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Editor’s Choice Articles

Editor’s Choice articles are based on recommendations by the scientific editors of MDPI journals from around the world. Editors select a small number of articles recently published in the journal that they believe will be particularly interesting to readers, or important in the respective research area. The aim is to provide a snapshot of some of the most exciting work published in the various research areas of the journal.

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11 pages, 1864 KiB  
Article
Determination of the Optimal Operative Conditions for the Torrefaction of Olive Waste Biomass
by Jaime Martín-Pascual, Joaquín Jódar, Miguel L. Rodríguez and Montserrat Zamorano
Sustainability 2020, 12(16), 6411; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12166411 - 10 Aug 2020
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 2797
Abstract
The need for new energy sources and the problems associated with waste in the agroforestry industry are an opportunity for the recovery of this waste. For the use of this agricultural waste as energy, different pretreatments, such as torrefaction, can be carried out. [...] Read more.
The need for new energy sources and the problems associated with waste in the agroforestry industry are an opportunity for the recovery of this waste. For the use of this agricultural waste as energy, different pretreatments, such as torrefaction, can be carried out. Torrefaction is a thermochemical treatment involving energetic densification of biomass at temperatures ranging from 200 to 300 °C under an inert and anaerobic environment. This study developed a numerical model to evaluate the effect of temperature and residence time of torrefaction on biomass from olive tree waste to determine optimum operative conditions for the process. Four temperatures and four residence times, in the operation range of the process, were tested to determine the weight loss and the higher heating values (HHVs) of the torrefied sample. From these data, a numerical model was developed to infer the complete behavior of the process in the temperature range between 200 and 300 °C and in the residence time range of a few minutes to 2 h. The HHV of the torrefied sample increased at a temperature between 200 and 275 °C. However, from 275 to 300 °C, there was an HHV decrease. The effect of the residence time depended on the torrefaction temperature. At low temperatures, there were no statistically significant differences, although an increase of HHV was detected under 120 min. However, at 250 °C this effect was reversed, and statistically significant differences were not observed between 30 and 120 min. Overall, the increase of temperature in the torrefaction process reduces the residence time needed to achieve the maximum HHV. As a result, the optimum conditions of torrefaction for this biomass were, approximately, 275 °C and 30 min of residence time. This reaction yielded an optimum 5830 cal/g HHV. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomass for Sustainability: Resource, Technology Conversion and Energy Management)
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22 pages, 2783 KiB  
Article
Regional Development in Russia: An Ecosystem Approach to Territorial Sustainability Assessment
by Tatyana Tolstykh, Leyla Gamidullaeva, Nadezhda Shmeleva and Yuri Lapygin
Sustainability 2020, 12(16), 6424; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12166424 - 10 Aug 2020
Cited by 27 | Viewed by 4831
Abstract
The current crisis has indicated the need to review the policy of economic growth and globalization towards the search for new sustainable models of the internal territory development able to resist external shocks and threats. To achieve this goal, it is required both [...] Read more.
The current crisis has indicated the need to review the policy of economic growth and globalization towards the search for new sustainable models of the internal territory development able to resist external shocks and threats. To achieve this goal, it is required both to implement sustainability strategies, and to assess the obtained results towards sustainable development. Despite an abundance of literature on sustainability assessment, there is a lack of understanding of the application of sustainability assessment in regional/local contexts. The purpose of the article is to improve theoretical and methodological aspects of the formation of territorial (regional) ecosystems by developing a new approach to assessing its sustainability. We believe that territorial ecosystem sustainability assessment is possible through the entropy of a complex system composed of the entropies of its constituent ecosystems or the entropies of different types of territorial capital (human, production, natural). An application of the entropy approach allows to understand specific features of a particular ecosystem characteristics. We demonstrate our methodology with two empirical case studies of territorial ecosystems of Penza and Vladimir regions. As a result of the analysis, it was found that ecosystem’s sustainability is achieved, primarily, due to the natural capital of the territory. The methodology proposed in our study aims at ensuring comprehensiveness and robustness of the evaluation supporting the decision-making process. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)
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15 pages, 1901 KiB  
Article
“Mobility as a Service” Platforms: A Critical Path towards Increasing the Sustainability of Transportation Systems
by Carlos Oliveira Cruz and Joaquim Miranda Sarmento
Sustainability 2020, 12(16), 6368; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12166368 - 7 Aug 2020
Cited by 85 | Viewed by 11161
Abstract
Urban mobility is experiencing a profound change. Mobility patterns are becoming more complex, and typical home–work–home travel is no longer the rule, as journeys tend to connect multiple points in a rather inconstant pattern. This has changed the approach to transport planning. Existing [...] Read more.
Urban mobility is experiencing a profound change. Mobility patterns are becoming more complex, and typical home–work–home travel is no longer the rule, as journeys tend to connect multiple points in a rather inconstant pattern. This has changed the approach to transport planning. Existing transportation planning and operation approaches have been focussed on the ability to identify and forecast typical home–work/school–home travel and subsequently plan the transport system accordingly. The traditional approach has been: Forecast - > plan - > deliver. New mobility patterns and mobility solutions are characterised by greater flexibility, taking advantage of the “sharing concept” and simultaneously providing solutions that have lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. These dynamics and an evolving environment raise several new challenges at different levels, fostering the development of Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS). This system transforms the physical transportation system into a commodity and takes advantage of the internet of things (IoT). However, the onset of MaaS solutions is anything but linear. Several business models have emerged, with different partners originating from different industries (e.g., technological, transport operators, infrastructure managers, etc.) developing their own solutions, often in competition with others. It is not unusual to find different MaaS solutions in the same city, which integrate different solutions. This paper intends to provide an analysis on the main challenges affecting mobility in general, and MaaS in particular, as well as the main business models used for delivering MaaS solutions. The paper uses a case study in Lisbon to illustrate some of the challenges. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Sustainable Transportation Models and Applications)
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23 pages, 13241 KiB  
Article
Circular Economy. A Review and Bibliometric Analysis
by Enric Camón Luis and Dolors Celma
Sustainability 2020, 12(16), 6381; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12166381 - 7 Aug 2020
Cited by 87 | Viewed by 9693
Abstract
The aim of the study is mapping the thematic structure of the circular economy research by mapping research outputs related to it. The methodology consists of developing a bibliometric study based on data obtained from the Web of Science and the Scimago Journal [...] Read more.
The aim of the study is mapping the thematic structure of the circular economy research by mapping research outputs related to it. The methodology consists of developing a bibliometric study based on data obtained from the Web of Science and the Scimago Journal & Country Rank from 2016 to 2019. Some descriptive and bibliographic maps and strategic diagrams are shown; they are generated by SciMAT and VOSViewer. In addition, there is also a bibliometric analysis using alternative metrics. The analysis highlights a new perspective on the subject, analysing the concept from the business administration perspective and not only from the traditional viewpoint of the environmental sciences and industrial production. Finally, the analysis identifies future implications of the circular economy linked to the field of business management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Circular Economy and Sustainable Firm Management)
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13 pages, 405 KiB  
Article
Validation of Francis–Kaplan Turbine Blade Strike Models for Adult and Juvenile Atlantic Salmon (Salmo Salar, L.) and Anadromous Brown Trout (Salmo Trutta, L.) Passing High Head Turbines
by Linda Vikström, Kjell Leonardsson, Johan Leander, Samuel Shry, Olle Calles and Gustav Hellström
Sustainability 2020, 12(16), 6384; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12166384 - 7 Aug 2020
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4346
Abstract
The negative effects of hydroelectric power (HEP) on salmonid populations has long been recognized and studied. Downstream passage through turbines may potentially constitute a significant source of mortality for both juvenile and adult fish in regulated rivers. Numerical models have been developed to [...] Read more.
The negative effects of hydroelectric power (HEP) on salmonid populations has long been recognized and studied. Downstream passage through turbines may potentially constitute a significant source of mortality for both juvenile and adult fish in regulated rivers. Numerical models have been developed to calculate turbine passage mortality based on the probability of collision with the turbine blades, but although widely used in management and conservation, their performance is rarely validated in terms of the accuracy and bias of the mortality estimates. In this study, we evaluated commonly used blade strike models for Kaplan and Francis turbines by comparing model predictions with observed passage mortalities for juvenile 13–27 cm and adult 52–94 cm Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar, L.) and anadromous brown trout (Salmo trutta, L.) acquired by acoustic telemetry. Predictions made for juveniles aligned closer with observed mortality for both Kaplan and Francis turbines (within 1–3% percentage points). However, the model severely underestimated the mortality of adult fish passing through Francis turbines, with up to 50% percentage points difference between predicted and observed mortalities. Furthermore, the model did not capture a clear negative correlation between mortality and discharge observed for salmon between 50–60 cm (grilse). We concluded that blade strike models are a useful tool for quantifying passage mortality for salmonid smolts passing large, high-head turbines, but that the same models should be used with care when trying to estimate the passage mortality of kelts in iteroparous populations. We also concluded that the major cause of passage mortality for juveniles is injury by collision with the turbine blade, but that other factors seem to contribute substantially to the passage mortality of kelts. Our study reports low mortality for smolts up to 27 cm passing through Kaplan and Francis turbines (0–12%), but high mortality for salmon over 50 cm passing though Francis turbines (56–81%). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydropower Impacts on Aquatic Biota)
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20 pages, 2387 KiB  
Case Report
Innovative Methods for Small Mixed Batches Production System Improvement: The Case of a Bakery Machine Manufacturer
by Kristina Zgodavova, Peter Bober, Vidosav Majstorovic, Katarina Monkova, Gilberto Santos and Darina Juhaszova
Sustainability 2020, 12(15), 6266; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12156266 - 4 Aug 2020
Cited by 54 | Viewed by 6421
Abstract
One of the common problems of organizations with turn-key projects is the high scrap rate. There exist such traditional methods as Lean Six Sigma (LSS) and DMAIC tools that analyze causes and suggest solutions. New emerging intelligent technologies should influence these methods and [...] Read more.
