaina, Miguel Crespo and Juan Pedro Fuentes-García

Sustainability 2022, 14(9), 4966; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14094966 - 20 Apr 2022

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4559

Abstract

To study the influence of age and gender on pre-competitive and post-competitive anxiety and self-confidence in young tennis players. A total of 42 U’12 to U’18 category tennis players, 12 females and 30 males, participated in this cross-sectional study. The players had a [...] Read more.

To study the influence of age and gender on pre-competitive and post-competitive anxiety and self-confidence in young tennis players. A total of 42 U’12 to U’18 category tennis players, 12 females and 30 males, participated in this cross-sectional study. The players had a mean age of 13.74 (2.07) years old and a national competitive experience of 4.00 (2.14) years. The pre-competitive anxiety of the participants was assessed using the Competitive State Anxiety Inventory–2R (CSAI-2R) and the State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-E) before and after an official tournament’s match. Results showed that younger players showed lower trait anxiety (r = 0.333; p < 0.05), lower pre-match state anxiety (r = 0.501; p < 0.01) and lower pre-match somatic anxiety (r = 0.313; p < 0.05). Furthermore, girls exhibited higher values of state anxiety (r = 0.445; p < 0.01) and somatic anxiety (r = 0.440; p < 0.01) than boys before the match. However, differences were not observed in the trait anxiety measured by STAI-E (r = 0.203; p = 0.213), cognitive anxiety (r = 0.140; p = 0.363), and self-confidence measured by the CSAI questionnaire (r = 0.150; p = 0.333), before the match. Therefore, coaches and sport psychologists should implement adequate on- and off-court individualized interventions to manage anxiety, specifically in girls and players over 14 years old. Although anxiety levels were similar to those before the COVID-19 pandemic, due to the influence of the pandemic on mental health, results might be taken with caution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Health: Fitness and Sports after COVID Pandemic)

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21 pages, 1417 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Realising the Potential of Renewable Energy as a Tool for Energy Security in Small Island Developing States

by Walter Leal Filho, Abdul-Lateef Balogun, Dinesh Surroop, Amanda Lange Salvia, Kapil Narula, Chunlan Li, Julian David Hunt, Andrea Gatto, Ayyoob Sharifi, Haibo Feng, Stella Tsani and Hossein Azadi

Sustainability 2022, 14(9), 4965; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14094965 - 20 Apr 2022

Cited by 38 | Viewed by 6757

Abstract

Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are heavily dependent on the use of imported fossil fuels to address their energy needs. This has a negative impact on the environment, SIDS budgets, and energy security. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the role of renewable [...] Read more.

Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are heavily dependent on the use of imported fossil fuels to address their energy needs. This has a negative impact on the environment, SIDS budgets, and energy security. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the role of renewable energy (RE) as a tool for energy security in SIDS. In this regard, using VOSviewer, a widely known software tool, two bibliometric analyses were performed with a focus on the literature that explores two intertwined issues: (i) the links between RE and energy security; and (ii) the implications of RE and energy security in SIDS. The results from the study show that RE can help SIDS enhance their energy security and assure long-term energy sustainability. In addition, the results show that with the reduction in the cost of batteries in the future, they will eventually replace diesel generators. Moreover, the study showed that renewable energy may assist SIDS in their long-term efforts to achieve food security. The analysis discusses the major obstacles and the potential solutions for the integration of RES into the energy generation of SIDS. The paper concludes with useful recommendations to help island nations reduce their carbon footprint. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Frontiers and Best Practices in Bio, Circular, and Green Growth and Eco-Innovation)

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27 pages, 5978 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Influence of Rainfall Events and Surface Inclination on Overland and Subsurface Runoff Formation on Low-Permeable Soil

by Andrzej Gruchot, Tymoteusz Zydroń, Andrzej Wałęga, Jana Pařílková and Jacek Stanisz

Sustainability 2022, 14(9), 4962; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14094962 - 20 Apr 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2796

Abstract

This paper presents the results of laboratory tests that allowed us to determine the effect of the soil surface inclination and its initial moisture content on the formation of overland and subsurface runoff. The experiments were carried out for the soil that is [...] Read more.

This paper presents the results of laboratory tests that allowed us to determine the effect of the soil surface inclination and its initial moisture content on the formation of overland and subsurface runoff. The experiments were carried out for the soil that is commonly present in the southern part of Poland, including the Outer Carpathians. The results of these measurements served as a reference for overland runoff calculations using the Richards model, simplified Green–Ampt model, and the empirical model (MSME). The results of the measurements showed that, for low-permeable soil, overland runoff is the dominant form. It was shown that a slope in the range of 2.5–5.0% does not have a significant effect on the amount of overland runoff, but affects its dynamics. The measurements also showed that the starting time and amount of overland runoff are strictly associated with the initial soil moisture content. High soil moisture content in the period preceding the onset of rainfall causes faster generation and an increase in overland runoff, which is caused by the saturation of the surface layer of the soil. This mechanism was confirmed by the results of calculations using the Richards model and measurements of the electrical resistance of the soil. Theoretical calculations showed that the results of the runoff calculations using the Richards and Green–Ampt models are strongly dependent on the hydraulic properties of the soil adopted for the analysis. It was also demonstrated that the modified MSME model satisfactorily estimates the amount of overland and subsurface runoff, but requires parameter calibration based on existing hydrological data. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Engineering and Water Resources Management)

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10 pages, 250 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Corporate Social Responsibility Reporting for Stakeholders’ Health and Wellbeing in the Food and Beverage Industry: A Case Study of a Multinational Company

by Gloria Macassa, Mamunur Rashid, Brita Backlund Rambaree and Ehsanul Huda Chowdhury

Sustainability 2022, 14(9), 4879; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14094879 - 19 Apr 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 7378

Abstract

The concept of corporate social responsibility (CSR) used to be seen as a social obligation of businesses to make decisions and take responsible action in accordance with the goals and values of the society. The concept is today understood as the continuing commitment [...] Read more.

The concept of corporate social responsibility (CSR) used to be seen as a social obligation of businesses to make decisions and take responsible action in accordance with the goals and values of the society. The concept is today understood as the continuing commitment by businesses to behave ethically and contribute to economic development while improving the quality of life of the workforce and their families as well as the local community and society at large. This study aimed to apply Chowdhury and co-authors’ framework to the Unilever Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Content Index 2020 to explore the feasibility of the framework as well as identify potential challenges related to its use in the field of public health. Findings show that the framework is suitable for analysing CSR reporting on activities aimed to promote internal and external stakeholders’ health and wellbeing from a public health perspective. A greater number of GRI disclosures reported by Unilever related to external stakeholders’ health and wellbeing than to activities impacting internal stakeholders. Further research should aim at testing the framework in other types of business organizations across other types of industries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Corporate Social Responsibility and Stakeholders’ Health and Wellbeing)

23 pages, 3081 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Bibliometric Analysis of Data Sources and Tools for Shoreline Change Analysis and Detection

by Johnson Ankrah, Ana Monteiro and Helena Madureira

Sustainability 2022, 14(9), 4895; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14094895 - 19 Apr 2022

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 5250

Abstract

The world has a long record of shoreline and related erosion problems due to the impacts of climate change/variability in sea level rise. This has made coastal systems and large inland water environments vulnerable, thereby activating research concern globally. This study is a [...] Read more.

The world has a long record of shoreline and related erosion problems due to the impacts of climate change/variability in sea level rise. This has made coastal systems and large inland water environments vulnerable, thereby activating research concern globally. This study is a bibliometric analysis of the global scientific production of data sources and tools for shoreline change analysis and detection. The bibliometric mapping method (bibliometric R and VOSviewer package) was utilized to analyze 1578 scientific documents (1968–2022) retrieved from Scopus and Web of Science databases. There is a chance that in the selection process one or more important scientific papers might be omitted due to the selection criteria. Thus, there could be a bias in the present results due to the search criteria here employed. The results revealed that the U.S.A. is the country with the most scientific production (16.9%) on the subject. Again, more country collaborations exist among the developed countries compared with the developing countries. The results further revealed that tools for shoreline change analysis have changed from a simple beach transect (0.1%) to the utilization of geospatial tools such as DSAS (14.6%), ArcGIS/ArcMap (13.8%), and, currently, machine learning (5.1%). Considering the benefits of these geospatial tools, and machine learning in particular, more utilization is essential to the continuous growth of the field. Found research gaps were mostly addressed by the researchers themselves or addressed in other studies, while others have still not been addressed, especially the ones emerged from the recent work. For instance, the one on insights for reef restoration projects focused on erosion mitigation and designing artificial reefs in microtidal sandy beaches. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modelling for Sustainable Marine Management)

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18 pages, 1793 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Multi-Dimensional Cost-Effectiveness Analysis for Prioritizing Railway Station Investments: A General Framework with an Application to the Italian Case Study

by Pierluigi Coppola, Diego Deponte, Alessandro Vacca, Federico Messa and Fulvio Silvestri

Sustainability 2022, 14(9), 4906; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14094906 - 19 Apr 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3602

Abstract

In recent years, several authors have highlighted the merits of the Cost-Effectiveness Analysis (CEA), e.g., compared to Cost-Benefits Analysis (CBA), particularly for small projects appraisal (e.g., revamping or extraordinary maintenance interventions) and when the impacts of the project are difficult to value or [...] Read more.

