Sustainability

15 pages, 624 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Financial Performance of SDG Mutual Funds Focused on Biotechnology and Healthcare Sectors

by Carmen-Pilar Martí-Ballester

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 2032; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12052032 - 6 Mar 2020

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 4661

Measures favoring healthy lives among populations around the world are essential to reduce social inequalities. Mutual funds could play an important role funding these measures if they are able to attract socially concerned investors by improving their wealth. This study analyzes the financial [...] Read more.

Measures favoring healthy lives among populations around the world are essential to reduce social inequalities. Mutual funds could play an important role funding these measures if they are able to attract socially concerned investors by improving their wealth. This study analyzes the financial performance of mutual funds focused on the biotechnology and healthcare sectors related to UN sustainable development goal 3 (SDG 3), comparing their risk-adjusted return with that achieved by conventional mutual funds. This study implements Carhart’s multifactor model and Bollen and Busse’s timing multifactor model on a sample of 34 biotechnology and 178 healthcare mutual funds and 4352 conventional mutual funds. The results show that biotechnology and healthcare mutual funds perform similarly, while both of them outperform conventional mutual funds. This outperformance of biotechnology and healthcare funds is driven by the superior stock-picking skills of their managers with regards to those of conventional fund managers, while managers of biotechnology, healthcare, and conventional mutual funds present similar poor market timing ability. Mutual funds specialized in biotechnology and healthcare sectors related to sustainable development goal 3 (SDG 3) outperform conventional mutual funds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Financial Markets, Instruments and Intermediaries for Social, Environmental and Fiscal Sustainability)

► Show Figures

Figure A1

17 pages, 4338 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Stand-Alone Microgrid with 100% Renewable Energy: A Case Study with Hybrid Solar PV-Battery-Hydrogen

by Furat Dawood, GM Shafiullah and Martin Anda

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 2047; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12052047 - 6 Mar 2020

Cited by 189 | Viewed by 16949

Abstract

A 100% renewable energy-based stand-alone microgrid system can be developed by robust energy storage systems to stabilize the variable and intermittent renewable energy resources. Hydrogen as an energy carrier and energy storage medium has gained enormous interest globally in recent years. Its use [...] Read more.

A 100% renewable energy-based stand-alone microgrid system can be developed by robust energy storage systems to stabilize the variable and intermittent renewable energy resources. Hydrogen as an energy carrier and energy storage medium has gained enormous interest globally in recent years. Its use in stand-alone or off-grid microgrids for both the urban and rural communities has commenced recently in some locations. Therefore, this research evaluates the techno-economic feasibility of renewable energy-based systems using hydrogen as energy storage for a stand-alone/off-grid microgrid. Three case scenarios in a microgrid environment were identified and investigated in order to select an optimum solution for a remote community by considering the energy balance and techno-economic optimization. The “HOMER Pro” energy modelling and simulating software was used to compare the energy balance, economics and environmental impact amongst the proposed scenarios. The simulation results showed that the hydrogen-battery hybrid energy storage system is the most cost-effective scenario, though all developed scenarios are technically possible and economically comparable in the long run, while each has different merits and challenges. It has been shown that the proposed hybrid energy systems have significant potentialities in electrifying remote communities with low energy generation costs, as well as a contribution to the reduction of their carbon footprint and to ameliorating the energy crisis to achieve a sustainable future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Scenario in the Context of Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

22 pages, 8875 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Methodology Designed to Evaluate Accidents at Intersection Crossings with Respect to Forensic Purposes and Transport Sustainability

by Igor Dirnbach, Tibor Kubjatko, Eduard Kolla, Ján Ondruš and Željko Šarić

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 1972; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12051972 - 5 Mar 2020

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 4692

Abstract

Currently, there are quite a lot of incorrect procedures and mistakes that occur in the forensic area, which lacks analytical approaches toward solving the causes of accidents using s–t diagrams (distance–time diagrams) combined with the software simulation applications. When analyzing accidents, the correct [...] Read more.

Currently, there are quite a lot of incorrect procedures and mistakes that occur in the forensic area, which lacks analytical approaches toward solving the causes of accidents using s–t diagrams (distance–time diagrams) combined with the software simulation applications. When analyzing accidents, the correct information is of key importance. The aim of this article is to define a new specific technical and analytical approach toward handling expert’s reports on traffic accidents in road transport at intersections, with respect to the traffic lights. A simulation program application is used as a progressive means of accident evaluation. This procedure must become a standard in the methods of modern traffic accident analysis. The application of this methodology with simulation tools for accident reconstruction enables one to perform a very precise analysis of traffic accidents. Mutual space and time relationships of vehicles’ movements have been evaluated here, depending upon the intersection signal plan. To demonstrate the methodology, a real case is used here, reconstructed by means of the complex analytical simulation software PC-Crash. A procedure processed by these means can be beneficial for forensic traffic accident analysis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 996 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Aquaculture Production and Its Environmental Sustainability in Thailand: Challenges and Potential Solutions

by Tiptiwa Sampantamit, Long Ho, Carl Lachat, Nantida Sutummawong, Patrick Sorgeloos and Peter Goethals

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 2010; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12052010 - 5 Mar 2020

Cited by 102 | Viewed by 15925

Abstract

Though aquaculture plays an important role in providing foods and healthy diets, there are concerns regarding the environmental sustainability of prevailing practices. This study examines the trends and changes in fisheries originating from aquaculture production in Thailand and provides insights into such production’s [...] Read more.

Though aquaculture plays an important role in providing foods and healthy diets, there are concerns regarding the environmental sustainability of prevailing practices. This study examines the trends and changes in fisheries originating from aquaculture production in Thailand and provides insights into such production’s environmental impacts and sustainability. Together with an extensive literature review, we investigated a time series of Thai aquaculture production data from 1995 to 2015. Overall, Thai aquaculture production has significantly increased during the last few decades and significantly contributed to socio-economic development. Estimates of total aquaculture production in Thailand have gradually grown from around 0.6 to 0.9 million tons over the last twenty years. Farmed shrimp is the main animal aquatic product, accounting for an estimated 40% of total yields of aquaculture production, closely followed by fish (38%) and mollusk (22%). Estimates over the past decades indicate that around 199470 ha of land is used for aquaculture farming. Out of the total area, 61% is used for freshwater farms, and 39% is used for coastal farms. However, this industry has contributed to environmental degradation, such as habitat destruction, water pollution, and ecological effects. Effective management strategies are urgently needed to minimize the environmental impacts of aquaculture and to ensure it maximally contributes to planetary health. Innovative and practical solutions that rely on diverse technology inputs and smart market-based management approaches that are designed for environmentally friendly aquaculture farming can be the basis for viable long-term solutions for the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Agriculture)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 1820 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Benefit–Cost Analysis of Food and Biodegradable Waste Treatment Alternatives: The Case of Oita City, Japan

by Micky A. Babalola

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 1916; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12051916 - 3 Mar 2020

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 5451

Abstract

As the generation of food scrap, kitchen, and biodegradable wastes increases, the proper handling of these wastes is becoming an increasingly significant concern for most cities in Japan. A substantial fraction of food and biodegradable waste (FBW) ends up in the incinerator. Therefore, [...] Read more.

As the generation of food scrap, kitchen, and biodegradable wastes increases, the proper handling of these wastes is becoming an increasingly significant concern for most cities in Japan. A substantial fraction of food and biodegradable waste (FBW) ends up in the incinerator. Therefore, an analytic hierarchy process (AHP) benefit–cost analysis technique was employed in this study to compare different FBW treatment technologies and select the most appropriate FBW disposal technology for Oita City. The four FBW treatment options considered were those recommended by the Japanese Food Waste Recycling Law: anaerobic digestion, compost, landfill, and incineration, which is currently in use. The fundamental AHP was separated into two hierarchy structures for benefit analysis and cost analysis. The criteria used in these two analyses were value added, safety, efficiency, and social benefits for benefit analysis, and cost of energy, cost of operation and maintenance, environmental constraints, and disamenity for cost analysis. The results showed that anaerobic digestion had the highest overall benefit while composting had the least cost overall. The benefit–cost ratio result showed that anaerobic digestion is the most suitable treatment alternative, followed by composting and incineration, with landfill being the least favored. The study recommends that composting could be combined with anaerobic digestion as an optimal FBW management option in Oita City. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability as a Multi-criteria Concept: New Developments and Applications)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

33 pages, 528 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Application of Floating Aquatic Plants in Phytoremediation of Heavy Metals Polluted Water: A Review

by Shafaqat Ali, Zohaib Abbas, Muhammad Rizwan, Ihsan Elahi Zaheer, İlkay Yavaş, Aydın Ünay, Mohamed M. Abdel-DAIM, May Bin-Jumah, Mirza Hasanuzzaman and Dimitris Kalderis

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 1927; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12051927 - 3 Mar 2020

Cited by 349 | Viewed by 38249

Abstract

Heavy-metal (HM) pollution is considered a leading source of environmental contamination. Heavy-metal pollution in ground water poses a serious threat to human health and the aquatic ecosystem. Conventional treatment technologies to remove the pollutants from wastewater are usually costly, time-consuming, environmentally destructive, and [...] Read more.

Heavy-metal (HM) pollution is considered a leading source of environmental contamination. Heavy-metal pollution in ground water poses a serious threat to human health and the aquatic ecosystem. Conventional treatment technologies to remove the pollutants from wastewater are usually costly, time-consuming, environmentally destructive, and mostly inefficient. Phytoremediation is a cost-effective green emerging technology with long-lasting applicability. The selection of plant species is the most significant aspect for successful phytoremediation. Aquatic plants hold steep efficiency for the removal of organic and inorganic pollutants. Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes), water lettuce (Pistia stratiotes) and Duck weed (Lemna minor) along with some other aquatic plants are prominent metal accumulator plants for the remediation of heavy-metal polluted water. The phytoremediation potential of the aquatic plant can be further enhanced by the application of innovative approaches in phytoremediation. A summarizing review regarding the use of aquatic plants in phytoremediation is gathered in order to present the broad applicability of phytoremediation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Constructed and Floating Wetlands for Sustainable Water Reclamation)

23 pages, 6638 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Samothraki in Transition: A Report on a Real-World Lab to Promote the Sustainability of a Greek Island

by Marina Fischer-Kowalski, Markus Löw, Dominik Noll, Panos Petridis and Nikolaos Skoulikidis

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 1932; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12051932 - 3 Mar 2020

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 6301

Abstract

This is a case study on a small mountainous island in the Aegean Sea with the policy goal of preparing it to become member of UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves. While the local community opted for such an identity very early on, [...] Read more.

This is a case study on a small mountainous island in the Aegean Sea with the policy goal of preparing it to become member of UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves. While the local community opted for such an identity very early on, there are a number of obstacles to be overcome. The multidisciplinary research is based upon a sociometabolic approach and focuses on two issues: The transformation of agriculture, mainly herding of sheep and goats, and the shift to tourism. The degradation of the landscape caused by extensive roaming of goats and sheep constitute one of the major sustainability challenges of the island. We analyze farmers’ opportunities and describe new initiatives to get out of this deadlock. The impacts of the transition to tourism are addressed from an infrastructural perspective: A shift from traditional stone buildings to bricks and concrete, the establishment of new roads and ports, and the challenges to water supply and wastewater removal, also with reference to the quality and amounts of wastes generated that need to be dealt with. The island has so far escaped mass tourism and attracts mainly eco-tourists who value its remoteness and wilderness. We discuss how to serve this clientele best in the future, and increase local job opportunities and income while maintaining environmental quality. Finally, we reflect upon emerging new forms of local collaboration and the impact of our research efforts on a sustainability transition that might be on its way. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Metabolism of Islands)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

31 pages, 4889 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Effect of Botanical Extracts Obtained through Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction on White Head Cabbage (Brassica Oleracea L. Var. Capitata L.) Seedlings Grown under Controlled Conditions

by Katarzyna Godlewska, Anita Biesiada, Izabela Michalak and Paweł Pacyga

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 1871; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12051871 - 2 Mar 2020

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 5586

Abstract

This research presents the possibility of using innovative botanical extracts as biostimulants of plant growth to improve plant nutritional value, growth, and development. It is important to increase agricultural production but this process should be carried out in a sustainable way, without causing [...] Read more.

This research presents the possibility of using innovative botanical extracts as biostimulants of plant growth to improve plant nutritional value, growth, and development. It is important to increase agricultural production but this process should be carried out in a sustainable way, without causing risks for both the environment and consumers. For this reason, we have focused on the use of 14 natural raw materials and ultrasound assisted extraction for the production of biostimulants. Results proved that higher plants can be used to obtain valuable products for the application in modern horticulture and agriculture. For instance, extract based on Urtica dioica L. showed the highest biostimulatory properties: in the group sprayed with 0.1% extract cabbage seedlings were longer by 31%, while with 1.0% extract of Polygonum aviculare L. roots were longer by 72% than in the control group treated with water. Extracts based on Equisetum arvense L. (0.5%) and Urtica dioica L. (leaf) (0.1%) increased the fresh weight of sprouts by 113% and 112%, respectively. The highest root weight was observed in groups treated with Equisetum arvense L. (0.5%), Polygonum aviculare L. (0.5%), and Urtica dioica L. (leaf) (2.5%)—heavier by 207%, 206%, and 205%, respectively. Most of biostimulants increased the content of pigments involved in photosynthesis (e.g. 156% more chlorophyll for 0.1% Hypericum perforatum L. extract), decreased the content of polyphenols (e.g. 47% less for 2.5% Trifolium pretense extract), and showed a varied impact on antioxidant activity. There is an increasing interest in botanical extracts due to their high content of biologically active compounds and wide variety of application possibilities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Extraction Technologies and Analytical Strategies for Sustainable Food By-Products Valorisation: Food-Health Relationships in Sustainable Agro-Food Systems)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 5338 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Intelligent Intersection Control for Delay Optimization: Using Meta-Heuristic Search Algorithms

by Arshad Jamal, Muhammad Tauhidur Rahman, Hassan M. Al-Ahmadi, Irfan Ullah and Muhammad Zahid

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 1896; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12051896 - 2 Mar 2020

Cited by 65 | Viewed by 7162

Abstract

Traffic signal control is an integral component of an intelligent transportation system (ITS) that play a vital role in alleviating traffic congestion. Poor traffic management and inefficient operations at signalized intersections cause numerous problems as excessive vehicle delays, increased fuel consumption, and vehicular [...] Read more.

Traffic signal control is an integral component of an intelligent transportation system (ITS) that play a vital role in alleviating traffic congestion. Poor traffic management and inefficient operations at signalized intersections cause numerous problems as excessive vehicle delays, increased fuel consumption, and vehicular emissions. Operational performance at signalized intersections could be significantly enhanced by optimizing phasing and signal timing plans using intelligent traffic control methods. Previous studies in this regard have mostly focused on lane-based homogenous traffic conditions. However, traffic patterns are usually non-linear and highly stochastic, particularly during rush hours, which limits the adoption of such methods. Hence, this study aims to develop metaheuristic-based methods for intelligent traffic control at isolated signalized intersections, in the city of Dhahran, Saudi Arabia. Genetic algorithm (GA) and differential evolution (DE) were employed to enhance the intersection’s level of service (LOS) by optimizing the signal timings plan. Average vehicle delay through the intersection was selected as the primary performance index and algorithms objective function. The study results indicated that both GA and DE produced a systematic signal timings plan and significantly reduced travel time delay ranging from 15 to 35% compared to existing conditions. Although DE converged much faster to the objective function, GA outperforms DE in terms of solution quality i.e., minimum vehicle delay. To validate the performance of proposed methods, cycle length-delay curves from GA and DE were compared with optimization outputs from TRANSYT 7F, a state-of-the-art traffic signal simulation, and optimization tool. Validation results demonstrated the adequacy and robustness of proposed methods. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optimization in Logistics and Mobility Using Metaheuristics)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 689 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Sustainable Development Goals and Investment Strategies: The Profitability of Using Five-Factor Fama-French Alphas

by José Luis Miralles-Quirós, María Mar Miralles-Quirós and José Manuel Nogueira

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 1842; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12051842 - 29 Feb 2020

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 6040

Abstract

This study focuses on assets related to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are the most recent aspect of the Socially Responsible Investment framework and have caught the attention of investors due to their investment opportunities as well as the global challenges that can [...] Read more.

This study focuses on assets related to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are the most recent aspect of the Socially Responsible Investment framework and have caught the attention of investors due to their investment opportunities as well as the global challenges that can be achieved. The profitability of developing an investment strategy is shown based on the value of the alphas obtained from the estimation of the Fama-French five-factor model when compared to an equally weighted portfolio, even when transaction costs are taken into consideration. In addition, it is proven that investors should focus their investments on two main SDGs: Good health and well-being (Goal 3) and Industry, innovation and infrastructure (Goal 9). Full article

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

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 1184 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Environmental, Social and Economic Sustainability Indicators Applied to Food Services: A Systematic Review

by Dayanne da Costa Maynard, Mayara Daré Vidigal, Priscila Farage, Renata Puppin Zandonadi, Eduardo Yoshio Nakano and Raquel Braz Assunção Botelho

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 1804; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12051804 - 28 Feb 2020

Cited by 64 | Viewed by 17916

Abstract

Sustainability is the integration of actions focused on three pillars: environmental, social, and economical. Implementing sustainable development ranges from the pursuit of quality of life, and from environmental balance to break with the current pattern of development. Therefore, the objective of this work [...] Read more.

Sustainability is the integration of actions focused on three pillars: environmental, social, and economical. Implementing sustainable development ranges from the pursuit of quality of life, and from environmental balance to break with the current pattern of development. Therefore, the objective of this work was to understand and analyze the sustainability indicators implemented in the production of meals in food services. The authors developed specific search strategies for Scopus, Web of Science, Pubmed, Lilacs, Google Scholar, and ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global to perform the systematic review. The authors evaluated the methodological quality of the included studies using the Meta-analysis Statistical Assessment and Review Instrument (MASTARI). A total of 31 cross-sectional studies were analyzed. Twenty four (77.41%) of the studies had activities that covered the three indicators (environmental, social, and economic); 22.59% (n = 7) used two indicators in which 12.90% (n = 4) presented environmental and economic indicators and 9.67% (n = 3) with environmental and social indicators. This research indicates that the studies in food services are seeking to insert indicators that cover the three pillars of sustainable meal production. It is worth mentioning that in the literature, many works encompasses the importance of sustainability, but few explore which indicators are most applied or detail their implementation in food services. More studies are needed to estimate better the indicators being applied in food services. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Food Processing)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 3405 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Dockless E-Scooter: A Green Solution for Mobility? Comparative Case Study between Dockless E-Scooters, Displaced Transport, and Personal E-Scooters

by Hélie Moreau, Loïc de Jamblinne de Meux, Vanessa Zeller, Pierre D’Ans, Coline Ruwet and Wouter M.J. Achten

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 1803; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12051803 - 28 Feb 2020

Cited by 137 | Viewed by 16859

Abstract

This study applies a life cycle assessment (LCA) to the shared dockless standing e-scooter system that is established in Brussels. The results are given for four impact categories: global warming potential (GWP), particulate matter formation, mineral resource, and fossil resource scarcity. Regarding GWP, [...] Read more.

This study applies a life cycle assessment (LCA) to the shared dockless standing e-scooter system that is established in Brussels. The results are given for four impact categories: global warming potential (GWP), particulate matter formation, mineral resource, and fossil resource scarcity. Regarding GWP, the use of the shared e-scooters in the current system causes 131 g of CO₂-eq. per passenger-kilometer while the mode of transportation displaced has an impact of 110 g of CO₂-eq. Thus, at present, the use of e-scooters shows a higher impact than the transportation modes they replace. The high results for the shared e-scooter, in terms of GWP, are mainly caused by the short lifespan of the shared e-scooter. Nevertheless, as the market further matures, the lifespan of e-scooters could increase and the impact per kilometer travelled could decrease accordingly. Regarding the use of the personal e-scooter, the LCA results show an impact of around 67 g of CO₂-eq. This study quantifies the LC impacts of the current situation based on local, ‘real-life’ data. However, potential changes on soft mobility patterns induced by the use-oriented product-service system (PSS), such as a shared e-scooter system, could not be quantified. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 5251 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Characterization of Excavated Waste of Different Ages in View of Multiple Resource Recovery in Landfill Mining

by Isabella Pecorini and Renato Iannelli

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 1780; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12051780 - 27 Feb 2020

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 5273

Abstract

With the aim of examining the forcing factors in postmanagement landfills, in this study, excavation waste from nonhazardous municipal waste landfill in Tuscany was characterized for the first time. The specific objective was to estimate the feasibility of sampling and analyzing the excavated [...] Read more.