One of the common problems of organizations with turn-key projects is the high scrap rate. There exist such traditional methods as Lean Six Sigma (LSS) and DMAIC tools that analyze causes and suggest solutions. New emerging intelligent technologies should influence these methods and tools as they affect many areas of our life. The purpose of this paper is to present the innovative Small Mixed Batches (SMB). The standard set of LSS tools is extended by intelligent technologies such as artificial neural networks (ANN) and machine learning. The proposed method uses the data-driven quality strategy to improve the turning process at the bakery machine manufacturer. The case study shows the step-by-step DMAIC procedure of critical to quality (CTQ) characteristics improvement. Findings from the data analysis lead to a change of measurement instrument, training of operators, and lathe machine set-up correction. However, the scrap rate did not decrease significantly. Therefore the advanced mathematical model based on ANN was built. This model predicts the CTQ characteristics from the inspection certificate of the input material. The prediction model is a part of a newly designed process control scheme using machine learning algorithms to reduce the variability even for input material with different properties from new suppliers. Further research will be focused on the validation of the proposed control scheme, and acquired experiences will be used to support business sustainability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Actual Trends of Logistics and Industrial Engineering)
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17 pages, 480 KiB  
Article
Drought Stress Alleviation by ACC Deaminase Producing Achromobacter xylosoxidans and Enterobacter cloacae, with and without Timber Waste Biochar in Maize
by Subhan Danish, Muhammad Zafar-ul-Hye, Shah Fahad, Shah Saud, Martin Brtnicky, Tereza Hammerschmiedt and Rahul Datta
Sustainability 2020, 12(15), 6286; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12156286 - 4 Aug 2020
Cited by 130 | Viewed by 5774
Abstract
The high consumption of water in industries, domestic areas and increasing earth temperature are major hurdles for the optimization of maize yield. Being the third most widely cultivated cereal crop, improvement in maize yield is a big challenge under the limited availability of [...] Read more.
The high consumption of water in industries, domestic areas and increasing earth temperature are major hurdles for the optimization of maize yield. Being the third most widely cultivated cereal crop, improvement in maize yield is a big challenge under the limited availability of irrigation. As the water requirement for maize cultivation is high, it is time to introduce technologies that can mitigate drought stress and are environmentally friendly. The inoculation of rhizobacteria with ‘1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate deaminase’ (ACCD) can play an imperative role in that regard by decreasing stress ethylene in plants. Biochar (BC) can also alleviate drought stress. Therefore, a field study was conducted, to examine the single and combined application of drought-tolerant plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPRs) Achromobacter xylosoxidans and Enterobacter cloacae, with 15 Mg ha−1 of timber waste biochar (TWBC) at normal irrigation = 16 irrigations, mild drought = 14 irrigations and severe drought = 12 irrigation for maize cultivation. A significant improvement in shoot dry weight (28%), 1000-grains weight (19%), grain yield (27%), concentrations of N (43%), P (92%) and K (71%) in grains, rate of photosynthesis (33%), transpiration rate (55%), stomatal conductance (104%), chlorophyll A (33%), chlorophyll B (62%) and total chlorophyll (45%) of maize was noted under drought stress where E. cloacae + TWBC was applied. Likewise, the application of A. xylosoxidans + TWBC also significantly enhanced the plant height (24%) and cob length (9%) of maize under drought stress. In conclusion, E. cloacae is more effective than A. xylosoxidans, with 15 Mg ha−1 TWBC to increase maize yield under drought stress, due to the potential of higher ‘1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate’ (ACC)-deaminase synthesis, better nutrient solubilization and indole acetic acid (IAA) production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Soil Health Management)
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16 pages, 6052 KiB  
Article
Impact Evaluation of Bike-Sharing on Bicycling Accessibility
by Mingzhu Song, Kaiping Wang, Yi Zhang, Meng Li, He Qi and Yi Zhang
Sustainability 2020, 12(15), 6124; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12156124 - 30 Jul 2020
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 4105
Abstract
The presence of bike-sharing has a significant influence on the ease of trips by bike, which is one critical aspect of bicycling accessibility (BAcc). The existing measurements of BAcc rarely consider the factor of ownership of bikes, which means that no distinction is [...] Read more.
The presence of bike-sharing has a significant influence on the ease of trips by bike, which is one critical aspect of bicycling accessibility (BAcc). The existing measurements of BAcc rarely consider the factor of ownership of bikes, which means that no distinction is made between private-bikes and shared bikes. To measure BAcc more fully, this paper proposes a method to evaluate the influences of bike-sharing on BAcc and to perform the method on a real-world case study in Beijing. It is found that bike-sharing has a boosting effect on BAcc, and the increased rate of BAcc is significantly affected by bicycling frequency and shared-bike availability. A case study in Beijing utilizing geo-location data collected from two major bike-sharing companies (OFO and Mo-bike) illustrates the significance of the impact of bike-sharing on BAcc and the necessity to include bike-sharing in the measurement of BAcc. Besides, the case study shows BAcc around the transit station is better than that over the whole area. Given that bicycling feeds transit, this research lays the foundation for analyzing the combination of bike-sharing and transit from the perspective of accessibility and can further support transportation planning. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)
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14 pages, 557 KiB  
Article
Sustainability in Tourism as an Innovation Driver: An Analysis of Family Business Reality
by Grazia Chiara Elmo, Gabriella Arcese, Marco Valeri, Stefano Poponi and Francesco Pacchera
Sustainability 2020, 12(15), 6149; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12156149 - 30 Jul 2020
Cited by 111 | Viewed by 11575
Abstract
Sustainable tourism can be the motivation to manage resources to satisfy environmental, social and economic needs through cultural integrity, biological diversity, ecological processes, social and economic equity, and general enrichment. Based on a systematic literature review conducted on research papers published between 2015 [...] Read more.
Sustainable tourism can be the motivation to manage resources to satisfy environmental, social and economic needs through cultural integrity, biological diversity, ecological processes, social and economic equity, and general enrichment. Based on a systematic literature review conducted on research papers published between 2015 and 2020, and on the case studies contained within them (19 papers), this analysis focuses on the innovation drivers and sustainability drivers identified within family businesses in tourism. This desk-based research has made it possible to highlight how variable sustainability is present, albeit in a limited fashion, within family businesses in tourism; at the same time, it also shows how innovative strategies contribute to sustainable development. From the analysis, the correlations between family businesses, family dynamics, sustainability practices, innovation drivers and case studies were analyzed. The results show the poor implementation of innovative strategies, and at the same time, the presence of other variables that guarantee the adoption of sustainable practices. Important research gaps are identified, and future research priorities are suggested. Furthermore, the article is based on a collection of non-exhaustive literary sources. The implications for both family businesses and sustainable development are discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Entrepreneurship and Co-Evolution in Hospitality)
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13 pages, 2724 KiB  
Article
Combined Effect of Outdoor Microclimate Boundary Conditions on Air Conditioning System’s Efficiency and Building Energy Demand in Net Zero Energy Settlements
by Cristina Piselli, Matteo Di Grazia and Anna Laura Pisello
Sustainability 2020, 12(15), 6056; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12156056 - 28 Jul 2020
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 3294
Abstract
In Europe, near zero energy buildings (NZEBs) represent the new frontier of energy efficiency in the built environment. Shifting the scale from NZEBs to net zero energy (NZE) settlements represents the opportunity to achieve further energy, environmental, and cost benefits, thanks to shared [...] Read more.
In Europe, near zero energy buildings (NZEBs) represent the new frontier of energy efficiency in the built environment. Shifting the scale from NZEBs to net zero energy (NZE) settlements represents the opportunity to achieve further energy, environmental, and cost benefits, thanks to shared energy management, optimization of renewable energy systems, and microclimate mitigation. In particular, the last aspect takes advantage of the implementation of local microclimate mitigation strategies at a larger scale to improve settlements outdoor environmental conditions and citizens’ wellbeing. Furthermore, this inter-building scale mitigation involves relatively less severe working boundary conditions for buildings, able to both reduce building energy demand and improve HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system’s efficiency. In this study, this potential extra-energy saving, achievable without additional costs, is explored within the framework of a NZE settlement built in Italy thanks to an ongoing Horizon 2020 project. Improved working conditions for the operating air conditioning system and building energy savings thanks to settlement scale opportunities for microclimate mitigation are assessed. Findings show how this effect represents a further non-negligible energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable benefit achievable through the design and construction of NZE settlements. Potential energy savings are up to 24% when considering the double effect of microclimate mitigation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Toward Smart Cities: Zero Energy Buildings)
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27 pages, 4510 KiB  
Article
A Structural Analysis for the Categorization of the Negative Externalities of Transport and the Hierarchical Organization of Sustainable Mobility’s Strategies
by Ioannis Chatziioannou, Luis Alvarez-Icaza, Efthimios Bakogiannis, Charalampos Kyriakidis and Luis Chias-Becerril
Sustainability 2020, 12(15), 6011; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12156011 - 27 Jul 2020
Cited by 43 | Viewed by 7876
Abstract
Transport systems are capable of contributing to the economic robustness of a geographic area and the well-being of its inhabitants via the supply of the necessary assets for the mobility of people and goods. However, transport projects have the capacity to produce several [...] Read more.
Transport systems are capable of contributing to the economic robustness of a geographic area and the well-being of its inhabitants via the supply of the necessary assets for the mobility of people and goods. However, transport projects have the capacity to produce several negative externalities such as water pollution, air pollution, barrier effects, noise, and ecological impact, which affect the quality of people’s life. Considering these facts, the main purpose of this study is to indicate methodologically how the negative externalities of transport are interlinked, so that to promote sustainable mobility development. This paper reveals via the method of structural analysis, the interrelations between the negative externalities of transport, firstly to organize them hierarchically and secondly to evaluate the potential of sustainable mobility strategies concerning the co-benefits generated by their implementation for society. The results show that the negative externalities of transport are not isolated phenomena; on the contrary, they are interlinked and can be organised hierarchically according to the relationships between them so that certain public policies can be prioritized and the negative impacts of transport can be tackled more effectively. The most critical negative externalities are the invasion of public space for the construction of more roads, along with road accidents, congestion, and local air pollution. On the other hand, the most important group of strategies for sustainable mobility are the ones oriented to urban design, and more specifically to transit-oriented development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Sustainability in Urban Transportation Planning)
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25 pages, 1406 KiB  
Review
New Trends and Patterns in Sustainable Consumption: A Systematic Review and Research Agenda
by Giulia Sesini, Cinzia Castiglioni and Edoardo Lozza
Sustainability 2020, 12(15), 5935; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12155935 - 23 Jul 2020
Cited by 82 | Viewed by 17977
Abstract
The challenge of sustainable development and consumption is to meet current wants without impoverishing future generations and the planet in the long term. Therefore, new patterns of sustainable practices are increasingly promoted. The purpose of the present study is to realize a systematic [...] Read more.