In recent years, several authors have highlighted the merits of the Cost-Effectiveness Analysis (CEA), e.g., compared to Cost-Benefits Analysis (CBA), particularly for small projects appraisal (e.g., revamping or extraordinary maintenance interventions) and when the impacts of the project are difficult to value or quantify in monetary terms. CEA is a quite consolidated technique, typically applied in practice when one specific impact prevails over the others. This research extends the concept of CEA to a multi-dimensional decision-making context, outlining a methodological framework that includes several criteria to assess the impacts of railway station revamping in urban contexts. The proposed method has already been applied for the project appraisals of five railway stations in Italy; this paper presents the application to a case study representing the typical configuration of a medium-sized Italian railway station. Results have shown that the proposed approach is a valid tool for both designers and infrastructure managers for prioritizing railway station investments in the presence of multiple strategic objectives that also conflict with each other. A multi-dimensional CEA can provide, in a communicative, lean, and effective way, the information on investment costs and the impacts that different policies, layouts, and technological solutions would have, creating the basis for a more transparent debate on resource allocation priorities. Finally, results have shown that the CEA is not only a method for project assessment, but also a tool for improving and directing the design towards the identification of interventions that allow the achievement of the key objectives set ex ante. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Rail and Metro Systems)

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12 pages, 496 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Air Conditioning Load Forecasting and Optimal Operation of Water Systems

by Zhijia Huang, Xiaofeng Chen, Kaiwen Wang and Binbin Zhou

Sustainability 2022, 14(9), 4867; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14094867 - 19 Apr 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2820

Abstract

In order to conduct a data-driven load forecasting modeling and its application in optimal control of air-conditioning system, this study used a hotel’s central air conditioning system as the research object. Based on the data of the hotel energy management system, the load-forecasting [...] Read more.

In order to conduct a data-driven load forecasting modeling and its application in optimal control of air-conditioning system, this study used a hotel’s central air conditioning system as the research object. Based on the data of the hotel energy management system, the load-forecasting model of the central air conditioning system based on support vector regression (SVR) was established by MATLAB. Based on the working principle of a chiller, chilled water pump, cooling water pump, and cooling tower, the energy consumption models were established, respectively. Finally, based on the load-forecasting results and the equipment energy consumption model, the energy consumption optimization objective function of the hotel water system was established, the objective function was solved to optimize the operating parameters of the water system at different load rates, the operation control strategy for each piece of equipment was obtained, and the energy-saving analysis was carried out. The results show that in the range of a load rate of 25~90%, the optimization strategy has an energy-saving effect, and the system’s energy-saving rate is the highest when the load rate is 25.4%. The average energy-saving rate of the system is 12.4%. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthy, Smart and Interactive Built Environment)

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19 pages, 1603 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Urban Green Parks for Long-Term Subjective Well-Being: Empirical Relationships between Personal Characteristics, Park Characteristics, Park Use, Sense of Place, and Satisfaction with Life in The Netherlands

by Mayke van Dinter, Mieke Kools, Gamze Dane, Minou Weijs-Perrée, Kynthia Chamilothori, Eveline van Leeuwen, Aloys Borgers and Pauline van den Berg

Sustainability 2022, 14(9), 4911; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14094911 - 19 Apr 2022

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 6817

Abstract

As our living environment is becoming increasingly urbanized, this puts the livability, health, and quality of life in cities under pressure. Due to the urbanization process, urban green spaces are under threat of becoming scarce, while it is recognized that these green spaces [...] Read more.

As our living environment is becoming increasingly urbanized, this puts the livability, health, and quality of life in cities under pressure. Due to the urbanization process, urban green spaces are under threat of becoming scarce, while it is recognized that these green spaces can positively contribute to the subjective well-being of citizens. It is thus important to maximize the use and benefits derived from green spaces by designing them as positively experienced places. The aim of this research is to gain more empirical insights on the relationships between personal and park characteristics, park use behavior, sense of place, and park visitors’ long-term subjective well-being (i.e., life satisfaction). An online questionnaire was administered to participants in two medium-sized cities in The Netherlands, namely Eindhoven and ‘s-Hertogenbosch. Data were analyzed using a structural equation model. The results of this study show that the appreciation of facilities and the absence of disturbances positively influence the use and sense of place of a park. Furthermore, the findings show that sense of place has a positive influence on life satisfaction. The findings can be used by designers and policy-makers as guidelines to improve existing parks or to design new parks that support the subjective well-being of individuals in The Netherlands. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Quality of Public Space—Analysis and Prediction of Individuals’ Perception and Wellbeing)

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28 pages, 1882 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Consumer Acceptance and Production of In Vitro Meat: A Review

by Kevin Kantono, Nazimah Hamid, Maya Murthy Malavalli, Ye Liu, Tingting Liu and Ali Seyfoddin

Sustainability 2022, 14(9), 4910; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14094910 - 19 Apr 2022

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5137

Abstract

In vitro meat (IVM) is a recent development in the production of sustainable food. The consumer perception of IVM has a strong impact on the commercial success of IVM. Hence this review examines existing studies related to consumer concerns, acceptance and uncertainty of [...] Read more.

In vitro meat (IVM) is a recent development in the production of sustainable food. The consumer perception of IVM has a strong impact on the commercial success of IVM. Hence this review examines existing studies related to consumer concerns, acceptance and uncertainty of IVM. This will help create better marketing strategies for IVM-producing companies in the future. In addition, IVM production is described in terms of the types of cells and culture conditions employed. The applications of self-organising, scaffolding, and 3D printing techniques to produce IVM are also discussed. As the conditions for IVM production are controlled and can be manipulated, it will be feasible to produce a chemically safe and disease-free meat with improved consumer acceptance on a sustainable basis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Food Byproduct Valorisation and Consumer Behaviour)

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13 pages, 4523 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Sustainable Management of Salt Slag

by Isabel Padilla, Maximina Romero, Sol López-Andrés and Aurora López-Delgado

Sustainability 2022, 14(9), 4887; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14094887 - 19 Apr 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4401

Abstract

The management of salt slag, a waste from the secondary aluminum industry, is associated with huge environmental concerns due to the risk of atmospheric pollution (emission of toxic gases), groundwater contamination (high salt content that can percolate and cause an increase in salinity) [...] Read more.

The management of salt slag, a waste from the secondary aluminum industry, is associated with huge environmental concerns due to the risk of atmospheric pollution (emission of toxic gases), groundwater contamination (high salt content that can percolate and cause an increase in salinity) and soil unavailability (large extensions required for disposal). Therefore, the development of a sustainable process for its treatment and recovery is of the utmost importance. In this work, a two-step process for the valorization of salt slag was developed that rendered zeolite as the main added-value product and NaCl and NH₃ as byproducts. First, salt slag was hydrolyzed at 90 °C and at a solid/water ratio of 1/3. More than 90% of salt and ~90% of ammonia were recovered. In a second step, the hydrolyzed slag was completely transformed into a NaP zeolite under mild hydrothermal conditions. The zeolite exhibited specific surface area (17 m² g⁻¹), cation exchange capacity (2.12 meq g⁻¹) and zeta potential (−52 mV) values that represent good characteristics for use in the removal of metal ions from aqueous effluents. The transformation of salt slag into zeolite can be considered a sustainable process with a high contribution to the circular economy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Environmental Management of Hazardous Wastes)

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20 pages, 4612 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Toxicity and Uptake of CuO Nanoparticles: Evaluation of an Emerging Nanofertilizer on Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Plant

by Amany S. Ibrahim, Gomaa A. M. Ali, Amro Hassanein, Ahmed M. Attia and Ezzat R. Marzouk

Sustainability 2022, 14(9), 4914; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14094914 - 19 Apr 2022

Cited by 38 | Viewed by 4934

Abstract

Wet chemistry was used to produce copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs). The results indicated that most nanoparticles were bacillus-shaped and relatively uniform in size (less than 30 nm). The effect of synthesized CuO NPs on wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) germination and growth [...] Read more.

Wet chemistry was used to produce copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs). The results indicated that most nanoparticles were bacillus-shaped and relatively uniform in size (less than 30 nm). The effect of synthesized CuO NPs on wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) germination and growth parameters was studied and compared to bulk Cu. The results showed that no significant difference was obtained in germination rate among all treatments. Bulk Cu additions significantly affect the mean germination rate and mean germination time. On the contrary, germinability was significantly affected by CuO NPs additions. Seed vigor index was calculated to demonstrate the superior treatment in wheat germination parameters, and the results confirmed that 0.1 mg L⁻¹ of CuO NPs could be successfully used to improve wheat seed germination. Moreover, the general average Cu concentrations in the plant tissue were 139 and 103 mg kg⁻¹ dry weight for bulk and CuO NPs, respectively, indicating the dissolution behavior of CuO NPs. The addition of CuO NPs (0.1 mg L⁻¹) promotes chlorophyll formation equal to 0.5 mg L⁻¹ of the bulk Cu addition. This means using nanoparticles as fertilizer could reduce 80% of traditional fertilizers. Nonetheless, Cu additions in both forms (NPs and bulk) reduce root growth substantially compared to control. The effective toxic dose (EC₅₀) for bulk Cu and CuO NPs was 0.37 mg L⁻¹ and 0.94 mg L⁻¹, respectively. The results indicated that approximately 2.5 times CuO NPs concentration is equal to the toxicity dose of bulk Cu due to lowered CuO NPs dissolution. Our study showed that Cu phytotoxicity is a non-nanosized effect and showed that plant-induced changes under environmentally real conditions should be considered when measuring the dissolution of CuO NPs near wheat plant roots. This study implies that using nano-CuO as a micronutrient amendment has a potential benefit rather than the soluble Cu salt for plant growth. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Contamination with Emerging Contaminants; Associated Health Risks and Remediation Strategies)

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11 pages, 229 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Our New Artificial Intelligence Infrastructure: Becoming Locked into an Unsustainable Future

by Scott Robbins and Aimee van Wynsberghe

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4829; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084829 - 18 Apr 2022

