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Environmental Policy as a Tool for Sustainable Development

A special issue of Sustainability (ISSN 2071-1050). This special issue belongs to the section "Environmental Sustainability and Applications".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 November 2024) | Viewed by 42750

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor

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Guest Editor
Department of Forestry and Management of the Environment and Natural Resources, Democritus University of Thrace, 193 Pantazidou, 68200 Orestiada, Greece
Interests: environmental policy; decision-making; energy transition; renewable energy investments; environmental awareness
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Forestry and Management of the Environment and Natural Resources, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
Interests: environmental communication; environmental policy; public relations; forest extension
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Using a combination of regulatory, market, and voluntary instruments, environmental policy is creating a favorable context for addressing pressing issues of sustainable development such as carbon emissions reduction, energy saving, energy efficiency, resource decoupling and reuse, or the valuation of ecosystems services.  Since environmental policy can play a crucial role as a tool for sustainable development, it is necessary for policymakers to consider the latest research findings on ways to achieve sustainable development and focus on science-based policymaking.

Sustainable development is a concept that seeks to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Environmental policy serves as a means to achieve this by addressing the environmental, social, and economic dimensions of sustainability by establishing a framework for resource management, economic growth, climate change mitigation, biodiversity conservation, pollution control, waste management, environmental justice, international cooperation, education and awareness, long-term planning, stakeholder engagement, monitoring and evaluation.

The aim of this Special Issue is to collate original research papers, reviews and perspectives that address the application of environmental policies as tools for sustainable development. We welcome papers that utilize both traditional and innovative approaches including surveys, databases, machine learning and modeling applications. Additionally, we invite submissions addressing the decision-making processes involved in the design of policy measures, the frameworks under policy design, the evaluation of current environmental policies, and the underlying connections between policy measures, climate change mitigation and sustainability.

Following are the potential areas:

  • Energy Transition:
    1. Promotion of renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydropower;
    2. Incentives for energy-efficient technologies and practices;
  • Phasing out of fossil fuel subsidies.
  • Climate Action:
    1. Commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in line with international agreements (e.g., the Paris Agreement);
    2. Implementation of carbon pricing mechanisms, such as carbon taxes or cap-and-trade systems;
  • Investment in climate adaptation and resilience measures.
  • Biodiversity Conservation:
    1. Establishment and management of protected areas and wildlife reserves;
    2. Habitat restoration and reforestation programs;
  • Regulations to prevent illegal wildlife trade and protect endangered species.
  • Sustainable Agriculture:
    1. Promotion of organic farming practices and sustainable land use;
    2. Support for small-scale farmers and access to markets;
  • Reduction of chemical pesticide and fertilizer use.
  • Circular Economy:
    1. Policies to promote recycling, waste reduction, and product reuse;
    2. Incentives for eco-design and sustainable manufacturing.
  • Social Equity:
    1. Implementation of policies to reduce income inequality and promote social inclusion;
    2. Support for rural, vulnerable and marginalized communities.
  • Natural Resource Management:
    1. Sustainable forestry practices and responsible logging regulations;
    2. Soil conservation and land management policies.
  • Green Technology Innovation:
    1. Support for research and development of clean and sustainable technologies;
    2. Intellectual property rights and patent policies that promote green innovation.
  • International Cooperation:
    1. Engagement in international partnerships and collaborations to address global sustainability challenges;
    2. Participation in United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) initiatives.
  • Environmental Education and Public Awareness:
    1. Educational programs to raise awareness about sustainable practices.
  • Long-Term Planning and Reporting:
    1. Development of long-term sustainability plans and goals;
    2. Regular reporting and assessment of progress toward sustainability targets.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Dr. Konstantinos S. Ioannou
Dr. Evangelia Karasmanaki
Prof. Dr. Georgios Tsantopoulos
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Sustainability is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • environmental policy
  • decision making
  • climate change
  • sustainability 
  • environmental governance
  • circular economy
  • climate action
  • policymaking
  • technological transition
  • environmental agreements
  • strategic planning
  • stakeholder engagement

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Published Papers (21 papers)

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20 pages, 5301 KiB  
Article
Development of Eco-Schemes as an Important Environmental Measure in Areas Facing Natural or Other Specific Constraints Under the Common Agriculture Policy 2023–2027: Evidence from Poland
by Marek Zieliński, Wojciech Józwiak, Agata Żak and Tomasz Rokicki
Sustainability 2025, 17(6), 2781; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17062781 - 20 Mar 2025
Viewed by 135
Abstract
Institutional environmental measures play a fundamental role in the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) 2023–2027, which primarily focuses on eco-schemes and for which the EU Member States must allocate part of their direct payment budget. The total budget under eco-schemes in the EU is [...] Read more.
Institutional environmental measures play a fundamental role in the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) 2023–2027, which primarily focuses on eco-schemes and for which the EU Member States must allocate part of their direct payment budget. The total budget under eco-schemes in the EU is an important part of Pillar I of the CAP 2023–2027. The aim of this study is to determine the capacity of Polish agriculture in ANCs to adopt practices under eco-schemes in the first year (2023) of the CAP 2023–2027. In the international literature, there is an apparent paucity of such analyses conducted for the newly designated ANCs in the EU Member States based on the European Commission’s guidelines under the CAP 2014–2020 and applicable under the CAP 2023–2027. Practices under eco-schemes are now fundamental for EU agriculture, increasing soil fertility, using rational fertilization and, as a result, improving the quality of products offered to consumers. It was pointed out that at this moment in ANCs, the use of eco-schemes is not satisfactory. The conclusions emphasized that in the EU, including Poland, eco-schemes should be implemented by as many farmers as possible, regardless of the size of the farm they have and the natural conditions in which they carry out agricultural production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Policy as a Tool for Sustainable Development)
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33 pages, 6580 KiB  
Article
Creating an Alternative Governance for Phosphorus Circularity Through Framings That Strengthen Intersectoral Policy Coherence in the EU: Constraints and Implementation Possibilities
by Teodor Kalpakchiev, Brent Jacobs, Markus Fraundorfer, Julia Martin-Ortega and Dana Cordell
Sustainability 2025, 17(4), 1478; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17041478 - 11 Feb 2025
Viewed by 721
Abstract
Phosphorus’ availability and pricing is critical for the entire food system. Transformative phosphorus governance is required to reduce the European Union’s fertiliser vulnerability. At the same time, the EU’s governance approach is constrained by multiple problem definitions and missing salient framings that could [...] Read more.
Phosphorus’ availability and pricing is critical for the entire food system. Transformative phosphorus governance is required to reduce the European Union’s fertiliser vulnerability. At the same time, the EU’s governance approach is constrained by multiple problem definitions and missing salient framings that could make phosphorus recovery a priority of the EU’s decision-making agenda. The article addresses this policy gap by gathering and discussing different institutional and stakeholder framings that could inform a transition to a transformed phosphorus governance. We combine triangulated methods (framing as an analytical heuristic, semi-structured expert interviews, document analysis, and conference observations) with Kingdon’s three streams of agenda-setting as a conceptual framework to identify alternative intersectoral framings of phosphorus sustainability. Our findings suggest that the window of opportunity filled by the EU’s Fertiliser Affordability Communication supports a decarbonisation pathway that fails to emphasise the potential of emergent framings supporting phosphorus recovery. We analyse these framings and suggest that a new window of opportunity for their elevation on the EU’s decision-making agenda is opening with the inauguration of a new European Commission. We propose five alternatives that apply powerful spillover framings to implement phosphorus governance that is synchronous with the commission’s sectoral priorities. We believe that an extension of the EU’s current environmental policy along these pathways can potentially contribute to phosphorus sustainability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Policy as a Tool for Sustainable Development)
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32 pages, 4446 KiB  
Article
Hydrogen Valley in Cyprus: Insights and Strategies for Citizen Engagement
by Andrey Afanasiev, Olga Kandinskaia, Snezana Eminidou and Andreas Sousanis
Sustainability 2025, 17(2), 804; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17020804 - 20 Jan 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1294
Abstract
In remote areas or islands like Cyprus, the isolated energy system, high energy consumption in the transport sector and projected excess electricity production from solar sources create favourable conditions for establishing a hydrogen valley. But even after addressing technological, managerial, economic and financial [...] Read more.
In remote areas or islands like Cyprus, the isolated energy system, high energy consumption in the transport sector and projected excess electricity production from solar sources create favourable conditions for establishing a hydrogen valley. But even after addressing technological, managerial, economic and financial challenges, the success of a hydrogen valley hinges on the acceptance and engagement of the local population. The role of citizens is under-researched by academia and overlooked by policymakers. Our paper’s contribution is unique data from a purposefully developed survey of Cypriot residents. The findings reveal robust support for the renewable energy transition in principle, with 90% expressing supportive views, of which 57% ‘strongly support’ the transition, and notably, middle-aged, more educated and fully employed individuals showing the strongest support. At the same time, our results show that 62% are unfamiliar with the concept of a hydrogen economy. The promising finding is that 80% of citizens are ‘very likely’ (25%) or ‘somewhat likely’ (55%) to engage in discussions or activities related to the creation of a hydrogen valley in Cyprus. Gender differences in the willingness to engage are, however, evident: 32% of males indicated they are ‘very likely’ to participate versus 23% of females. We conclude that the prevailing citizen behaviour in Cyprus is “Seeking Information”, and we make policy suggestions outlining the top ten engagement tools to foster awareness among the general population and the top ten strategies targeting active supporters of hydrogen in Cyprus to elevate their involvement to ‘Action’ and ‘Advocacy’ levels of engagement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Policy as a Tool for Sustainable Development)
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26 pages, 3639 KiB  
Article
Impact of Inclusive Growth, Environmental Policy Incentives, Fintech and Globalization on Environmental Sustainability in G20 Countries
by Minglong Xian
Sustainability 2025, 17(1), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17010050 - 25 Dec 2024
Viewed by 1084
Abstract
This research investigates the effects of inclusive growth, environmental policy incentives, fintech innovations, and globalization on the environmental sustainability of G20 countries. In light of the growing global concern about carbon emissions from anthropogenic sources, which contribute to severe environmental degradation, the Paris [...] Read more.
This research investigates the effects of inclusive growth, environmental policy incentives, fintech innovations, and globalization on the environmental sustainability of G20 countries. In light of the growing global concern about carbon emissions from anthropogenic sources, which contribute to severe environmental degradation, the Paris Agreement aims to mitigate these impacts by controlling carbon emissions. This study explores how inclusive growth, fintech, and environmental policies interact to affect ecological footprints in G20 member countries, which represent some of the world’s most influential economies and policymakers. Specifically, inclusive growth is examined for its potential to reduce economic and social inequalities, which, if unmanaged, can exacerbate environmental degradation. In contrast, fintech is analyzed as a double-edged sword—its impact on sustainability depends on its influence on industries and economies, which may either exacerbate or alleviate environmental harm. Globalization’s role is scrutinized for its interactions with the economic, social, and ecological dimensions of sustainability. Our methodology employs advanced econometric models to analyze data from 1990 to 2023, focusing on the relationships between these variables and ecological footprints. Key findings suggest that while fintech can both increase and reduce environmental degradation depending on its application, environmental policy incentives are crucial for promoting sustainable practices and clean technology adoption. Inclusive growth can mitigate environmental harm by addressing inequalities, and globalization’s effects on sustainability depend largely on regulatory frameworks and corporate governance. This study contributes to the literature by highlighting the complex interactions between economic growth models, technological advancements, and environmental policies. Its originality lies in its comprehensive analysis of the G20 economies, shedding light on how inclusive growth, fintech, and environmental policies shape environmental outcomes. The research offers key policy implications, stressing the need for stringent environmental regulations, the promotion of green technologies, and the diversification of economies to reduce reliance on resource rents. The findings emphasize the importance of balancing economic development with environmental sustainability to achieve long-term ecological stability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Policy as a Tool for Sustainable Development)
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24 pages, 14955 KiB  
Article
Development of Semi-Mountainous and Mountainous Areas: Design of Trail Paths, Optimal Spatial Distribution of Trail Facilities, and Trail Ranking via MCDM-VIKOR Method
by Georgios Kolkos, Apostolos Kantartzis, Anastasia Stergiadou and Garyfallos Arabatzis
Sustainability 2024, 16(22), 9966; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16229966 - 15 Nov 2024
Viewed by 943
Abstract
This study proposes a sustainable ecotourism framework for the development of semi-mountain and mountain regions of Paiko in Greece, focusing on the strategic design and ranking of trail paths using the multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) VIKOR method. Aiming to balance environmental conservation with economic [...] Read more.
This study proposes a sustainable ecotourism framework for the development of semi-mountain and mountain regions of Paiko in Greece, focusing on the strategic design and ranking of trail paths using the multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) VIKOR method. Aiming to balance environmental conservation with economic benefits, we designed 19 trails paths and allocated signage for resting and recreation facilities. The trail paths were assessed based on criteria such as length, difficulty, scenic appeal, and accessibility. This approach identified key trails that combine scenic beauty with infrastructure suitable for a broad range of visitors, thereby enhancing sustainable tourism appeal. Stakeholder engagement was integral to shaping the trail network, ensuring that the selected paths reflect local values and priorities. This study highlights how the VIKOR method can optimize resource allocation by ranking trails according to their environmental and visitor-centered attributes, supporting regional economic growth through ecotourism. This framework offers a replicable model for other mountainous regions seeking to harness ecotourism’s potential while preserving natural ecosystems. The findings demonstrate the capacity of well-planned trail networks to attract nature-based tourism, stimulate local economies, and respond to the rising post-pandemic interest in outdoor recreation, while promoting long-term conservation efforts. This approach offers a replicable model for the sustainable development of mountainous and semi-mountainous areas in Greece and beyond. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Policy as a Tool for Sustainable Development)
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18 pages, 561 KiB  
Article
Research on the Impact Mechanism of ETS on Green Innovation in China’s High-Carbon Industries: A Perspective of Enterprise Heterogeneity
by Xiao Liu and Yue Zhu
Sustainability 2024, 16(20), 8793; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16208793 - 11 Oct 2024
Viewed by 1258
Abstract
Green technology innovation is an important driving force for low-carbon development of enterprises. As a market-based environmental policy to promote greenhouse gas emission reduction, whether carbon emission trading scheme (ETS) can encourage enterprises to carry out green technology innovation under the background of [...] Read more.
Green technology innovation is an important driving force for low-carbon development of enterprises. As a market-based environmental policy to promote greenhouse gas emission reduction, whether carbon emission trading scheme (ETS) can encourage enterprises to carry out green technology innovation under the background of “dual carbon” goal deserves further research. Taking Chinese A-share listed enterprises in the five major sectors as samples, this study constructed a modified Difference-in-Differences (DID) model to test the causal effect of ETS on green innovation in high-carbon industries. Three significant results can be summarized from the empirical study. Firstly, the ETS has a significant promoting effect on green innovation of high-carbon enterprises. And it can effectively promote high-carbon enterprises to achieve an average of a 13.24–19.56% increase in low-carbon innovation capabilities. Secondly, enterprises with different characteristics have heterogeneity in the impact of ETS implementation on green innovation. Secondly, the implementation of ETS exerts heterogeneous effects on green technology innovation across enterprises that possess diverse characteristics. Enterprises with a large capital scale (low equity concentration) have a more significant promoting effect than those with a small capital scale (high equity concentration). Thirdly, the green innovation effect of ETS exhibits significant heterogeneity across different types of industries. In the mining, manufacturing, and construction sectors, the ETS has effectively stimulated green innovation to a certain extent. There has been no significant change in green innovation in the sector of electricity, heat, gas, and water production and supply. In particular, after the implementation of the ETS, green innovation has actually been weakened in the transportation sector. As such, for policy makers, differentiated ETS policies should be implemented based on the actual situation of different industries and types of carbon-emitting enterprises. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Policy as a Tool for Sustainable Development)
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21 pages, 288 KiB  
Article
Navigating Environmental Tax Challenges: Business Strategies for Chinese Firms Sustainable Growth
by Xiaomin Lyu and Qiongwen Zhang
Sustainability 2024, 16(17), 7518; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16177518 - 30 Aug 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1215
Abstract
The environmental tax burden on Chinese firms is continuously increasing. How do firms respond to environmental tax pressure to achieve sustainability? This study aims to investigate whether environmental tax burden affects firms’ total factor productivity (TFP), an important indicator of sustainable development. Utilizing [...] Read more.
The environmental tax burden on Chinese firms is continuously increasing. How do firms respond to environmental tax pressure to achieve sustainability? This study aims to investigate whether environmental tax burden affects firms’ total factor productivity (TFP), an important indicator of sustainable development. Utilizing panel data of Chinese A-share listed firms from 2018–2022, we find that environmental tax burden positively impacts Chinese firms’ TFP. Interestingly, the impact of environmental tax burden on TFP is mediated through fixed asset investment rather than technological innovation. This indicates that in the short term, the pressure of environmental tax on Chinese firms has not triggered the Porter Effect. Additionally, this effect is stronger in larger firms, non-state-owned firms, and sample firms with weaker financial constraints and lower transaction costs. Therefore, different firms can flexibly adopt different business strategies to achieve sustainable development when facing environmental tax burden. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Policy as a Tool for Sustainable Development)
25 pages, 1026 KiB  
Article
Two-Way Perspectives and Attitudes about Environmentally Friendly Agro-Food Production and Consumption: An Empirical Survey for Greece
by Aggeliki Ketelni, Christos Karelakis, Eleni Zafeiriou, Maria Pappas and Kalliope Papadopoulou
Sustainability 2024, 16(15), 6706; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16156706 - 5 Aug 2024
Viewed by 1584
Abstract
Relying on pesticides to safeguard crops has led to pest resistance and detrimental environmental and health consequences. Many integrated pest management programs focus on producers’ decision-making processes when selecting and implementing pest management interventions. Alternative approaches such as integrated pest management and biological [...] Read more.
Relying on pesticides to safeguard crops has led to pest resistance and detrimental environmental and health consequences. Many integrated pest management programs focus on producers’ decision-making processes when selecting and implementing pest management interventions. Alternative approaches such as integrated pest management and biological control have been implemented to address these challenges, with Greece as the research area. A quantitative study was oriented to consumers and producers to investigate their views on the effectiveness of pesticides, aiming to assess whether these perspectives influence their attitudes toward adopting pest management practices. Primary data were gathered through structured questionnaires to consumers and producer associations (focusing on tomatoes, olives, and citrus fruits) and analyzed through multivariate methods. The findings unveiled varying preferences and concerns regarding plant protection tools, with considerations such as product effectiveness, method awareness, and sustainability. Specifically, the study revealed aspects like the popularity and demand for specific plant protection tools, the knowledge of these experts about products and pest control methods, and their stance on sustainable agriculture and environmental aspects of pest control. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Policy as a Tool for Sustainable Development)
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14 pages, 1937 KiB  
Article
Are South Korea’s Environmental Policies Rational? An Analysis Focusing on Fine Dust Programs in the Seoul Metropolitan Area
by Sang-hyeon Jin
Sustainability 2024, 16(15), 6293; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16156293 - 23 Jul 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2095
Abstract
Since 2018, the government of South Korea has strengthened its environmental policies to solve the problem of fine particulate matter in the air. Because of these strict regulations, diesel cars have been replaced with cleaner vehicles, and coal power plants have been shut [...] Read more.
Since 2018, the government of South Korea has strengthened its environmental policies to solve the problem of fine particulate matter in the air. Because of these strict regulations, diesel cars have been replaced with cleaner vehicles, and coal power plants have been shut down. Despite these government efforts, some researchers assert that fine dust programs have failed in Seoul, the capital of Korea. In other words, they conclude that the central and local governments designed and implemented the policies unreasonably. Despite these critics, this study attempts to prove that the government has thoroughly and meticulously prepared its policies on fine particles. Also, it tries to demonstrate that the policy scheme has been properly established. To attain these research goals, the theory of procedural rationality is adopted and utilized. As a result of the analysis, six steps of procedural rationality were identified in the Korean policy on fine dust: problem identification, goal setting, searching for alternatives, consequence prediction, comparison of alternatives, and policy decision. In conclusion, this study provides suggestions for environmental policies in other metropolitan cities, especially in developing countries that suffer from severe air pollution. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Policy as a Tool for Sustainable Development)
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22 pages, 7502 KiB  
Article
Heritage Resilience and Identity: Lesson from Trabocchi Coast about Climate Change Adaptation Strategies
by Luisa Irazú López Campos, Fernanda Prestileo, Eleonora Maria Stella, Alessandra Mascitelli, Eleonora Aruffo, Piero Chiacchiaretta, Piero Di Carlo and Stefano Dietrich
Sustainability 2024, 16(14), 5848; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16145848 - 9 Jul 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1557
Abstract
Climate change and land use are major drivers of environmental and socioeconomic transformations in landscapes and in coastal areas. The objective of this study was to present an interdisciplinary and participatory research methodology for analysing the evolutionary process of a coastal case study, [...] Read more.
Climate change and land use are major drivers of environmental and socioeconomic transformations in landscapes and in coastal areas. The objective of this study was to present an interdisciplinary and participatory research methodology for analysing the evolutionary process of a coastal case study, the Trabocchi Coast in the Abruzzo Region (Italy), from multiple perspectives, including climate change, technological history, conservation protocols, and social function. The goal was to assess the resilience of these coastal structures, i.e., their ability to cope and adapt to changes while maintaining their identity and recognition. The adopted approach combined qualitative and quantitative data from the meteorological analyses, literature review, and field investigations involving a participatory workshop, from which a significant portion of the analysed results presented here emerged. The results indicate that the Trabocchi Coast has undergone significant changes in recent decades, posing a serious threat to cultural heritage due to climate change (sea-level rise, coastal erosion, storms, flooding and salinisation), changes in use and mass tourism. However, these changes have also presented challenges and opportunities for coastal development, stimulating diverse resilient responses from local communities, ranging from resistance to innovation. The paper discusses the factors that may make the Trabocchi Coast a model of resilience considering these changes. This is supported by the role of local institutions as guarantors of the cultural heritage value of the trabocchi in that specific landscape context, as evidenced by the approval of the “Costa dei Trabocchi Special Territorial Project” by the Abruzzo Region in 2023. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Policy as a Tool for Sustainable Development)
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18 pages, 299 KiB  
Article
Analysis in Terms of Environmental Awareness of Farmers’ Decisions and Attitudes: Reducing Pesticide Use and Risks
by Ismail Bulent Gurbuz
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4323; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114323 - 21 May 2024
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1656
Abstract
Pesticide residues are a significant problem affecting the quality and safety of agricultural products in Turkey. This study aims to investigate farmers’ risk perception regarding pesticide residues, including the primary factors that influence their behavior from the farmers’ perspective. In addition, the main [...] Read more.
Pesticide residues are a significant problem affecting the quality and safety of agricultural products in Turkey. This study aims to investigate farmers’ risk perception regarding pesticide residues, including the primary factors that influence their behavior from the farmers’ perspective. In addition, the main characteristics of pesticide residues encountered in the production of agricultural products against the current policy background is investigated to provide decision support to the Turkish government for improving the safe production of agricultural products. This paper uses a binary logistic model to analyze farmers’ perceptions of pesticide residues using a cross-sectional dataset of 323 vegetable growers in Bursa, Turkey. Farmer characteristics and pesticide application behavior were more effective in reducing residual risk perceptions than farm characteristics. The effects of membership in a cooperative, average amount of pesticide used, location where the pesticide was purchased, application timing, and adherence to last spraying and harvest timing on the perception of residues were the largest. Farmers receive helpful but limited information from pesticide distributors. However, the primary source of information is not the advisors, which is why these grievances exist. The study results show that policymakers should support cooperatives, expand pesticide training, and make public extension services more effective and that pesticide dealers should conduct more frequent inspections. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Policy as a Tool for Sustainable Development)
22 pages, 1205 KiB  
Article
Exploring the Mechanisms of Regional Environmental Collaborative Legislation in China: Policy Effectiveness, Practical Challenges, and Policy Suggestions
by Shizhong Peng, Shan Liang, Tianyu Dai and Haoran Peng
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 3959; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16103959 - 9 May 2024
Viewed by 1583
Abstract
The legislation for regional environmental collaboration is of significant importance in enhancing the effectiveness of environmental protection. The existing literature focuses on the power struggle between central and local governments regarding environmental regulation within the realm of regional environmental governance, lacking an examination [...] Read more.
The legislation for regional environmental collaboration is of significant importance in enhancing the effectiveness of environmental protection. The existing literature focuses on the power struggle between central and local governments regarding environmental regulation within the realm of regional environmental governance, lacking an examination of the collaborative governance mechanisms and their effectiveness. Therefore, this study takes China’s regional environmental collaborative legislation as its research object. It employs a difference-in-differences model to test the effectiveness of regional environmental collaborative legislation concerning environmental governance and conducts a qualitative analysis to examine the current practical challenges facing regional environmental collaborative legislation. The quantitative analysis results indicate that regional environmental collaborative legislation can effectively suppress the emission of environmental pollutants. Specifically, the implementation of regional environmental collaborative legislation results in a 19.7% reduction in prefecture-level wastewater emissions and a 26.6% reduction in sulfur dioxide emissions. Qualitative analysis results show that regional environmental collaborative legislation currently faces challenges such as localism, difficulties in legislative authority allocation, and a lack of cooperation mechanisms. Therefore, this paper proposes to establish a collaboration platform, balance the interests of stakeholders, and improve the allocation mechanism of environmental regulatory powers in order to better optimize the regional environmental collaborative legislation and enhance the government’s environmental governance capacity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Policy as a Tool for Sustainable Development)
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27 pages, 3463 KiB  
Article
Assessing Multilateral Development Bank ESG Safeguard Integration with International Sustainability Ratings
by Damián Rodríguez Estévez and Rosa María Arce Ruíz
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3789; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093789 - 30 Apr 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2130
Abstract
In an era where sustainability is paramount, this study critically assesses how multilateral development banks (MDBs) integrate internationally recognized sustainability indicators into their ESG safeguard policies. MDBs have historically incorporated policies to manage environmental and social risks in project financing; yet, protections against [...] Read more.
In an era where sustainability is paramount, this study critically assesses how multilateral development banks (MDBs) integrate internationally recognized sustainability indicators into their ESG safeguard policies. MDBs have historically incorporated policies to manage environmental and social risks in project financing; yet, protections against negative impacts in developing countries often remain insufficient. On the other hand, several infrastructure sustainability rating systems have been established around the world in recent decades due to economic growth and the importance of controlling environmental impacts associated with the construction sector. The purpose of this study was to analyze whether and how the indicators that these internationally recognized systems use to rate whether a project is sustainable are integrated into these safeguards by using several methodologies, including an analysis of existing documentation, a high-level matrix, and qualitative methods based on co-occurrences using specialized “atlas ti” software. The results show that MDBs’ coverage of financial, governance, and country risks lacks the sustainability focus found in these rating systems. Therefore, this study that concludes MDB safeguards must evolve, balancing comprehensive sustainability parameters and detailed management guidelines and addressing impacts beyond statutory frameworks to encourage stakeholder engagement for more sustainable infrastructure projects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Policy as a Tool for Sustainable Development)
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14 pages, 1232 KiB  
Article
Does the Water Rights Trading Policy Improve Water-Use Efficiency? An Environmental Policy Evaluation from China
by Naiming He, Ying Shi and Rijia Ding
Sustainability 2024, 16(8), 3454; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16083454 - 20 Apr 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1669
Abstract
As a crucial basic natural resource, water resources are the cornerstone for sustainable national economic development. This paper takes the 2014 pilot water rights trading policy (WRT) as an entry point and uses a difference-in-differences (DID) model to test the policy effect of [...] Read more.
As a crucial basic natural resource, water resources are the cornerstone for sustainable national economic development. This paper takes the 2014 pilot water rights trading policy (WRT) as an entry point and uses a difference-in-differences (DID) model to test the policy effect of WRT on water-use efficiency (WUE) based on panel data for 30 Chinese provinces from 2005 to 2021. The study shows that WRT can significantly improve the regional WUE, and these results remain valid after a series of robustness tests, such as the parallel trend test, placebo test, and PSM-DID. Mechanistic analysis revealed that WRT can produce the Porter effect, which affects the WUE through technological innovation. The results of the heterogeneity analysis based on the synthetic control method (SCM) showed that WRT effectively improved WUE in Jiangxi, Henan, Ningxia, Hubei, and Guangdong, but did not achieve the expected effect in Inner Mongolia or Gansu. This paper provides solid empirical support for assessing the effectiveness of WRT and accelerating the process of establishing a unified national WRT market in China by 2025. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Policy as a Tool for Sustainable Development)
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20 pages, 604 KiB  
Article
Investigating Public Support for the Carbon Generalized System of Preference through the Lens of Protection Motivation Theory and Information Deficit Model
by Wanyan Li and Jincan Liu
Sustainability 2024, 16(4), 1531; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16041531 - 11 Feb 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1912
Abstract
The pressing challenges of climate change require government policy interventions. The carbon generalized system of preference (CGSP) is a novel incentive policy that has tremendous potential to reduce carbon emissions in response to climate change. However, there have been few studies focusing on [...] Read more.
The pressing challenges of climate change require government policy interventions. The carbon generalized system of preference (CGSP) is a novel incentive policy that has tremendous potential to reduce carbon emissions in response to climate change. However, there have been few studies focusing on public support for the CGSP, which is the precondition for its seamless implementation. Drawing on the protection motivation theory and information deficit model, this study presents and empirically validates a holistic theoretical framework in which information (information about climate change and information about the CGSP), threat appraisal (threat vulnerability and threat severity), and coping appraisal (response efficacy, self-efficacy, and response cost) are the factors influencing public support for the CGSP. Survey data of 372 respondents were empirically analyzed using the PLS-SEM method. The results show that threat vulnerability, threat severity, response efficacy, and self-efficacy positively affect public support for the CGSP, while response cost does not influence public support for the CGSP. Information about climate change indirectly influences public support for the CGSP through threat vulnerability and threat severity. Information about the CGSP not only directly affects public support for the CGSP but also indirectly affects public support for the CGSP through response efficacy and self-efficacy. The theoretical framework of this study can serve as a reference for future research on public support for environmental policies. The findings of this study also furnish insights for policymakers to develop feasible strategies for the seamless implementation of the CGSP. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Policy as a Tool for Sustainable Development)
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14 pages, 2803 KiB  
Article
Focus Group Discussions on Food Waste: An Empirical Application Providing Insights into Rural and Urban Households in Greece
by Vasiliki Aitsidou, Evangelia Michailidou, Efstratios Loizou, Georgios Tsantopoulos and Anastasios Michailidis
Sustainability 2024, 16(2), 502; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16020502 - 5 Jan 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2999
Abstract
This paper demonstrates the utility of the focus group discussions (FGDs) methodology in the scientific exploration of food waste. The main objective is to show how FGDs can be designed and implemented by collecting data on household food waste (HFW). The paper provides [...] