Sustainability

27 pages, 5009 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Understanding the Urban Environment from Satellite Images with New Classification Method—Focusing on Formality and Informality

by Qianwei Cheng, Moinul Zaber, AKM Mahbubur Rahman, Haoran Zhang, Zhiling Guo, Akiko Okabe and Ryosuke Shibasaki

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4336; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074336 - 6 Apr 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 6945

Abstract

Urbanization plays a critical role in changing the urban environment. Most developed countries have almost completed urbanization. However, with more and more people moving to cities, the urban environment in developing countries is undergoing significant changes. Sustainable development cannot be achieved without significant [...] Read more.

Urbanization plays a critical role in changing the urban environment. Most developed countries have almost completed urbanization. However, with more and more people moving to cities, the urban environment in developing countries is undergoing significant changes. Sustainable development cannot be achieved without significant changes in building, managing, and responding to changes in the urban environment. The classified measurement and analysis of the urban environment in developing countries and the real-time understanding of the evolution and characteristics of the urban environment are of great significance for decision-makers to manage and plan cities more effectively and maintain the sustainability of the urban environment. Hence, a method readily applicable for the state-of-the-art computational analysis can help conceive the rapidly changing urban socio-environmental dynamics that can make the policy-making process even more informative and help monitor the changes almost in real-time. Based on easily accessible data from Google Earth, this work develops and proposes a new urban environment classification method focusing on formality and informality. Firstly, the method gives a new model to scrutinize the urban environment based on the buildings and their surroundings. Secondly, the method is suited for the state-of-the-art machine learning processes that make it applicable and scalable for forecasting, analytics, or computational modeling. The paper first demonstrates the model and its applicability based on the urban environment in the developing world. The method divides the urban environment into 16 categories under four classes. Then it is used to draw the urban environment classes maps of the following emerging cities: Nairobi in Kenya, Mumbai in India, Guangzhou in China, Jakarta in Indonesia, Cairo in Egypt, and Lima in Chile. Then, we discuss the characteristics of different urban environments and the differences between the same class in different cities. We also demonstrate the agility of the proposed method by showing how this classification method can be easily augmented with other data such as population per square kilometer to aid the decision-making process. This mapping should help urban designers who are working on analyzing formality and informality in the developing world. Moreover, from the application point of view, this will provide training data sets for future deep learning algorithms and automate them, help establish databases, and significantly reduce the cost of acquiring data for urban environments that change over time. The method can become a necessary tool for decision-makers to plan sustainable urban spaces in the future to design and manage cities more effectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Big Data, Information and AI for Smart Urban)

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13 pages, 514 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Impacts of Second Home and Visiting Friends and Relatives Tourism on Migration: A Conceptual Framework

by Sonia Ferrari

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4352; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074352 - 6 Apr 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5283

Abstract

What is the thread that unites tourism and migration? A review of existing literature suggests two forms of tourism linked to migration: visiting friends and relatives and second home tourism. Tourism related to visiting friends and relatives can be stimulated by migratory movements, [...] Read more.

What is the thread that unites tourism and migration? A review of existing literature suggests two forms of tourism linked to migration: visiting friends and relatives and second home tourism. Tourism related to visiting friends and relatives can be stimulated by migratory movements, and, in turn, gives rise to new migrations. Second home ownership, however, serves as the main connection between tourism and migration, promoting tourism that generates from or relates to current and past migrations. This exploratory study is based on a qualitative systematic literature review and focuses on the characteristics of second home and visiting friends and relatives-related tourism, and migration, in order to clarify little studied linkages among them that can affect tourism-related development. The study shows that many of the migration-led tourism segments reflect factors that may promote sustainable development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Roots Tourism: A Sustainable Development Path?)

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21 pages, 1356 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Information Technology Ambidexterity-Driven Patient Agility, Patient Service- and Market Performance: A Variance and fsQCA Approach

by Rogier van de Wetering, Rachelle Bosua, Cornelis Boersma and Daan Dohmen

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4371; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074371 - 6 Apr 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3429

Abstract

Modern hospitals are on the brink of a monumental change. They are currently exploring their options to digitally transform their clinical procedures and overall patient engagement. This work thoroughly investigates how hospital departments in the Netherlands can simultaneously leverage their strategic exploration of [...] Read more.

Modern hospitals are on the brink of a monumental change. They are currently exploring their options to digitally transform their clinical procedures and overall patient engagement. This work thoroughly investigates how hospital departments in the Netherlands can simultaneously leverage their strategic exploration of new IT resources and practices and exploit their current IT practices, i.e., IT ambidexterity, to drive digital transformation. Specifically, we investigate IT ambidexterity’s role in shaping patient agility at the departmental level, i.e., the ability to sense patients’ needs and respond accordingly. In this study, we use the dynamic capability view as our theoretical lens to develop a theoretical model with associated hypotheses and test it using cross-sectional survey data from 90 clinical hospital departments in the Netherlands. We use partial least squares (PLS) structural equation modeling (SEM) and a Fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) approach for our analyses. This study shows that IT ambidexterity positively influences patient agility, providing a foundation for the achievement of high patient service and market performance. Furthermore, this study’s outcomes show that IT ambidexterity is present in each configuration following the fsQCA analyses, showcasing the vital role of a dual strategic approach to IT practices. The study outcomes support the theorized model and the subsequently developed IT-driven patient agility framework and illuminate how to transform clinical practice and drive patient agility. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Innovation and Transformation in Healthcare)

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18 pages, 3434 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Legacy of Mercury Contamination from a Past Leather Manufacturer and Health Risk Assessment in an Urban Area (Pisa Municipality, Italy)

by Lisa Ghezzi, Simone Arrighi, Roberto Giannecchini, Monica Bini, Marta Valerio and Riccardo Petrini

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4367; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074367 - 6 Apr 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3498

Abstract

An abandoned open green space in the urban setting of the Municipality of Pisa (Tuscany, Italy) has been designed for renewal to foster the development of recreational activities and improve the lives of the surrounding communities. However, the geochemical site characterization revealed Pb, [...] Read more.

An abandoned open green space in the urban setting of the Municipality of Pisa (Tuscany, Italy) has been designed for renewal to foster the development of recreational activities and improve the lives of the surrounding communities. However, the geochemical site characterization revealed Pb, Cu, Zn and Hg concentrations in the soil exceeding the thresholds imposed by Italian regulations for residential use. Pb, Cu and Zn contents likely reflect the effects of urban vehicle traffic, while Hg contamination represents the legacy of a past artisanal tannery that used Hg(II)-chloride in leather processing in the mid-1900s. Mercury is widely distributed in the area, with the highest concentration in the uppermost soil layer, and reaching about 170 mg/kg in the common dandelion rhizosphere. Chemical extractions and thermal desorption experiments have indicated that most Hg is in the elemental free and matrix-bound fraction, with a possible minor amount (less than 4 wt%) of HgS and negligible methylated forms (0.1 wt%). The data suggest that soil processes could reduce Hg²⁺ to volatile Hg⁰. Mercury in groundwater, hosted in a shallow aquitard in the area, was below 0.2 µg/L. However, the presence of chloride in groundwater might result in the formation of Hg stable aqueous complexes, increasing Hg release from solids. Future water quality monitoring is hence recommended. The risk assessment highlighted that mercury in soil carries a risk of non-cancerous effects, in particular for children, posing the basis for management planning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pollution in Urban Water and Soils)

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18 pages, 7621 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Analytical Model for the Development Strategy of a Low-Density Territory: The Montesinho Natural Park

by Fátima Matos Silva, Cristina Sousa and Helena Albuquerque

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4373; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074373 - 6 Apr 2022

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 4075

Abstract

Montesinho Natural Park is one of the largest Portuguese natural protected areas, presenting good biodiversity and a cultural heritage with a strong connection to the territory and its people. It constitutes a low-density territory, characterized by a human and social landscape based on [...] Read more.

Montesinho Natural Park is one of the largest Portuguese natural protected areas, presenting good biodiversity and a cultural heritage with a strong connection to the territory and its people. It constitutes a low-density territory, characterized by a human and social landscape based on community practices, such as joint aid and the community use of goods and means of agricultural production, which have contributed to the construction of the “transmontana” identity and to the richness of the habitats. The promotion of the sustainable development of this low-density rural region demands the understanding of its specificities and an appropriate approach to grasp its challenges and develop effective management tools, allowing to preserve and exploit the region’s potential from various perspectives. The purpose of this article is to develop an analytical model using a literature review and a survey of the region’s specificities. This analytical model intends to provide the basis for designing and assessing sustainable development solutions, increasing local entrepreneurship and community empowerment through regional dynamism, with a focus on environment and heritage preservation, universal tourism accessibility, collective memory and endogenous product development. The suggested model adopts an interdisciplinary perspective and stresses that, in order to ensure that the new initiatives will contribute to the territory’s sustainable development, they should be scrutinized by asking four main questions: Is the initiative promoting the rural development of the territory through the creation of synergies between agroforestry and tourism activities? Is the initiative promoting an inclusive and sustainable tourism that is based on the territory’s resources? Are heritage and collective memory being preserved and valued through the initiative? Is the initiative promoting the empowerment of local communities? Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Rural Development through Entrepreneurship and Innovation)

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18 pages, 2953 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Road Asset Value Calculation Based on Asset Performance, Community Benefits and Technical Condition

by Ján Mikolaj, Ľuboš Remek and Matúš Kozel

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4375; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074375 - 6 Apr 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4811

Abstract

The article presents a comprehensive asset management method. Here presented method aims to bridge the economic approach to asset management with the technical approach to road infrastructure life cycle, namely its resilience and performance. The presented asset value calculation methods are based both [...] Read more.