Cited by 50 | Viewed by 11994

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly important for the infrastructures that support many of society’s functions. Transportation, security, energy, education, the workplace, the government have all incorporated AI into their infrastructures for enhancement and/or protection. In this paper, we argue that not only [...] Read more.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly important for the infrastructures that support many of society’s functions. Transportation, security, energy, education, the workplace, the government have all incorporated AI into their infrastructures for enhancement and/or protection. In this paper, we argue that not only is AI seen as a tool for augmenting existing infrastructures, but AI itself is becoming an infrastructure that many services of today and tomorrow will depend upon. Considering the vast environmental consequences associated with the development and use of AI, of which the world is only starting to learn, the necessity of addressing AI alongside the concept of infrastructure points toward the phenomenon of carbon lock-in. Carbon lock-in refers to society’s constrained ability to reduce carbon emissions technologically, economically, politically, and socially. These constraints are due to the inherent inertia created by entrenched technological, institutional, and behavioral norms. That is, the drive for AI adoption in virtually every sector of society will create dependencies and interdependencies from which it will be hard to escape. The crux of this paper boils down to this: in conceptualizing AI as infrastructure we can recognize the risk of lock-in, not just carbon lock-in but lock-in as it relates to all the physical needs to achieve the infrastructure of AI. This does not exclude the possibility of solutions arising with the rise of these technologies; however, given these points, it is of the utmost importance that we ask inconvenient questions regarding these environmental costs before becoming locked into this new AI infrastructure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Towards the Sustainability of AI; Multi-Disciplinary Approaches to Investigate the Hidden Costs of AI)

13 pages, 621 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Eco-Friendly Clothing Market: A Study of Willingness to Purchase Organic Cotton Clothing in Bangladesh

by Md Mehedi Hasan, Liling Cai, Xiaofen Ji and Francisca Margarita Ocran

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4827; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084827 - 18 Apr 2022

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 12170

Abstract

This research study aims to achieve a developing country’s sustainable development in the clothing industry by exploring consumer behavior to a willingness to purchase organic cotton clothing (OCC) and apparel retailers’ responsibilities. Organic cotton clothing development in the fashion industry could play an [...] Read more.

This research study aims to achieve a developing country’s sustainable development in the clothing industry by exploring consumer behavior to a willingness to purchase organic cotton clothing (OCC) and apparel retailers’ responsibilities. Organic cotton clothing development in the fashion industry could play an important role in textile and environmental pollution and create new business opportunities for green clothes. Survey data was collected from top cities in Bangladesh, and 303 useable responses were collected (81.5% male and 18.5% female). In our survey, 60.7% of the participant was employed. This research model was inspired by the Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA) and added some new variable that influences purchase willingness under OCC fashion in developing countries like Bangladesh. The findings of this study stated that consumer environmental concerns and consumer attitudes positively impact the OCC purchase willingness of Bangladeshi consumers. Also, the authenticity and fashionable of OCC products have a significant impact on Bangladeshi consumer purchase intention. Product Performance found an indirect effect on Bangladeshi consumers’ intention. Furthermore, this study will find that the Bangladeshi market is already very aware of the sustainability movement and concerned about environmental issues. Retailers should focus more on environmental awareness of OCC textile and authentic OCC items. Also, this study will update previous research findings on consumer attitudes toward OCC fashion in the Bangladesh market. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Textile Marketing)

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26 pages, 1633 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Child-Friendly Environments—What, How and by Whom?

by Märit Jansson, Emma Herbert, Alva Zalar and Maria Johansson

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4852; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084852 - 18 Apr 2022

Cited by 46 | Viewed by 16157

Abstract

The socio-physical qualities of built environments are, in several ways, of imperative importance for children growing up. The Child-Friendly Cities initiative by UNICEF, an implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, has made local governments strive toward child-friendliness. The [...] Read more.

The socio-physical qualities of built environments are, in several ways, of imperative importance for children growing up. The Child-Friendly Cities initiative by UNICEF, an implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, has made local governments strive toward child-friendliness. The participation of children and young people is often the focus of such projects, with a potential for a far broader scope. Besides participation processes, what important socio-physical qualities make environments child-friendly, and how can they be developed? This paper presents a structured literature review of the concept of child-friendly environments, in order to address the full socio-physical spectrum. The results focus on concrete factors that have been filtered through child-friendliness and the associated frameworks, showing an inherent dependence between the social context and the physical environment. The shaping of child-friendliness hinges on the realization of environments that are safe, fair, and with accessible and variable green and open spaces. A multi-stakeholder endeavor including, e.g., planners, designers, and managers requires clearly outlined priorities. This study lays the groundwork for further exploration of how the concept of child-friendly environments can lead to positive changes, also as part of the overall strive toward sustainable development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Planning and Design Interventions for Improving the Well-Being of Vulnerable Groups)

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23 pages, 579 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Sense of Place, Biocultural Heritage, and Sustainable Knowledge and Practices in Three Italian Rural Regeneration Processes

by Letizia Bindi, Mauro Conti and Angelo Belliggiano

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4858; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084858 - 18 Apr 2022

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 5056

Abstract

This paper addresses sustainable development processes based on biocultural heritage, sense of place, and socio-cultural innovation and inclusiveness in the rural context, particularly focusing different scales of endogenous/neo-endogenous rural regeneration processes. Ethnographic and grounded case studies allow a critical analysis of different forms [...] Read more.

This paper addresses sustainable development processes based on biocultural heritage, sense of place, and socio-cultural innovation and inclusiveness in the rural context, particularly focusing different scales of endogenous/neo-endogenous rural regeneration processes. Ethnographic and grounded case studies allow a critical analysis of different forms of rural development from a multidisciplinary perspective based on old and new rurality, rural and local communities’ participation, resilience and regeneration processes, sense of place, belongingness, and “restanza”. The three cases are situated in three areas of Italy: the ecomuseum of pastoralism in Pontebernardo in the northern region of Piedmont as a driver of local shared development pathways; the municipality of Castel del Giudice, in the Central-Southern region of Molise, enabling different and integrated local regeneration actions; and the Association “Casa delle AgriCulture”/Green Night Festival in Castiglione d’Otranto in the Southern region of Puglia as a performative opportunity to define innovative and transversal as well as community-oriented activities. In these contexts, different local regeneration programs were applied in order to provide a critical evaluation of the knowledge and practices of sustainability in terms of their entanglements with biocultural heritage and socio-cultural innovation. The present analysis insists on the impact of biocultural heritage in regeneration processes in rural regions and endogenous/neo-endogenous factors in rural sustainable development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cultivating the Ecological Transition: Knowledge and Practices of Sustainability, Neo-Endogenous Development and Participatory Processes)

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20 pages, 3920 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Bio-Based Plastics Production, Impact and End of Life: A Literature Review and Content Analysis

by Halayit Abrha, Jonnathan Cabrera, Yexin Dai, Muhammad Irfan, Abrham Toma, Shipu Jiao and Xianhua Liu

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4855; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084855 - 18 Apr 2022

Cited by 50 | Viewed by 11931

Abstract

The accumulation of plastic wastes is one of the most widely spread problems affecting the environment. The reality that plastics can be made from renewable resources and degrade naturally has prompted academics to think outside the box to develop “better for the environment” [...] Read more.

The accumulation of plastic wastes is one of the most widely spread problems affecting the environment. The reality that plastics can be made from renewable resources and degrade naturally has prompted academics to think outside the box to develop “better for the environment” items. In this paper, a bibliometric analysis of the scholarly publications related to bio-based plastics within the last 20 years is presented. Annual progression, geographic and research area distribution, and keyword co-occurrence were all examined. Six distinct clusters emerged from keyword analysis, which were further categorized into three directions: production to marketing; impact on the environment, economy, and society; and end-of-life (EoL) options. The major focus was on how to counter the weaknesses and challenges of bio-based plastics and take opportunities using the inherent advantages of bio-based plastics. Comprehensive studies regarding the impact of bio-based plastics on the environment, economy and social sustainability are still deficient. Although there are many promising innovations in this area, most of them are at the research stage. The benefits of bio-based plastics and better EoL options can be enjoyed only after increased production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymeric Materials for Sustainability and Innovations)

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27 pages, 667 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Impact of RDP Measures on the Rural Development: The Case of Romania

by Ramona Pîrvu, Laurențiu Dragomir, Bogdan Budică, Răducu-Ștefan Bratu, Sorin Dinulescu and Lili Țenea

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4857; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084857 - 18 Apr 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3428

Abstract

The goal of this study is to analyze the development of rural areas in Romania on the basis of the absorption of both the European non-reimbursable funds and the national funds for the modernization of the infrastructure of villages and communes. The aim [...] Read more.

The goal of this study is to analyze the development of rural areas in Romania on the basis of the absorption of both the European non-reimbursable funds and the national funds for the modernization of the infrastructure of villages and communes. The aim of the article is to carry out thorough empirical research on the process of rural development in Romania as a facet of the EU’s overall rural development. Thus, in order to obtain relevant results in connection with the pursued goal, we will be using hierarchical cluster analysis to observe the effects of the expenses financed through the National Rural Development Program (NRDP) on the development of rural areas. In accordance with the methodological approach of research, our goal is to give a picture of the way in which Romania’s counties (NUTS 3) were clustered at the beginning of the multi-annual planning (2014) as well as at the end of the planning period, in 2020, and to point out a series of practical and concrete aspects generated by the opportunities that the rural areas have had in terms of attracting structural funds. Based on the conducted analysis, we can say that a series of positive aspects can be put in the spotlight as a result of the existence of the European irredeemable funds, which engender positive direct and indirect effects on both the economy and the population’s standard of living. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Rural Development and Land Use Planning)

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30 pages, 1245 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Theoretical Perspectives on Sustainable Supply Chain Management and Digital Transformation: A Literature Review and a Conceptual Framework

by Asterios Stroumpoulis and Evangelia Kopanaki

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4862; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084862 - 18 Apr 2022

Cited by 75 | Viewed by 26544

Abstract

In an era where environmental and social pressures on companies are increasing, sustainable supply chain management is essential for the efficient operation and survivability of the organizations (members of the chain). Digital transformation and the adoption of new technologies could support the development [...] Read more.

In an era where environmental and social pressures on companies are increasing, sustainable supply chain management is essential for the efficient operation and survivability of the organizations (members of the chain). Digital transformation and the adoption of new technologies could support the development of sustainable strategies, as they support supply chain processes, decrease operational costs, enable control and monitoring of operations and support green practices. The purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between sustainable supply chain management and digital transformation through the adoption of specific technologies (Blockchain technology, big data analytics, internet of things). It aims at theory building and the development of a conceptual framework, enabling the explanation of under which circumstances the above combination could lead to the development of sustainable performances. It also aims to examine how companies can increase their competitive advantage and/or increase their business performance, contributing both to academics and practitioners. After conducting a literature review analysis, a significant gap was detected. There are a few studies providing theoretical approaches to examining all three pillars of sustainability, while at the same time analyzing the impact of big data analytics, internet of things and blockchain technology on the development of sustainable supply chains. Aiming to address this gap, this paper primarily conducts a literature review, identifies definitions and theories used to explain the different pillars of flexibility, and examines the effect of different technologies. It then develops a theoretical conceptual framework, which could enable both academics and practitioners to examine the impact of the adoption of different technologies on sustainable supply chain management. The findings of this research reveal that digital transformation plays an important role to companies, as the combination of different technologies may lead to the development of significant capabilities, increasing sustainable performances and enabling the development of sustainable strategies, which can improve companies’ position in the market. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Logistics and Supply Chains)

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12 pages, 1315 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Functional Bakery Snacks for the Post-COVID-19 Market, Fortified with Omega-3 Fatty Acids

by Haralabos C. Karantonis, Constantina Nasopoulou and Dimitris Skalkos

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4816; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084816 - 17 Apr 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3454

Abstract

Flaxseed is a natural ingredient with health benefits because of its rich contents of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. In this study, whole-meal sliced bread, chocolate cookies, and breadsticks, which were enriched with flaxseed (Linum usitatissimu) were produced as a natural [...] Read more.

Flaxseed is a natural ingredient with health benefits because of its rich contents of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. In this study, whole-meal sliced bread, chocolate cookies, and breadsticks, which were enriched with flaxseed (Linum usitatissimu) were produced as a natural enrichment source in order to provide functional baked goods. The three innovative products were tested as sources of omega-3 fatty acids in terms of α-linolenic acid according to EU 1924/2006 as well as for their in vitro antithrombotic/anti-inflammatory effect. The results showed that omega-3 fatty acids had high concentrations (>0.6 g per 100 g of product) in all products even after the heating treatment with constant stability during the time of consumption. All the enriched products exerted higher, but in different grade, in vitro antithrombotic/anti-inflammatory activity compared to the conventional products. The products were evaluated positively by a panel of potential consumers without significant differences compared to conventional corresponding products. Enriched bakery products with omega-3 fatty acids may represent a novel opportunity for the development of functional foods that can be locally consumed, thereby contributing to public health prevention measures that the post-COVID-19 era demands. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Agrifood Supply Chain in the Post-COVID 19 Era)

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17 pages, 1263 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Consideration of Wildlife in the Benefit-Costs of Hydraulic Fracturing: Expanding to an E3 Analysis

by Jennifer A. Caldwell, Christopher K. Williams, Margaret C. Brittingham and Thomas J. Maier

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4811; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084811 - 17 Apr 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5082

Abstract

High-volume hydraulic fracturing (“fracking”) for natural gas in the Marcellus Shale (underlying about 24 mil ha in New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, Ohio, and Virginia) has become a politically charged issue, primarily because of concerns about drinking water safety and human health. [...] Read more.

High-volume hydraulic fracturing (“fracking”) for natural gas in the Marcellus Shale (underlying about 24 mil ha in New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, Ohio, and Virginia) has become a politically charged issue, primarily because of concerns about drinking water safety and human health. This paper examines fracking in the Marcellus region, and the tradeoffs between the energy and economic potential of natural gas extraction and the environmental impacts on wildlife. Therefore, we introduce a new E3 analysis that combines the costs and benefits as regards energy, economics, and the environment. The Marcellus Shale has the most proven reserves of natural gas of any basin in the United States, at 129 trillion cubic feet. Income from natural gas development comes primarily from direct and indirect jobs, and induced jobs (those created when direct workers spend their earnings in a community), taxes and fees, and royalty and lease payments to rights holders. Fracking, however, has detrimental effects on wildlife and wildlife habitats. Terrestrial habitat effects are primarily due to landscape fragmentation from the clearing of land for pipeline and well pad development, which often removes mature forest and creates open corridors and edge habitats. An increase in forest edge and open corridors is associated with shifts in the bird community, as generalist species that do well around people increase in abundance, while forest specialists decline. Invasive plants associated with disturbance further degrade forest habitats. Aquatic habitats are also affected, both directly and indirectly. Hydraulic fracturing requires up to 20 mil L of water per well fracture, most of which comes from surface water sources in the Marcellus region. The removal of water, especially in smaller headwaters, can increase sedimentation, alter water temperature and change its chemistry, resulting in reductions in aquatic biodiversity. Given the reality that hydraulic fracturing will continue, there is a need to develop practices that best minimize negative impacts on terrestrial and aquatic habitats, as well as policies and the resolve to enforce these practices. To achieve a more sustainable balance between economic, energy, and environmental costs and benefits, we recommend that industry, scientists, non-governmental organizations, mineral rights holders, landowners, and regulators work together to develop a set of best management practices that represent the best knowledge available. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Conservation Planning and Wildlife Management)

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12 pages, 2498 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceCommunication

Genetic Identification of Hybrid Walnuts (Juglans × intermedia Carr.) in Hungary, the Hidden Potential for Future Breeding

by Klára Cseke, Géza Bujdosó, Mátyás Báder, Tamás Mertl, Attila Benke and József Dezső Kámpel

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4782; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084782 - 16 Apr 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3057

Abstract

The question of the hybrid walnut (Juglans × intermedia Carr.) is still under debate in the Central European region. There is not simply just an underutilization, rather, even the existence of these hybrid forms is not broadly accepted. On the contrary, there [...] Read more.

The question of the hybrid walnut (Juglans × intermedia Carr.) is still under debate in the Central European region. There is not simply just an underutilization, rather, even the existence of these hybrid forms is not broadly accepted. On the contrary, there is an intensive cross-breeding activity in the western part of Europe resulting in commercially available hybrid clones. In Hungary, several individuals have been reported with intermediate morphology from different old black walnut plantations. Due to the lacking information, a preliminary study was conducted in order to prove the difference of these selected trees and to test the hybrid state. For this purpose, DNA fingerprinting was used by applying 13 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers for the identification of 22 hybrid genotypes selected from one study plot. A comparative analysis with a reference sample set of the ‘parental’ species and other known hybrids was performed as well. The genetic analysis resulted distinct, unique genotypes for all of the samples. Based on the genetic pattern, the analyzed hybrid group was clearly distinguishable from the other two walnut groups. The result of this study also highlights the hidden potential in walnut breeding in the Central European region. Future concepts concerning hybrid walnut utilization in plantation forestry, agroforestry or as breeding material are also discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Fruit Production and Core Collections with Special Regards to Climate Change)

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22 pages, 1501 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Global Assessment: Can Renewable Energy Replace Fossil Fuels by 2050?

by Jerry L. Holechek, Hatim M. E. Geli, Mohammed N. Sawalhah and Raul Valdez

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4792; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084792 - 16 Apr 2022

Cited by 814 | Viewed by 108172

Abstract

Our study evaluated the effectiveness of using eight pathways in combination for a complete to transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy by 2050. These pathways included renewable energy development; improving energy efficiency; increasing energy conservation; carbon taxes; more equitable balancing of human [...] Read more.

Our study evaluated the effectiveness of using eight pathways in combination for a complete to transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy by 2050. These pathways included renewable energy development; improving energy efficiency; increasing energy conservation; carbon taxes; more equitable balancing of human wellbeing and per capita energy use; cap and trade systems; carbon capture, utilization, and storage; and nuclear power development. We used the annual ‘British Petroleum statistical review of world energy 2021’ report as our primary database. Globally, fossil fuels, renewable (primarily hydro, wind and solar), nuclear energy accounted for 83%, 12.6%, and 6.3% of the total energy consumption in 2020. To achieve zero fossil fuel use by 2050, we found that renewable energy production will need to be increased by up to 6-fold or 8-fold if energy demand is held constant at, or increased 50% from, the 2020 energy demand level. Constraining 2050 world energy demand to a 25% increase over the 2020 level, improves the probability of achieving independence from fossil fuels. Improvements in energy efficiency need to accelerate beyond the current rate of ~1.5% per year. Aggressive application of energy conservation policies involving land use and taxation could potentially reduce world energy use by 10% or more by 2050. Our meta-analysis shows that the minimum level of per capita energy consumption that would allow 8 billion people to have a ‘Decent Living Standard’ is on average ~70 GJ per capita per year, which is 93% of the 2020 global average. Developed countries in temperate climates with high vehicle-dependency needed ~120 GJ per capita year⁻¹, whereas equatorial countries with low vehicle-dependency needed 30 GJ per capita year⁻¹. Our meta-analyses indicated replacement of fossil fuels with renewable energy by 2050 may be possible but will require aggressive application of all eight pathways, major lifestyle changes in developed countries, and close cooperation among all countries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Energy and Sustainable Economy Transition)

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21 pages, 3068 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceSystematic Review

A Systematic Literature Review on Environmental Sustainability Issues of Flexible Packaging: Potential Pathways for Academic Research and Managerial Practice

by Amna Farrukh, Sanjay Mathrani and Aymen Sajjad

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4737; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084737 - 15 Apr 2022

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 12323

Abstract

The purpose of this review is to investigate environmental sustainability issues of the flexible packaging (FP) segment of the packaging industry. Increasingly, waste and pollution caused by FP have become a significant challenge for global sustainable development. Prior research studies have examined a [...] Read more.

The purpose of this review is to investigate environmental sustainability issues of the flexible packaging (FP) segment of the packaging industry. Increasingly, waste and pollution caused by FP have become a significant challenge for global sustainable development. Prior research studies have examined a diverse set of environmental challenges associated with FP, albeit, in a fragmented way. There is a paucity of research exploring and synthesizing the environmental burden of FP in an integrated fashion. To bridge this knowledge gap, we conducted a systematic literature review (SLR) to identify, synthesize, and analyze the environmental sustainability issues of FP utilizing the SCOPUS database. Based on an in-depth critical analysis of selected articles, this paper provides novel insights to scholars, practitioners, and policymakers for developing an improved understanding of environmental issues of the FP sector. This paper promotes academic scholarship and strengthens managerial practice in addressing the environmental sustainability challenges of FP. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Sustainability of Packaging)

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22 pages, 1962 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Biomethane Community: A Research Agenda towards Sustainability

by Idiano D’Adamo and Claudio Sassanelli

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4735; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084735 - 15 Apr 2022

Cited by 42 | Viewed by 4154

Abstract

The bioeconomy is an effective solution to align with the sustainability agenda and to meet the pressing calls for action from Cop26 on a global scale. The topic of the circular bioeconomy has gained a key role in the literature, while the theme [...] Read more.

The bioeconomy is an effective solution to align with the sustainability agenda and to meet the pressing calls for action from Cop26 on a global scale. The topic of the circular bioeconomy has gained a key role in the literature, while the theme of energy community is a basic form of social aggregation among stakeholders. This work focuses on biomethane and proposes a framework based on several criteria that are evaluated using a hybrid Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and 10-point scale methodology. The results show that regulation and energy community are considered the two most relevant categories. The overall ranking of criteria sees the stakeholders’ engagement as the most important, followed by more significant subsidies for small- and medium-sized plants and the principle of self-sufficiency applied at the inter-regional level. Subsequently, the Italian Adriatic corridor composed of four MMAP (Marche, Molise, Abruzzo, and Puglia) regions is considered as a case study in order to evaluate the possible environmental (854 thousand

\frac{{tons CO}_{2} eq}{year}

) and economic (from 49 million EUR to 405 million EUR in function of plant size) benefits associated with potential biomethane production of 681.6 million m³. It is found that the biomethane community is an enabler of sustainability and this strategy can be used for sharing different natural resources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prospects and Challenges of Bioeconomy Sustainability Assessment)

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17 pages, 6598 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Changing Role of Management Accounting in Product Development: Directions to Digitalization, Sustainability, and Circularity

by Viktorija Varaniūtė, Ineta Žičkutė and Akvilė Žandaravičiūtė

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4740; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084740 - 15 Apr 2022

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 8215

Abstract

In an environment of multiplying uncertainties, management accounting plays an important role in addressing product development issues. Changing business models, the capabilities of companies, and increasing consumer needs require reconsideration of the directions in the product development process. The purpose of this paper [...] Read more.

In an environment of multiplying uncertainties, management accounting plays an important role in addressing product development issues. Changing business models, the capabilities of companies, and increasing consumer needs require reconsideration of the directions in the product development process. The purpose of this paper is to identify the changing role of management accounting in product development, to understand how research is progressing according to such vital directions as digitalization, sustainability, and circularity. Bibliometric analysis and a systematic literature review were used to determine the main directions of the changing role of management accounting in product development. Results revealed that these directions were related to innovation, which could be considered the main driver for the changes in management accounting in product development. Furthermore, these directions are related to better company performance, which is a consequence of changes. Full article

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

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18 pages, 2151 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Heavy Metal, Waste, COVID-19, and Rapid Industrialization in This Modern Era—Fit for Sustainable Future

by Muhammad Adnan, Baohua Xiao, Peiwen Xiao, Peng Zhao and Shaheen Bibi

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4746; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084746 - 15 Apr 2022

Cited by 67 | Viewed by 6595

Abstract

Heavy metal contamination, waste, and COVID-19 are hazardous to all living things in the environment. This review examined the effects of heavy metals, waste, and COVID-19 on the ecosystem. Scientists and researchers are currently working on ways to extract valuable metals from waste [...] Read more.

Heavy metal contamination, waste, and COVID-19 are hazardous to all living things in the environment. This review examined the effects of heavy metals, waste, and COVID-19 on the ecosystem. Scientists and researchers are currently working on ways to extract valuable metals from waste and wastewater. We prefer Tessier sequential extraction for future use for heavy metal pollution in soil. Results indicated that population growth is another source of pollution in the environment. Heavy metal pollution wreaks havoc on soil and groundwater, especially in China. COVID-19 has pros and cons. The COVID-19 epidemic has reduced air pollution in China and caused a significant reduction in CO₂ releases globally due to the lockdown but has a harmful effect on human health and the economy. Moreover, COVID-19 brings a huge amount of biomedical waste. COVID-19’s biomedical waste appears to be causing different health issues. On the other hand, it was discovered that recycling has become a new source of pollution in south China. Furthermore, heavy metal contamination is the most severe ecological effect. Likewise, every problem has a remedy to create new waste management and pollution monitoring policy. The construction of a modern recycling refinery is an important aspect of national waste disposal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Resources Conservation, Recycling and Waste Management)

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10 pages, 537 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceTechnical Note

COVID-19 Pandemic: New Prevention and Protection Measures

by Luigi Cirrincione, Fulvio Plescia, Caterina Ledda, Venerando Rapisarda, Daniela Martorana, Guido Lacca, Antonina Argo, Stefania Zerbo, Ermanno Vitale, Denis Vinnikov and Emanuele Cannizzaro

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4766; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084766 - 15 Apr 2022

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 4026

Abstract

As of the end of February 2021, more than 420,000,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been reported worldwide, with 5,856,224 deaths. Transmission of the different genetically engineered variants of SARS-CoV-2, which have been isolated since the beginning of the pandemic, occurs from one [...] Read more.

As of the end of February 2021, more than 420,000,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been reported worldwide, with 5,856,224 deaths. Transmission of the different genetically engineered variants of SARS-CoV-2, which have been isolated since the beginning of the pandemic, occurs from one infected person to another by the same means: the airborne route, indirect contact, and occasionally the fecal–oral route. Infection is asymptomatic or may present with flulike symptoms such as fever, cough, and mild to moderate and severe respiratory distress, requiring hospitalization and assisted ventilation support. To control the spread of COVID-19, the World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have indicated that the appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE), as well as the adoption of effective hygiene systems, is one of the primary prevention measures for the entire population. Companies and institutions around the world are therefore trying to find the best ways to reorganize their operations, minimizing the risk of infection among their employees, in order to protect their health and prevent internal outbreaks of SARS-CoV-2, including through the development of new technologies that could also be an innovative and driving factor for the relaunch of companies in a more sustainable, ethically correct, and safe for the health of employees perspective. On the basis of the above premises, in view of the coexistence with SARS-CoV-2 that will most likely accompany us in the coming years, and in view of the vaccination campaign adopted worldwide, the purpose of our narrative review is to update the previous operational protocols with the latest scientific knowledge to be adopted in the workplace even when the emergency crisis is over. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coronavirus Disease and Sustainability: Clinical Management, Work Organization and Public Health)

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21 pages, 3197 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Comprehensive Energy Consumption of Elevator Systems Based on Hybrid Approach of Measurement and Calculation in Low- and High-Rise Buildings of Tropical Climate towards Energy Efficiency

by Jia Hui Ang, Yusri Yusup, Sheikh Ahmad Zaki, Ali Salehabadi and Mardiana Idayu Ahmad

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4779; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084779 - 15 Apr 2022

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 6709

Abstract

Rapid population growth and urbanization contribute to an ever-increasing global energy demand, of which the building sector accounts for one-third. The increasing average height and density of buildings escalate the need for vertical transportation, expanding elevator usage and energy needs. This phenomenon accounts [...] Read more.

Rapid population growth and urbanization contribute to an ever-increasing global energy demand, of which the building sector accounts for one-third. The increasing average height and density of buildings escalate the need for vertical transportation, expanding elevator usage and energy needs. This phenomenon accounts for a significant amount of the total building energy use, necessitating a study of elevator system energy consumption. This study aimed to analyze the energy consumption and carbon emissions of elevator systems in low- and high-rise buildings towards energy-efficient estimations. A comprehensive analysis was performed based on a hybrid approach of measurement and calculation using a formula and reference values derived from previous studies. Four buildings were selected and thoroughly studied, representing the low- and high-rise categories. Data were collected based on on-site sampling and observation, as well as information from the building management offices. The mechanical parameters of the elevator system in each building and operational factors in terms of speed, number of trips, load, travel distance, and time were studied. In this analysis, the energy consumption calculation was performed according to International Standard ISO 25745. Annual carbon emissions were calculated in accordance with the USA EPA and IPCC guidelines. The elevator energy efficiency class was determined based on daily energy consumption. It was found from this study that the annual energy consumption of an elevator system is positively correlated to an elevator’s daily energy consumption. The annual carbon emissions of the elevator systems are dependent on increasing annual energy consumption, which is also connected to building height indirectly. The low-rise buildings showed better energy efficiency compared to the high-rise buildings due to lower travel distance, less trips, and fewer floors. The annual number of trips, travel distances, and energy consumption had an effect on the energy efficiency of the elevator systems in this study. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Remediation of Environmental Pollutants for Sustainable Development)

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16 pages, 1135 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

An Analytic Model for Estimating the Economic and Environmental Impact of Food Cold Supply Chain

by Eleonora Bottani, Giorgia Casella, Majcol Nobili and Letizia Tebaldi

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4771; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084771 - 15 Apr 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3394

Abstract

Cold chain management has gained increasing interest among practitioners, researchers and academics; similarly, sustainability is also proving to be an increasingly critical topic in all supply chains and in cold chains in particular. In line with this, this study proposes a model to [...] Read more.