The challenge of sustainable development and consumption is to meet current wants without impoverishing future generations and the planet in the long term. Therefore, new patterns of sustainable practices are increasingly promoted. The purpose of the present study is to realize a systematic review aimed to analyze the contents and features of articles dealing with new trends in consumers’ sustainable consumption. One hundred and four papers published in the last five years were retrieved and analyzed through a lexicographical analysis using the software T-LAB. The results show that, even if most of the current studies focus almost exclusively on the environmental impact of sustainability, the social perspective is also recently taking hold. Evidence suggests prevailing attention towards consumers’ appeal and consumption of eco-friendly food products, together with a growing interest in the last years in consumers’ practices in other key sectors, such as tourism, commerce, and clothing. Future research should spotlight the less explored frameworks, looking at the economic and social sides of sustainability in a variety of contextual settings. At the same time, consumer-focused research should not forget to look at consumers’ sustainable behavior as a whole and its impacts from the perspective of planet, people, and profit. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Patterns in Consumer Behavior)
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14 pages, 2562 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Historic Building Performance with the Use of Fuzzy Inference System to Control the Electric Cooling System
by Antonio Martinez-Molina and Miltiadis Alamaniotis
Sustainability 2020, 12(14), 5848; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12145848 - 21 Jul 2020
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3731
Abstract
In recent years, the interest in properly conditioning the indoor environment of historic buildings has increased significantly. However, maintaining a suitable environment for building and artwork preservation while keeping comfortable conditions for occupants is a very challenging and multi-layered job that might require [...] Read more.
In recent years, the interest in properly conditioning the indoor environment of historic buildings has increased significantly. However, maintaining a suitable environment for building and artwork preservation while keeping comfortable conditions for occupants is a very challenging and multi-layered job that might require a considerable increase in energy consumption. Most historic structures use traditional on/off heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system controllers with predetermined setpoints. However, these controllers neglect the building sensitivity to occupancy and relative humidity changes. Thus, sophisticated controllers are needed to enhance historic building performance to reduce electric energy consumption and increase sustainability while maintaining the building historic values. This study presents an electric cooling air controller based on a fuzzy inference system (FIS) model to, simultaneously, control air temperature and relative humidity, taking into account building occupancy patterns. The FIS numerically expresses variables via predetermined fuzzy sets and their correlation via 27 fuzzy rules. This intelligent model is compared to the typical thermostat on/off baseline control to evaluate conditions of cooling supply during cooling season. The comparative analysis shows a FIS controller enhancing building performance by improving thermal comfort and optimizing indoor environmental conditions for building and artwork preservation, while reducing the HVAC operation time by 5.7%. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart Electric Power Systems and Smart Grids)
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16 pages, 249 KiB  
Article
Does Audit Improve the Quality of ESG Scores? Evidence from Corporate Misconduct
by Alfonso Del Giudice and Silvia Rigamonti
Sustainability 2020, 12(14), 5670; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12145670 - 15 Jul 2020
Cited by 79 | Viewed by 21557
Abstract
One of the main controversial aspects of sustainability metrics relies on the accuracy, transparency, and reliability of the information at the basis of environmental, social and governance (ESG) scores. This paper investigates whether firms that have their ESG reporting audited by independent firms [...] Read more.
One of the main controversial aspects of sustainability metrics relies on the accuracy, transparency, and reliability of the information at the basis of environmental, social and governance (ESG) scores. This paper investigates whether firms that have their ESG reporting audited by independent firms exhibit a higher quality of ESG scores. We performed an analysis investigating the change in ESG scores following the unveiling of a corporate misconduct. We documented that, overall, no significant ESG score adjustment occurs after the scandal becomes public, thus, implying that rating agencies provide an accurate interpretation of the firm’s sustainability. However, our results differed when we distinguished between audited and unaudited reports. Firms whose reports are audited by third parties did not exhibit significant changes in their scores after a scandal, whereas for companies whose reports are not audited, we detected a worsening of the ESG scores that are statistically significant. Our findings were also confirmed in a multivariate analysis. Overall, our results suggest that the reliability of ESG scores can benefit from the auditing of sustainability reporting by third parties, which has an assurance effect on the quality of the company’s ESG information. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Financial Markets, Instruments and Intermediaries for Social, Environmental and Fiscal Sustainability)
19 pages, 3108 KiB  
Article
Anthropogenic and Inherent Effects on Soil Organic Carbon across the U.S
by Márcio R. Nunes, Harold M. van Es, Kristen S. Veum, Joseph P. Amsili and Douglas L. Karlen
Sustainability 2020, 12(14), 5695; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12145695 - 15 Jul 2020
Cited by 45 | Viewed by 5751
Abstract
Soil organic carbon (SOC) influences several soil functions, making it one of the most important soil health indicators. Its quantity is determined by anthropogenic and inherent factors that must be understood to improve SOC management and interpretation. Topsoil (≤15 cm) SOC response to [...] Read more.
Soil organic carbon (SOC) influences several soil functions, making it one of the most important soil health indicators. Its quantity is determined by anthropogenic and inherent factors that must be understood to improve SOC management and interpretation. Topsoil (≤15 cm) SOC response to tillage depth and intensity, cover crops, stover removal, manure addition, and various cropping systems was assessed using 7610 observations from eight U.S. regions. Overall, including cover crops, reducing tillage depth and intensity increased SOC. The positive effects of cover crops were more noticeable in South Central, Northwest, and Midwest regions. Removing high rates (>65%) of crop residue decreased SOC in Midwestern and Southeastern soils. Depending on region, applying manure increased SOC by 21 to 41%, compared to non-manured soils. Diversified cropping systems (e.g., those utilizing small mixed vegetables, perennials, or dairy-based systems) had the highest topsoil SOC content, while more intensive annual row crops and large-scale single vegetable production systems, had the lowest. Among inherent factors, SOC increased as precipitation increased, but decreased as mean annual temperature increased. Texture influenced SOC, showing higher values in fine-texture than coarse-texture soils. Finally, this assessment confirmed that SOC can be a sensitive soil health indicator for evaluating conservation practices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Soil Health Management)
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23 pages, 1625 KiB  
Article
Factors Driving Consumer Involvement in Energy Consumption and Energy-Efficient Purchasing Behavior: Evidence from Korean Residential Buildings
by Soyoung Yoo, Jiyong Eom and Ingoo Han
Sustainability 2020, 12(14), 5573; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12145573 - 10 Jul 2020
Cited by 22 | Viewed by 5179
Abstract
The recent rapid transition in energy markets and technological advances in demand-side interventions has renewed attention on consumer behavior. A rich literature on potential factors affecting residential energy use or green technology adoption has highlighted the need to better understand the fundamental causes [...] Read more.
The recent rapid transition in energy markets and technological advances in demand-side interventions has renewed attention on consumer behavior. A rich literature on potential factors affecting residential energy use or green technology adoption has highlighted the need to better understand the fundamental causes of consumer heterogeneity in buildings’ energy-related behavior. Unresolved questions such as which consumers are most likely to opt into demand-side management programs and what factors might explain the wide variation in behavioral responses to such programs make it difficult for policy-makers to develop cost-effective energy efficiency or demand response programs for residential buildings. This study extends the literature on involvement theory and energy-related behavior by proposing a holistic construct of household energy involvement (HEI) to represent consumers’ personal level of interest in energy services. Based on a survey of 5487 Korean households, it finds that HEI has a stronger association with consumer values, such as preferences for indoor thermal comfort and automation, than with socioeconomic or housing characteristics and demonstrates HEI’s potential as a reliable, integrated predictor of both energy consumption and energy-efficient purchases. The study illuminates the multifaceted influences that shape energy-related behavior in residential buildings and offers new tools to help utility regulators identify and profile viable market segments, improve the cost-effectiveness of their programs, and eventually promote urban sustainability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prospective Pathways to Architectural and Urban Sustainability)
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19 pages, 6750 KiB  
Article
Experimental Air Impingement Crossflow Comparison and Theoretical Application to Photovoltaic Efficiency Improvement
by Pablo Martínez-Filgueira, Ekaitz Zulueta, Ander Sánchez-Chica, Gustavo García, Unai Fernandez-Gamiz and Josu Soriano
Sustainability 2020, 12(14), 5577; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12145577 - 10 Jul 2020
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3315
Abstract
The photovoltaic cell temperature is a key factor in solar energy harvesting. Solar radiation raises temperature on the cell, lowering its peak efficiency. Air jet impingement is a high heat transfer rate system and has been previously used to cool the back surface [...] Read more.
The photovoltaic cell temperature is a key factor in solar energy harvesting. Solar radiation raises temperature on the cell, lowering its peak efficiency. Air jet impingement is a high heat transfer rate system and has been previously used to cool the back surface of photovoltaic modules and cells. In this work, an experimental comparison of the cooling performance of two different air jet impingement crossflow schemes was performed. Crossflow is defined as the air mass interacting with a certain jet modifying its movement. This leads to a change in its heat exchange capabilities and is related with the inlet-outlet arrangement of the fluid. In this work, zero and minimum crossflow schemes were compared. The main contribution of this work considered the consumption of the flow supplying devices to determine the most suitable system. The best configuration increased the net power output of the cell by 6.60%. These results show that air impingement cooling can play a role in increasing photovoltaic profitability. In terms of uniformity, on small impingement plates with a low number of nozzles, the advantages expected from the zero crossflow configuration did not stand out. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence for Renewable Energy Systems)
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15 pages, 941 KiB  
Article
A Multi-Criteria Structure for Sustainable Implementation of Urban Distribution Centers in Historical Cities
by Nayara Louise de Carvalho, José Geraldo Vidal Vieira, Paula Nakamura da Fonseca and Maxim A. Dulebenets
Sustainability 2020, 12(14), 5538; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12145538 - 9 Jul 2020
Cited by 19 | Viewed by 3637
Abstract
This paper proposes a structure for sustainable implementation of urban distribution centers (UDCs) in historical cities, considering the opinion of the main stakeholders involved in the urban distribution of goods and a set of additional criteria. Based on a survey that was conducted [...] Read more.
This paper proposes a structure for sustainable implementation of urban distribution centers (UDCs) in historical cities, considering the opinion of the main stakeholders involved in the urban distribution of goods and a set of additional criteria. Based on a survey that was conducted among carriers, traffic wardens, and retailers, a decision hierarchy structure, consisting of the relevant criteria evaluated by various statistical techniques, will be used for sustainable implementation of UDCs. The methodology uses a database collected in the historical center of Ouro Preto, a Brazilian city which contains common characteristics of other Latin American and some European cities that are included in the World Heritage List. This structure is unique, as it is based on a survey among the main stakeholders, and can be applied by logistics operators and local authorities for implementing UDCs to address urban distribution issues, especially in historical cities. However, without loss of generality, the proposed methodology can be adopted for different cities using the appropriate criteria according to the characteristics of the cities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Methods for Improving Sustainability of Passenger and Freight Transport)
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14 pages, 820 KiB  
Review
Research on Environmental, Economic, and Social Sustainability in Dairy Farming: A Systematic Mapping of Current Literature
by Katarina Arvidsson Segerkvist, Helena Hansson, Ulf Sonesson and Stefan Gunnarsson
Sustainability 2020, 12(14), 5502; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12145502 - 8 Jul 2020
Cited by 74 | Viewed by 16915
Abstract
Dairy cows are able to convert fibrous materials, such as grass, roughage, and by-products from the food industry, into milk and meat, which justifies their role in food production. However, modern dairy farming is associated with major sustainability challenges, including greenhouse gas emissions. [...] Read more.
Dairy cows are able to convert fibrous materials, such as grass, roughage, and by-products from the food industry, into milk and meat, which justifies their role in food production. However, modern dairy farming is associated with major sustainability challenges, including greenhouse gas emissions. In order to develop sustainable future production, it is important to implement existing knowledge and fill knowledge gaps. The aim of this study was to systematically map the scientific literature on environmental, economic, and social sustainability at farm level in dairy farming. Literature published between January 2000 and March 2020 and with the geographical focus on Europe, North America, and Australia–New Zealand was included. In total, the literature search resulted in 169 hits, but after removing duplicates and papers outside the study scope only 35 papers remained. Of these, only 11 dealt with the three dimensions of sustainability, and several of these only mentioned one or two of the dimensions or set them in relation to that/those actually studied. Overall, the selected literature did not clearly explain how aspects of sustainability are interlinked, so possible negative or positive interactions between different aspects of sustainability dimensions remain unidentified. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Livestock Production)
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17 pages, 2100 KiB  
Review
Review of Online Food Delivery Platforms and their Impacts on Sustainability
by Charlene Li, Miranda Mirosa and Phil Bremer
Sustainability 2020, 12(14), 5528; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12145528 - 8 Jul 2020
Cited by 339 | Viewed by 164148
Abstract
During the global 2020 COVID-19 outbreak, the advantages of online food delivery (FD) were obvious, as it facilitated consumer access to prepared meals and enabled food providers to keep operating. However, online FD is not without its critics, with reports of consumer and [...] Read more.
During the global 2020 COVID-19 outbreak, the advantages of online food delivery (FD) were obvious, as it facilitated consumer access to prepared meals and enabled food providers to keep operating. However, online FD is not without its critics, with reports of consumer and restaurant boycotts. It is, therefore, time to take stock and consider the broader impacts of online FD, and what they mean for the stakeholders involved. Using the three pillars of sustainability as a lens through which to consider the impacts, this review presents the most up-to-date research in this field, revealing a raft of positive and negative impacts. From an economic standpoint, while online FD provides job and sale opportunities, it has been criticized for the high commission it charges restaurants and questionable working conditions for delivery people. From a social perspective, online FD affects the relationship between consumers and their food, as well as influencing public health outcomes and traffic systems. Environmental impacts include the significant generation of waste and its high carbon footprints. Moving forward, stakeholders must consider how best to mitigate the negative and promote the positive impacts of online FD to ensure that it is sustainable in every sense. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Food Delivery)
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29 pages, 1704 KiB  
Article
An Actor-Oriented Multi-Criteria Assessment Framework to Support a Transition towards Sustainable Agricultural Systems Based on Crop Diversification
by Ileana Iocola, Frederique Angevin, Christian Bockstaller, Rui Catarino, Michael Curran, Antoine Messéan, Christian Schader, Didier Stilmant, Florence Van Stappen, Paul Vanhove, Hauke Ahnemann, Jérémy Berthomier, Luca Colombo, Giovanni Dara Guccione, Emmanuel Mérot, Massimo Palumbo, Nino Virzì and Stefano Canali
Sustainability 2020, 12(13), 5434; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12135434 - 6 Jul 2020
Cited by 36 | Viewed by 5367
Abstract
Crop diversification represents a key lever to support the development of sustainable agri-food systems. Knowledge on trade-offs and carry over effects from different crop diversification strategies is essential to inform agricultural stakeholders of potential costs and benefits. This knowledge is limited by existing [...] Read more.
Crop diversification represents a key lever to support the development of sustainable agri-food systems. Knowledge on trade-offs and carry over effects from different crop diversification strategies is essential to inform agricultural stakeholders of potential costs and benefits. This knowledge is limited by existing data and performance measures predominantly focused on single crops, rather than complete rotations. Moreover, sustainability performance indicators are often used for assessment purposes, rather than supporting stakeholder learning and actions. A new set of 32 indicators was developed to address these needs, and used to evaluate the environmental, economic and social sustainability of the diversified agricultural systems highlighted in the case studies, which are often characterized by data availability constraints. This approach was tested in France, Germany and Italy to determine a critical ex-post diagnosis of the existing systems, and for the assessment of ex-ante innovative scenarios. The results will be used to support these case studies in the identification and design of more sustainable agricultural systems. Although the framework is based on feasible and proxy indicators, the assessment outcomes have allowed local actors to reflect on the effects generated by the implemented crop diversification strategies. Key issues include trade-offs occurring between optimizing economic and environmental performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity 2020: Agriculture, Environment and Wellbeing)
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16 pages, 1531 KiB  
Article
Socio-Economic Transformations in Ukraine towards the Sustainable Development of Agriculture
by Olha Kravchenko, Anatolii Kucher, Maria Hełdak, Lesia Kucher and Joanna Wysmułek
Sustainability 2020, 12(13), 5441; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12135441 - 6 Jul 2020
Cited by 30 | Viewed by 4492
Abstract
The social and economic conditions of all market participants are incentives and constraining factors influencing the levels of food, social, economic and ecologic security. The purpose of the article lies in the presentation of the author’s concept of the social and economic conditions [...] Read more.
The social and economic conditions of all market participants are incentives and constraining factors influencing the levels of food, social, economic and ecologic security. The purpose of the article lies in the presentation of the author’s concept of the social and economic conditions where the transformation of economic relations between agrofood market participants is happening—in particular, the livestock products market of Ukraine—and the assessment of the state of food security of the country, as well as a comparison, by the same criteria, of the conditions of agrofood market participants in Ukraine and in four European countries: Germany, France, Italy, and Poland. This research was based on the application of empirical knowledge methods: observation, comparison, description, measurement, statistic methods, etc. So far, the participant functioning conditions in the agricultural market in Ukraine are unfavorable for the sustainable development of agriculture, especially the livestock industry. The debt burden of external creditors is growing, the amount of direct investments from the countries of the world decreases, and the growth of capital investment in terms of calculation per one employee is slowing down. The food security of Ukraine is unstable. The “market” itself is not capable of remedying all the negative phenomena. Therefore, it is necessary to apply the weighted power of the state. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Agriculture)
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18 pages, 4575 KiB  
Article
Higher-Order Velocity Moments, Turbulence Scales and Energy Dissipation Rate around a Boulder in a Rock-Ramp Fish Passage
by Amir Golpira, Abul BM Baki and David Z. Zhu
Sustainability 2020, 12(13), 5385; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12135385 - 3 Jul 2020
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3260
Abstract
This experimental study investigated the higher-order velocity moments, turbulence time and length scales, and energy dissipation rates around an intermediately submerged boulder within a wake-interference flow regime in a rock-ramp fish passage. The results show a noticeable variation in the studied parameters in [...] Read more.
This experimental study investigated the higher-order velocity moments, turbulence time and length scales, and energy dissipation rates around an intermediately submerged boulder within a wake-interference flow regime in a rock-ramp fish passage. The results show a noticeable variation in the studied parameters in the wake of the boulder, as well as near the bed and boulder crest. The higher-order velocity moments show the presence of infrequent strong ejections downstream of the boulder, which may lead to higher sediment deposition and vertical mixing. The eddy length scales and the volumetric energy dissipation in this experimental model were discussed in relation to fish behavior for both the experimental model and a prototype. Relationships were proposed to roughly estimate integral length scales and energy dissipation rates around the boulder over the flow depth. The findings of this study may improve the design of rock-ramp fish passages considering the effects of turbulence on fish swimming performance and sediment transport. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydropower Impacts on Aquatic Biota)
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30 pages, 1641 KiB  
Review
Dietary Fiber from Underutilized Plant Resources—A Positive Approach for Valorization of Fruit and Vegetable Wastes
by Shehzad Hussain, Ivi Jõudu and Rajeev Bhat
Sustainability 2020, 12(13), 5401; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12135401 - 3 Jul 2020
Cited by 158 | Viewed by 21988
Abstract
Agri-food industries generate enormous amounts of fruit and vegetable processing wastes, which opens up an important research area aimed towards minimizing and managing them efficiently to support zero wastes and/or circular economy concept. These wastes remain underutilized owing to a lack of appropriate [...] Read more.
Agri-food industries generate enormous amounts of fruit and vegetable processing wastes, which opens up an important research area aimed towards minimizing and managing them efficiently to support zero wastes and/or circular economy concept. These wastes remain underutilized owing to a lack of appropriate processing technologies vital for their efficient valorization, especially for recovery of health beneficial bioactives like dietary fibers. Dietary fiber finds wide applications in food and pharmaceutical industries and holds high promise as a potential food additive and/or as a functional food ingredient to meet the techno-functional purposes important for developing health-promoting value-added products. Based on this, the present review has been designed to support ‘zero waste’ and ‘waste to wealth’ concepts. In addition, the focus revolves around providing updated information on various sustainability challenges incurred towards valorization of fruit and vegetable wastes for extraction of health promoting dietary fibers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue High Added-Value Molecules Recovered from Agri-Food Waste and by-Products)
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43 pages, 571 KiB  
Article
Addressing Inequality: The First Step Beyond COVID-19 and Towards Sustainability
by Nicholas A. Ashford, Ralph P. Hall, Johan Arango-Quiroga, Kyriakos A. Metaxas and Amy L. Showalter
Sustainability 2020, 12(13), 5404; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12135404 - 3 Jul 2020
Cited by 81 | Viewed by 20529
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted billions of lives across the world and has revealed and worsened the social and economic inequalities that have emerged over the past several decades. As governments consider public health and economic strategies to respond to the crisis, it [...] Read more.
The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted billions of lives across the world and has revealed and worsened the social and economic inequalities that have emerged over the past several decades. As governments consider public health and economic strategies to respond to the crisis, it is critical they also address the weaknesses of their economic and social systems that inhibited their ability to respond comprehensively to the pandemic. These same weaknesses have also undermined efforts to advance equality and sustainability. This paper explores over 30 interventions across the following nine categories of change that hold the potential to address inequality, provide all citizens with access to essential goods and services, and advance progress towards sustainability: (1) Income and wealth transfers to facilitate an equitable increase in purchasing power/disposable income; (2) broadening worker and citizen ownership of the means of production and supply of services, allowing corporate profit-taking to be more equitably distributed; (3) changes in the supply of essential goods and services for more citizens; (4) changes in the demand for more sustainable goods and services desired by people; (5) stabilizing and securing employment and the workforce; (6) reducing the disproportionate power of corporations and the very wealthy on the market and political system through the expansion and enforcement of antitrust law such that the dominance of a few firms in critical sectors no longer prevails; (7) government provision of essential goods and services such as education, healthcare, housing, food, and mobility; (8) a reallocation of government spending between military operations and domestic social needs; and (9) suspending or restructuring debt from emerging and developing countries. Any interventions that focus on growing the economy must also be accompanied by those that offset the resulting compromises to health, safety, and the environment from increasing unsustainable consumption. This paper compares and identifies the interventions that should be considered as an important foundational first step in moving beyond the COVID-19 pandemic and towards sustainability. In this regard, it provides a comprehensive set of strategies that could advance progress towards a component of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 10 to reduce inequality within countries. However, the candidate interventions are also contrasted with all 17 SDGs to reveal potential problem areas/tradeoffs that may need careful attention. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)
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42 pages, 10277 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Dependencies between Gas and Electricity Distribution Grid Planning and Building Energy Retrofit Decisions
by Daniel Then, Patrick Hein, Tanja M. Kneiske and Martin Braun
Sustainability 2020, 12(13), 5315; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12135315 - 1 Jul 2020
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3652
Abstract
Most macroeconomic studies predict a decline in final energy demand and the use of natural gas in the heating sector in Europe. In the course of building retrofitting, gas-based heating systems are predominantly replaced by electricity-based solutions. This influences the business models of [...] Read more.
Most macroeconomic studies predict a decline in final energy demand and the use of natural gas in the heating sector in Europe. In the course of building retrofitting, gas-based heating systems are predominantly replaced by electricity-based solutions. This influences the business models of electricity and especially gas distribution network operators (DNOs), where grid charges tend to rise. The resulting feedback effect could accelerate the decrease of demand and finally lead to the defection of the gas grid—an effect that has been neglected in energy system analysis so far. We present a multi-agent simulation with a rule-based gas and electricity DNO model and a building retrofit optimization model to analyze these interdependencies during the transformation path, focusing on the role of different technical, economic, and regulatory triggers. Our case studies for a real grid area of a German city shows that an interplay of the gas and electricity DNO’s strategy, as well as the building-, heating system-, grid-, and trigger-configuration, determine the decision on the extension, continuation, or defection of the gas grid infrastructure. Finally, strategies for how to reduce the risk of a gas grid defection, which are relevant for DNOs, policy makers, and creators of macro-economic models, are discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-Utility Energy System Optimization)
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20 pages, 8962 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Aircraft Boarding Scenarios Considering Reduced Transmissions Risks
by Michael Schultz and Jörg Fuchte
Sustainability 2020, 12(13), 5329; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12135329 - 1 Jul 2020
Cited by 38 | Viewed by 11441
Abstract
Air travel appears as particularly hazardous in a pandemic situation, since infected people can travel worldwide and could cause new breakouts in remote locations. The confined space conditions in the aircraft cabin necessitate a small physical distance between passengers and hence may boost [...] Read more.
Air travel appears as particularly hazardous in a pandemic situation, since infected people can travel worldwide and could cause new breakouts in remote locations. The confined space conditions in the aircraft cabin necessitate a small physical distance between passengers and hence may boost virus transmissions. In our contribution, we implemented a transmission model in a virtual aircraft environment to evaluate the individual interactions between passengers during aircraft boarding and deboarding. Since no data for the transmission is currently available, we reasonably calibrated our model using a sample case from 2003. The simulation results show that standard boarding procedures create a substantial number of possible transmissions if a contagious passenger is present. The introduction of physical distances between passengers decreases the number of possible transmissions by approx. 75% for random boarding sequences, and could further decreased by more strict reduction of hand luggage items (less time for storage, compartment space is always available). If a second door is used for boarding and deboarding, the standard boarding times could be reached. Individual boarding strategies (by seat) could reduce the transmission potential to a minimum, but demand for complex pre-sorting of passengers. Our results also exhibit that deboarding consists of the highest transmission potential and only minor benefits from distance rules and hand luggage regulations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Technologies and Innovations for Sustainable Air Transportation)
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28 pages, 2807 KiB  
Article
Sustainability of Railway Undertaking Services with Lean Philosophy in Risk Management—Case Study
by Eva Nedeliakova, Maria Hudakova, Matej Masar, Lenka Lizbetinova, Renata Stasiak-Betlejewska and Peter Šulko
Sustainability 2020, 12(13), 5298; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12135298 - 30 Jun 2020
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 5119
Abstract
The sustainability of services in undertakings which operate in railway passenger transport is closely connected with efforts to provide high-quality and time-acceptable services to the customer, to achieve lean processes, to standardise work processes, to eliminate wastage and to avoid those activities which [...] Read more.
The sustainability of services in undertakings which operate in railway passenger transport is closely connected with efforts to provide high-quality and time-acceptable services to the customer, to achieve lean processes, to standardise work processes, to eliminate wastage and to avoid those activities which do not add any value. Considering its ecological nature and big volume of passenger transport, railway passenger transport represents an irreplaceable sustainable system for the future. These facts and the entry of new railway carriers into this system highlight the importance of managing risks in a progressive way. This article focuses on the options of risk management when versatile and flexible tools, such as Lean tools, are set correctly. The aim of this article is to introduce a proposal for the application and a specific application of Lean philosophy in risk management which impacts train delays in railway passenger transport. From the point of view of quantitative data analysis, multiple mathematical-statistical tests have been used to assess data (e.g., Anderson–Darling test, Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, Jarque–Bera test, two-tailed test, Grubbs’s test and Thompson Tau test). Also, descriptive statistics and ANOVA test (Analysis of Variance) have been applied in the process of evaluating the monitored attributes. In order to assess the data dependency, Chi-Square Test and a correlation analysis have been applied. The research outcomes focus on highlighting the need for a systematic approach for train delays and to avoid delays through risk management. The case study applies selected Lean methods to monitor train delays in selected stations within the main railway corridor of the Slovak Republic for the period from 2015 to 2018. In 2019, the results were processed and created a basis for proposing a unique software tool like an aid for risk management in the case of train delays using Lean philosophy. The flexible software includes the participation of employees, and at the same time, it respects the needs of customers. The research results provide grounds for further study of risks in a challenging environment of railway undertakings, with different types of trains, railway stations as well as entire railway networks. The processed results of the article represent valuable material for railway undertakings not only in Slovakia but also for railway organisations in V4 countries. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Railway System)
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21 pages, 1118 KiB  
Article
Sustainable European Transport System in a 100% Renewable Economy
by Antonio García-Olivares, Jordi Solé, Roger Samsó and Joaquim Ballabrera-Poy
Sustainability 2020, 12(12), 5091; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12125091 - 23 Jun 2020
Cited by 29 | Viewed by 5623
Abstract
Europe must move towards a 100% renewable transportation system for climate, energy and sustainability reasons. We estimate the capital and energy required for building and operating a renewable transportation system providing similar services as the EU-28 transport system of 2016. It could be [...] Read more.
Europe must move towards a 100% renewable transportation system for climate, energy and sustainability reasons. We estimate the capital and energy required for building and operating a renewable transportation system providing similar services as the EU-28 transport system of 2016. It could be based on: biogas or fuel cell vessels; liquid biogas powered aircrafts; electric railways and fuel cell or electric vehicles between major cities; and car sharing, electric buses and electric two- and three-wheelers, for short journeys. A system of charging posts on the streets and roads for passenger and commercial e-vehicles is studied. Alternatively, a Tracked Electric Vehicle system of continuous power on European roads would improve energy efficiency and the saving of scarce metals (Ni, Li), at a lower cost, if only national roads were electrified. The investment for the construction of the whole system would be 2.3–2.7% of the EU’s GDP per year for 30 years. The new system operation would require 16% less energy than that of 2016, with reduction of 70% in road transport. However, shipping and aviation would demand 162% and 149% more energy, respectively, if liquefied biogas were used as fuel. A type of land transport fully based on trains would provide a similar service to that of an electric vehicle fleet, with a 29% lower energy consumption. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)
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25 pages, 814 KiB  
Article
The YouTube Marketing Communication Effect on Cognitive, Affective and Behavioural Attitudes among Generation Z Consumers
by Rodney Duffett
Sustainability 2020, 12(12), 5075; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12125075 - 22 Jun 2020
Cited by 80 | Viewed by 39387
Abstract
YouTube (YT) is the largest online video digital channel with more than 2 billion users, and over a billion hours of YT videos are viewed every day, particularly among young consumers. YT has become a massive marketing communication platform, which serves as a [...] Read more.
YouTube (YT) is the largest online video digital channel with more than 2 billion users, and over a billion hours of YT videos are viewed every day, particularly among young consumers. YT has become a massive marketing communication platform, which serves as a medium to target the lucrative Generation Z cohort (first born in the late 1990s), and influence this generation’s infamously unpredictable purchase decision process. The main aim of this paper was to consider the effect of YouTube marketing communication (YMC) on the traditional and non-traditional attitudinal associations of response hierarchy models. A multi-stage sample technique was used and 3750 high school and college learners (aged 13–18 years old) were surveyed via self-administered questionnaires in South Africa. Structural equation modelling was utilised to consider the hypothesised attitudinal associations. The research determined that YMC had a positive influence on the hypothesised attitudinal associations, and young consumers who used YT for fewer years, logged on more frequently, spent shorter time periods on the platform, viewed higher numbers of commercials, aged 13–14 years old, and from the White population group exhibited the most positive attitudinal responses. Hence, organisations should review their strategies in order to develop more sustainable YMC owing to the heterogeneity evident among young African consumers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability and Social Media)
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16 pages, 2819 KiB  
Article
Performance Prediction of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFC) Using Adaptive Neuro Inference System (ANFIS)
by Tabbi Wilberforce and Abdul Ghani Olabi
Sustainability 2020, 12(12), 4952; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12124952 - 17 Jun 2020
Cited by 36 | Viewed by 4459
Abstract
This investigation explored the performance of PEMFC for varying ambient conditions with the aid of an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system. The experimental data obtained from the laboratory were initially trained using both the input and output parameters. The model that was trained was [...] Read more.
This investigation explored the performance of PEMFC for varying ambient conditions with the aid of an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system. The experimental data obtained from the laboratory were initially trained using both the input and output parameters. The model that was trained was then evaluated using an independent variable. The training and testing of the model were then utilized in the prediction of the cell-characteristic performance. The model exhibited a perfect correlation between the predicted and experimental data, and this stipulates that ANFIS can predict characteristic behavior of fuel cell performance with very high accuracy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Storage Materials in Sustainability)
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14 pages, 3634 KiB  
Article
RETRACTED: Sustainable Use of Waste Polypropylene Fibers and Palm Oil Fuel Ash in the Production of Novel Prepacked Aggregate Fiber-Reinforced Concrete
by Fahed Alrshoudi, Hossein Mohammadhosseini, Mahmood Md. Tahir, Rayed Alyousef, Hussam Alghamdi, Yousef R. Alharbi and Abdulaziz Alsaif
Sustainability 2020, 12(12), 4871; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12124871 - 15 Jun 2020
Cited by 51 | Viewed by 4149
Abstract
This study proposed the prepacked aggregates fiber-reinforced concrete (PAFRC), which is a newly developed concrete, with a unique combination of coarse aggregate and short polypropylene (PP) fiber that is premixed and placed in the formworks. This study aims to investigate the potential use [...] Read more.
This study proposed the prepacked aggregates fiber-reinforced concrete (PAFRC), which is a newly developed concrete, with a unique combination of coarse aggregate and short polypropylene (PP) fiber that is premixed and placed in the formworks. This study aims to investigate the potential use of waste polypropylene fibers and palm oil fuel ash (POFA) in the production of PAFRC to enhance the strength and deformation properties. The compressive strength, impact-resistant, drying shrinkage, and microstructural analysis of PAFRC were investigated experimentally. Six mixes comprising fiber volume fractions from 0–1.25% with a length of 30 mm were cast by gravity technique. Another six mixtures with the same fiber volume fractions were cast using a pump to inject the grout into the formwork. The experimental outcomes exposed that with the addition of PP carpet fiber, the compressive strength of PAFRC decreased. Nevertheless, PAFRC mixes shown a remarkable improvement in the tensile strength. The combination of POFA and PP fibers in PAFRC specimens led to higher impact strength and increasing the ductility of concrete. In addition, the drying shrinkage of PAFRC reduced significantly with the addition of waste PP fibers. It can be concluded that due to the adequate strength and deformation properties, PAFRC is the potential to be used as innovative fiber reinforced concrete in several applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable and Alternative Cementitious Materials)
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52 pages, 787 KiB  
Review
A Literature Review of Inter-Organizational Sustainability Learning
by Tulin Dzhengiz
Sustainability 2020, 12(12), 4876; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12124876 - 15 Jun 2020
Cited by 65 | Viewed by 19646
Abstract
Sustainable development goals (SDGs) have become increasingly important for today’s firms as they build sustainability strategies that integrate SDGs into their core activities. Addressing these goals collaboratively, in line with SDG 17—partnerships for the goals, has gained momentum, hence the growing literature on [...] Read more.
Sustainable development goals (SDGs) have become increasingly important for today’s firms as they build sustainability strategies that integrate SDGs into their core activities. Addressing these goals collaboratively, in line with SDG 17—partnerships for the goals, has gained momentum, hence the growing literature on sustainability-oriented partnerships. However, addressing SDGs through partnerships is not straightforward. For firms, contributing to SDGs through alliances and partnerships requires building environmental capabilities and embracing new value frames; in other words, going through the complex process of inter-organizational learning. This paper reviews the literature on sustainability-oriented partnerships with a focus on the inter-organizational learning process. As a result of the review, a model of inter-organizational sustainability learning is presented. This model captures the different levels and types of the inter-organizational learning process; partner and partnership characteristics that impact learning; the environmental conditions that set the conditions for learning to take place; the catalyst and inhibitors of learning; and finally outcomes of learning. This model expands and re-organizes the existing scholarly conversation about inter-organizational learning in the context of sustainability-oriented alliances and partnerships and offers a learning-based understanding of sustainability partnerships to practitioners. Based on the review, the paper proposes ideas for future research and contributes to the development of a future research agenda in the area of sustainability-oriented alliances and partnerships. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Partnerships for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs))
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20 pages, 1967 KiB  
Article
Identification and Analysis of Barriers against Electric Vehicle Use
by Madhusudhan Adhikari, Laxman Prasad Ghimire, Yeonbae Kim, Prakash Aryal and Sundar Bahadur Khadka
Sustainability 2020, 12(12), 4850; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12124850 - 14 Jun 2020
Cited by 154 | Viewed by 24345
Abstract
Electric vehicles (EVs) can be considered an alternative technology to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector. However, numerous barriers need to be overcome in this regard. This study is aimed at presenting the framework for the identification and analysis of barriers [...] Read more.
Electric vehicles (EVs) can be considered an alternative technology to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector. However, numerous barriers need to be overcome in this regard. This study is aimed at presenting the framework for the identification and analysis of barriers against the use of EVs. Then, the framework was applied to identify the challenges and rank them in order of importance against the diffusion of EVs in Nepal. Seventeen barriers were identified from previous studies, reports, policy documents, and interactions with experts. The identified barriers were classified into five categories: technical, policy, economic, infrastructure, and social. Then, a comparative survey was performed to obtain experts’ opinions on the identified barriers and the analytical hierarchical process was used to analyze and rank them. The results revealed that infrastructure, policy, economic, and technical barriers pose more pressing concerns than social barriers. The lack of charging stations, relatively higher purchase price of EVs compared to internal combustion vehicles, and poor long-term planning and goal setting on the part of the government were ranked as the top three barriers against EV uptake in Nepal. This framework can be applied to replicate the study in other countries, taking their inherent relevant factors into account. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)
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19 pages, 904 KiB  
Review
Consumer Moral Dilemma in the Choice of Animal-Friendly Meat Products
by Li Lin-Schilstra and Arnout R. H. Fischer
Sustainability 2020, 12(12), 4844; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12124844 - 13 Jun 2020
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 8514
Abstract
More and more consumers, at least in Western developed countries, are attentive to the sustainability aspects of their food, one of which concerns animal welfare. The conflict of harming an animal for the joy of eating meat causes a moral dilemma, affecting consumers’ [...] Read more.
More and more consumers, at least in Western developed countries, are attentive to the sustainability aspects of their food, one of which concerns animal welfare. The conflict of harming an animal for the joy of eating meat causes a moral dilemma, affecting consumers’ reactions to, and choices of, animal-friendly products. This systematic review identified 86 studies from Scopus and Web of Science. The review outlines: (1) What are the personal antecedents among consumers regarding moral conflicts?; (2) In what situation do moral conflicts occur in consumer food choice?; (3) How do consumers emotionally experience the moral dilemma?; (4) How do consumers resolve moral conflicts over animal products? Researchers have studied personal factors and situational factors that arouse consumers’ moral dilemma and how the dilemma is solved, during which emotions and dissonance come into play. When synthesizing these findings into a comprehensive model, we notice that the current research is lacking on how personal factors change and interact with situations, which limits the understanding of the real-life context of consumers’ moral dilemma as well as their choices of animal-friendly products. More in-depth studies are needed to find situational factors that contribute to this complex psychological process. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Food Choice and Consumer Preferences)
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25 pages, 10153 KiB  
Article
An Assessment of Computational Fluid Dynamics as a Tool to Aid the Design of the HCMR-Artificial-ReefsTM Diving Oasis in the Underwater Biotechnological Park of Crete
by Dimitrios N. Androulakis, Costas G. Dounas, Andrew Clive Banks, Antonios N. Magoulas and Dionissios P. Margaris
Sustainability 2020, 12(12), 4847; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12124847 - 13 Jun 2020
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4339
Abstract
Since recreational diving activities have increased in recent decades, resulting in additional environmental pressure on the coastal zone, the deployment of artificial reefs as a conservation strategy to divert mass ecotourism from fragile natural reefs has been proposed and realized in many areas [...] Read more.
Since recreational diving activities have increased in recent decades, resulting in additional environmental pressure on the coastal zone, the deployment of artificial reefs as a conservation strategy to divert mass ecotourism from fragile natural reefs has been proposed and realized in many areas of the world. Twelve units of a patented naturoid artificial reef technology developed by the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (HCMR) were deployed in 2015 in the Underwater Biotechnological Park of Crete (UBPC) in order to create an experimental diving oasis and investigate the potential of achieving this aim for the over-exploited coastal ecosystems of this part of the Eastern Mediterranean. Assessment of the degree of establishment of artificial reefs and their ability to mimic natural ecosystems is often monitored through biological surveys and sampling. The measurement of the chemical, physical, and hydrodynamic characteristics of the water mass surrounding artificial reefs is also essential to fully understand their comparison to natural reefs. In particular, the flow field around reefs has been shown to be one of the most important physical factors in determining suitable conditions for the establishment of a number of key species on reef habitats. However, the combination of biological establishment monitoring and realistic flow-field simulation using computational fluid dynamics as a tool to aid in the design improvement of already existing reef installations has not been fully investigated in previous work. They are often reported separately as either ecological or engineering studies. Therefore, this study examined a full-scale numerical simulation of the field flow around individual already installed naturoid reef shapes, and part of their present arrangement on the sea bottom of the UPBC combined with the field-testing of the functionality of the installed artificial reefs concerning fish species aggregation. The results show that the simulated flow characteristics around the HCMR diving oasis artificial reefs were in good general agreement with the results of former studies, both for flows around a single deployed unit and for flows around a cluster of more than one unit. The results also gave good indications of the performance of individual reef units concerning key desirable characteristics such as downstream shadowing and sediment/nutrient upwelling and resuspension. In particular, they confirmed extended low flow levels (less than 0.3 m/s) and in some cases double vortexes on the downstream side of reef units where observed colonization and habitation of some key fish species had taken place. They also showed how the present distribution of units could be optimized to perform better as an integrated reef cluster. The use of computational fluid dynamics, with field survey data, is therefore suggested as a useful design improvement tool for installed reef structures and their deployment arrangement for recreational diving oases that can aid the sustainable development of the coastal zone. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)
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24 pages, 341 KiB  
Article
Technology-enhanced Auditing in Voluntary Sustainability Standards: The Impact of COVID-19
by Pavel Castka, Cory Searcy and Sönke Fischer
Sustainability 2020, 12(11), 4740; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12114740 - 10 Jun 2020
Cited by 69 | Viewed by 13644
Abstract
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the certification and auditing services of Voluntary Sustainability Standards (VSS). The traditional approach to auditing—on-site visits—has been significantly curtailed, and it is unclear when, and under what conditions, it might resume in full. [...] Read more.
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the certification and auditing services of Voluntary Sustainability Standards (VSS). The traditional approach to auditing—on-site visits—has been significantly curtailed, and it is unclear when, and under what conditions, it might resume in full. The purpose of this paper is to study the initial responses to COVID-19 of leading VSS—a group of 21 standards that are members of ISEAL, a global membership organization for VSS. This is a qualitative study, and data are collected from publicly-available sources (i.e., official announcements, policy amendments, derogations) in order to inductively analyze how individual VSS have adjusted their certification services in response to travel bans and lockdowns. The emphasis of the analysis was understanding the role of technologies in the VSS responses to the COVID-19 crisis. The findings demonstrate significant uptake of remote auditing and information and communications technology (ICT), even though that uptake is constrained by limiting conditions and it is not currently expected by VSS to extend beyond the crisis. Lessons learned from the crisis are discussed, and the potential for remote auditing during this period to encourage the adoption of more advanced technologies (such as artificial intelligence and satellite monitoring) in certification services is explored. A set of research questions to guide future work grounded in the analysis is also provided. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)
15 pages, 3577 KiB  
Article
Comparative Life-Cycle Assessment of a High-Rise Mass Timber Building with an Equivalent Reinforced Concrete Alternative Using the Athena Impact Estimator for Buildings
by Zhongjia Chen, Hongmei Gu, Richard D. Bergman and Shaobo Liang
Sustainability 2020, 12(11), 4708; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12114708 - 9 Jun 2020
Cited by 92 | Viewed by 12541
Abstract
Buildings consume large amounts of materials and energy, making them one of the highest environmental impactors. Quantifying the impact of building materials can be critical to developing an effective greenhouse gas mitigation strategy. Using Athena Impact Estimator for Buildings (IE4B), this paper compares [...] Read more.
Buildings consume large amounts of materials and energy, making them one of the highest environmental impactors. Quantifying the impact of building materials can be critical to developing an effective greenhouse gas mitigation strategy. Using Athena Impact Estimator for Buildings (IE4B), this paper compares cradle-to-grave life-cycle assessment (LCA) results for a 12-story building constructed from cross-laminated timber (CLT) and a functionally equivalent reinforced concrete (RC) building. Following EN 15978 framework, environmental impacts for stages A1–A5 (product to construction), B2, B4, and B6 (use), C1–C4 (end of life), and D (beyond the building life) were evaluated in detail along resource efficiency. For material resource efficiency, total mass of the CLT building was 33.2% less than the alternative RC building. For modules A to C and not considering operational energy use (B6), LCA results show a 20.6% reduction in embodied carbon achieved for the CLT building, compared to the RC building. For modules A to D and not considering B6, the embodied carbon assessment revealed that for the CLT building, 6.57 × 105 kg CO2 eq was emitted, whereas for the equivalent RC building, 2.16 × 106 kg CO2 eq was emitted, and emissions from CLT building was 70% lower than that from RC building. Additionally, 1.84 × 106 kg of CO2 eq was stored in the wood material used in the CLT building during its lifetime. Building material selection should be considered for the urgent need to reduce global climate change impacts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Assessment of Buildings for Deep Impact Reductions)
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13 pages, 2172 KiB  
Article
Short Food Supply Chains (SFSC) as Local and Sustainable Systems
by Sebastian Jarzębowski, Michael Bourlakis and Agnieszka Bezat-Jarzębowska
Sustainability 2020, 12(11), 4715; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12114715 - 9 Jun 2020
Cited by 156 | Viewed by 16635
Abstract
We distinguish different types of Short Food Supply Chains (SFSC); nevertheless, their common main characteristic relate to reduced numbers of intermediaries between farmers/food producers and consumers. The aim of the paper is to present the SFSCs as local and sustainable food systems with [...] Read more.
We distinguish different types of Short Food Supply Chains (SFSC); nevertheless, their common main characteristic relate to reduced numbers of intermediaries between farmers/food producers and consumers. The aim of the paper is to present the SFSCs as local and sustainable food systems with their possible development. The SFSC idea follows the concept of sustainability, which is based on three pillars: environmental, social, and economic. In the paper, the authors also highlight other barriers to growth, and challenges faced by local food systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 3rd International Forum on Agri-Food Logistics Towards the Sustainability of Logistics in the Agri-Food Supply Chains)
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14 pages, 914 KiB  
Article
Socio-Economic and Environmental Analyses of Sustainable Public Transport in the Philippines
by Casper Boongaling Agaton, Angelie Azcuna Collera and Charmaine Samala Guno
Sustainability 2020, 12(11), 4720; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12114720 - 9 Jun 2020
Cited by 36 | Viewed by 76294
Abstract
Electric vehicles are regarded as energy transition technology towards more sustainable and environment-friendly transportation systems. Despite the benefits of reducing the dependence on fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions, the adoption of electric vehicles faces several obstacles ranging from financing issues, government policies, [...] Read more.
Electric vehicles are regarded as energy transition technology towards more sustainable and environment-friendly transportation systems. Despite the benefits of reducing the dependence on fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions, the adoption of electric vehicles faces several obstacles ranging from financing issues, government policies, and public acceptance. This study aims to identify the economic, environmental, and social impact of the adoption of electric vehicles for public transportation. Using the Philippines as a case study, the findings highlight the economic advantage of investing in electric public transportation with high public acceptance. The results further identify significant decrease in air pollution, reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and encourage lowering the reliance on imported fossil fuels by shifting the public transport from conventional to electric transport system. This study recommends stricter implementation of government policies on modernized public transportation, stronger government support on financing mechanisms, establishment of charging stations in public and private terminals, and boosting programs for developing local-made electric vehicles. To make electric vehicle more environment-friendly, the government must accelerate the energy transition by increasing the electricity share from renewable sources and investing in more sustainable sources of energy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrification for The Automotive Sector Towards Sustainable Mobility)
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22 pages, 2851 KiB  
Article
Cumulative Environmental Impacts in the Gwich’in Cultural Landscape
by Tracey A. Proverbs, Trevor C. Lantz and Gwich’in Tribal Council Department of Cultural Heritage
Sustainability 2020, 12(11), 4667; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12114667 - 8 Jun 2020
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4256
Abstract
Environmental changes are impacting northern environments and human communities. Cumulative impact assessments are vital to understanding the combined effects of regional industrial developments and natural disturbances that affect humans and ecosystems. A gap in cumulative impacts literature includes methods to evaluate impacts in [...] Read more.
Environmental changes are impacting northern environments and human communities. Cumulative impact assessments are vital to understanding the combined effects of regional industrial developments and natural disturbances that affect humans and ecosystems. A gap in cumulative impacts literature includes methods to evaluate impacts in cultural landscapes. In this study, we utilized spatial overlay analysis to assess cumulative environmental impacts in the cultural landscape of northern Canada’s Gwich’in Settlement Region. In three analyses, we quantified and mapped: (1) Cultural feature density, (2) cumulative environmental disturbance, and (3) potential overlap between disturbances and cultural features. Our first analysis depicts the extent and pattern of cultural relationships with regional landscapes and illustrates the Gwich’in cultural landscape, with widespread harvesting trails, named places, traditional use areas, and archaeological sites found in highest densities near important waterways. Our second analysis suggests that spatial overlay can track multiple disturbances, illustrating diffuse, lower intensity cumulative environmental impacts. The final analysis shows that overlaying disturbance and cultural feature data provides a novel way to investigate cumulative impacts in a cultural landscape, indicating relatively low levels of potential overlap between Gwich’in cultural features and disturbances. These methods provide one way to investigate cumulative impacts, relevant for well- documented cultural landscapes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancing the Involvement of Indigenous and Local Communities in Monitoring and Understanding Freshwater Ecosystems)
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18 pages, 1097 KiB  
Article
Monitoring Bioeconomy Transitions with Economic–Environmental and Innovation Indicators: Addressing Data Gaps in the Short Term
by Wiebke Jander, Sven Wydra, Johann Wackerbauer, Philipp Grundmann and Stephan Piotrowski
Sustainability 2020, 12(11), 4683; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12114683 - 8 Jun 2020
Cited by 34 | Viewed by 5069
Abstract
Monitoring bioeconomy transitions and their effects can be considered a Herculean task, as they cannot be easily captured using current economic statistics. Distinctions are rarely made between bio-based and non-bio-based products when official data is collected. However, production along bioeconomy supply chains and [...] Read more.
Monitoring bioeconomy transitions and their effects can be considered a Herculean task, as they cannot be easily captured using current economic statistics. Distinctions are rarely made between bio-based and non-bio-based products when official data is collected. However, production along bioeconomy supply chains and its implications for sustainability require measurement and assessment to enable considered policymaking. We propose a starting point for monitoring bioeconomy transitions by suggesting an adapted framework, relevant sectors, and indicators that can be observed with existing information and data from many alternative sources, assuming that official data collection methods will not be modified soon. Economic–environmental indicators and innovation indicators are derived for the German surfactant industry based on the premise that combined economic–environmental indicators can show actual developments and trade-offs, while innovation indicators can reveal whether a bioeconomy transition is likely in a sector. Methodological challenges are discussed and low-cost; high-benefit options for further data collection are recommended. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Making the Transition to a Circular Bioeconomy Sustainable and Inclusive)
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13 pages, 866 KiB  
Article
A Blockchain-Based Framework for Green Logistics in Supply Chains
by Bing Qing Tan, Fangfang Wang, Jia Liu, Kai Kang and Federica Costa
Sustainability 2020, 12(11), 4656; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12114656 - 7 Jun 2020
Cited by 126 | Viewed by 17271
Abstract
The logistics industry around the world has proliferated over recent years as a large number of business organizations have come to recognize the importance of logistics. Cost control used to be emphasized to remain competitive, but recently green logistics has gained attention with [...] Read more.
The logistics industry around the world has proliferated over recent years as a large number of business organizations have come to recognize the importance of logistics. Cost control used to be emphasized to remain competitive, but recently green logistics has gained attention with the awareness of the integration of economy and society as a whole. Nowadays, green logistics is a useful concept to improve the sustainability of logistics operations, and its related policies and theoretical research have been investigated and explored. However, the practical applications of green logistics are impeded by real-time data sharing, which is common in the logistics industry. Blockchain technology is adopted to address this challenge and enable data sharing among related stakeholders. This paper presents a reference framework for green logistics based on blockchain to reach the sustainable operations of logistics, with the integration of the Internet of Things and big data. Finally, potential benefits and limitations are analyzed when implementing this framework. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intelligent Transportation and Green Logistics with Big Data)
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23 pages, 4144 KiB  
Review
A Survey of Road Traffic Congestion Measures towards a Sustainable and Resilient Transportation System
by Tanzina Afrin and Nita Yodo
Sustainability 2020, 12(11), 4660; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12114660 - 7 Jun 2020
Cited by 326 | Viewed by 68742
Abstract
Traffic congestion is a perpetual problem for the sustainability of transportation development. Traffic congestion causes delays, inconvenience, and economic losses to drivers, as well as air pollution. Identification and quantification of traffic congestion are crucial for decision-makers to initiate mitigation strategies to improve [...] Read more.
Traffic congestion is a perpetual problem for the sustainability of transportation development. Traffic congestion causes delays, inconvenience, and economic losses to drivers, as well as air pollution. Identification and quantification of traffic congestion are crucial for decision-makers to initiate mitigation strategies to improve the overall transportation system’s sustainability. In this paper, the currently available measures are detailed and compared by implementing them on a daily and weekly traffic historical dataset. The results showed each measure showed significant variations in congestion states while indicating a similar congestion trend. The advantages and disadvantages of each measure are identified from the data analysis. This study summarizes the current road traffic congestion measures and provides a constructive insight into the development of a sustainable and resilient traffic management system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Road Traffic Engineering and Sustainable Transportation)
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16 pages, 255 KiB  
Article
Social and Ecological High Influential Factors in Community Gardens Innovation: An Empirical Survey in Italy
by Vincenzo Rusciano, Gennaro Civero and Debora Scarpato
Sustainability 2020, 12(11), 4651; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12114651 - 6 Jun 2020
Cited by 45 | Viewed by 6042
Abstract
In 2015, The United Nations adopted an agenda for sustainable development in order to obtain “a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and for the world now and in the future (United Nations). The United Nations has defined 17 main goals, [...] Read more.
In 2015, The United Nations adopted an agenda for sustainable development in order to obtain “a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and for the world now and in the future (United Nations). The United Nations has defined 17 main goals, such as ending poverty, improving health, preserving the ocean, and tackling the climate change, in order to achieve worldwide sustainable development. Sustainable development is a crucial worldwide topic that encompasses three dimensions: economic, social and environmental. Nowadays, social ecological innovation has envisaged a new prominent business model focusing on social and environmental goals to achieve sustainable development. The intent of this paper is to propose the community garden framework as a social and ecological innovation tool in order to boost sustainable development in urban areas as well as rural areas. For this purpose, an empirical analysis based on a structured interview was conducted in the area of Naples on a sample of 150 gardeners. The results of the interviews have been aggregated by using a variance and correlation analysis in order to explore to what extent the social and environmental dimensions are linked to the community gardens and to identify a pattern between community gardens and social ecological innovation. Two attributes of community gardens, that is, urbanization effects mitigation and wellness and community, were identified as having the ability to influence other community garden attributes. Thus, the paper suggests using these highly influential factors to define a social and ecological innovation strategy based on a community gardens framework. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Social Farming for Social Innovation and Viability in Rural Areas)
9 pages, 231 KiB  
Commentary
Entrepreneurship as the Unsung Hero during the Current COVID-19 Economic Crisis: Australian Perspectives
by Alex Maritz, Aron Perenyi, Gerrit de Waal and Christoph Buck
Sustainability 2020, 12(11), 4612; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12114612 - 5 Jun 2020
Cited by 154 | Viewed by 20529
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has not only had a significant and catastrophic effect on business and economies globally, but has identified the external and internal enablement of new venture creation. This paper aims to provide entrepreneurship insights, implementations and dynamics to demonstrate the role [...] Read more.
The COVID-19 pandemic has not only had a significant and catastrophic effect on business and economies globally, but has identified the external and internal enablement of new venture creation. This paper aims to provide entrepreneurship insights, implementations and dynamics to demonstrate the role of entrepreneurship in times of such adversity within an Australian context. We provide emergent enquiry narratives from leading Australian scholars, identifying entrepreneurial initiatives as a catalyst to new venture creation and growth. Narratives include insights associated with the entrepreneurial mindset, the multidimensional effects of resilience and entrepreneurship, entrepreneurship education, entrepreneurship enablers and the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Opportunities for further research are identified, particularly regarding context and empirical outcomes. We postulate that entrepreneurship may well be the unsung hero during the current COVID-19 economic crisis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Business, Management, Entrepreneurship and Innovation for Sustainable Development)
19 pages, 4055 KiB  
Article
Actinomycete Strains Isolated from Saline Soils: Plant-Growth-Promoting Traits and Inoculation Effects on Solanum lycopersicum
by Rihab Djebaili, Marika Pellegrini, Maria Smati, Maddalena Del Gallo and Mahmoud Kitouni
Sustainability 2020, 12(11), 4617; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12114617 - 5 Jun 2020
Cited by 48 | Viewed by 6852
Abstract
Excessive use of chemical products in agriculture is causing significant environmental pollution and the loss of lands and fertility of agricultural soils. Plant-growth-promoting bacteria are a valid alternative strategy for sustainable agriculture. The aim of this study was to select actinomycete strains based [...] Read more.
Excessive use of chemical products in agriculture is causing significant environmental pollution and the loss of lands and fertility of agricultural soils. Plant-growth-promoting bacteria are a valid alternative strategy for sustainable agriculture. The aim of this study was to select actinomycete strains based on their plant-growth-promoting traits and to investigate their root association abilities and biostimulant effects on Solanum lycopersicum. The strains were investigated for their phosphate solubilization ability, production of indole-3-acetic acid, hydrocyanic acid, and ammonia, and several enzymatic activities. Bacteria–plant-root associations were studied by scanning electron microscopy. A greenhouse experiment was carried out to assess inoculation effects. Of sixty isolates, fourteen strains showed significant plant-growth-promoting traits. All fourteen strains solubilized phosphate, produced ammonia, and showed several enzymatic activities at different rates. The production of indole-3-acetic acid was shown by nine strains, while hydrocyanic acid production was observed in eleven of them. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that strains have good in vitro plant root association and colonization abilities. In planta inoculation by actinomycete strains positively influenced plant growth parameters. The best results were shown by seven actinomycete strains, suggesting their possible utilization as biofertilizer agents for sustainable agriculture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant-Soil-Microbe Interactions for Sustainable Agriculture and Reforestation)
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15 pages, 1945 KiB  
Article
An Integrated Model of Park-And-Ride Facilities for Sustainable Urban Mobility
by Jairo Ortega, János Tóth, Tamás Péter and Sarbast Moslem
Sustainability 2020, 12(11), 4631; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12114631 - 5 Jun 2020
Cited by 27 | Viewed by 6035
Abstract
The Park and Ride (P&R) System is part of a set of parking policies provided by Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans (SUMPs) that have been used in developing efficient, safe and environmentally friendly solutions to reduce the undesirable effects of private vehicles in Central [...] Read more.
The Park and Ride (P&R) System is part of a set of parking policies provided by Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans (SUMPs) that have been used in developing efficient, safe and environmentally friendly solutions to reduce the undesirable effects of private vehicles in Central Business District (CBD). In fact, the P&Rs are allocated near public transportation stations to ease transfer from a private vehicle to a public transportation mode. Therefore, the P&R system is considered as an alternative transport mode in which the location and potential demand of each facility are fundamental components to be evaluated within sustainable urban planning. The paper proposes an integrated model of P&R facilities based on estimate the potential demand through a mathematical model of the seven park-and-ride (P&R) facilities (designated A to G) in Cuenca city, Ecuador. The developed integrated model includes two cost functions: one is the P&R mode, and the second is the private car mode. Additionally, a SUMP is integrated into the model as a data collection source in order to find the required parameters for the cost functions and origin–destination (O-D) matrix of private vehicles. The results showed that three out of the seven P&R facilities (P&R C, P&R G, and P&R A) had the highest demand (70% of the overall demand). Consequently, these three P&R facilities were studied separately using the same developed model, and the demand proved to be the highest for P&R facility “C” (39% out of 70%). In conclusion, SUMPs, as a methodology for data collection and a mathematical model, proved to be an effective integrated method for evaluating the most attractive P&R location based on the potential demand. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Transport Economics, Behaviour and Policy)
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21 pages, 1361 KiB  
Article
Valorization of Banana and Red Beetroot Peels: Determination of Basic Macrocomponent Composition, Application of Novel Extraction Methodology and Assessment of Biological Activity In Vitro
by Danijela Šeremet, Ksenija Durgo, Stela Jokić, Ana Huđek, Aleksandra Vojvodić Cebin, Ana Mandura, Jasna Jurasović and Draženka Komes
Sustainability 2020, 12(11), 4539; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12114539 - 3 Jun 2020
Cited by 60 | Viewed by 7480
Abstract
The nutritional and bioactive content of banana and red beetroot peels was investigated. The basic macrocomponent composition was determined using standard AOAC (Association of Official Analytical Chemists) methods, while the recovery efficiency of bioactive compounds was investigated using conventional and innovative extraction techniques [...] Read more.
The nutritional and bioactive content of banana and red beetroot peels was investigated. The basic macrocomponent composition was determined using standard AOAC (Association of Official Analytical Chemists) methods, while the recovery efficiency of bioactive compounds was investigated using conventional and innovative extraction techniques (subcritical water extraction, ultrasound- and microwave-assisted extraction). Extracts were analyzed for biological effects in vitro on human hepatic, tongue and colon cancer cell lines. A macrocomponent analysis revealed a notable amount of dietary fiber in banana and beetroot peels (39.0 and 33.6% dmb) and a relatively high content of protein in beetroot peel (18.3% dmb). Regarding the micronutrients-minerals, banana and beetroot peels were shown to be a very good source of potassium (75.06 and 41.86 mg g−1 dmb). Both extracts of banana and beetroot peels obtained by conventional extraction - decoction (100 °C, 20 min) exhibited the highest total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity. Additionally, in banana peel, these extracts were the richest in dopamine content (12.63 mg g−1 dmb). Extraction by infusion (80 °C, 30 min) yielded a beetroot peel extract with the highest total betacyanin content (9.80 mg g−1 dmb). Biological effects in vitro were dose- and time-dependent, as well as influenced by the presence of polysaccharides. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Food Processing)
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22 pages, 3644 KiB  
Article
Highly Efficient and Robust Grid Connected Photovoltaic System Based Model Predictive Control with Kalman Filtering Capability
by Mostafa Ahmed, Mohamed Abdelrahem and Ralph Kennel
Sustainability 2020, 12(11), 4542; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12114542 - 3 Jun 2020
Cited by 42 | Viewed by 5255
Abstract
Renewable energy sources, especially photovoltaic (PV) ones, are gaining more and more interest due to the predicted lack of conventional sources over the coming years. That shortage is not the only concern, as environmental issues add to this concern also. Thus, this study [...] Read more.
Renewable energy sources, especially photovoltaic (PV) ones, are gaining more and more interest due to the predicted lack of conventional sources over the coming years. That shortage is not the only concern, as environmental issues add to this concern also. Thus, this study proposes two-stage PV grid connected system, which is supported with extended Kalman filter (EKF) for parameter estimation. In the first stage, maximum power point tracking (MPPT) for the boost converter is accomplished using new MPPT method in which the switching state of the converter is directly generated after the measurement stage, so it is called direct switching MPPT technique. This technique is compared with the conventional finite control set model predictive control (FCS-MPC) method, where the design of the cost function is based on minimizing the error between the reference and the actual current. The reference current is obtained by employing perturb and observe (P&O) method. In the second stage, the two-level inverter is controlled by means of model predictive control (MPC) with reduced computation burden. Further, to overcome the parameter variations, which is a very common problem in MPC applications, an extended Kalman filter is utilized to eliminate the control algorithm’s dependency on the parameters by providing an efficient estimation. After the inverter, an RL filter is inserted to guarantee the quality of the currents injected into the grid. Finally, the system is validated using Matlab under different operating conditions of atmospheric variation and parameter changes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intelligent Mechatronic and Renewable Energy Systems)
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