With the aim of examining the forcing factors in postmanagement landfills, in this study, excavation waste from nonhazardous municipal waste landfill in Tuscany was characterized for the first time. The specific objective was to estimate the feasibility of sampling and analyzing the excavated waste in order to define its properties and provide information about possible landfill mining projects. Based on the biochemical methane potential assays, it was shown that the excavated waste had not yet been stabilized (i.e., with a production of 52.2 ± 28.7 NlCH₄/kgTS) in the landfill, probably due to the low excavated waste moisture content (36% ± 6% w/w). Furthermore, excavated waste has a high calorific value, i.e., 15.2 ± 4.1 MJ/kg; the quantity of combustibles in the industrial shredder waste (16 MJ/kg) was rather modest compared to that of municipal solid waste (20.8 MJ/Kg). In conclusion, during large scale excavation of the landfill, it was possible to evaluate how a dedicated treatment plant could be designed to treat and select waste which might appear in a different category. For excavated industrial waste, detailed mechanical sorting may be convenient for end-of-waste recovery to improve calorific value. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Municipal Solid Waste Management in a Circular Economy)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

18 pages, 10482 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Serious Gaming for Climate Adaptation—Assessing the Potential and Challenges of a Digital Serious Game for Urban Climate Adaptation

by Tina-Simone Neset, Lotta Andersson, Ola Uhrqvist and Carlo Navarra

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 1789; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12051789 - 27 Feb 2020

Cited by 64 | Viewed by 13142

Abstract

Serious gaming has gained increasing prominence in climate change communication, and provides opportunity to engage new audiences and new platforms for knowledge co-creation and dialogues. This paper presents the design and evaluation of a serious game on climate adaptation, primarily targeted towards high [...] Read more.

Serious gaming has gained increasing prominence in climate change communication, and provides opportunity to engage new audiences and new platforms for knowledge co-creation and dialogues. This paper presents the design and evaluation of a serious game on climate adaptation, primarily targeted towards high school students, practitioners and politicians. The game aims to provide an experience of the impact of climate adaptation measures, and illustrates links with selected Agenda 2030 goals, which the player has to consider, while limiting impacts of hazardous climate events. The game design builds on the key goals in Education for Sustainable Development combining comprehensive views, action competence, learner engagement and pluralism. This study draws on game sessions and surveys with high school students in Sweden, and aims to assess to what extent different aspects of the game can support an increased understanding of the needs and benefits of adaptation actions. The results of this study indicate that the game can engage players to reflect upon challenges related to climate adaptation decision making, but also point towards the challenge of including a high degree of complexity which can make it difficult to grasp consequences of individual measures, as well as to link these to the natural variability of the occurrence of extreme climatic events. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Visualization for Climate Change Adaptation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 12117 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Pass-by Characterization of Noise Emitted by Different Categories of Seagoing Ships in Ports

by Luca Fredianelli, Marco Nastasi, Marco Bernardini, Francesco Fidecaro and Gaetano Licitra

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 1740; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12051740 - 26 Feb 2020

Cited by 62 | Viewed by 4915

Abstract

In the light of sustainability, satisfactory living conditions is an important factor for people’s positive feedback in their own living environment. Acoustic comfort and noise exposure should then be carefully monitored in all human settlements. Furthermore, it is already well-known that high or [...] Read more.

In the light of sustainability, satisfactory living conditions is an important factor for people’s positive feedback in their own living environment. Acoustic comfort and noise exposure should then be carefully monitored in all human settlements. Furthermore, it is already well-known that high or prolonged noise levels may lead to unwanted health effects. Unfortunately, while in the last decades scientists and public authorities have investigated the noise produced by roads, trains, and airports, not enough efforts have been spent in studying what happens around the coastal and port areas. Following the attention brought to the subject by recent European projects on noise in port areas, the present paper characterizes the sound power level and 1/3 octave band sound power spectrum of seagoing ships while moving at low speeds. Five different categories have been distinguished: Roll-on/roll-off (RORO), container ship, oil tanker, chemical tanker, and ferry. The analysis is based on a continuous noise measurement lasting more than three months, performed in the industrial canal of the port of Livorno (Italy). The resulting noise emissions are new and useful data that could be inserted in acoustic propagation models to properly assess the noise in the areas affected by port activities. Thus, the present work can act as a supporting tool in planning ship traffic in ports towards better sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Maritime Transportation Management and Policies)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

26 pages, 2119 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

The Determinants behind the Acceptance of Autonomous Vehicles: A Systematic Review

by Peng Jing, Gang Xu, Yuexia Chen, Yuji Shi and Fengping Zhan

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 1719; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12051719 - 25 Feb 2020

Cited by 256 | Viewed by 20436

Abstract

Excessive dependence on autonomous vehicles (AVs) may exacerbate traffic congestion and increase exhaust emissions in the future. The diffusion of AVs may be significantly affected by the public’s acceptance. A few factors that may affect people’s acceptance of AVs have been researched in [...] Read more.

Excessive dependence on autonomous vehicles (AVs) may exacerbate traffic congestion and increase exhaust emissions in the future. The diffusion of AVs may be significantly affected by the public’s acceptance. A few factors that may affect people’s acceptance of AVs have been researched in the existing studies, one-third of which cited behavioral theories, while the rest did not. A total of seven factors with behavior theories are screened out that significantly affect the acceptance intention, including perceived ease of use, attitude, social norm, trust, perceived usefulness, perceived risk, and compatibility. Six factors without behavior theories are summed up that affect AV acceptance, namely safety, performance-to-price value, mobility, value of travel time, symbolic value, and environmentally friendly. We found that people in Europe and Asia have substantial differences in attitudes toward AVs and that safety is one of the most concerned factors of AVs by scholars and respondents. Public acceptance of the different types of AVs and consumers’ dynamic preferences for AVs are highlighted in the review too. The quality of literature is systematically assessed based on previously established instruments and tailored for the current review. The results of the assessment show potential opportunities for future research, such as the citation of behavior theories and access to longitudinal data. Additionally, the experimental methods and the utilization of mathematical and theoretical methods could be optimized. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Autonomous Vehicles: Future of Transportation Sustainability)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 580 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Values and Planned Behaviour of the Romanian Organic Food Consumer

by Cristina Fleșeriu, Smaranda Adina Cosma and Vlad Bocăneț

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 1722; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12051722 - 25 Feb 2020

Cited by 77 | Viewed by 10987

Abstract

Romanian consumers have started to buy and consume more organic products. Their decision-making process is influenced by multiple variables. The theory of planned behaviour is widely accepted and used to predict behaviours in certain contexts, including the buying of organic food products. Other [...] Read more.

Romanian consumers have started to buy and consume more organic products. Their decision-making process is influenced by multiple variables. The theory of planned behaviour is widely accepted and used to predict behaviours in certain contexts, including the buying of organic food products. Other researchers have identified values that the consumer of organic products hold and that influence their buying behaviour. This study analyses the factors that have an impact on buying intention and behaviour of Romanian organic products from these two perspectives. A proposed model was designed by combining the two frameworks. It was evaluated by using structural equation modelling with the SmartPLS 3 software package (v. 3.2.7, SmartPLS GmbH, Bönningstedt, Germany, 2017). Results confirm the model proposed in the theory of planned behaviour while integrating the relationships of consumer values. Health consciousness was found to have a significant effect both on buying intention as well as on personal attitude. Food safety has a significant effect on buying intention regardless of personal attitude. Environmental concerns, social consciousness, perception of quality and lifestyle although important in personal attitude, do not affect buying intention directly. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Consumer Behaviour regarding Organic Food)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 2165 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Why Don’t People Ride Bicycles in High-Income Developing Countries, and Can Bike-Sharing Be the Solution? The Case of Qatar

by Khaled Shaaban

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1693; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041693 - 24 Feb 2020

Cited by 53 | Viewed by 9614

Abstract

Although cycling is increasing in developed regions, such as Europe and North America, high-income developing countries in the Arabian Gulf region still have low cycling activities. Limited research has investigated the barriers to cycling in these countries. In this study, the barriers and [...] Read more.

Although cycling is increasing in developed regions, such as Europe and North America, high-income developing countries in the Arabian Gulf region still have low cycling activities. Limited research has investigated the barriers to cycling in these countries. In this study, the barriers and motivators in Qatar, a high-income developing country, were investigated. Respondents were asked to report their bicycle usage during the last 12 months. The results indicated that approximately 15% used a bicycle during this period, but only 1.7% bicycled for transportation purposes. The analysis revealed the different barriers to cycling and their relative strengths. The study also compared the perceived challenges of cycling between males and females. The questionnaire results indicated that both groups considered the issues related to the weather conditions, bicycle ownership, lack of paths or connections, and driver behavior as important barriers to cycling. However, the female participants identified clothing, parental consent, and cultural and societal pressure as far more important. When asked about motivators for cycling, the results revealed that improving intersections, adding additional infrastructure facilities, planting trees for shading, affordable bicycles, and campaigns targeting potential cyclists and drivers are needed in order to increase cycling. To better understand how bike-sharing will be perceived if implemented in the future, the feedback was obtained from the participants, and their opinions indicated that there is a great deal of acceptance for this type of service. The outcome of this study can be of benefit to public agencies in developing countries that have the goal of increasing cycling use among their populations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Mobility: Public-Shared Bike and Emerging Public Transport Systems)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 2998 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Deep Neural Network-Assisted Approach to Enhance Short-Term Optimal Operational Scheduling of a Microgrid

by Fatma Yaprakdal, M. Berkay Yılmaz, Mustafa Baysal and Amjad Anvari-Moghaddam

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1653; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041653 - 22 Feb 2020

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 4027

Abstract

The inherent variability of large-scale renewable energy generation leads to significant difficulties in microgrid energy management. Likewise, the effects of human behaviors in response to the changes in electricity tariffs as well as seasons result in changes in electricity consumption. Thus, proper scheduling [...] Read more.