Cold chain management has gained increasing interest among practitioners, researchers and academics; similarly, sustainability is also proving to be an increasingly critical topic in all supply chains and in cold chains in particular. In line with this, this study proposes a model to estimate the economic and environmental impacts in a food cold supply chain (FCSC). The model intended to estimate the total cost and CO₂ emissions of a company operating in the cold supply chain, was carried out in Microsoft Excel™. Specifically, the model reproduces the main FCSC processes, i.e., Product collection, Backroom storage, Product delivery and Reverse logistics. For each process, we have exposed the implemented equations. Results show that the product delivery process is the most critical in both economic and environmental terms. Conversely, product collection and reverse logistics process contribute to the total cost and emission to a limited extent. The results obtained provide useful guidelines for supply chain managers to undertake operation decisions aimed at decreasing the economic and/or environmental impact of a FCSC. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Logistics and Supply Chains)

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17 pages, 1493 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Using a Choice Experiment to Understand Preferences for Disaster Risk Reduction with Uncertainty: A Case Study in Japan

by Takahiro Tsuge, Yasushi Shoji, Koichi Kuriyama and Ayumi Onuma

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4753; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084753 - 15 Apr 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3141

Abstract

With the increase in disasters due to climate change, there has been a growing interest in green infrastructures that utilize nature for disaster risk reduction (DRR). However, green infrastructures cannot completely protect against hazards. Therefore, this study investigates the public preference in Japan [...] Read more.

With the increase in disasters due to climate change, there has been a growing interest in green infrastructures that utilize nature for disaster risk reduction (DRR). However, green infrastructures cannot completely protect against hazards. Therefore, this study investigates the public preference in Japan for DRR and its uncertainty using a survey-based choice experiment. The results showed that benefits were obtained from the increase in “success probability”, “reduction in human damage”, “reduction in property damage”, and “reduction in indirect damage”; however, the benefits obtained from additional improvements diminished. Moreover, the results of our analyses revealed that preferences for DRR and its uncertainty were heterogeneous among respondents, and the population segment that includes more women, older people, and more people who live in areas that may be directly affected by floods had higher ratings for “success probability” and relatively slightly lower ratings for “reduction in indirect damage”. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Hazards: Assessing Risk and Reducing Disaster)

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19 pages, 345 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Assessment of the Development of Forest-Based Bioeconomy in European Regions

by Leire Barañano, Olatz Unamunzaga, Naroa Garbisu, Siebe Briers, Timokleia Orfanidou, Blasius Schmid, Inazio Martínez de Arano, Andrés Araujo and Carlos Garbisu

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4747; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084747 - 15 Apr 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4831

Abstract

In recent years, the potential of the forest-based bioeconomy to provide competitiveness, differentiation, and sustainability to the European economy has often been claimed. Interestingly, regions, as territorial units with their own political and socioeconomic strategies, have been highlighted as the most suitable targets [...] Read more.

In recent years, the potential of the forest-based bioeconomy to provide competitiveness, differentiation, and sustainability to the European economy has often been claimed. Interestingly, regions, as territorial units with their own political and socioeconomic strategies, have been highlighted as the most suitable targets for the development of the European forest-based bioeconomy. Here, using the case method, we evaluated the development of the forest-based bioeconomy in three European regions (i.e., North Karelia in Finland, North Rhine-Westphalia in Germany, the Basque Country in Spain), by appraising the status of 10 previously identified key drivers through primary (interviews with experts) and secondary (literature review) sources of information. In our analysis, North Karelia and the Basque Country obtained the highest and lowest score, respectively, with regard to forest-based bioeconomy development. In any case, for the successful development of the forest-based bioeconomy in a European region, it is essential to accept the unnegotiable, critically, of the long-term sustainability of forest bioresources and production processes, as well as the need to foster the required changes in consumption patterns. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioeconomy, Circular Economy and Sustainability)

22 pages, 1319 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Energy Transition and Energy Equity: A Compatible Combination?

by Matheus L. C. M. Henckens

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4781; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084781 - 15 Apr 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3709

Abstract

Much attention is being paid to the short-term supply security of raw materials for the energy transition. However, little attention is being paid to the impact of the energy transition on the long-term availability of a number of specific mineral resources that are [...] Read more.

Much attention is being paid to the short-term supply security of raw materials for the energy transition. However, little attention is being paid to the impact of the energy transition on the long-term availability of a number of specific mineral resources that are needed for the realization of a fossil-free energy infrastructure. The aim of this paper is to examine whether the quantity of raw materials required for the energy transition could encounter limits of geological availability of mineral resources, especially in the case that energy supply and consumption are equitably distributed over all countries of the world in the long term. This study is an ex ante evaluation. The result of the evaluation is that four metals are relatively problematic: cobalt, copper, lithium, and nickel. The in-use stocks of these four metals in energy transition-related technologies may take up between 20% and 30% of the ultimately available resources of these metals in the continental Earth’s crust. Even with an 80% end-of-life recycling rate, the increase in the annual use of primary resources is estimated to be 9% for copper, 29% for nickel, 52% for cobalt, and 86% for lithium, compared to the estimated annual use of these metals without an energy transition. The conclusion of the study is that the question of whether energy equity and the energy transition are a compatible combination cannot be answered unambiguously. After all, it will depend on the extent and the speed with which cobalt, copper, lithium, and nickel can be substituted with other, geologically less scarce metals, and on the achieved end-of-life recycling rates of these metals, not only from energy transition-related products, but also from all other products in which these metals are applied. The novelty of the study is that the availability of raw materials for the energy transition is analyzed from a perspective of global equity at the expected level of the European Union in 2050. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Criticality Versus Geological Scarcity: Different Concepts, Which May Need Tuning)

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16 pages, 1765 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Data Intelligence in Public Transportation: Sustainable and Equitable Solutions to Urban Modals in Strategic Digital City Subproject

by Luis André Wernecke Fumagalli, Denis Alcides Rezende and Thiago André Guimarães

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4683; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084683 - 14 Apr 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4059

Abstract

Transport infrastructure investments must be linked to the public transport demand strategically. User behavior and decision-making process bring several possible alternative transportation options due to a series of factors that define it. Municipalities must manage these factors to promote equal and sustainable transport [...] Read more.

Transport infrastructure investments must be linked to the public transport demand strategically. User behavior and decision-making process bring several possible alternative transportation options due to a series of factors that define it. Municipalities must manage these factors to promote equal and sustainable transport solutions through urban infrastructure, public transport competitiveness, and attractiveness, and fossil fuels use and pricing policy. The research objective is to determine these factors to monitor and use them for citizens’ benefit by means of analytical tools and methods to gain a superior knowledge of reality with a focus on improving investments and services in an agile and efficient manner. Methodologically, the number of passengers of main Curitiba’s (Brazil) bus rapid transit (BRT) lines is operated in two linear regression models combined with the number of private vehicles, public transport fare, and fuel price for the period between January/2010 and December/2019. Research analysis indicates direct causal relationships between the studied factors and that the necessary data for decision-making is available in the government information systems. In conclusion, urban management and strategic digital city project can be more balanced and assertive in transport infrastructure investments and citizen services provision. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Smart Cities and Societies Using Emerging Technologies)

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14 pages, 820 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

External Knowledge Linkages and the Evolution of Comparative Advantage: An Examination of Territorial Knowledge Dynamics in China

by Tengfei Wang, Henrik Halkier, Laura James, Renxu Gu and Cheng Chi

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4685; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084685 - 14 Apr 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3533

Abstract

In the era of the knowledge economy with the superfluidity of information, labor, and goods, the ability to establish external knowledge linkages has become an indispensable asset for the development of regional industries. Based on the assumption that knowledge spillovers decay with distance, [...] Read more.

In the era of the knowledge economy with the superfluidity of information, labor, and goods, the ability to establish external knowledge linkages has become an indispensable asset for the development of regional industries. Based on the assumption that knowledge spillovers decay with distance, several existing studies have explored the role of neighboring regions in local industrial upgrading. Meanwhile, a small but growing literature has explored the evolution of regional comparative advantage from the perspective of multi-location territorial knowledge dynamics (TKDs), exploring multi-locational knowledge interactions (including proximity interactions and distance interactions) and their regional economic effects in the process of knowledge flows. Inspired by the literature on multi-location TKDs, this paper examines two hypotheses: (1) In addition to local capabilities, external knowledge linkages also have a positive effect on local industrial upgrading; (2) the stronger the knowledge linkages, the more similar the regional comparative advantage. Through an analysis of data on authorized patent citation and the two-digit manufacturing industry from Chinese cities in 2011 and 2016, we find that the knowledge flow networks among Chinese cities are characterized by strong external knowledge linkages to both adjacent and distant regions. Further analysis reveals that a particular Chinese city has a higher probability of developing comparative advantages if it maintains strong knowledge linkages with a city specialized in the same industry. In addition, the comparative advantages of regions with strong knowledge linkages are more similar than regions with weak knowledge linkages. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Environmental Economics: Global Dynamics and Regional Economic Development)

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20 pages, 647 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

COVID-19, Economic Policies and Public Debt Sustainability in Italy

by Pompeo Della Posta, Enrico Marelli and Marcello Signorelli

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4691; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084691 - 14 Apr 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 6188

Abstract

We analyze the conditions for public debt-to-GDP ratio stability extending the Domar’s approach by including the interaction between the government’s reaction function and the private sector’s reaction function, and considering the impact of 2020–2021 pandemic shock and the monetary and fiscal policy responses, [...] Read more.

We analyze the conditions for public debt-to-GDP ratio stability extending the Domar’s approach by including the interaction between the government’s reaction function and the private sector’s reaction function, and considering the impact of 2020–2021 pandemic shock and the monetary and fiscal policy responses, with simulations applied to the Italian case. The outcomes of the numerical simulations show the crucial importance of ECB extraordinary monetary policies, of the NGEU and, to lesser extent, of national expansionary fiscal policies adopted during pandemic shock; both European wide monetary and fiscal policies actually increase the sustainability area avoiding the high risk of sovereign debt crisis in Italy (and other peripheral Eurozone countries). The stabilizing effect of GDP growth, hopefully resulting from the NGEU policy, is also simulated in the paper. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Investment, Growth and Sustainability)

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15 pages, 2658 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Composted Sewage Sludge Application in a Sugarcane Seedling Nursery: Crop Nutritional Status, Productivity, and Technological Quality Implications

by Rafael dos Santos Silva, Arshad Jalal, Raimunda Eliane Nascimento do Nascimento, Nathércia Castro Elias, Karen Cossi Kawakami, Cassio Hamilton Abreu-Junior, Fernando Carvalho Oliveira, Arun Dilipkumar Jani, Zhenli He, Fengliang Zhao, Marcelo Carvalho Minhoto Teixeira Filho, Raffaella Rossetto, Gian Franco Capra and Thiago Assis Rodrigues Nogueira

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4682; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084682 - 14 Apr 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3758

Abstract

Composted sewage sludge (CSS) contains large amounts of organic matter and nutrients and can be used as an organic fertilizer to improve growth, yield, and quality of sugarcane. However, there is a lack of information regarding the impact of CSS application on sugarcane [...] Read more.

Composted sewage sludge (CSS) contains large amounts of organic matter and nutrients and can be used as an organic fertilizer to improve growth, yield, and quality of sugarcane. However, there is a lack of information regarding the impact of CSS application on sugarcane seedling performance in nursery environments. A field study was conducted using a randomized complete block design to evaluate the development, nutritional status, productivity, and technological quality of sugarcane seedlings after CSS application with or without mineral fertilizer. Morphological variables (stem height, diameter, and number, as well as leaf area), technological attributes (total recoverable sugar: ATR; quantity of sucrose in sugarcane juice: Pol; Brix: percentage (weight/weight) of soluble solids contained in juice; TAH: tons of sugar per hectare), nutritional status, and sugarcane productivity were evaluated. Treatments did not influence morphological and technological variables except for TAH but did positively alter nutritional status and seedling productivity. The application rates of 5.0 and 7.5 Mg ha⁻¹ of CSS with or without mineral fertilizers (MF) provided the greatest increase in crop productivity. Our results indicate that CSS can be a sustainable nutritional management option in sugarcane seedling nurseries, resulting in greater crop productivity at lower mineral fertilization rates. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Waste Management for Sustainable Development)

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20 pages, 5310 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Investigating European Union Decarbonization Strategies: Evaluating the Pathway to Carbon Neutrality by 2050

by Ilaria Perissi and Aled Jones

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4728; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084728 - 14 Apr 2022

Cited by 71 | Viewed by 7583

Abstract

Despite the rich and extensive documentation provided by European Member States and the European Commission in describing National Energy and Climates Plans and Long-Term Strategy plans, it is still very difficult to evaluate where and how the European Union as a whole has [...] Read more.

Despite the rich and extensive documentation provided by European Member States and the European Commission in describing National Energy and Climates Plans and Long-Term Strategy plans, it is still very difficult to evaluate where and how the European Union as a whole has positioned itself on the path to achieving the Green Deal objectives, named the Fit 55% package in 2030 and the achievement of carbon neutrality by 2050. This research aims to fill this gap, proposing a simple but exhaustive semantic scaling methodology that allows, for the first time, a quantitative evaluation of the quality of the National Plans based on European Commission assessments to measure their compliance with the European Green Deal objectives. Results show that Member States have more clearly set the Green Deal targets than the actions to deliver against those targets. Actions, in term of nationals policies and funds administration, are still immature and partially addressed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue From COP 26 to COP 27: Contributions of Systems Approaches to Address the Challenges Ahead)

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22 pages, 6623 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Modeling Urban Growth and the Impacts of Climate Change: The Case of Esmeraldas City, Ecuador

by Carlos F. Mena, Fátima L. Benitez, Carolina Sampedro, Patricia Martinez, Alex Quispe and Melinda Laituri

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4704; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084704 - 14 Apr 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5802

Abstract

This research has been developed in the city of Esmeraldas, which is one of the poorest urban centers of Ecuador. Historically, the economic dynamics of the city have been related to the extraction of natural resources, but little has been invested in local [...] Read more.

This research has been developed in the city of Esmeraldas, which is one of the poorest urban centers of Ecuador. Historically, the economic dynamics of the city have been related to the extraction of natural resources, but little has been invested in local populations. The objectives of this paper are, first, to create a predictive scenario of urban growth linked to future climate projections for Esmeraldas, with a focus on vulnerability to landslides and flooding; and second, to generate methodological advances related to the linkage between urban growth simulation and the downscaling of global models for climate change. This paper is based on spatially explicit simulation, Cellular Automata (CA), to capture the dynamics of urban processes. CA is linked to the analysis of vulnerability to climate change based on socioeconomic conditions and is focused on flooding- and landslide-exposed areas. We found that the proportion of Afro-Ecuadorian people and the risk of landslides and flooding are positively related to urban growth. Based on our future scenarios, the urban growth area in Esmeraldas will increase 50% compared to the year 2016. Moreover, if the existing trends continue, natural vegetation—including mangroves—will be removed by that time, increasing the vulnerability to climate change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Expansion Prediction and Land Use/Land Cover Change Modeling for Sustainable Urban Development)

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25 pages, 5595 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Beyond the Backyard: GIS Analysis of Public Green Space Accessibility in Australian Metropolitan Areas

by Yi-Ya Hsu, Scott Hawken, Samad Sepasgozar and Zih-Hong Lin

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4694; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084694 - 14 Apr 2022

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 10859

Abstract

During times of stress and social pressure, urban green space provides social, cultural, and economic resources that help individuals and communities cope. Green space accessibility is, therefore, an important indicator related to people’s health and welfare. However, green space accessibility is not even [...] Read more.

During times of stress and social pressure, urban green space provides social, cultural, and economic resources that help individuals and communities cope. Green space accessibility is, therefore, an important indicator related to people’s health and welfare. However, green space accessibility is not even throughout urban areas, with some areas better served with green space than others. Green space patterning is, therefore, a major environmental justice challenge. This research uses GIS approaches to analyze and understand urban green space access of urban communities in the Australian metropolitan areas of Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane. We calculate indicators to describe green space access in relation to different green space patterns within different metropolitan zones, including the inner urban, suburban, and peri urban. We use the best available open data from the Australian census of 2017 to calculate green space accessibility. Our results describe the relationship between population density and green space distribution and patterning in the four metropolitan areas. We find that even cities which are generally thought of as liveable have considerable environmental justice challenges and inequity and must improve green space access to address environmental inequity. We also find that a range type of measures can be used to better understand green space accessibility. Accessibility varies greatly both within metropolitan areas and also from city to city. Through improving our understanding of the green space accessibility characteristics of Australian metropolitan areas, the result of this study supports the future planning of more just and equal green cities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart Cities, Biodiversity and Green Infrastructure - Living Dimensions of Future Cities)

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17 pages, 4834 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

The Clean Your Plate Campaign: Resisting Table Food Waste in an Unstable World

by Lingfei Wang, Yuqin Yang and Guoyan Wang

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4699; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084699 - 14 Apr 2022

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 10674

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic threatens global food security and has created an urgent need for food conservation. This article presents a review of clean plate campaigns around the world. It aims to fight food waste and reveal the factors that may influence food waste. [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic threatens global food security and has created an urgent need for food conservation. This article presents a review of clean plate campaigns around the world. It aims to fight food waste and reveal the factors that may influence food waste. The Clean Plate Club in the US developed during wartime and relied heavily on political power for compliance, whereas the Clean Plate movement in South Korea was based on religion. China’s Clean Your Plate Campaign (CYPC) has gone through two stages: CYPC I and CYPC II. The latter occurred during the unstable period of the COVID-19 pandemic. It was large-scale and more strongly enforced than CYPC I. In China, CYPC has relied more on personal virtue than on politics or religion. Culture, policy, COVID-19, and behavior are all important social factors that influence food waste. Specifically, two cultural values are drivers of food waste in China: hospitality and face-saving (mianzi). In terms of policy, China’s food waste law mainly relies on persuasion; it lacks any power of enforcement. Laws in France and Italy, by contrast, focus on re-using food and involve both coercion and incentives. COVID-19 may have led to panic purchasing and stockpiling, but, in general, it has resulted in a reduction in food waste. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Food)

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13 pages, 237 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Preservation or Diversification? Ideas and Practices Connected with Sustainability in Vanuatu

by Arno Pascht

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4733; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084733 - 14 Apr 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2286

Abstract

The aim of this article is to explore anthropology’s potential to contribute to reflections on the definition of sustainability. It draws on in-depth ethnographic fieldwork in the South Pacific island state of Vanuatu, using as its main methods semi-structured interviews, participant observation and [...] Read more.

The aim of this article is to explore anthropology’s potential to contribute to reflections on the definition of sustainability. It draws on in-depth ethnographic fieldwork in the South Pacific island state of Vanuatu, using as its main methods semi-structured interviews, participant observation and freelisting. This article presents decisions and acts of the inhabitants of the rural village of Siviri regarding both the cultivation of food crops and fishing. It relates findings to a recent anthropological working definition of ‘sustainability’ that emphasises facilitating the necessary conditions for change by building and supporting diversity to address the unpredictability of the future. This definition is opposed to other current definitions that stress the preservation of existing norms. The research results presented here show that, with their decidedly future-oriented ideas and practices, the villagers of Siviri engaged with climate change adaptation projects and workshops regarding conservation and subsequently created new cultivation methods and established a marine conservation area. Additionally, they reduced their engagement in cultivation and diversified their livelihood practices. Referring to theoretical approaches connected with the ‘ontological turn’ in anthropology, it is argued that asking ontological questions reveals fundamental differences between the inhabitants of the village of Siviri and international and national governments and organisations in terms of their conceptualisations connected with sustainability. The article concludes that anthropology can make important contributions to discussions about sustainability that have the potential to improve the dialogue between different stakeholders by showing the alterity of conceptualisations. This may lead to new, localised and contextualised definitions of sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Anthropology and Sustainability: Relations between People, Societies and Environments)

25 pages, 504 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Toward Carbon-Neutral Concrete through Biochar–Cement–Calcium Carbonate Composites: A Critical Review

by Dahl Winters, Kwaku Boakye and Steven Simske

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4633; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084633 - 13 Apr 2022

Cited by 42 | Viewed by 14298

Abstract

High-density, high-permanence forms of carbon storage are in demand to save storage space on land or at sea while allowing the world to reach its climate targets. Biochar and calcium carbonate are two such forms that have been considered largely separately in the [...] Read more.

High-density, high-permanence forms of carbon storage are in demand to save storage space on land or at sea while allowing the world to reach its climate targets. Biochar and calcium carbonate are two such forms that have been considered largely separately in the literature for carbon storage. In this paper, we consider how biochar and calcium carbonate might interact when they are used together with cement as part of a carbon storage system, ideally to form a carbon-neutral concrete. The carbon storage system stores atmospherically absorbed CO₂ within concrete, thereby reducing carbon in the atmosphere. In addition, such a system will help in reducing cement usage, thus reducing the need for clinker in cement manufacturing and directly reducing CO₂ emissions that result from limestone calcination during clinker manufacturing. Another benefit of such a composite storage system is its use in building structures, a use that has positive environmental and social impact. Thus, further research on the properties of this composite material is warranted. This paper explores the literature on the use of biochar combined with calcium carbonate and cement as carbon storage material. The use of recycled carbon aggregates (RCAs) and LC3 concrete as part of this approach is reviewed. The paper also addresses the possible compressive strength range of the biochar–cement–calcium carbonate composite material, along with other performance expectations. Obstacles to scaling the use of carbon-neutral concrete are identified and an array of research directions are presented, with the goal of improving carbon-neutral concrete and its use. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Concrete Materials and Technologies)

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16 pages, 3095 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Properties of Concrete with Recycled Aggregates Giving a Second Life to Municipal Solid Waste Incineration Bottom Ash Concrete

by Aneeta Mary Joseph, Stijn Matthys and Nele De Belie

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4679; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084679 - 13 Apr 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3765

Abstract

Economic and environmental factors call for increased resource productivity. Partial or full replacement of Portland cement by wastes and by-products, and natural aggregates by construction and demolition wastes, are two prominent routes of achieving circular economy in construction and related industries. Municipal solid [...] Read more.

Economic and environmental factors call for increased resource productivity. Partial or full replacement of Portland cement by wastes and by-products, and natural aggregates by construction and demolition wastes, are two prominent routes of achieving circular economy in construction and related industries. Municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) bottom ashes have been found to be suitable to be used as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM) after various treatments. This paper reports a brief literature review on optimum use of recycled aggregates in concrete and an experimental study using replacement of natural aggregate by demolished concrete having MSWI bottom ash as partial replacement of Portland cement, and compares its properties to that of completely natural aggregate concrete. Additional water was added as a compensation for the water absorption by the recycled aggregate during the first 30 min of water contact during concrete mixing. Also the fine fraction of crushed concrete (<250 µm) was removed to reduce the ill-effects of using recycled aggregate. The replacement of aggregates was limited to 23% by weight of natural aggregate. The results prove environmentally safe and comparable performance of concrete including recycled aggregate with bottom ash to that of natural aggregate concrete. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Construction and Demolition Waste: Challenges and Opportunities)

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27 pages, 2882 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Integrating Environmental and Economic Perspectives in Building Design

by Patricia Schneider-Marin, Anne Winkelkotte and Werner Lang

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4637; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084637 - 13 Apr 2022

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4896

Abstract

With increasing environmental damage and decreasing resource availability, sustainability assessment in the building sector is gaining momentum. A literature review shows that the related methods for environmental and economic performance, Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Life Cycle Costing (LCC), show great potential for [...] Read more.

With increasing environmental damage and decreasing resource availability, sustainability assessment in the building sector is gaining momentum. A literature review shows that the related methods for environmental and economic performance, Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Life Cycle Costing (LCC), show great potential for answering a multitude of questions related to building performance. Prevalent topics are the implications of LCA and LCC for retrofit solutions and the trade-offs between environmental and economic considerations in building design. A detailed review of 30 case studies shows the range of differing result integration methods and sheds light on the use of monetary valuation of environmental indicators for an integrated assessment. While a quasi-dynamic approach, accounting for the changing value of money over time, is common in LCC, such an approach is largely absent from LCA. The analysis of common metrics shows that the studies employ strongly differing system boundaries and input parameters. Moreover, a clear description of the methodological framework is missing in most studies. Therefore, this research develops an “Eco²” framework, integrating LCA and LCC for application in building design. Potential further developments for Eco² building assessment are related to extending the system boundaries by including mechanical systems and end-of-life phases, data collection and structuring, and streamlining the approach for continuous application to all stages of building design processes. Additionally, the influence on design decisions of employing temporal parameters in both LCA and LCC and of choosing particular result integration methods should be investigated further. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Life Cycle Thinking and Sustainability Assessment of Buildings)

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26 pages, 493 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Practical Approach to Assessing the Impact of Citizen Science towards the Sustainable Development Goals

by Stephen Parkinson, Sasha Marie Woods, James Sprinks and Luigi Ceccaroni

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4676; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084676 - 13 Apr 2022

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 5800

Abstract

The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are an important global framework which provides a shared vision for a more sustainable future for all people and the planet. In the last five years, citizen science as a discipline has paid increasing attention to [...] Read more.

The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are an important global framework which provides a shared vision for a more sustainable future for all people and the planet. In the last five years, citizen science as a discipline has paid increasing attention to the SDGs and the contributions that citizen science could make towards their achievement. This paper presents a collection of 51 questions and a corresponding set of answers which can be used by citizen science projects to self-assess their impact towards the SDGs. The questions and answers were originally derived from the official UN description of the SDG targets and indicators and were refined through a workshop and series of nine interviews with citizen science project coordinators. The outcomes of the workshop and interviews reveal the challenges of assessing impacts towards the SDGs in a way which is relevant to the majority of citizen science projects. In many cases, the wording of the SDGs had to be altered to make sense in the context of citizen science. The final set of questions and answers are structured to reflect two pathways of impact: citizen science contributing to the (official) monitoring of the SDGs, and citizen science contributing to the direct achievement of the SDGs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Citizen Science Projects for Environmental Challenges and Sustainable Development Goals)

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24 pages, 2497 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Economic Viability of Energy Communities versus Distributed Prosumers

by Lubov Petrichenko, Antans Sauhats, Illia Diahovchenko and Irina Segeda

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4634; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084634 - 13 Apr 2022

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 5010

Abstract

As distribution grids are made to accommodate significant amounts of renewable energy resources, the power system evolves from a classical producer-consumer scheme to a new one that includes individual prosumers or energy communities. This article contributes to the exploration of the solution to [...] Read more.

As distribution grids are made to accommodate significant amounts of renewable energy resources, the power system evolves from a classical producer-consumer scheme to a new one that includes individual prosumers or energy communities. This article contributes to the exploration of the solution to the dilemma of whether to be a distributed prosumer or an energy community prosumer by comparing the profitability of these two business models. To achieve this goal, a high-resolution methodology is created for measuring economic performance via proposed indices under different development scenarios of renewable proliferation and various network configurations. The developed methodology considers today’s electricity billing and renewable support scheme net metering. The results indicate that, first, the energy community is a more profitable framework than the individual distributed prosumer: avoided costs for energy community are, on average, 20% higher than for the individual, resulting in a payback period of the energy community that is about two times shorter than for owners of rooftop installations. Such promising results should encourage ordinary consumers to be members of energy communities. Second, the energy losses in the power distribution system are slightly higher for the case of energy communities rather than individual prosumers, yet the difference is insignificant, about 0.2%. Third, regulatory barriers shall be removed to enable participation of Latvian prosumers and distribution system operators to the energy communities, as it will benefit all the stakeholders and facilitate economically efficient energy transition. The results of this study could be adopted by decision-makers, such as government agencies, companies, and solar and wind turbine owners. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Power System Challenges toward Renewable Energies’ Integration)

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