The article presents a comprehensive asset management method. Here presented method aims to bridge the economic approach to asset management with the technical approach to road infrastructure life cycle, namely its resilience and performance. The presented asset value calculation methods are based both on socio-economic viewpoints on community benefits of an asset, as well as the technical aspect of the technical condition and residual life calculations of a road infrastructure. In contrast to common road asset management methods, asset value is not arbitrarily annually depreciated, instead, it is exactly calculated based on pavement performance models, pavement construction fatigue and paving material properties. Road asset value calculation is based on the asset performance and the technical condition of a pavement structure and other objects. Road asset performance is defined in terms of society and road user demands put on road category and its qualitative standard. Road asset technical condition is evaluated by the procurement cost calculation and condition deterioration. Value of condition deterioration is defined by residual life expectancy based on fatigue and construction reliability of the road infrastructure. The cross-asset allocation method is used for the creation of programs for claim and allocation of funding. The aim was to increase the credibility of the road administrators with the public as they present their decisions based on road asset management, and to increase the level of acceptance for practitioners. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Pavement Maintenance Management)

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13 pages, 436 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Role of Live-Streaming E-Commerce on Consumers’ Purchasing Intention regarding Green Agricultural Products

by Xiaoxu Dong, Huawei Zhao and Tiancai Li

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4374; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074374 - 6 Apr 2022

Cited by 60 | Viewed by 18269

Abstract

Live-streaming e-commerce has boosted the marketing vitality and possibilities of green agricultural products. However, academic research on this emerging marketing method remains insufficient. To fill this literature gap, this paper examines whether live-streaming e-commerce has gained consumers’ trust and strengthened their intention to [...] Read more.

Live-streaming e-commerce has boosted the marketing vitality and possibilities of green agricultural products. However, academic research on this emerging marketing method remains insufficient. To fill this literature gap, this paper examines whether live-streaming e-commerce has gained consumers’ trust and strengthened their intention to purchase green agricultural products. On the basis of a literature review, in this paper, we establish an evaluation system for live-streaming e-commerce which includes information quality, system quality, service quality, telepresence, and social presence and assumes that high-quality live-streaming e-commerce will increase consumers’ green trust and, thus, strengthen green purchase intention. Altogether, 726 valid questionnaires were collected, and structural equation modeling (SEM) and stepwise regression were used to analyze the data. The results demonstrate that the five aforementioned dimensions of live-streaming e-commerce quality that were used as criteria positively impact green trust. The findings provide suggestions for green-product companies on how to improve their live-streaming quality to enhance consumers’ purchase intention to realize economic and social value. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Development and Food Insecurity)

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13 pages, 880 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Storm Doesn’t Touch me!—The Role of Perceived Employability of Students and Graduates in the Pandemic Era

by Gerardo Petruzziello, Rita Chiesa and Marco Giovanni Mariani

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4303; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074303 - 5 Apr 2022

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 5092

Abstract

Perceived Employability acquires growing relevance as a psychological protective resource now that new entrants in the labour market from higher education are experiencing a deterioration of their occupational prospects due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which brings worries and jeopardises psychological well-being. This study [...] Read more.

Perceived Employability acquires growing relevance as a psychological protective resource now that new entrants in the labour market from higher education are experiencing a deterioration of their occupational prospects due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which brings worries and jeopardises psychological well-being. This study aims to extend research on perceived employability among Italian University students and graduates. Perceived employability is posited to predict flourishing directly and indirectly by reducing material, social, and health worries related to COVID-19. Moreover, this study contends that perceived employability buffers the positive impact of perceived adverse conditions of the labour market on worries, changing the effect on flourishing. In total, 471 university students and graduates completed an online survey. The analyses reveal that perceived employability positively influences flourishing directly and indirectly by reducing COVID-19-related worries. Nevertheless, the results do not support the moderating action of perceived employability. Despite some limitations (e.g., a cross-sectional design), this study significantly advances the exploration of perceived employability as a critical personal resource to deal with the transition to work under pandemic-related crises. This study draws on its results to advise higher education to increase perceived employability, such as through career guidance activities and work-based learning experiences. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Employability and Career Success in Times of COVID-19)

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13 pages, 804 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Multicriteria Methodology to Evaluate Climate Neutrality Claims—A Case Study with Spanish Firms

by Iker Larrea, Jose Manuel Correa, Rafaella López, Lidia Giménez and Kepa Solaun

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4310; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074310 - 5 Apr 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 5072

Abstract

Net-zero pledges have become a paradigm of ambitious climate change action for companies, governments, and other organisations. However, there is no international standard or criteria to assess whether those commitments are feasible or truly represent a landmark in low carbon performance. In this [...] Read more.

Net-zero pledges have become a paradigm of ambitious climate change action for companies, governments, and other organisations. However, there is no international standard or criteria to assess whether those commitments are feasible or truly represent a landmark in low carbon performance. In this paper, a methodology is proposed against which those statements can be quantified and assessed. The methodology was applied to Spanish companies that report to the Carbon Disclosure Project and showed that the biggest areas for improvement are the design of action plans, calculation, and offsetting. From a sectoral perspective, the energy sector, finance, and other services stood out as those with the highest scores. The food, beverages and tobacco, industry, and the entertainment industry obtained the lowest results. From a technical standpoint, strategy and commitment, calculation and scope, and communication are the areas where companies had the highest average scores. On the contrary, offsetting and action plans are the areas with the greatest room for improvement. Still, actual commitments are not enough to meet international climate neutrality objectives in the long-term and companies should continue to work in this direction. An enabling regulatory framework would be very useful to align private and public action in this area. Full article

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

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19 pages, 7024 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Flexible Goal Programming for Supporting Lake Karla’s (Greece) Sustainable Operation

by Mike Spiliotis, Dionissis Latinopoulos, Lampros Vasiliades, Kyriakos Rafailidis, Eleni Koutsokera and Ifigenia Kagalou

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4311; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074311 - 5 Apr 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2469

Abstract

Sustainable management is a prerequisite for a lake to provide a range of ecosystem services. The prioritization of needs is a difficult task, especially when the needs are in conflict and threaten water security. Lake Karla, situated in the Thessaly plain, Greece, was [...] Read more.

Sustainable management is a prerequisite for a lake to provide a range of ecosystem services. The prioritization of needs is a difficult task, especially when the needs are in conflict and threaten water security. Lake Karla, situated in the Thessaly plain, Greece, was decimated in 1957–1962; due to environmental impacts, it was later refilled as a multipurpose reservoir with high ecological significance. The research objective is to achieve a compromise with respect to both the economic benefits derived from agricultural water use and environmental protection based on the minimum intersection. For this purpose, first, new managerial practices are introduced. Second, the ideas are quantified based on the hydrological budget, and these are used as input for flexible (fuzzy) programming. Under hypotheses about the acceptable range, the (flexible) fuzzy programming is identical with the MINMAX goal programming model, although the weights are not used directly in the first case. An understandable compromise (the maximum economic benefit from irrigation areas and the minimization of water retention time) is achieved, and the values of the membership functions can be used to verify the solution. The proposed solution leads to a quantitative proposition, incorporating new findings from modeling the recent real operation of the reservoir. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Water Resource Management)

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15 pages, 934 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceSystematic Review

The Role of Blockchain in Revolutionizing the Agricultural Sector

by Mohannad Alobid, Said Abujudeh and István Szűcs

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4313; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074313 - 5 Apr 2022

Cited by 33 | Viewed by 10162

Abstract

Since blockchain technology has proven to be effective in the development of a wide range of industries, its use in other fields is also being expanded. Agriculture is one such sector, where blockchain technology is being used to improve farm business operations. Today, [...] Read more.

Since blockchain technology has proven to be effective in the development of a wide range of industries, its use in other fields is also being expanded. Agriculture is one such sector, where blockchain technology is being used to improve farm business operations. Today, several agribusiness firms are utilizing technology to improve food supply chain tracking. For example, Farmers Edge, the world’s leading company that revolutionized the field of digital agriculture through its work in providing advanced artificial intelligence solutions, as well as new opportunities that give agriculture a globally advanced future for all stakeholders, has taken a significant step forward. The issue of blockchain network technology and its applications in agriculture will be discussed in this study, as well as the key advantages that this technology can provide, when employed to make the lives of both producers and consumers easier. In addition, a total of 79 research papers were evaluated, with a focus on the state of blockchain technology in agriculture, related issues, and its future importance, as well as relevant contributions to this new technology and the distributions of this study by different countries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Agriculture)

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22 pages, 1657 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Strengthening of Community Tourism Enterprises as a Means of Sustainable Development in Rural Areas: A Case Study of Community Tourism Development in Chimborazo

by Claudia Patricia Maldonado-Erazo, María de la Cruz del Río-Rama, Sandra Patricia Miranda-Salazar and Nancy P. Tierra-Tierra

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4314; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074314 - 5 Apr 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4591

Abstract

Community tourism (CT) constitutes a management model for tourism practice within communities, which was consolidated within Ecuador through the Plurinational Federation of Community Tourism of Ecuador (FEPTCE), with the Corporation for the Development of Community Tourism of Chimborazo (CORDTUCH) as the central network [...] Read more.

Community tourism (CT) constitutes a management model for tourism practice within communities, which was consolidated within Ecuador through the Plurinational Federation of Community Tourism of Ecuador (FEPTCE), with the Corporation for the Development of Community Tourism of Chimborazo (CORDTUCH) as the central network in the province of Chimborazo. This network, with 14 years of experience, has been committed to tourism as a mechanism for the diversification of the productive matrix of the peasant and indigenous communities that comprise it, integrating 1772 direct beneficiaries articulated in 10 CT organizations. Thus, they have managed to support actions related to land management, the equitable distribution of benefits, the valuation of natural and cultural heritage, and the organizational strengthening of communities. This support has contributed to the consolidation of “Alli Kawsay,” that is, working to achieve a full life for these human groups, generating an integral sustainability of their spaces, and contributing to the fulfilment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) from this other Andean perspective. The methodology employed focused on participatory action research (PAR), which allows for listening and obtaining information directly from key actors, recognizing the existence of knowledge that has not been published that corresponds to peoples’ ancestral knowledge. The aim of this research is to provide an overview of the current reality of CT within CORDTUCH, as well as the strengthening achieved in the community enterprises that comprise it. Among the main results achieved, it is highlighted that CT has become, for these communities, a tool of insurgency against extractive activities and the advance of the agricultural frontier that threatens these spaces, showing that the territories can be exploited under other approaches and through innovative proposals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Rural Development through Entrepreneurship and Innovation)

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15 pages, 3318 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Climate Change Impacts and Extinction Risk Assessment of Nepeta Representatives (Lamiaceae) in Greece

by Konstantinos Kougioumoutzis, Alexandros Papanikolaou, Ioannis P. Kokkoris, Arne Strid, Panayotis Dimopoulos and Maria Panitsa

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4269; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074269 - 4 Apr 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3029

Abstract

The ongoing climate change has already left its imprint on species distributions, with rare, endemic species being more threatened. These changes are more prominent in regional biodiversity hotspots, such as Greece, which is already facing the short term impacts of human induced climate [...] Read more.

The ongoing climate change has already left its imprint on species distributions, with rare, endemic species being more threatened. These changes are more prominent in regional biodiversity hotspots, such as Greece, which is already facing the short term impacts of human induced climate change. Greek flora hosts numerous endemic medicinal and aromatic plant taxa (MAPs), which are economically important and provide integral ecosystem services. The genus Nepeta is one of the largest Lamiaceae genera, containing several MAPs, yet, despite its taxonomical and economical significance, it remains vastly understudied in Greece. We explore the effects of climate change on the range of the Greek endemic Nepeta MAPs, via a species distribution models (SDMs) approach in an ensemble modeling framework, using soil, topographical and bioclimatic variables as predictors in three different time steps. By doing so, we attempt to estimate the current and future extinction risk of these taxa and to locate their current and future species richness hotspots in Greece. The taxa analyzed are expected to experience severe range retractions, with minor intraspecific variation across all time steps (p > 0.05), driven mainly by soil- and aridity-related variables. The extinction risk status of only one taxon is predicted to worsen in the future, while all other taxa will remain threatened. Current species richness hotspots are mainly located in southern Greece and are projected to shift both altitudinally and latitudinally over time (p < 0.01). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Diversity and Conservation in the Mediterranean)

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21 pages, 7706 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Active and Reactive Power Management in the Smart Distribution Network Enriched with Wind Turbines and Photovoltaic Systems

by Abolfazl Mehbodniya, Ali Paeizi, Mehrdad Rezaie, Mahdi Azimian, Hasan Masrur and Tomonobu Senjyu

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4273; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074273 - 4 Apr 2022

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 4233

Abstract

The penetration of renewable energy sources has been intensified during the last decade to tackle the climate crisis by providing clean energy. Among various renewable energy technologies, wind turbines and photovoltaic systems have received increasing attention from investors. Generally, electronic power converters are [...] Read more.

The penetration of renewable energy sources has been intensified during the last decade to tackle the climate crisis by providing clean energy. Among various renewable energy technologies, wind turbines and photovoltaic systems have received increasing attention from investors. Generally, electronic power converters are used to control renewable generations. The present study discusses the power management of smart distribution networks enriched with wind and photovoltaic units. The model aims to minimize the expected network operating cost of the system formulated as an objective function regarding AC optimal power flow constraints. In addition, stochastic programming based on unscented transformation is adopted to model the probable behavior of loads, renewable generations, and energy market prices. The model employs a linear approximation model to burden the complexity of the problem and achieve the optimum solution. The problem is tested to a 33-bus system using the General Algebraic Modeling System (GAMS). The obtained results confirm the proposed model’s potential in reducing energy costs, power losses, and voltage deviations compared to conventional power flow studies. In the proposed scheme compared to network load distribution studies, the active and reactive power losses, network energy costs, and voltage deviations are improved by about 40.7%, 33%, 36%, and 74.7%, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart Grid and Control System for Higher Resilience and Reliability)

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20 pages, 9057 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Climate Change and Silvopasture: The Potential of the Tree and Weather to Modify Soil Carbon Balance

by Nuria Ferreiro-Domínguez, Francisco Javier Rodríguez-Rigueiro, Antonio Rigueiro-Rodríguez, María Pilar González-Hernández and María Rosa Mosquera-Losada

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4270; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074270 - 4 Apr 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3287

Abstract

Silvopastoral systems play an important role in climate change mitigation, considering their effect on soil carbon sequestration. In silvopastoral systems, sewage sludge can be used as fertiliser, which is promoted by the Circular Economy Package of the European Commission. This study evaluates the [...] Read more.

Silvopastoral systems play an important role in climate change mitigation, considering their effect on soil carbon sequestration. In silvopastoral systems, sewage sludge can be used as fertiliser, which is promoted by the Circular Economy Package of the European Commission. This study evaluates the soil chemical properties (pH, carbon), tree growth (top height, canopy cover), and their interactions from 1998 to 2012 in a Pinus radiata D. Don silvopastoral system in northwest Spain. Nine fertilisation treatments were applied: three doses of sewage sludge (160, 320, and 480 kg total N ha⁻¹) or no fertilisation, all with or without liming, and mineral fertiliser with no liming. Soil pH decreased over time due to cations extraction by trees and pine needles deposited in the understory. Tree growth increased light interception, decreasing soil carbon incorporation. The interannual variation of carbon also depended on weather conditions. Initially, fertilisation increased soil pH and carbon, but without compensating cations extraction over time. Therefore, it is advisable to apply amendments in the middle years of the plantation. Tree management is also needed to decrease competitiveness and enhance carbon incorporation. Moreover, control plots should be linked to the next CAP 2023–2027 eco-schemes accounting for soil carbon levels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wood Pastures: Drivers for Ecological Sustainability and Conservation Management)

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15 pages, 3437 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Characterization of Particulate Matter Species in an Area Impacted by Aggregate and Limestone Mining North of San Antonio, TX, USA

by Amit U. Raysoni, Esmeralda Mendez, August Luna and Joe Collins

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4288; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074288 - 4 Apr 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2967

Abstract

Aggregate and limestone mining in San Antonio’s Bexar and Comal counties in Texas, USA, has caused considerable health concerns as of late. Aggregate mining actions can result in localized air quality issues in any neighborhood. Furthermore, heavy truck traffic, hauling, and transportation of [...] Read more.

Aggregate and limestone mining in San Antonio’s Bexar and Comal counties in Texas, USA, has caused considerable health concerns as of late. Aggregate mining actions can result in localized air quality issues in any neighborhood. Furthermore, heavy truck traffic, hauling, and transportation of the mined material contribute to pollution. In this research, PM species were sampled at four locations north of the San Antonio city limits. The data were collected using a TSI Air Quality Sampler that sampled PM₁, PM_2.5, PM₄, PM₁₀, wind speed, wind direction, temperature, and relative humidity. Continuous data with 1 min averages were recorded during the study period from August to September 2019. The instrument was stationed at every location for a period of 7 days each. The four locations were a ranch, an open field, a residential compound, and an elementary school. PM₁ and PM_2.5 concentration levels were lower compared to PM₁₀ concentrations at all four studied sites. Our results suggest that PM concentrations are primarily impacted by mining activities. PM species were highest at the residential compound due to its proximity to an active mining area, resulting in deleterious health effects for neighbors living in the vicinity of the sampled site. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Air Pollution: Monitoring, Impact, and Mitigation)

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31 pages, 11687 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

An Innovative Photovoltaic Luminescent Solar Concentrator Window: Energy and Environmental Aspects

by Vincenzo Muteri, Francesco Guarino, Sonia Longo, Letizia Bua, Maurizio Cellura, Daniele Testa and Marco Bonzi

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4292; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074292 - 4 Apr 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3512

Abstract

Over the years, different types of smart windows have been tested and developed. In this study, an innovative prototype of a photovoltaic smart window, that integrates luminescent solar concentrators, was analysed. The device independently regulates the movement of the shading system and allows [...] Read more.

Over the years, different types of smart windows have been tested and developed. In this study, an innovative prototype of a photovoltaic smart window, that integrates luminescent solar concentrators, was analysed. The device independently regulates the movement of the shading system and allows energy surplus, through the electricity generated by modules. Considering the peculiar structure (characterized by the presence of a light shelf) and the thermal characteristics of the device, the analyses focused on optical, thermal, and electrical performances, comparing them with those of a traditional window. The analysis followed an experimental approach that involved lighting and electrical monitoring studies in a real test room, to create validated models for conducting simulations in larger buildings. The results were expressed through the study of illuminance maps, electricity generation obtainable from the integrated photovoltaic technology and in terms of energy savings. Energy generation accounts for around 10 Wh/month, with up to 50% improvement from the perspective of energy use for heating and cooling. The technology proves effective in allowing efficient overall energy performances while generating enough energy to operate the smart window control systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental and Economic Optimisation of the Building Envelope for Different Climates)

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15 pages, 612 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Internet of Things for Sustainable Smart Education: An Overview

by Khaula Zeeshan, Timo Hämäläinen and Pekka Neittaanmäki

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4293; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074293 - 4 Apr 2022

Cited by 66 | Viewed by 13786

Abstract

In the realm of fourth-generation industrialization, there will be great demand for a skilled workforceTo produce a skilled workforce, we need sustainable education with quality and equity. Conventional ways of delivering and managing education would not fulfil the demands of the fourth industrial [...] Read more.

In the realm of fourth-generation industrialization, there will be great demand for a skilled workforceTo produce a skilled workforce, we need sustainable education with quality and equity. Conventional ways of delivering and managing education would not fulfil the demands of the fourth industrial revolution (4IR). Disruptive technologies, such as Internet of Things (IoT), have great potential in revolutionizing the current educational setup. Therefore, this research work aims to present an overview of the capabilities of IoT applications in educational settings. Our research article digs into recent research carried out referring to IoT applications in education and provides a detailed insight into the topic from three different perspectives, i.e., from the perspective of school management, teachers, and learners. The present research explains the ways in which IoT has been applied for the benefit of school managers, teachers, and learners, showcased in the recent literature. The paper also sheds light on bottlenecks for IoT applications and explains security, privacy, scalability, reliability, and dehumanization as main constraints in IoT applications in educational settings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue IoT Applications for Optimal Management in Smart Cities)

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16 pages, 8547 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Experimental Survey of the Sound Absorption Performance of Natural Fibres in Comparison with Conventional Insulating Materials

by Veronika Gumanová, Lýdia Sobotová, Tibor Dzuro, Miroslav Badida and Marek Moravec

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4258; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074258 - 3 Apr 2022

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 7582

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to investigate the acoustic properties of natural fibres and compare them with the values achieved by common insulation materials used in the construction of buildings. Three materials based on biomass were used for testing, namely cork, hemp [...] Read more.

The purpose of this research is to investigate the acoustic properties of natural fibres and compare them with the values achieved by common insulation materials used in the construction of buildings. Three materials based on biomass were used for testing, namely cork, hemp and fibreboard. From the group of conventional materials, mineral wool, propylat and polyurethane foam were selected. For the purpose of determining the values of the sound absorption coefficient (α), the absorber specimens were tested using the impedance tube and two microphones method, according to standard ISO 10534-2. The measurement was performed for thicknesses of 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100 mm. The highest sound absorption of all materials was measured with a hemp sample at a frequency of 2000 Hz (α = 0.99) and a thickness of 20 mm. The lowest performance was achieved by cork at the same thickness and frequency of 100 Hz (α = 0.02). Among biomass materials, hemp dominated in the entire frequency range and at all thicknesses. The lowest values were for cork, from 160 to 500 Hz with a tendency to exceed the values of the fibreboard sample. Among conventional materials, mineral wool achieved the best results, while the lowest values were recorded for propylat with the occasional exception of the highest frequencies from 1600 to 2500 Hz. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Efficient Sustainable Material and Technology Solutions in the Construction Industry)

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9 pages, 1897 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Case Study on the Fracturing Radius and Time Effects of CO₂ Phase Transition Fracturing in Coal Seams

by Hong Yin, Yuan Deng, Chao Liu, Yafei Chen, Ziqiang Chen, Chao Qin and Donglin He

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4260; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074260 - 3 Apr 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1944

Abstract

CO₂ phase transition fracturing (CPTF) is considered to be a promising way to improve the recovery efficiency of coalbed methane in deep, tight coal seams. In addition, it is significant to the CO₂-ECBM and CO₂ storage in coal. To [...] Read more.

CO₂ phase transition fracturing (CPTF) is considered to be a promising way to improve the recovery efficiency of coalbed methane in deep, tight coal seams. In addition, it is significant to the CO₂-ECBM and CO₂ storage in coal. To better understand the fracturing radius and time effects of CPTF, a field experimentation was conducted on the Ji-15 coal seam of Pingmei 8th Coal Mine. The results indicate that the fracturing radius and time effects are significantly related; with the increase in fracturing radius, the time for extraction rate to reach the peak value is shorter. The calculated value of effective fracturing radius is 7.56 m via the fitting relationship. According to the CO₂ content in different extraction boreholes after fracturing, it can be concluded that the crack zone is 5 m. In addition, the extraction rate of methane firstly increases slowly for a while, and then reaches the peak. This work could provide theoretical directions for the arrangement of fracturing and extraction boreholes in CO₂ fracturing works related to CO₂-ECBM and gas pre-extraction in coal mining. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Frontiers in Resources Recovery and Clean Energy of Sustainability from Geo Resources)

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19 pages, 2414 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Degradation Risk Assessment: Understanding the Impacts of Climate Change on Geoheritage

by Lidia Selmi, Thais S. Canesin, Ritienne Gauci, Paulo Pereira and Paola Coratza

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4262; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074262 - 3 Apr 2022

Cited by 51 | Viewed by 4485

Abstract

Several factors and processes, both natural and anthropogenic, can threaten the integrity of any geosite, leading to their degradation. For this reason, geoheritage degradation risks should be considered a fundamental step in any geoconservation strategy, all the more when the aim is to [...] Read more.

Several factors and processes, both natural and anthropogenic, can threaten the integrity of any geosite, leading to their degradation. For this reason, geoheritage degradation risks should be considered a fundamental step in any geoconservation strategy, all the more when the aim is to tackle the effects of climate change. The present work proposes a quantitative methodology for the degradation risk assessment of geosites by considering the extrinsic factors that can damage the geoheritage. The methodology has been tested on the Maltese Islands, where considerable previous research has been undertaken in order to highlight the international significance of the Maltese landscapes. Three criteria to assess the degradation risk are proposed: natural vulnerability, anthropogenic vulnerability and public use. For each criterion, several parameters have been identified in order to propose a detailed numerical evaluation. The results show that the degradation risk of geosites is mainly related to negligence and lack of knowledge of its inherent geological heritage, and which leads to public misuse and mismanagement of the geosites. The results give an overview of the condition of the geosites and provide information for the design and management of suitable protection measures, especially in the light of future threats related to climate change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)

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21 pages, 1596 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

“You Need a Month’s Holiday Just to Get over It!” Exploring Young People’s Lived Experiences of the UN Climate Change Negotiations

by Harriet Thew, Lucie Middlemiss and Jouni Paavola

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4259; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074259 - 3 Apr 2022

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3392

Abstract

Despite youth organisations having participated as a recognised constituency (YOUNGO) in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) for over a decade, few studies have explored their lived experiences of participation. Drawing upon deep ethnographic engagement with a member organisation of [...] Read more.

Despite youth organisations having participated as a recognised constituency (YOUNGO) in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) for over a decade, few studies have explored their lived experiences of participation. Drawing upon deep ethnographic engagement with a member organisation of YOUNGO conducted between 2015 and 2018, this paper applies the “7P” model from the Youth Studies literature to explore youth participation in the UNFCCC from seven intersecting lenses: Purpose, Positioning, Perspectives, Power Relations, Protection, Place, and Process. This yields many insights into how youth participants negotiate sustainability in this context, including the Purposes or drivers motivating their participation, the ways in which youth are Positioned within the UNFCCC, the asymmetrical Power Relations they have to navigate, as well as the logistical challenges relating to their Protection, including their physical safety and psychological wellbeing. Based on rich empirical findings, we amend the 7P model of youth participation, replacing Process, which we argue is more of a methodological than an analytical concern, with Psychological Factors, which we propose is a key factor in shaping youth participation in negotiations of sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Negotiating Sustainability: The Role of Joint, Interactive Decision-Making Processes towards Sustainable Solutions)

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16 pages, 282 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Exploring Factors Promoting Recycling Behavior in Student Housing

by Inga-Lill Söderberg, Misse Wester and Agnieszka Zalejska Jonsson

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4264; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074264 - 3 Apr 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 6322

Abstract

As climate-related issues are important and concern all aspects of the built environment, there is a need to better understand the motives underlying household recycling behavior. The purpose of the present study is twofold: to investigate factors important for explaining the recycling behavior [...] Read more.

As climate-related issues are important and concern all aspects of the built environment, there is a need to better understand the motives underlying household recycling behavior. The purpose of the present study is twofold: to investigate factors important for explaining the recycling behavior of young people and to explore respondents’ own ideas regarding barriers to recycling. This paper reports on a survey conducted from 2020 to 2021 among residents of student housing in Stockholm, Sweden. Eight hypotheses were formulated based on earlier research and a model was constructed. Answers from 1202 respondents were first analyzed by logistic regression to test factors affecting respondents’ self-reported recycling of paper, plastic, glass, and metal. Results show that the full model containing all predictors was statistically significant. The results showed that only four of the hypotheses were confirmed. Positive attitude toward recycling, personal norms, perceived behavioral control, and perceived convenience of recycling are positively affecting recycling behavior. In addition, 673 open answers were analyzed to provide information on unforeseen factors of importance for recycling behavior. This study adds to research by testing factors affecting recycling behaviors in a national context and by identifying new possible factors of importance. The results are also of benefit to business practitioners within the construction sector or within facility management in identifying activities that would add to sustainable development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Improving Pro-environmental Behavior through Multidisciplinary Approaches)

14 pages, 1939 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Responses in Soil Carbon and Nitrogen Fractionation after Prescribed Burning in the Montseny Biosphere Reserve (NE Iberian Peninsula)

by Sangita Chowdhury, José Manjón-Cabeza, Mercedes Ibáñez, Christian Mestre, Maria José Broncano, María Rosa Mosquera-Losada, Josefina Plaixats and M.-Teresa Sebastià

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4232; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074232 - 2 Apr 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2663

Abstract

Prescribed fire is one of the most widely-used management tools to recover encroached rangelands. Fire has been reported to cause changes in the soil physical and chemical properties. However, the legacy effects of former plant species on soil responses to fire remains unknown. [...] Read more.

Prescribed fire is one of the most widely-used management tools to recover encroached rangelands. Fire has been reported to cause changes in the soil physical and chemical properties. However, the legacy effects of former plant species on soil responses to fire remains unknown. The legacy effect of the former extant plant species on soil carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) fractionation distribution after prescribed burning in topsoil (0–5 cm and 5–10 cm) was investigated in Mediterranean shrublands in Montseny. We sampled soils under five vegetation patch types: Cytisus scoparius L., Calluna vulgaris L., Erica arborea L., Pteridium aquilinum L., and Cladonia biocrusts, pre- and post-burning. Multivariate analysis on soil C and N fractions showed that soils under the legume Cytisus and the biocrust were the most differentiated. Vegetation patch types tended to respond differently to burning, soils under Cytisus, Cladonia and Calluna showing the strongest response. Total C and N, and C and N in sand decreased after burning in the 0–5 cm soil layer. Conversely, C in silt, as well as N in clay and silt, increased with soil depth after burning. This study will be helpful for understanding ecological legacy effects and their possible consequences when planning prescribed burning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wood Pastures: Drivers for Ecological Sustainability and Conservation Management)

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17 pages, 551 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Resource Management as Part of Sustainable Urban District Development

by Michaela Koller, Karl Eckert, Uwe Ferber, Gudrun Gräbe, Maic Verbücheln and Katja Wendler

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4224; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074224 - 2 Apr 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 5664

Abstract

Rising urban populations, limited natural resources (following the German Federal Environmental Agency, natural resources are resources that are part of nature. They include renewable and non-renewable primary raw materials, physical spaces (surface areas), environmental media (water, soil, air), flowing resources (e.g., geothermal, wind, [...] Read more.

Rising urban populations, limited natural resources (following the German Federal Environmental Agency, natural resources are resources that are part of nature. They include renewable and non-renewable primary raw materials, physical spaces (surface areas), environmental media (water, soil, air), flowing resources (e.g., geothermal, wind, tidal and solar energy) and biodiversity. It is irrelevant here whether the resources serve as sources for producing products or as sinks for absorbing emissions (water, soil, air)) and climate change require a new approach to urban planning. Recently, international, European and national programmes, concepts and framework documents have been created to promote the implementation of measures for more sustainability, resource efficiency and climate resilience in urban districts. In the funding measure of the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research’s “Resource-Efficient Urban Districts for the Future-RES:Z”, twelve funded research project networks are dedicated to understanding the impacts that urban districts have on the resources of land, water and material flows, as well as the resulting impacts on urban green spaces and energy issues. By considering the different resources involved, it is shown that the optimisation of their use cannot take place independently of each other. This may even lead to conflicting goals. Use conflicts can be recognised at an early stage and measures can be tailored to the specific neighbourhood context when applying an integrated approach that provides a common view on all of the aforementioned resources. Special attention is paid to solutions which create numerous benefits i.e., multifunctionality. The RES:Z funding measure utilises living labs for the research on and implementation of solutions. This lays the foundation for a sustainable transformation of urban districts and the basis for further research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Resource Management in Urban Districts – a Contribution to Sustainable Urban Development)

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17 pages, 670 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Self-Rated Health and Socioeconomic Status in Old Age: The Role of Gender and the Moderating Effect of Time and Welfare Regime in Europe

by Aviad Tur-Sinai, Amira Paz and Israel Doron

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4240; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074240 - 2 Apr 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3108

Abstract

Research has shown that health status and self-rated health (SRH) are correlated not only with age and gender but also with socioeconomic determinants, such as income, education, and employment status, in the course of life and in late life. Much less investigated, however, [...] Read more.

Research has shown that health status and self-rated health (SRH) are correlated not only with age and gender but also with socioeconomic determinants, such as income, education, and employment status, in the course of life and in late life. Much less investigated, however, are gender differences in the association between socioeconomic factors and SRH and how the connection differs among the European welfare state regimes. This study examines the association between SRH and socioeconomic status in later life and in relation to gender and welfare state regime characteristics. Using SHARE data, it builds an analytical sample of respondents aged 60–70 (1275 men, 1544 women) who participated in Wave 1 and, ten years later, in Wave 6. The analysis regresses SRH by gender on socioeconomic status, controlling for various sociodemographic, health, and socioeconomic variables, as well as welfare regime indicators, at two points in time. Past health variables are also controlled for in order to evaluate their effect on SRH at the time of the investigation. A significant gender gap in SRH is found from childhood to late life. The association of socioeconomic status with poorer SRH is significant over time and within welfare state regimes. Consequently, the relationship between gender and SRH, and the extent to which it varies by socioeconomic position, does appear to differ across welfare state regimes. In all regimes and all points in time, including retrospective childhood SRH, women report poorer health than men. The analysis underscores the association between SRH and socioeconomic status in relation to gender in late life and finds that it correlates differently for men and women. The odds of women experiencing poorer SRH are higher, although they become more moderate over time. Even under the most egalitarian welfare regimes, gender differences in the nexus of SRH and socioeconomic status do not favor women. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health in All: Global Health and Sustainable Development Goals)

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23 pages, 4427 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Beach Access, Property Rights, and Social-Distributive Questions: A Cross-National Legal Perspective of Fifteen Countries

by Rachelle Alterman and Cygal Pellach

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4237; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074237 - 2 Apr 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 6669

Abstract

The right to access and enjoy the coastal zone, and especially the beach, is a centuries-old legal tenet in many countries and a key part of Integrated Coastal Zone Management. However, the legal right for coastal access takes on different forms and degrees [...] Read more.

The right to access and enjoy the coastal zone, and especially the beach, is a centuries-old legal tenet in many countries and a key part of Integrated Coastal Zone Management. However, the legal right for coastal access takes on different forms and degrees in different countries (or states). In this paper we argue that accessibility to coastal zones should be seen as a multi-faceted concept, and we distinguish among four different categories of accessibly. The first two—horizontal and vertical access—are the usual notions. We add two more: access to sea views, and access for people with disabilities. Regarding all four categories, in addition to the legal survey, we also attempt to point out some potential social justice issues. The comparative analysis focuses on national-level law and policy in fifteen advanced-economy countries. Most are also signatories to one or two international legal or policy rules about coastal management. The factual information on each country is based on country reports by top national scholars recently published in a book initiated and edited by this paper’s authors. In this paper, the authors develop further systematic comparative analysis within a new theoretical framing. The findings show that to date, the international rules have had only limited on-the-ground influence. Many gaps remain, mirroring cross-national inequalities in the rights to beach access. The comparative findings point to some emerging trends—both progressive and regressive. The conclusions call for upgrading the issue of coastal access rights through further research on aspects of implementation and through cross-national exchange. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Social Innovation in Sustainable Urban Development)

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16 pages, 2188 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Framework for Evaluating the Effects of Green Infrastructure in Mitigating Pollutant Transferal and Flood Events in Sunnyside, Houston, TX

by Galen Newman, Garett T. Sansom, Siyu Yu, Katie R. Kirsch, Dongying Li, Youjung Kim, Jennifer A. Horney, Gunwoo Kim and Saima Musharrat

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4247; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074247 - 2 Apr 2022

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 8281

Abstract

There is a growing and critical need to develop solutions for communities that are at particular risk of the impacts of the nexus of hazardous substances and natural disasters. In urban areas at high risk for flooding and lacking proper land-use controls, communities [...] Read more.

There is a growing and critical need to develop solutions for communities that are at particular risk of the impacts of the nexus of hazardous substances and natural disasters. In urban areas at high risk for flooding and lacking proper land-use controls, communities are vulnerable to environmental contamination from industrial land uses during flood events. This research uniquely applied a series of landscape pzerformance models to evaluate such associations including (1) the Green Values National Stormwater Calculator, (2) the Value of Green Infrastructure Tool, and (3) the Long-Term Hydrologic Impact Assessment Model. This paper presents a framework for combining landscape performance models, which are often only individually applied, to evaluate green infrastructure impacts on flood mitigation and pollutant transfer during flooding events using the Sunnyside neighborhood in Houston, Texas, USA, as a case site. The results showed that the plan reduced the risk of flooding, decreased stormwater runoff contaminants, and provided a possible direction to protect vulnerable communities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human-Environment Interactions, Natural and Technological Hazards, and the Impacts of Disasters on Social-Ecological Systems)

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7 pages, 209 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceEditorial

Cultural, Creative, and Sustainable Cities: Assessing Progress and Measurement Perspectives

by Valentina Montalto, Pier Luigi Sacco and Michaela Saisana

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4246; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074246 - 2 Apr 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4295

Abstract

The link between culture and sustainable development has become a major research topic in the past few years. [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cultural, Creative and Sustainable Cities)

20 pages, 2254 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Designing a Framework for Materials Flow by Integrating Circular Economy Principles with End-of-Life Management Strategies

by Yuan Huang, Mahmood Shafiee, Fiona Charnley and Adriana Encinas-Oropesa

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4244; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074244 - 2 Apr 2022

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 6775

Abstract

Circular economy is an upward trending notion that has drawn worldwide attention of policymakers, industry administrators, environmentalist as well as academic researchers. Though there are several tools developed for monitoring the material recovery, a very few number of research have been conducted to [...] Read more.

Circular economy is an upward trending notion that has drawn worldwide attention of policymakers, industry administrators, environmentalist as well as academic researchers. Though there are several tools developed for monitoring the material recovery, a very few number of research have been conducted to integrate circular economy principles with end-of-life (EOL) management strategies. This paper proposes an EOL-driven circular economy framework for the management of materials flow so as to extend the lifetime of materials through improved durability as well as to provide more social, economic and environmental benefits through less material waste. A case study from the agricultural waste industry is presented in order to test the model and validate its performance. The results show that the proposed framework has a good potential for small and medium enterprises (SME) advances. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Circular Economy and Sustainable Strategies)

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19 pages, 7773 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Analysis of the Relationship between the Characteristics of the Areas of Influence of Bus Stops and the Decrease in Ridership during COVID-19 Lockdowns

by Yaiza Montero-Lamas, Alfonso Orro, Margarita Novales and Francisco-Alberto Varela-García

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4248; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074248 - 2 Apr 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3993

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the characteristics of the areas of influence of bus stops and the decrease in ridership during COVID-19 lockdowns and subsequent initial reopening processes. A novel GIS methodology was developed to determine these characteristics from a [...] Read more.

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the characteristics of the areas of influence of bus stops and the decrease in ridership during COVID-19 lockdowns and subsequent initial reopening processes. A novel GIS methodology was developed to determine these characteristics from a large amount of data with high spatial detail and accurately assign them to individual bus stops. After processing the data, several multiple linear regression models were developed to determine the variables related to different activities and changes in mobility during lockdown that may explain the variation in demand owing to the COVID-19 pandemic. The characteristics related to population and land use were also studied. The proposed methodology can be used to improve transit planning during exceptional situations, by strengthening public transport in areas with a predictably higher transit demand, instead of uniformly decreasing the availability of public transport services, promoting sustainable mobility. The efficiency of the proposed methodology was shown by performing a case study that analysed the variation in bus demand in A Coruña, Spain. The areas with the highest sustained demand were those with low inhabitant incomes, a high population density, and significant proportions of land use dedicated to hospitals, offices, or supermarkets. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Impact of COVID-19 on Pedestrian Behavior, Road Safety and Sustainable Transportation)

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27 pages, 4044 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Spatial Regulation Instruments of Work at Home: The Case of Slovenia as a Post-Transition Country

by Gregor Čok, Gašper Mrak, Jana Breznik, Mojca Foški and Alma Zavodnik Lamovšek

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4254; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074254 - 2 Apr 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2504

Abstract

Work at home and work from home are becoming the subject of interdisciplinary research in the current social conditions. Slovenia, as a post-transition country, has specific experience in terms of its regulation, as the former socialist and later transition period were relatively tolerant [...] Read more.

Work at home and work from home are becoming the subject of interdisciplinary research in the current social conditions. Slovenia, as a post-transition country, has specific experience in terms of its regulation, as the former socialist and later transition period were relatively tolerant of various forms of work at home. The article presents the results of research aimed at studying current normative provisions for the organization of work at home, its actual spatial and program scope, and its correlation with building typology and morphology. Using a descriptive research method and by analyzing existing databases in the GIS environment, we found that work at home is a very extensive phenomenon in Slovenia. Despite the effective instruments in the fields of spatial planning, public administration, tax system, and employment legal relationships, its scope is mainly a consequence of historical tolerance, as this form of work has been legally organized and desirable for decades. We found that various urban characteristics did not significantly affect its occurrence in the past. The differences are reflected only in the extent of business activities that can be carried out in residential areas and differ according to the distance from urban centers. In order for the regulation of work at home to become even more efficient in the future, it is necessary to define more detailed criteria, especially in terms of its program regulation and monitoring of the spatial situation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Frontiers in Design and Planning for Healthy Built Environments)

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19 pages, 301 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Supporting Sustainable Development Goal 5 Gender Equality and Entrepreneurship in the Tanzanite Mine-to-Market

by Janice Ann Denoncourt

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4192; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074192 - 1 Apr 2022

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 5549

Abstract

This article analyses how a strategy for Tanzania’s tanzanite gemstone mining sector could foster gender equality in the mine-to-market (M2M) supply chain, whilst enhancing opportunities for female entrepreneurship as part of the country’s sustainable economic development. In the mining industry, the contemporary concept [...] Read more.

This article analyses how a strategy for Tanzania’s tanzanite gemstone mining sector could foster gender equality in the mine-to-market (M2M) supply chain, whilst enhancing opportunities for female entrepreneurship as part of the country’s sustainable economic development. In the mining industry, the contemporary concept of mapping artisanal and small-scale mining to the UN Sustainable Development Goals is a newer aspect of sustainability. SDG 5 aims to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls. However, while there have been initiatives to support gemstone mining in Tanzania and East Africa, to date, the role of women in the lucrative tanzanite M2M supply chain has been less visible and a missed opportunity. This is a concern, as in 2019, pre-COVID-19 pandemic, gemstone and precious metals accounted for an incredible 33.2% of Tanzania’s total exports. In contrast, in leading mining countries such as Australia and Canada, the participation of women continues to steadily advance, economically empowering the women involved. This article contributes a critical review of Tanzanian mining regulation and licensing practice in a historical and gender equality context. A qualitative research case study showcases artisanal small-scale (ASM) tanzanite gemstone miner and entrepreneur Pili Hussein, with a view to support the formulation of a Tanzanian regional, female-oriented, M2M tanzanite strategy. The developed world experience of increasing levels of gender participation in mining provides evidence of a reduced gender pay gap and enhanced mine safety practice when women are involved. This research finds that increased investment in supporting women to participate in the tanzanite M2M gemstone supply chain positively impacts SDG 5 in the country. Furthermore, given Tanzania’s economic dependence on mining and the exceptional characteristics of rare, single-source tanzanite (a generational gemstones), we conclude that gender equality and female mine-to-market (M2M) entrepreneurship has an undervalued, yet important, role to play in Tanzania’s future socio-economic development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Women Entrepreneurship and the UN SDGs)

7 pages, 223 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceEditorial

Global Dairy Sector: Trends, Prospects, and Challenges

by Rajeev Bhat, Jorgelina Di Pasquale, Ferenc Istvan Bánkuti, Tiago Teixeira da Silva Siqueira, Philip Shine and Michael D. Murphy

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4193; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074193 - 1 Apr 2022

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 12019

Abstract

Currently, there is a strong need to find practical solutions towards meeting the expected efficiency and overcoming recurring sustainability challenges in the global dairy sector [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dairy Sector: Opportunities and Sustainability Challenges)

19 pages, 799 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Changes in Demographic Factors’ Influence on Regional Productivity Growth: Empirical Evidence from China, 2000–2010

by Xiaoxi Wang, Yaojun Zhang, Danlin Yu, Xiwei Wu and Ding Li

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4195; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074195 - 1 Apr 2022

Viewed by 2840

Abstract

Improving total factor productivity is an important way for China’s economy to avoid the middle income trap. Demographic changes are believed to have significant impacts on productivity growth. Using the census and socioeconomic data of 358 prefecture cities in mainland China, this paper [...] Read more.

Improving total factor productivity is an important way for China’s economy to avoid the middle income trap. Demographic changes are believed to have significant impacts on productivity growth. Using the census and socioeconomic data of 358 prefecture cities in mainland China, this paper analyzes the changes in the global and local spatial dependence of total factor productivity. We then employ spatial regression methods to investigate the role of changes in population factors in productivity growth in 2000 and 2010. We draw three observations from the analysis. First, population density plays an important role in both years. There is an inverted U-shaped relationship between population density and productivity growth. Second, human capital stock has a significant positive impact while human capital inequality becomes insignificant in 2010. This is likely a result of China’s education equality policies. Third, the impact of the aging of workers and their migration status on productivity growth also changed over the decade. Different cohorts of workers and migrants have had different influences on productivity growth because of their different access to higher education. The study provides important insights over how demographic factors impact China’s productivity growth. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Economic Development: Challenges, Policies, and Reforms)

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15 pages, 994 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Use of Virtual Reality in Tourism Destinations as a Tool to Develop Tourist Behavior Perspective

by Ionica Oncioiu and Iustin Priescu

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4191; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074191 - 1 Apr 2022

Cited by 72 | Viewed by 15577

Abstract

The role of new technologies in tourism is changing rapidly, leading to the development of customer relationships through the use of virtual reality in the marketing of tourist destinations. In addition to focusing on the influence of travel intentions that has prevailed in [...] Read more.

The role of new technologies in tourism is changing rapidly, leading to the development of customer relationships through the use of virtual reality in the marketing of tourist destinations. In addition to focusing on the influence of travel intentions that has prevailed in practice so far, the use of VR is expected to have an impact on the travel experience on the spot. This exploratory research study was conducted with 824 respondents to identify the role of virtual reality in choosing a tourist destination, as well as the expectations of potential customers that could rekindle the tourism industry for a post-pandemic world. The results pointed out that highly used virtual reality applications for destination marketing aim to create a certain image for a tourist destination and to communicate this to the outside world in a consistent and coordinated manner. The findings also reinforce the importance of developing future scenarios for virtual reality as a decisive factor for strategic planning in the tourism sector. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue ICT in Tourism Experience)

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18 pages, 11088 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Development of a Calculation Concept for Mapping Specific Heat Extraction for Very Shallow Geothermal Systems

by Hans Schwarz, Nikola Jocic and David Bertermann

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4199; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074199 - 1 Apr 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 7151

Abstract

Horizontal shallow geothermal applications are easy to install, and their installation process is less liable to legislation than other geothermal systems. Due to a lack of planning guidance, the opportunity to implement such systems is often overlooked, although geothermal installations are urgently needed [...] Read more.

Horizontal shallow geothermal applications are easy to install, and their installation process is less liable to legislation than other geothermal systems. Due to a lack of planning guidance, the opportunity to implement such systems is often overlooked, although geothermal installations are urgently needed as a sustainable energy source. To give a foundation for including very shallow geothermal systems in local heat supply planning, potential maps are crucial. To enable their utilization in energy use plans or similar elaborations for municipalities, location-specific and system-specific heat extractions are required. Since applicable standards are not available, it is nearly impossible to provide aggregate propositions, which are essential for potential maps. In this study, a concept was evolved for deriving very shallow geothermal potential maps with location-specific and system-specific heat extraction values. As a basis, VDI 4640 Part 2 information regarding heat extraction and respective climate zone references was utilized. Furthermore, climate information and a soil map were needed to apply the concept to the study area. The application of the concept in an Austrian study area resulted in appropriate potential maps. Moreover, this concept is similarly applicable in other areas of interest. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable, Decentralized Flood Protection and Thermal Use)

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22 pages, 6694 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Google Earth Engine for Large-Scale Flood Mapping Using SAR Data and Impact Assessment on Agriculture and Population of Ganga-Brahmaputra Basin

by Arvind Chandra Pandey, Kavita Kaushik and Bikash Ranjan Parida

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4210; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074210 - 1 Apr 2022

Cited by 61 | Viewed by 11444

Abstract

The Ganga-Brahmaputra basin is highly sensitive to the impacts of climate change and experiences recurrent flooding, which affects large agricultural areas and poses a high risk to the population. The present study is focused on the recent flood disaster in the Ganga-Brahmaputra basin, [...] Read more.

The Ganga-Brahmaputra basin is highly sensitive to the impacts of climate change and experiences recurrent flooding, which affects large agricultural areas and poses a high risk to the population. The present study is focused on the recent flood disaster in the Ganga-Brahmaputra basin, which mainly affected the regions of Bihar, West Bengal, and Assam in India and neighboring Bangladesh during July, August, and September 2020. Using the Sentinel-1A Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) data, the flood extent was derived in the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform. The composite area under flood inundation for July–September was estimated to be 25,889.1 km² for Bangladesh, followed by Bihar (20,837 km²), West Bengal (17,307.1 km²), and Assam (13,460.1 km²). The Copernicus Global Land Cover dataset was used to extract the affected agricultural area and flood-affected settlement. Floods have caused adverse impacts on agricultural lands and settlements, affecting 23.68–28.47% and 5.66–9.15% of these areas, respectively. The Gridded Population of the World (GPW) population density and Global Human Settlement Layer (GHSL) population dataset were also employed to evaluate flood impacts, which revealed that 23.29 million of the population was affected by floods in the Ganga-Brahmaputra basin. The highest impacts of floods can be seen from the Bihar state, as people reside in the lower valley and near to the riverbank due to their dependency on river water. Similarly, the highest impact was from Bangladesh because of the high population density as well as the settlement density. The study provided a holistic spatial assessment of flood inundation in the region due to the combined impact of the Ganga-Brahmaputra River basin. The identification of highly flood-prone areas with an estimated impact on cropland and build-up will provide necessary information to decision-makers for flood risk reduction, mitigation activities, and management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geo-computation and Spatial Big Data Application for Sustainable Management of Hydrometeorological Hazards: Methodological Innovations, Mitigation Strategies; Case Studies and Best Practices)

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19 pages, 3576 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Electric Vehicle Charging Station Location Model considering Charging Choice Behavior and Range Anxiety

by Huasheng Liu, Yu Li, Chongyu Zhang, Jin Li, Xiaowen Li and Yuqi Zhao

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4213; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074213 - 1 Apr 2022

Cited by 33 | Viewed by 5421

Abstract

Electric vehicles (EVs) have the advantages of low pollution, low energy consumption, and high energy efficiency, so they are highly valued by governments, enterprises, and consumers. However, the promotion and use of electric vehicles is restricted to a certain extent because of their [...] Read more.

Electric vehicles (EVs) have the advantages of low pollution, low energy consumption, and high energy efficiency, so they are highly valued by governments, enterprises, and consumers. However, the promotion and use of electric vehicles is restricted to a certain extent because of their limited range. This paper selects electric vehicle intercity medium- and long-distance travel as the research object, and takes the classical flow-capturing location problem as the theoretical basis for the expressway network or national highway network. This paper also considers the driver’s charging choice behavior and range anxiety, studies the electric vehicle charging station location problem, establishes the charging station location model, and uses the Tabu search algorithm to solve the problem. Finally, the effectiveness of the model and algorithm is verified by empirical analysis. The results show that the charging station location model considering the driver’s charging choice behavior and range anxiety performs better. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Transportation Electrification: Policy, Planning and Operation)

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26 pages, 5235 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Investigating the Potential of Data Science Methods for Sustainable Public Transport

by Christine Keller, Felix Glück, Carl Friedrich Gerlach and Thomas Schlegel

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4211; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074211 - 1 Apr 2022

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4071

Abstract

The planning and implementation of public transport involves many data sources. These data sources in turn generate a high volume of data, in a wide variety of formats and data rates. This phenomenon is reinforced by the ongoing digitization of public transport; new [...] Read more.

The planning and implementation of public transport involves many data sources. These data sources in turn generate a high volume of data, in a wide variety of formats and data rates. This phenomenon is reinforced by the ongoing digitization of public transport; new data sources have continuously emerged in public transport in recent years and decades. This results in a great potential for the application and utilization of data science methods in public transport. Using big data methods and sources can, or in some cases already does, contribute to a better understanding and the further optimization of public transport networks, public transport service and public transport in general. This paper classifies data sources in the field of public transport and examines systematically for which use cases the data are used or can be used. These steps contribute by structuring ongoing discussions about the application of data science in the public transport domain and illustrate the potential of the application of data science for public transport. We present several use cases in which we applied data science methods, such as machine learning and visualization to public transport data. Several of these projects use data from automated passenger information systems, a data source that has not been widely studied to date. We report our findings for these use cases and discuss the lessons learned, to inform future research on these use cases and discuss their potential. This paper concludes with a summary of the typical problems that occur when dealing with big public transport data and a discussion of solutions for these problems. This discussion identifies future work and topics worth investigating for public transport companies as well as for researchers. Working on these topics will, in our opinion, support the improvement of public transport towards the efficiency and attractiveness that is needed for public transport to play its essential role in future sustainable mobility. The application of these methods in public transport requires the collaboration of domain experts with researchers and data scientists, calling for a mutual understanding. This paper also contributes to this understanding by providing an overview of the methods that are already used, potential new use cases, data sources, challenges and possible solutions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Urban Public Transport Management and Planning with Big Data)

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18 pages, 2081 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Assortment of Airports’ Sustainability Strategy: A Comprehensiveness Analysis Framework

by Dimitrios Dimitriou and Aristi Karagkouni

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4217; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074217 - 1 Apr 2022

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 9120

Abstract

Global sustainability challenges are transforming 21st century business. Economic, social, and environmental sustainability impacts regulatory agencies and enterprises, particularly in the air transport industry, which facilitates access to productive services and market linkage. Stakeholders, shareholders, consumers, employees, and society are increasingly pressuring businesses [...] Read more.

Global sustainability challenges are transforming 21st century business. Economic, social, and environmental sustainability impacts regulatory agencies and enterprises, particularly in the air transport industry, which facilitates access to productive services and market linkage. Stakeholders, shareholders, consumers, employees, and society are increasingly pressuring businesses to examine their socioeconomic consequences and manage them sustainably and resiliently. In this competitive and economically sensitive climate, good management is a primary responsibility for airport operators and authorities, as well as national and local economies. An assessment tool for airport strategic plans is developed in this research. Corporate activities can encourage responsible infrastructure development and company sustainability. The assessment methodology is based on a comparative analysis between airports and regulatory authorities’ threshold. The role of sustainability in the air transport business ecosystem is depicted using a systemic approach, demonstrating that its relationship to business performance is a significant barrier to business resilience and competition for planners, managers, and decision makers. The numerical application considers a group of European, U.S, and Asian airports serving international flights. Conventional wisdom is to provide the evaluation analysis framework for planning and managing capital-intensive transport hubs such as airports. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quality Management and Sustainability)

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16 pages, 1261 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Remote Work Efficiency from the Employers’ Perspective—What’s Next?

by Zenon Pokojski, Agnieszka Kister and Marcin Lipowski

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4220; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074220 - 1 Apr 2022

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 27719

Abstract

Remote work has been of interest to managers since the implementation of new information and communication technologies (ICTs). During the initial period, it was treated as an employee’s privilege or even a luxury and as such it was not a popular practice. The [...] Read more.

Remote work has been of interest to managers since the implementation of new information and communication technologies (ICTs). During the initial period, it was treated as an employee’s privilege or even a luxury and as such it was not a popular practice. The COVID-19 pandemic and the intervening period have changed attitudes toward remote work, as it became a necessity for many organisations. However, in connection with its use, many new, previously unknown problems have arisen, such as: the organisation of remote work, the supervision and monitoring of work performance, and employee support. The present research was conducted using a standardised questionnaire computer-assisted telephone interview (CATI) method in May–June 2021 on a population of 248 enterprises, divided into micro, small, medium-sized and large entities. The research data were collected during the COVID-19 pandemic which, on the one hand, provided an exceptional opportunity to fill in the theoretical gaps that were existing in this field; however, on the other hand, it could be burdened with certain flaws due to the context of the pandemic. An enterprise’s attitude to remote work has a positive influence on the efficiency of the remote work, the control of the remote work and the remote work support, with the strongest impact exerted on the last of the factors mentioned. A better attitude to remote work influences, to the largest degree, an enterprise’s support for performing work from remote locations outside of corporate offices. Among the enterprises that were surveyed, the following were most frequently indicated as elements of such support: additional office equipment provided to an employee, remote work training, and the installation of additional computer programs. Financial support was declared by about 11% of the enterprises and it usually took the form of a remote work allowance or funds to cover the costs of purchasing equipment or paying for the Internet. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Strategies toward a Green Deal and Circular Economy)

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14 pages, 289 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceEssay

How Sustainable Is Human Resource Management Really? An Argument for Radical Sustainability

by Matthijs Bal and Andy Brookes

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4219; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074219 - 1 Apr 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 6003

Abstract

Sustainability has become an increasingly popular concept in relation to contemporary organizational life. The current paper reviews the concept of sustainability in relation to Human Resource Management [HRM] and poses the question whether HRM can become truly sustainable. Analyzing the notion of sustainability [...] Read more.

Sustainability has become an increasingly popular concept in relation to contemporary organizational life. The current paper reviews the concept of sustainability in relation to Human Resource Management [HRM] and poses the question whether HRM can become truly sustainable. Analyzing the notion of sustainability as an empty concept, this paper searches for new and radical meanings for sustainable HRM. Anchored in a radical understanding of sustainability as the protection and promotion of the dignity of people and the planet, this paper reviews the state of the art of contemporary HR systems and practices. It also positions sustainable HRM in the context of planetary survival and the role organizations may play in the transformation to sustainable economies. To conceptualize sustainable HRM, it is necessary to integrate new meanings through postulating appealing narratives around non-capitalist sustainable living. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Management)

20 pages, 3291 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Design Optimization of Three-Layered Metamaterial Acoustic Absorbers Based on PVC Reused Membrane and Metal Washers

by Giuseppe Ciaburro, Rosaria Parente, Gino Iannace and Virginia Puyana-Romero

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4218; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074218 - 1 Apr 2022

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 3830

Abstract

Waste management represents a critical issue that industrialized countries must necessarily deal with. Sustainable architecture involves the reuse of materials with the aim of significantly reducing the amount of waste produced. In this study, a new layered membrane metamaterial was developed based on [...] Read more.

Waste management represents a critical issue that industrialized countries must necessarily deal with. Sustainable architecture involves the reuse of materials with the aim of significantly reducing the amount of waste produced. In this study, a new layered membrane metamaterial was developed based on three layers of a reused PVC membrane and reused metal washers attached. The membranes were fixed to a rigid support, leaving a cavity between the stacked layers. The samples were used to measure the sound absorption coefficient with an impedance tube. Different configurations were analyzed, changing the number of masses attached to each layer and the geometry of their position. These measurements were subsequently used to train a model based on artificial neural networks for the prediction of the sound absorption coefficient. This model was then used to identify the metamaterial configuration that returns the best absorption performance. The designed metamaterial behaves like an acoustic absorber even at low frequencies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Materials for Thermal and Noise Insulation of Buildings)

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10 pages, 259 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Acknowledging Sustainability in the Framework of Ethical Certification for AI

by Sergio Genovesi and Julia Maria Mönig

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4157; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074157 - 31 Mar 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5110

Abstract

In the past few years, many stakeholders have begun to develop ethical and trustworthiness certification for AI applications. This study furnishes the reader with a discussion of the philosophical arguments that impel the need to include sustainability, in its different forms, among the [...] Read more.

In the past few years, many stakeholders have begun to develop ethical and trustworthiness certification for AI applications. This study furnishes the reader with a discussion of the philosophical arguments that impel the need to include sustainability, in its different forms, among the audit areas of ethical AI certification. We demonstrate how sustainability might be included in two different types of ethical impact assessment: assessment certifying the fulfillment of minimum ethical requirements and what we describe as nuanced assessment. The paper focuses on the European, and especially the German, context, and the development of certification for AI. 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, 668 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Contribution of Mining Industry in Chosen EU Countries to the Sustainability Issues

by Henrieta Pavolová, Katarína Čulková, Zuzana Šimková, Andrea Seňová and Dušan Kudelas

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4177; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074177 - 31 Mar 2022

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3143

Abstract

In recent years, the mining industry has achieved an important position in the national economy due to its increasing productivity. However, since 2000, there have been signs of a slowdown, resulting from the national and local conditions of the mining industry. It is [...] Read more.

In recent years, the mining industry has achieved an important position in the national economy due to its increasing productivity. However, since 2000, there have been signs of a slowdown, resulting from the national and local conditions of the mining industry. It is for these reasons that we have concluded that this type of industry must be assessed not only from the economic but also from the national and regional sectors, because the performance of the mining industry is directly affected by the value of mineral deposits and the structure of other industries. The present paper aims to analyze the development of the mining industry in Slovakia, in comparison with similar development in chosen European Union countries. Slovakia has been considered as a country with mineral resources and mineral-based products representing an important part of Slovakia’s foreign trade, with the significant imported mineral resources including mainly mineral fuels and ore raw materials. The development of the mining industry is assessed from the economics through the growth rate of gross domestic product (GDP) and through the national aspect through the rate of growth of the national economy. The aspects are evaluated by the multi-criteria method Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS), with which we evaluated the country with the best mining industry development. The results of detailed quantitative analyses of the selected indicators for mining industry development for individual European Union countries show a fluctuating trend during the observed period, which is characterized by development disparities. Such results can be used to determine raw material policies in the relevant countries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)

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13 pages, 2065 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Relevance of Recyclability for the Life Cycle Assessment of Packaging Based on Design for Life Cycle

by Jonas Keller, Carla Scagnetti and Stefan Albrecht

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4076; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074076 - 30 Mar 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 6807

Abstract

The awareness for more environmentally sustainable packaging solutions is steadily growing. With both consumers and manufacturers looking to minimize their impacts on the environment, the need for easy-to-implement and standardized measures strengthening a circular economy rises. In the research, the goal was to [...] Read more.

The awareness for more environmentally sustainable packaging solutions is steadily growing. With both consumers and manufacturers looking to minimize their impacts on the environment, the need for easy-to-implement and standardized measures strengthening a circular economy rises. In the research, the goal was to determine whether the carbon footprint and circularity of non-food plastic packaging can be improved by simple design changes. The results should then lead to design recommendations, providing a Design for Life Cycle approach. The methodology of the study was to conceptually design a single-use plastic packaging with attributes having positive and negative effects on recyclability. Herein, only design characteristics from products obtainable on the market were regarded. Moreover, a comparison over existing recyclability assessment methods is given. The recyclability was then determined with the selected approach by Cyclos HTP, and a reference calculation was conducted. Life Cycle Assessments were implemented for 14 packaging designs using the GaBi software and the Environmental Footprint method. The results showed that dark color, material compounds, insoluble adhesives, and large labels result in lower recyclability of the single-use packaging. The impacts on climate change range from 0.13 kg CO₂-equivalent emissions (100% recyclability) to 0.21 kg CO₂-equivalent emissions (0% recyclability) per packaging, showing that lower recyclability leads to a larger carbon footprint in all assessed scenarios. Concluding, the research demonstrated that by applying Design for Life Cycle measures, impacts on climate change can be reduced. Lastly, design recommendations for decision makers are outlined. Full article

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

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23 pages, 354 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Looking for Common Ground: Marine Living Resource Development in Alaska and Northern Norway in the Context of the Blue Economy

by Apostolos Tsiouvalas, Gergana Stoeva and Andreas Raspotnik

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4115; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074115 - 30 Mar 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4035

Abstract

Although the concept of the blue economy was created by the Small Island Developing States, its relevance extends to any coastal region around the globe, making the engagement of both state and corporate actors imperative. At the core of the blue economy framework [...] Read more.

Although the concept of the blue economy was created by the Small Island Developing States, its relevance extends to any coastal region around the globe, making the engagement of both state and corporate actors imperative. At the core of the blue economy framework stands the incorporation of ocean values and services into economic modeling and governance. Sustainable fisheries and aquaculture are thus significant in this endeavor, particularly for Arctic nations, the economies of which are predominantly based on seafood production. Yet, while focus is increasingly placed on sustainability and blue economy models among Arctic states, the need for structured transnational collaboration is not always acknowledged. In that respect, this article aims to articulate a comparative study of the status quo, challenges, and opportunities of fisheries and aquaculture in Alaska and northern Norway and seeks to explore potentials for cross-sectoral synergies between the two regions in the context of the blue economy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Path to Achieve the Sustainable Development Goals in Marine Fisheries and Aquaculture)

23 pages, 3590 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Green Fences for Buenos Aires: Implementing Green Infrastructure for (More than) Air Quality

by María del Carmen Redondo Bermúdez, Juan Miguel Kanai, Janice Astbury, Verónica Fabio and Anna Jorgensen

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4129; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074129 - 30 Mar 2022

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 6186

Abstract

Schoolyards in North America and Europe are increasingly using green fences as one measure to protect vulnerable populations from localised air pollution. This paper assesses the possibilities and limits for mobilising this format of site-specific green infrastructure in cities in low- and middle-income [...] Read more.

Schoolyards in North America and Europe are increasingly using green fences as one measure to protect vulnerable populations from localised air pollution. This paper assesses the possibilities and limits for mobilising this format of site-specific green infrastructure in cities in low- and middle-income countries beset by air pollution and multiple other socio-environmental challenges, and particularly questions the definition of green fences as a green infrastructure for air quality (GI4AQ). We applied several qualitative and action research methods to the question of green fence implementation in Buenos Aires, Argentina—a Latin American city with weak air-quality policies, limited green infrastructure, and little experience with nature-based solutions. Firstly, we conducted a literature review of the role that urban vegetation and ecosystem services may play in AQ policy and the implementation barriers to such approaches globally and in the city. Secondly, we planned, designed, constructed, maintained, and evaluated a pilot green fence in a school playground. Thirdly, we carried out supplementary interviews with stakeholders and expert informants and compiled project members’ narratives to respectively characterise the barriers that the project encountered and delineate its attributes based on the associated actions that we took to overcome such barriers to implementation and complete the pilot. Our findings identify multiple barriers across seven known categories (institutional, engagement, political, socio-cultural, built environment and natural landscape, knowledge base and financial) and highlight examples not previously considered in the extant international literature. Furthermore, learning from this experience, the paper proposes an expanded model of green infrastructure for air quality plus multi-dimensional co-benefits (GI4AQ+) to increase implementation chances by attending to local needs and priorities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Infrastructures and Sustainable Development)

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16 pages, 687 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Credit Card Use, Hedonic Motivations, and Impulse Buying Behavior in Fast Fashion Physical Stores during COVID-19: The Sustainability Paradox

by Barbara Gawior, Michal Polasik and Josep Lluís del Olmo

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4133; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074133 - 30 Mar 2022

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 12007

Abstract

The health crisis caused by COVID-19 has affected consumption and payment patterns worldwide. Consumers have had to change their habits and deal with new sanitation guidelines and have often struggled with lengthy infrastructure closures. These factors significantly influenced both the choice of payment [...] Read more.

The health crisis caused by COVID-19 has affected consumption and payment patterns worldwide. Consumers have had to change their habits and deal with new sanitation guidelines and have often struggled with lengthy infrastructure closures. These factors significantly influenced both the choice of payment methods and purchase decisions made by consumers. Still, consumption patterns during the pandemic as a new social situation have not yet been thoroughly investigated. As the unsustainable consumption of resources is an important issue, this paper aims to analyze the relationship between credit card use, hedonic motivations, and its impact on the impulsive buying behavior in physical fast fashion stores during the COVID-19 pandemic in Spain. For this purpose, an online survey was conducted on a sample of 300 regular fast fashion buyers in physical stores. Structural equation modelling was used for the data analysis. The results show that there is a significant relationship between credit card use and impulse buying behavior for fast fashion in physical stores, as well as between credit card use and social shopping. It is also observed that hedonic motivations such as gratification shopping, value shopping, novelty-seeking shopping, and adventure-seeking shopping are related to impulse buying behavior. Therefore, this evidences the unsustainable overconsumption, thereby having a higher negative environmental and social impact. With the increased popularity of cashless payment methods, including credit cards relaxing tighter budgets during the pandemic, fast fashion impulse buying should be considered an important issue in individual, social and environmental well-being. Consequently, the need for more responsible consumption and sustainability-focused value orientation arises so as to mitigate the environmental impact of the fast fashion industry. Full article

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

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