The inherent variability of large-scale renewable energy generation leads to significant difficulties in microgrid energy management. Likewise, the effects of human behaviors in response to the changes in electricity tariffs as well as seasons result in changes in electricity consumption. Thus, proper scheduling and planning of power system operations require accurate load demand and renewable energy generation estimation studies, especially for short-term periods (hour-ahead, day-ahead). The time-sequence variation in aggregated electrical load and bulk photovoltaic power output are considered in this study to promote the supply-demand balance in the short-term optimal operational scheduling framework of a reconfigurable microgrid by integrating the forecasting results. A bi-directional long short-term memory units based deep recurrent neural network model, DRNN Bi-LSTM, is designed to provide accurate aggregated electrical load demand and the bulk photovoltaic power generation forecasting results. The real-world data set is utilized to test the proposed forecasting model, and based on the results, the DRNN Bi-LSTM model performs better in comparison with other methods in the surveyed literature. Meanwhile, the optimal operational scheduling framework is studied by simultaneously making a day-ahead optimal reconfiguration plan and optimal dispatching of controllable distributed generation units which are considered as optimal operation solutions. A combined approach of basic and selective particle swarm optimization methods, PSO&SPSO, is utilized for that combinatorial, non-linear, non-deterministic polynomial-time-hard (NP-hard), complex optimization study by aiming minimization of the aggregated real power losses of the microgrid subject to diverse equality and inequality constraints. A reconfigurable microgrid test system that includes photovoltaic power and diesel distributed generators is used for the optimal operational scheduling framework. As a whole, this study contributes to the optimal operational scheduling of reconfigurable microgrid with electrical energy demand and renewable energy forecasting by way of the developed DRNN Bi-LSTM model. The results indicate that optimal operational scheduling of reconfigurable microgrid with deep learning assisted approach could not only reduce real power losses but also improve system in an economic way. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Microgrids: The Path to Sustainability)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 5396 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Absorptive Desulfurization of Model Biogas Stream Using Choline Chloride-Based Deep Eutectic Solvents

by Edyta Słupek and Patrycja Makoś

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1619; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041619 - 21 Feb 2020

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 4063

Abstract

The paper presents a synthesis of deep eutectic solvents (DESs) based on choline chloride (ChCl) as hydrogen bond acceptor and phenol (Ph), glycol ethylene (EG), and levulinic acid (Lev) as hydrogen bond donors in 1:2 molar ratio. DESs were successfully used as absorption [...] Read more.

The paper presents a synthesis of deep eutectic solvents (DESs) based on choline chloride (ChCl) as hydrogen bond acceptor and phenol (Ph), glycol ethylene (EG), and levulinic acid (Lev) as hydrogen bond donors in 1:2 molar ratio. DESs were successfully used as absorption solvents for removal of dimethyl disulfide (DMDS) from model biogas steam. Several parameters affecting the absorption capacity and absorption rate have been optimized including kinds of DES, temperature, the volume of absorbent, model biogas flow rate, and initial concentration of DMDS. Furthermore, reusability and regeneration of DESs by means of adsorption and nitrogen barbotage followed by the mechanism of absorptive desulfurization by means of density functional theory (DFT) as well as FT-IR analysis were investigated. Experimental results indicate that the most promising DES for biogas purification is ChCl:Ph, due to high absorption capacity, relatively long absorption rate, and easy regeneration. The research on the absorption mechanism revealed that van der Waal interaction is the main driving force for DMDS removal from model biogas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Technologies in Air Treatment)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 239 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Social Capital along Wine Trails: Spilling the Wine to Residents?

by Shuangyu Xu, Carla Barbieri and Erin Seekamp

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1592; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041592 - 20 Feb 2020

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 3416

Abstract

Social capital is a vital element of tourism development and sustainability, and has thus drawn significant attention during the past decade. Yet, this topic is still under-researched in the context of niche tourism, especially along linear tourism settings such as wine trails. As [...] Read more.

Social capital is a vital element of tourism development and sustainability, and has thus drawn significant attention during the past decade. Yet, this topic is still under-researched in the context of niche tourism, especially along linear tourism settings such as wine trails. As a major component of wine tourism, wine trails have been growing rapidly worldwide to further regional tourism development. To examine the level of social capital related with wine tourism, communities surrounding two wine trails in North Carolina (U.S.) were surveyed regarding the Trust, Information Sharing, Collective Action, Bonding and Bridging dimensions of social capital. Results indicated the Piedmont region has not yet fully developed the social capital associated with local wine trails, although residents perceived somewhat strong Collective Action derived from this growing tourism niche. Visitation frequency to wine trails was found to be significantly associated with all dimensions of wine tourism social capital. This study advances the wine tourism scholarship concerning social capital along wine trails (e.g., integrating main dimensions into one scale). It also sheds light on wine trail development and management, suggesting local wineries and wine trails invest greater effort in forging community bonds, especially among older residents, and bridging with local businesses. Full article

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

33 pages, 8977 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Patterns of Urban Park Use and Their Relationship to Factors of Quality: A Case Study of Tehran, Iran

by Fariba Bahriny and Simon Bell

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1560; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041560 - 19 Feb 2020

Cited by 66 | Viewed by 10053

Abstract

Urban parks play an important role in increasing the quality of urban life. Thus, a variety of approaches to planning and decision-making regarding sustainable open spaces and urban parks is needed, especially when models from one location are borrowed to another with a [...] Read more.

Urban parks play an important role in increasing the quality of urban life. Thus, a variety of approaches to planning and decision-making regarding sustainable open spaces and urban parks is needed, especially when models from one location are borrowed to another with a very different culture. In many developing countries cities are expanding without proper planning of public green spaces which places pressure on the quality of life. In common with many Middle Eastern cities, Tehran, the capital of Iran is a large sprawling metropolis which has experienced fast growth since 1970 and with little in the way of comprehensive planning of green spaces as an organised system. To date there has been no comprehensive investigation of urban parks regarding their level of use, range of activities, quality of maintenance, evidence of anti-social activities or the demographic character of their catchment—important information for effective park planning. In this study a representative sample of 16 parks in Tehran was studied using a combination of site assessments and user observations. We found that a combination of factors concerning the quality of the parks such as presence of facilities, existence of water and other special attractions, as well as how well-lit they are, how well maintained and safe they are, has a lot to do with their level of use. Some pleasant parks with good facilities are less well used because of, e.g., evidence of anti-social behaviour, poor maintenance and accessibility. A key aspect we found is the difference between male and female users, with some parks being much less-well-used by women. Much more attention is needed for planning and management of parks in Tehran. The approach applied here has potential to help other cities in similar areas to learn more about their green space systems for planning purposes. Full article

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

► Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 1601 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Food Heritage Makes a Difference: The Importance of Cultural Knowledge for Improving Education for Sustainable Food Choices

by Suzanne Kapelari, Georgios Alexopoulos, Theano Moussouri, Konstantin J. Sagmeister and Florian Stampfer

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1509; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041509 - 18 Feb 2020

Cited by 48 | Viewed by 14768

Abstract

This paper presents findings from a study carried out as part of BigPicnic, a European Commission’s Horizon 2020 project. BigPicnic brought together members of the public, scientists, policy-makers and industry representatives to develop exhibitions and science cafés. Across 12 European and one Ugandan [...] Read more.

This paper presents findings from a study carried out as part of BigPicnic, a European Commission’s Horizon 2020 project. BigPicnic brought together members of the public, scientists, policy-makers and industry representatives to develop exhibitions and science cafés. Across 12 European and one Ugandan botanic gardens participating in the study, we surveyed 1189 respondents on factors and motives affecting their food choices. The study highlights the importance that cultural knowledge holds for understanding food choices and consumer preferences. The findings of this study are discussed in the wider context of food security issues related to sustainable food choice, and the role of food as a form of cultural heritage. Specifically, the findings underline the importance of the impact of food preferences and choices on achieving sustainability, but also indicate that heritage is a key parameter that has to be more explicitly considered in definitions of food security and relevant policies on a European and global level. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Quality, Price and Consumer Choices)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 2888 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

National-Scale Built-Environment Exposure to 100-Year Extreme Sea Levels and Sea-Level Rise

by Ryan Paulik, Scott A. Stephens, Robert G. Bell, Sanjay Wadhwa and Ben Popovich

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1513; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041513 - 18 Feb 2020

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 8040

Abstract

Coastal flooding from extreme sea levels will increase in frequency and magnitude as global climate change forces sea-level rise (SLR). Extreme sea-level events, rare in the recent past (i.e., once per century), are projected to occur at least once per year by 2050 [...] Read more.

Coastal flooding from extreme sea levels will increase in frequency and magnitude as global climate change forces sea-level rise (SLR). Extreme sea-level events, rare in the recent past (i.e., once per century), are projected to occur at least once per year by 2050 along many of the world’s coastlines. Information showing where and how built-environment exposure increases with SLR, enables timely adaptation before damaging thresholds are reached. This study presents a first national-scale assessment of New Zealand’s built-environment exposure to future coastal flooding. We use an analytical risk model framework, “RiskScape”, to enumerate land, buildings and infrastructure exposed to a present and future 100-year extreme sea-level flood event (ESL₁₀₀). We used high-resolution topographic data to assess incremental exposure to 0.1 m SLR increases. This approach detects variable rates in the potential magnitude and timing of future flood exposure in response to SLR over decadal scales. National built-land and asset exposure to ESL₁₀₀ flooding doubles with less than 1 m SLR, indicating low-lying areas are likely to experience rapid exposure increases from modest increases in SLR expected within the next few decades. This highlights an urgent need for national and regional actions to anticipate and adaptively plan to reduce future socio-economic impacts arising from flood exposure to extreme sea-levels and SLR. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Understanding and Preparing for Uncertainty in Sustainable Disaster Risk Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

30 pages, 9389 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Implementing Blockchain Technology in Irrigation Systems That Integrate Photovoltaic Energy Generation Systems

by Florentina Magda Enescu, Nicu Bizon, Adrian Onu, Maria Simona Răboacă, Phatiphat Thounthong, Alin Gheorghita Mazare and Gheorghe Șerban

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1540; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041540 - 18 Feb 2020

Cited by 52 | Viewed by 7697

Abstract

Traditionally, the energy industry has been slow in adopting new disruptive technologies and the transition to a new energy market will require a new digital transformation plan, involving all parties from the energy market. Although it now seems to be an impossible and [...] Read more.

Traditionally, the energy industry has been slow in adopting new disruptive technologies and the transition to a new energy market will require a new digital transformation plan, involving all parties from the energy market. Although it now seems to be an impossible and hard-to-accept scenario, especially by the big players in the industry, the pilot projects so far demonstrate that blockchain can play a major role in the future energy market, even if the technology is still in the first stages of the adoption life cycle. This article attempts to describe a solution to provide alternative irrigation systems for small farmers. The solution involves creating associations of small farmers that will use green energy from photovoltaic panels for the irrigation of agricultural lands. The efficiency of the proposed system can be monitored not only through digital hardware connected to photovoltaic panels and water pumps, but also by using the new blockchain technology that stimulates innovation and growth in the energy and a high level of automation though smart contracts. To accelerate the transition to the green energy economy, a SolarCoin version similar to the Bitcoin cryptocurrency has also been proposed, which is a utility token that creates new possibilities for energy and water trading. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Efficiency and Sustainability of the Distributed Renewable Hybrid Power Systems Based on the Energy Internet, Blockchain Technology and Smart Contracts)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 3983 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Study of Antibacterial Properties of Ziziphus mauritiana based Green Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles against Various Bacterial Strains

by M. Asimuddin, Mohammed Rafi Shaik, Neeshat Fathima, M. Shaistha Afreen, Syed Farooq Adil, Mohammed Rafiq H. Siddiqui, Kaiser Jamil and Mujeeb Khan

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1484; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041484 - 17 Feb 2020

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 5121

Abstract

Due to their low cost and environmentally friendly nature, plant extracts based methods have gained significant popularity among researchers for the synthesis of metallic nanoparticles. Herein, green synthesis of silver nanoparticles was performed using the aqueous solution of Ziziphus mauritiana leaves extract (ZM-LE) [...] Read more.

Due to their low cost and environmentally friendly nature, plant extracts based methods have gained significant popularity among researchers for the synthesis of metallic nanoparticles. Herein, green synthesis of silver nanoparticles was performed using the aqueous solution of Ziziphus mauritiana leaves extract (ZM-LE) as a bio-reducing agent. The as-obtained silver nanoparticles were characterized by using UV-Vis spectroscopy, XRD (X-ray diffraction), TEM (transmission electron microscopy), and FT-IR (Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy). In addition, the effects of the concentrations of the leaves extract, silver nitrate, and the temperature on the preparation of nanoparticles were also investigated. In order to determine the nature of secondary metabolites present in leaves extract, a preliminary investigation of phytoconstituents was carried out using different methods including Folin-Ciocalteu and AlCl₃ methods. The results have indicated the presence of a considerable amount of phenolic and flavonoid contents in the leaves extract, which are believed to be responsible for the reduction of silver ions and stabilization of resulting nanoparticles. Indeed, the FT-IR spectrum of silver nanoparticles also confirmed the presence of residual phytomolecules of leaves extract as stabilizing ligands on the surface of nanoparticles. The antibacterial properties of as-obtained silver nanoparticles were tested against various bacterial strains including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Bacillus subtilis. The nanoparticles strongly inhibited the growth of S. aureus with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 2.5 μg/ml and moderately inhibited the growth of E. coli with a MIC of 5 μg/ml. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthesis Methods with Green Chemistry Aspect)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 494 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Could Smart Tourists Be Sustainable and Responsible as Well? The Contribution of Social Networking Sites to Improving Their Sustainable and Responsible Behavior

by Shiwei Shen, Marios Sotiriadis and Qing Zhou

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1470; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041470 - 16 Feb 2020

Cited by 64 | Viewed by 10087

Abstract

A key strategic aim of tourism destinations within the smart tourism paradigm is to achieve efficient, responsible and sustainable use of tourism resources. This aim can be achieved by promoting the appropriate practices and making tourists co-managers, co-designers and co-creators of tourism experiences. [...] Read more.

A key strategic aim of tourism destinations within the smart tourism paradigm is to achieve efficient, responsible and sustainable use of tourism resources. This aim can be achieved by promoting the appropriate practices and making tourists co-managers, co-designers and co-creators of tourism experiences. This paper argues that smart tourism destinations should manage their resources in a sustainable way and that smart technologies can make their contribution. Could a smart technology such as social media/social networking sites make a contribution to sustainable tourism within the smart tourism paradigm? To address this research question, a project was carried out to explore the perceptions and attitudes of Chinese tourist consumers about the contribution of social networking sites to adopting a sustainable and responsible behavior within the context of a smart tourism framework. First a research framework encompassing three hypotheses related to the influence of social networking sites at the three main stages of the travel cycle/tourist journey was designed. An exploratory quantitative research was then carried out using the online survey technique. The study’s findings indicate that the use of social networking sites influences the smart tourists at all three stages on adoption of sustainable and responsible behavior, the most significant influence is at the first two stages. The article is completed by discussing the related conclusions and management implications in the smart tourism management framework. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Web 2.0 in Tourism and Hospitality Industries)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

11 pages, 945 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Investigating the Effects of City Logistics Measures on the Economy of the City

by Francesco Russo and Antonio Comi

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1439; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041439 - 15 Feb 2020

Cited by 78 | Viewed by 6655

Abstract

The paper deals with economic effects due to city logistics implementations. An analysis framework is proposed and the results of a survey, consisting of interviews with experts in city logistics, are presented. The survey was carried out to point out the level of [...] Read more.

The paper deals with economic effects due to city logistics implementations. An analysis framework is proposed and the results of a survey, consisting of interviews with experts in city logistics, are presented. The survey was carried out to point out the level of benefits or costs expected by city logistics measure implementation. The results show that city users are expected to receive more benefits from environment-friendly vehicle measures, while transport and logistics operators can averagely obtain considerable benefits from demand management and public–private collaboration solutions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue City Logistics)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 280 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Can Constructed Wetlands be Wildlife Refuges? A Review of Their Potential Biodiversity Conservation Value

by Chengxiang Zhang, Li Wen, Yuyu Wang, Cunqi Liu, Yan Zhou and Guangchun Lei

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1442; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041442 - 15 Feb 2020

Cited by 63 | Viewed by 10620

Abstract

The degradation of wetland ecosystems is currently recognized as one of the main threats to global biodiversity. As a means of compensation, constructed wetlands (CWs), which are built to treat agricultural runoff and municipal wastewater, have become important for maintaining biodiversity. Here, we [...] Read more.

The degradation of wetland ecosystems is currently recognized as one of the main threats to global biodiversity. As a means of compensation, constructed wetlands (CWs), which are built to treat agricultural runoff and municipal wastewater, have become important for maintaining biodiversity. Here, we review studies on the relationships between CWs and their associated biodiversity published over the past three decades. In doing so, we provide an overview of how wildlife utilizes CWs, and the effects of biodiversity on pollutant transformation and removal. Beyond their primary aim (to purify various kinds of wastewater), CWs provide sub-optimal habitat for many species and, in turn, their purification function can be strongly influenced by the biodiversity that they support. However, there are some difficulties when using CWs to conserve biodiversity because some key characteristics of these engineered ecosystems vary from natural wetlands, including some fundamental ecological processes. Without proper management intervention, these features of CWs can promote biological invasion, as well as form an ‘ecological trap’ for native species. Management options, such as basin-wide integrative management and building in more natural wetland components, can partially offset these adverse impacts. Overall, the awareness of managers and the public regarding the potential value of CWs in biodiversity conservation remains superficial. More in-depth research, especially on how to balance different stakeholder values between wastewater managers and conservationists, is now required. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity 2020: Agriculture, Environment and Wellbeing)

16 pages, 1199 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Sustainable Use and Conservation of the Environmental Resources of the Etna Park (UNESCO Heritage): Evaluation Model Supporting Sustainable Local Development Strategies

by Luisa Sturiale, Alessandro Scuderi, Giuseppe Timpanaro and Benedetto Matarazzo

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1453; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041453 - 15 Feb 2020

Cited by 41 | Viewed by 5152

Abstract

Rural areas are recognized as multifunctional spaces, where traditional agro-silvo-pastoral and other human activities (unrelated rural tourism, ecotourism, processing industries of agricultural and or extractive products, land maintenance, trade in local products, etc.) take place alongside each other. The integrated endogenous development model, [...] Read more.

Rural areas are recognized as multifunctional spaces, where traditional agro-silvo-pastoral and other human activities (unrelated rural tourism, ecotourism, processing industries of agricultural and or extractive products, land maintenance, trade in local products, etc.) take place alongside each other. The integrated endogenous development model, established to mitigate the effects of human activity in protected areas, relies on the enhancement of specific resources of individual territories through the active participation of the community to promote local development. This model is intrinsically connected with the model of sustainable development, based on three cornerstones: environmental, social, and economic sustainability. The difficulty in achieving a reasonable balance among these values relates primarily to areas subject to protection (i.e., Parks and Natural Reserves). Ultimately, the environmental culture emphasizes the sustainability of natural resources, obviously in relation to these values and to the vulnerability of these areas. This paper outlines some relationships between environmental protection and the exercise of agricultural activities and other human activities in protected areas by using the theory of “rough sets”. The study aims to show that in the complex context of Etna Park (recognized World Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2013), the model developed by the “rough sets” could provide useful guidance to policy makers to formulate local development strategies according to a model of the sustainable management of protected areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancement of Public Real-estate Assets and Cultural Heritage: Management Plans and Models, Innovative Practices and Tools in Supporting the Local Sustainable Development)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 5053 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Deep Learning Predictor for Sustainable Precision Agriculture Based on Internet of Things System

by Xue-Bo Jin, Xing-Hong Yu, Xiao-Yi Wang, Yu-Ting Bai, Ting-Li Su and Jian-Lei Kong

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1433; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041433 - 14 Feb 2020

Cited by 101 | Viewed by 7596

Abstract

Based on the collected weather data from the agricultural Internet of Things (IoT) system, changes in the weather can be obtained in advance, which is an effective way to plan and control sustainable agricultural production. However, it is not easy to accurately predict [...] Read more.

Based on the collected weather data from the agricultural Internet of Things (IoT) system, changes in the weather can be obtained in advance, which is an effective way to plan and control sustainable agricultural production. However, it is not easy to accurately predict the future trend because the data always contain complex nonlinear relationship with multiple components. To increase the prediction performance of the weather data in the precision agriculture IoT system, this study used a deep learning predictor with sequential two-level decomposition structure, in which the weather data were decomposed into four components serially, then the gated recurrent unit (GRU) networks were trained as the sub-predictors for each component. Finally, the results from GRUs were combined to obtain the medium- and long-term prediction result. The experiments were verified for the proposed model based on weather data from the IoT system in Ningxia, China, for wolfberry planting, in which the prediction results showed that the proposed predictor can obtain the accurate prediction of temperature and humidity and meet the needs of precision agricultural production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Precision Agricultural Technologies for Sustainable Controlled Environment Agriculture)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 7791 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Adaptive Sustainable Reuse for Cultural Heritage: A Multiple Criteria Decision Aiding Approach Supporting Urban Development Processes

by Lucia Della Spina

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1363; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041363 - 13 Feb 2020

Cited by 66 | Viewed by 8196

Abstract

The European Union identifies the cultural heritage of cities as the main driver of development strategies. From this perspective, adaptive reuse can play a decisive role not only in terms of increasing the life cycle of the heritage but also as an urban [...] Read more.

The European Union identifies the cultural heritage of cities as the main driver of development strategies. From this perspective, adaptive reuse can play a decisive role not only in terms of increasing the life cycle of the heritage but also as an urban strategy capable of generating new economic, cultural, and social values, thus supporting innovative dynamics of local development. The aim is to propose an integrated evaluation model based on the combined use of multi-criteria techniques, which helps to classify adaptive reuse strategies of unused cultural heritage assets and supports decision-makers in the implementation of development strategies in vulnerable contexts. The case study focuses on the potential reuse of some historical fortifications located along the coasts of the Strait of Messina in Southern Italy. The results obtained show that the proposed model can be a useful decision support tool, in contexts characterized by high complexity, able to guarantee the transparency of the decision-making process, and in which it is necessary to highlight the elements that influence the dynamics of the choice for the construction of shared development strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancement of Public Real-estate Assets and Cultural Heritage: Management Plans and Models, Innovative Practices and Tools in Supporting the Local Sustainable Development)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 4501 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Prediction of the Rate of Penetration while Drilling Horizontal Carbonate Reservoirs Using the Self-Adaptive Artificial Neural Networks Technique

by Ahmad Al-AbdulJabbar, Salaheldin Elkatatny, Ahmed Abdulhamid Mahmoud, Tamer Moussa, Dhafer Al-Shehri, Mahmoud Abughaban and Abdullah Al-Yami

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1376; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041376 - 13 Feb 2020

Cited by 52 | Viewed by 6323

Abstract

Rate of penetration (ROP) is one of the most important drilling parameters for optimizing the cost of drilling hydrocarbon wells. In this study, a new empirical correlation based on an optimized artificial neural network (ANN) model was developed to predict ROP alongside horizontal [...] Read more.

Rate of penetration (ROP) is one of the most important drilling parameters for optimizing the cost of drilling hydrocarbon wells. In this study, a new empirical correlation based on an optimized artificial neural network (ANN) model was developed to predict ROP alongside horizontal drilling of carbonate reservoirs as a function of drilling parameters, such as rotation speed, torque, and weight-on-bit, combined with conventional well logs, including gamma-ray, deep resistivity, and formation bulk density. The ANN model was trained using 3000 data points collected from Well-A and optimized using the self-adaptive differential evolution (SaDE) algorithm. The optimized ANN model predicted ROP for the training dataset with an average absolute percentage error (AAPE) of 5.12% and a correlation coefficient (R) of 0.960. A new empirical correlation for ROP was developed based on the weights and biases of the optimized ANN model. The developed correlation was tested on another dataset collected from Well-A, where it predicted ROP with AAPE and R values of 5.80% and 0.951, respectively. The developed correlation was then validated using unseen data collected from Well-B, where it predicted ROP with an AAPE of 5.29% and a high R of 0.956. The ANN-based correlation outperformed all previous correlations of ROP estimation that were developed based on linear regression, including a recent model developed by Osgouei that predicted the ROP for the validation data with a high AAPE of 14.60% and a low R of 0.629. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optimization and Big Data Analytics to Improve Profitability and Sustainability of the Oil and Gas Industry)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 2981 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Implementing Green Infrastructure for the Spatial Planning of Peri-Urban Areas in Geneva, Switzerland

by Erica Honeck, Atte Moilanen, Benjamin Guinaudeau, Nicolas Wyler, Martin A. Schlaepfer, Pascal Martin, Arthur Sanguet, Loreto Urbina, Bertrand von Arx, Joëlle Massy, Claude Fischer and Anthony Lehmann

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1387; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041387 - 13 Feb 2020

Cited by 45 | Viewed by 9362

Abstract

The concept of green infrastructure (GI) seeks to identify and prioritize areas of high ecological value for wildlife and people, to improve the integration of natural values in landscape planning decisions. In 2018, the canton of Geneva, Switzerland, established a roadmap for biodiversity [...] Read more.

The concept of green infrastructure (GI) seeks to identify and prioritize areas of high ecological value for wildlife and people, to improve the integration of natural values in landscape planning decisions. In 2018, the canton of Geneva, Switzerland, established a roadmap for biodiversity conservation, which includes the operationalization of GI covering 30% of the territory by 2030. In this paper, we demonstrate a GI mapping framework in the canton of Geneva. Our approach is based on the combined assessment of three ‘pillars’, namely species’ distribution, landscape structure and connectivity, and ecosystem services, to optimize the allocation of conservation actions using the spatial prioritization software, Zonation. The identified priority conservation areas closely overlap existing natural reserves. Including the three pillars in the landscape prioritization should also improve adhesion to the GI idea, without undermining the protection of threatened species. With regards to land use planning, public and private land parcels with high values for GI may require specific incentives to maintain their desirable characteristics, as they are more likely to be degraded than areas with more building restrictions. Visualizing priority conservation areas in a spatially explicit manner will support decision-makers in Geneva to optimally allocate limited resources for ecosystem preservation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Ecosystem Service: Challenges for the Future)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 1681 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Decoupling Elasticity and Driving Factors of Energy Consumption and Economic Development in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau

by Weiguo Fan, Mengmeng Meng, Jianchang Lu, Xiaobin Dong, Hejie Wei, Xuechao Wang and Qing Zhang

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1326; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041326 - 12 Feb 2020

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 3607

Abstract

Decoupling of energy consumption and economic development is a key factor in achieving sustainable regional development. The decoupling relationship between energy consumption and economic development in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau region is still unclear. This paper uses the logarithmic mean Divisia index (LMDI) decomposition [...] Read more.

Decoupling of energy consumption and economic development is a key factor in achieving sustainable regional development. The decoupling relationship between energy consumption and economic development in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau region is still unclear. This paper uses the logarithmic mean Divisia index (LMDI) decomposition method and Tapio elastic index model to analyze the decoupling degree and driving factors of energy consumption and economic development, and evaluates the decoupling effort level in Qinghai-Tibet Plateau from 2006 to 2016. The results indicate that the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau region showed a weak decoupling as a whole, and that only Tibet experienced expanding negative decoupling in 2006–2007 and an expansion link in 2007–2008. Economic scale is a primary factor that hinders the decoupling of energy consumption, followed by investment intensity and industrial energy structure. The cumulative promotion effect of research and development (R&D) efficiency and intensity and the inhibition effect of investment intensity cancel each other out. With the exception of Tibet and Xinjiang, all provinces in the Qinghai-Tibet plateau have made decoupling efforts. Decoupling efforts made by R&D efficiency contributed the most, followed by energy intensity and R&D intensity. This paper provides policy recommendations for the decoupling of energy consumption experience for underdeveloped regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Consumption and Financial Development)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 897 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Internal and External Determinants of Consumer Engagement in Sustainable Consumption

by Žaneta Piligrimienė, Andželika Žukauskaitė, Hubert Korzilius, Jūratė Banytė and Aistė Dovalienė

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1349; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041349 - 12 Feb 2020

Cited by 148 | Viewed by 19608

Abstract

Rapid population growth together with improving living standards is causing bigger and more rapid consumption of resources in industrial, household and personal consumption areas. Unsustainable consumption patterns are negatively affecting our surroundings. In order to promote sustainable consumption it is important to engage [...] Read more.

Rapid population growth together with improving living standards is causing bigger and more rapid consumption of resources in industrial, household and personal consumption areas. Unsustainable consumption patterns are negatively affecting our surroundings. In order to promote sustainable consumption it is important to engage consumers in active and mutual dialogue. This study introduces the construct of consumer engagement into the context of sustainable consumption and aims at revealing the factors influencing consumer engagement in sustainable consumption. Two groups of factors, internal and external, each comprising three determinants (environmental attitude, perceived responsibility and perceived behavioral efficiency; and conditions for sustainable consumption, social environment and promotion of sustainable consumption) were identified as having direct positive impact on consumer engagement in sustainable consumption, which in turn had a positive impact on green product buying. The results revealed an important mediating role of the consumer engagement construct, suggesting that application of the engagement construct in the context of sustainable consumption would allow a deepening understanding of actual consumer behavior related with different contexts of sustainable consumption. Full article

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

► Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 6467 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Impacts of Climate Change on the Water Availability, Seasonality and Extremes in the Upper Indus Basin (UIB)

by Asim Jahangir Khan, Manfred Koch and Adnan Ahmad Tahir

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1283; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041283 - 11 Feb 2020

Cited by 50 | Viewed by 7996

Abstract

Projecting future hydrology for the mountainous, highly glaciated upper Indus basin (UIB) is a challenging task because of uncertainties in future climate projections and issues with the coverage and quality of available reference climatic data and hydrological modelling approaches. This study attempts to [...] Read more.

Projecting future hydrology for the mountainous, highly glaciated upper Indus basin (UIB) is a challenging task because of uncertainties in future climate projections and issues with the coverage and quality of available reference climatic data and hydrological modelling approaches. This study attempts to address these issues by utilizing the semi-distributed hydrological model “Soil and water assessment tool” (SWAT) with new climate datasets and better spatial and altitudinal representation as well as a wider range of future climate forcing models (general circulation model/regional climate model combinations (GCMs_RCMs) from the “Coordinated Regional Climate Downscaling Experiment-South Asia (CORDEX-SA) project to assess different aspects of future hydrology (mean flows, extremes and seasonal changes). Contour maps for the mean annual flow and actual evapotranspiration as a function of the downscaled projected mean annual precipitation and temperatures are produced and can serve as a “hands-on” forecast tool of future hydrology. The overall results of these future SWAT hydrological projections indicate similar trends of changes in magnitudes, seasonal patterns and extremes of the UIB—stream flows for almost all climate scenarios/models/periods—combinations analyzed. In particular, all but one GCM_RCM model—the one predicting a very high future temperature rise—indicated mean annual flow increases throughout the 21st century, wherefore, interestingly, these are stronger for the middle years (2041–2070) than at its end (2071–2100). The seasonal shifts as well as the extremes follow also similar trends for all climate scenario/model/period combinations, e.g., an earlier future arrival (in May–June instead of July–August) of high flows and increased spring and winter flows, with upper flow extremes (peaks) projected to drastically increase by 50 to >100%, and with significantly decreased annual recurrence intervals, i.e., a tremendously increased future flood hazard for the UIB. The future low flows projections also show more extreme values, with lower-than-nowadays-experienced minimal flows occurring more frequently and with much longer annual total duration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Uncertainty of Climate Change Impacts on Hydrology, Water Quality and Ecology)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

28 pages, 3243 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Scientific Landscape of Sustainable Urban and Rural Areas Research: A Systematic Scientometric Analysis

by Yahya Sheikhnejad and Tan Yigitcanlar

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1293; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041293 - 11 Feb 2020

Cited by 33 | Viewed by 4698

Abstract

Urban and rural areas are the cradles of human development and civilization as all practical progress and feasible products have emerged from these places. Having a clear understanding of the sustainability of these areas, especially the progress of research in this field, is [...] Read more.

Urban and rural areas are the cradles of human development and civilization as all practical progress and feasible products have emerged from these places. Having a clear understanding of the sustainability of these areas, especially the progress of research in this field, is highly important. This study undertakes a comprehensive scientometric analysis to visualize and quantitatively measure the outcome of the scientific enterprise to construct sustainable urban and rural areas. The scientific productivity of recorded publications, their impacts, and their importance were systematically measured in diverse aspects by virtue of ten distinctive techniques. A critical assessment of the respected criteria for sustainable urban and rural areas is presented in order to further clarify its boundaries with other related topics, as well as providing a clear benchmark for future studies. After screening the search results between 1900 and 2018 on the Web of Science database, 7397 publications explicitly related to sustainable urban and rural areas were extracted and analyzed by the CiteSpace software via the relevant bibliometric indicators. The results of this study shed light on the trends and patterns, consisting of kernel research areas, countries, journals, institutions, and how these entities have been concatenated, inside the bibliographic records around sustainable urban and rural areas. The findings facilitate in identifying the barriers and weakness in the current sustainable urban and rural areas research, and consequently help in identifying auspicious directions for prospective investigations. Full article

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

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 239 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Identifying Motives for Implementing eHealth by using Activity Theory

by Ann Svensson

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1298; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041298 - 11 Feb 2020

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3386

Abstract

eHealth interventions are utilized as a solution to address the current demographic challenges in society, as the number of old people increases. Thus, working life, work practice, and professional requirements needed for providing healthcare services will be transformed. The aim of this paper [...] Read more.

eHealth interventions are utilized as a solution to address the current demographic challenges in society, as the number of old people increases. Thus, working life, work practice, and professional requirements needed for providing healthcare services will be transformed. The aim of this paper is to explore contradictive motives regarding the professionals’ work practice when introducing innovative eHealth technologies in Scandinavian healthcare services at a municipal level. The study is based on two qualitative group interviews where nurses, assistant nurses, occupational and physiotherapists, as well as project managers participated. Two persons from an IT department were also interviewed. The interviews were analyzed by thematic analysis. The activity theory is used to explore the individuals’ different contradictive motives in this work practice. The work practice consists of a collaborative activity, where expansive learning is important in this transformation of work to obtain a sustainable society. The motives identified in this study are to 1) improve quality of life for the patients, 2) create attractive and interesting work for the employees, 3) save money for the municipality, 4) learn about new technology, and 5) use the municipality’s resources effectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Healthy Built Environment for an Ageing Population)

21 pages, 7589 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Seismic Risk Assessment Using Stochastic Nonlinear Models

by Yeudy F. Vargas-Alzate, Nieves Lantada, Ramón González-Drigo and Luis G. Pujades

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1308; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041308 - 11 Feb 2020

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 3570

Abstract

The basic input when seismic risk is estimated in urban environments is the expected physical damage level of buildings. The vulnerability index and capacity spectrum-based methods are the tools that have been used most to estimate the probability of occurrence of this important [...] Read more.

The basic input when seismic risk is estimated in urban environments is the expected physical damage level of buildings. The vulnerability index and capacity spectrum-based methods are the tools that have been used most to estimate the probability of occurrence of this important variable. Although both methods provide adequate estimates, they involve simplifications that are no longer necessary, given the current capacity of computers. In this study, an advanced method is developed that avoids many of these simplifications. The method starts from current state-of-the-art approaches, but it incorporates non-linear dynamic analysis and a probabilistic focus. Thus, the method considers not only the nonlinear dynamic response of the structures, modeled as multi degree of freedom systems (MDoF), but also uncertainties related to the loads, the geometry of the buildings, the mechanical properties of the materials and the seismic action. Once the method has been developed, the buildings are subjected to earthquake records that are selected and scaled according to the seismic hazard of the site and considering the probabilistic nature of the seismic actions. The practical applications of the method are illustrated with a case study: framed reinforced concrete buildings that are typical of an important district, the Eixample, in Barcelona (Spain). The building typology and the district were chosen because the seismic risk in Barcelona has been thoroughly studied, so detailed information about buildings’ features, seismic hazard and expected risk is available. Hence, the current results can be compared with those obtained using simpler, less sophisticated methods. The main aspects of the method are presented and discussed first. Then, the case study is described and the results obtained with the capacity spectrum method are compared with the results using the approach presented here. The results at hand show reasonably good agreement with previous seismic damage and risk scenarios in Barcelona, but the new method provides richer, more detailed, more reliable information. This is particularly useful for seismic risk reduction, prevention and management, to move towards more resilient, sustainable cities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Seismic Vulnerability Assessment at Urban Scale)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 2575 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Virtual Water Flows Embodied in International and Interprovincial Trade of Yellow River Basin: A Multiregional Input-Output Analysis

by Guiliang Tian, Xiaosheng Han, Chen Zhang, Jiaojiao Li and Jining Liu

Sustainability 2020, 12(3), 1251; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12031251 - 10 Feb 2020

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 3899

Abstract

With the imminent need of regional environmental protection and sustainable economic development, the concept of virtual water is widely used to solve the problem of regional water shortage. In this paper, nine provinces, namely Qinghai, Sichuan, Gansu, Ningxia, Inner Mongolia, Shaanxi, Shanxi, Henan, [...] Read more.

With the imminent need of regional environmental protection and sustainable economic development, the concept of virtual water is widely used to solve the problem of regional water shortage. In this paper, nine provinces, namely Qinghai, Sichuan, Gansu, Ningxia, Inner Mongolia, Shaanxi, Shanxi, Henan, and Shandong in the Yellow River Basin (YRB), are taken as the research objects. Through the analysis of input-output tables of 30 provinces in China in 2012, the characteristics of virtual water trade in this region are estimated by using a multi-regional input-output (MRIO) model. The results show that: (1) The YRB had a net inflow of 17.387 billion m³ of virtual water in 2012. In interprovincial trade, other provinces outside the basin export 21.721 billion m³ of virtual water into the basin. In international trade, the basin exports 4334 million m³ of virtual water to the international market. (2) There are different virtual flow paths in the basin. Shanxi net inputs virtual water by interprovincial trade and international trade, while Gansu and Ningxia net output virtual water by interprovincial trade and international trade. The other six provinces all net output virtual water through international trade, and obtain the net input of virtual water from other provinces outside the basin. (3) From the industrial structure of the provinces in the basin, the provinces with a relatively developed economy, such as Shandong and Shanxi, mostly import virtual water in the agricultural sector, while relatively developing provinces, such as Gansu and Ningxia, mostly import virtual water in the industrial sector. In order to sustain the overall high-quality development of the YRB, we propose the virtual water trade method to quantify the net flow of virtual water in each province and suggest the compensation responsibility of the virtual water net inflow area, and the compensation need of the virtual water net outflow area, in order to achieve efficient water resources utilization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Eutrophication and Sustainable Management of Water)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 902 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

How Sustainable Are Land Use Tools? A Europe-Wide Typological Investigation

by Alys Solly, Erblin Berisha, Giancarlo Cotella and Umberto Janin Rivolin

Sustainability 2020, 12(3), 1257; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12031257 - 10 Feb 2020

Cited by 44 | Viewed by 8278

Abstract

Sustainable land use depends on both the socio-economic processes that trigger spatial development and the effectiveness of spatial governance tools that aim to regulate these processes. The ESPON Sustainable Urbanization and land-use Practices in European Regions (SUPER) research project aims to analyze the [...] Read more.

Sustainable land use depends on both the socio-economic processes that trigger spatial development and the effectiveness of spatial governance tools that aim to regulate these processes. The ESPON Sustainable Urbanization and land-use Practices in European Regions (SUPER) research project aims to analyze the main land-use dynamics in Europe, looking at and comparing the interventions implemented in the various countries in order to promote sustainability. In particular, a sample of 227 interventions was chosen from a total of 39 European countries. This paper analyzes them on the basis of four different variables: (i) the scale at which the interventions are conceived; (ii) the type of territories subject to them; (iii) the type of interventions; (iv) the type of instruments behind these interventions. On this basis, it develops a number of considerations concerning the effectiveness of the interventions implemented in Europe to promote more sustainable use of land. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Urban Planning Techniques)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 14868 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Urban Vegetation in Air Quality Management: A Review and Policy Framework

by Joanna Badach, Małgorzata Dymnicka and Andrzej Baranowski

Sustainability 2020, 12(3), 1258; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12031258 - 10 Feb 2020

Cited by 48 | Viewed by 9000

Abstract

Recent episodes of high air pollution concentration levels in many Polish cities indicate the urgent need for policy change and for the integration of various aspects of urban development into a common platform for local air quality management. In this article, the focus [...] Read more.

Recent episodes of high air pollution concentration levels in many Polish cities indicate the urgent need for policy change and for the integration of various aspects of urban development into a common platform for local air quality management. In this article, the focus was placed on the prospects of improving urban air quality through proper design and protection of vegetation systems within local spatial planning strategies. Recent studies regarding the mitigation of air pollution by urban greenery due to deposition and aerodynamic effects were reviewed, with special attention given to the design guidelines resulting from these studies and their applicability in the process of urban planning. The conclusions drawn from the review were used to conduct three case studies: in Gdańsk, Warsaw, and Poznań, Poland. The existing local urban planning regulations for the management of urban greenery were critically evaluated in relation to the findings of the review. The results indicate that the current knowledge regarding the improvement of urban air quality by vegetation is not applied in the process of urban planning to a sufficient degree. Some recommendations for alternative provisions were discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Technologies in Air Treatment)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 3523 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Investigating the Ripple Effect through the Relationship between Housing Markets and Residential Migration in Seoul, South Korea

by Wonseok Seo and LeeYoung Kim

Sustainability 2020, 12(3), 1225; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12031225 - 8 Feb 2020

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 5084

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between housing markets and residential migration to identify if there is a housing refugee phenomenon due to an involuntary ripple effect in the Seoul metropolitan area, South Korea. The study applied Granger causality analysis and a vector error [...] Read more.

This study examined the relationship between housing markets and residential migration to identify if there is a housing refugee phenomenon due to an involuntary ripple effect in the Seoul metropolitan area, South Korea. The study applied Granger causality analysis and a vector error correction model. The empirical results confirmed that changes in housing market conditions cause a ripple effect in surrounding areas in the Seoul metropolitan area, and these changes are easily transmitted to the nearby Gyeonggi housing market. This study shows that intra-metropolitan residential migration may occur due to changes in housing market conditions. Additionally, the study proved that residential migration from Seoul to the nearby Gyeonggi province does not represent the pursuit of a stable residential environment, but is merely involuntary migration due to the financial burden of increased housing costs in Seoul. Finally, the study showed that there may be a ripple effect that intensifies instability in the jeonse market—a type of lease unique to South Korea—that emerged due to residential migration from Seoul. From this perspective, this study confirms that residential migration occurring in the Seoul metropolitan area is the result of an involuntary ripple effect and represents a housing refugee phenomenon. Full article

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

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 2029 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Economic and Environmental Performance of the Agricultural Sectors of the Selected EU Countries

by Artiom Volkov, Mangirdas Morkunas, Tomas Balezentis and Vaida Šapolaitė

Sustainability 2020, 12(3), 1210; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12031210 - 7 Feb 2020

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3918

Abstract

This paper aims at to identify the differences in the performance of the agricultural sectors in the selected European Union Member States. The research covers 21 countries in the period from 2007–2017. The paper uses data from the Farm Accountancy Data Network (FADN). [...] Read more.

This paper aims at to identify the differences in the performance of the agricultural sectors in the selected European Union Member States. The research covers 21 countries in the period from 2007–2017. The paper uses data from the Farm Accountancy Data Network (FADN). Three types of sectors were considered: Crop farming (wheat and rapeseed), specialist milk, and specialist cattle. The sector’s performance was measured by calculating the aggregate scores using the VIKOR technique. The panel regression model was also used to estimate and assess the technical and economic determinants of the sector’s performance. The obtained results indicated that the new EU Member States showed higher levels of performance compared to the old Member States. This finding may be attributed to the fact that some of the production factors in the new EU Member States are still under-valued compared to those of the old EU Member States. Full article

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

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 3133 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Optimization of Container Terminal Layouts in the Seaport—Case of Port of Montreal

by Tareq Abu Aisha, Mustapha Ouhimmou and Marc Paquet

Sustainability 2020, 12(3), 1165; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12031165 - 6 Feb 2020

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 12256

Abstract

The intermodal transportation system plays a pivotal role in a global supply chain. Despite the benefits of intermodal transportation, it still has negative impacts, which are associated with congestion and emission. Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emission is highly associated with the transportation industry, and [...] Read more.

The intermodal transportation system plays a pivotal role in a global supply chain. Despite the benefits of intermodal transportation, it still has negative impacts, which are associated with congestion and emission. Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emission is highly associated with the transportation industry, and the share of the transportation sector is growing at a rapid pace. This paper discusses intermodal transportation and its effects on port efficiency. We proposed a new layout for the container terminal in the seaport in order to decrease cost as well as emission generated by the port operations. The proposed layout can improve the sustainability of port activities by decreasing the distance between the berth and interface points as well as avoiding double handling. We propose multi-objective optimization using the ε-constraint method to solve this problem. The model was tested through a case study of the Port of Montreal in Canada. The findings reveal that the proposed layout resulted in considerable emissions and costs reduction. Compared with the current layout of Port of Montreal, the proposed layout achieved a reduction of 46.5% in the total transportation cost of the containers to their final destination, as well as 21.6% in the emission. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 3752 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Sorption of Cd²⁺ and Pb²⁺ on Aragonite Synthesized from Eggshell

by Lulit Habte, Natnael Shiferaw, Mohd Danish Khan, Thenepalli Thriveni and Ji Whan Ahn

Sustainability 2020, 12(3), 1174; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12031174 - 6 Feb 2020

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 3457

Abstract

In the present work, waste eggshells were used as a precursor for the synthesis of aragonite crystals through the wet carbonation method. Cadmium (Cd²⁺) and lead (Pb²⁺) were removed by the synthesized aragonite from synthetic wastewater. The influence of [...] Read more.

In the present work, waste eggshells were used as a precursor for the synthesis of aragonite crystals through the wet carbonation method. Cadmium (Cd²⁺) and lead (Pb²⁺) were removed by the synthesized aragonite from synthetic wastewater. The influence of initial solution pH, contact time, Cd²⁺ and Pb²⁺ concentration, and sorbent dosage were evaluated. The major sorption was observed in the first 100 mins and 360 mins for Pb²⁺and Cd²⁺ respectively reaching sorption equilibrium at 720 mins (12 hr). The sorption capacity toward Pb²⁺ was much higher than toward Cd²⁺. Both heavy metals displayed high sorption capacities at initial pH 6. The pseudo-second-order kinetic model fits well with the experimental data with a higher correlation coefficient R². Two isotherm models were also evaluated for the best fit with the experimental data obtained. Langmuir isotherm best fits the sorption of the metals on aragonite synthesized from eggshells. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results of sorbent after sorption showed that the mechanism of sorption was dominated by surface precipitation. Therefore, aragonite crystals synthesized from waste eggshells can be a potential substitute source for the removal of Cd²⁺ and Pb²⁺ from contaminated water. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue EARTH 2019-Green Technologies for Resources and Materials Recycling)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

20 pages, 5088 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Performance Improvement of PV Systems’ Maximum Power Point Tracker Based on a Scanning PSO Particle Strategy

by Ali M. Eltamaly, M. S. Al-Saud and A. G. Abo-Khalil

Sustainability 2020, 12(3), 1185; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12031185 - 6 Feb 2020

Cited by 66 | Viewed by 4437

Abstract

Partial shading of PV systems generates many peaks in the P–V curve. These peaks have one global peak (GP), the remaining being local peaks (LPs). Metaheuristic techniques such as PSO have proven superiority in capturing the GP and avoiding entrapment in an LP [...] Read more.

Partial shading of PV systems generates many peaks in the P–V curve. These peaks have one global peak (GP), the remaining being local peaks (LPs). Metaheuristic techniques such as PSO have proven superiority in capturing the GP and avoiding entrapment in an LP in comparison to conventional techniques. In case of partial shading conditions (PSC), the GP may change its position and value in the P–V curve and the PSO is unable to capture the GP unless they reinitialize. Reinitialization of PSO particles spends a long time for convergence; and it may cause premature convergence. This paper proposes a novel strategy for scanning the new position of the GP in case of PSC changes without a need for reinitialization. The proposed strategy sends a particle to the anticipated places of peaks to search for any peak with power greater than the current GP and when it locates this new GP it will move the PSO particles directly to the new GP. This strategy reduced the reinitialization time by 650% as compared to the time required for the random reinitialization of the conventional PSO technique. Moreover; this proposed strategy completely avoids the premature convergence associated with conventional PSO techniques. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 817 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Revisiting the “City Life Cycle”: Global Urbanization and Implications for Regional Development

by Sirio Cividino, Rares Halbac-Cotoara-Zamfir and Luca Salvati

Sustainability 2020, 12(3), 1151; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12031151 - 5 Feb 2020

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 7024

Abstract

A comparative, diachronic analysis of urban population dynamics allows for the identification of specific demographic trajectories influencing metropolitan expansion worldwide. However, a wide-ranging characterization of long-term population trends in metropolitan areas identifying sequential urban cycles with distinctive demographic dynamics is still incomplete. By [...] Read more.

A comparative, diachronic analysis of urban population dynamics allows for the identification of specific demographic trajectories influencing metropolitan expansion worldwide. However, a wide-ranging characterization of long-term population trends in metropolitan areas identifying sequential urban cycles with distinctive demographic dynamics is still incomplete. By hypothesizing a trade-off between ‘fast’ and ‘slow’ population dynamics that reflect ‘high’ and ‘low’ fertility regimes in both advanced and emerging economies, the present work investigates the relationship between city size (considering absolute population) and population growth rate in 1857 metropolitan agglomerations (>300,000 inhabitants in 2014) of 154 countries across the globe. Analysis covers a relatively long time period (1950–2030) and uses descriptive statistics (average and coefficient of variation) of the spatial series of population growth rates derived from United Nations demographics by metropolitan agglomeration and time interval. The results of our study indicate that metropolitan growth was associated with highly variable rates of population growth, being highly positive before 2000 and declining progressively in the subsequent decades. Despite important differences at the regional scale, an inverse relationship between population growth and city size was observed up to the late 1990s, with a higher spatial heterogeneity reflecting a moderate slowdown in demographic dynamics during recent years. Rapid population expansion dependent on city size and a higher spatial heterogeneity in growth rates insensitive to city size, evidence distinct metropolitan cycles reflecting worldwide transition from high to low fertility, ageing, and more unpredictable migration patterns. Full article

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

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 1469 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

The Environmental Impacts of Agricultural Trade: A Systematic Literature Review

by Jeremiás Máté Balogh and Attila Jámbor

Sustainability 2020, 12(3), 1152; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12031152 - 5 Feb 2020

Cited by 82 | Viewed by 16068

Abstract

In line with the development of international trade, environmental concerns have arisen as a global problem. International trade has the potential to increase environmental externalities such as transboundary pollution, deforestation, transportation and production relocation avoiding environmental standards. The share of agricultural goods in [...] Read more.

In line with the development of international trade, environmental concerns have arisen as a global problem. International trade has the potential to increase environmental externalities such as transboundary pollution, deforestation, transportation and production relocation avoiding environmental standards. The share of agricultural goods in total export reached 15% in 2017. Since 2002, the proportion of unprocessed agricultural products have more than doubled, while the volume of processed goods in global trade has tripled. Despite the importance of agricultural trade worldwide, the number of studies exploring the trade-agriculture-environment nexus has so far been limited. This paper aims to provide an overview of the environmental impacts of agricultural trade based on the international economics literature published in recent years by way of a systematic literature review. Results suggest that most recent environmental studies do not view extended trade or trade liberalization in agriculture favourably. Only a limited number of papers state that a country or countries’ environment could benefit from agricultural trade, and only a few researchers have found that agricultural trade did not have any significant influence at all, or have instead found the effects on the environment to be ambiguous. Finally, the research reveals the most important consequences of pollution and offers potential solutions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment within the Theoretical Framework of Circular Economy: Methodological Challenges and Epistemological Implications for Agri-Food Sector)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Editor’s Choice Articles

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI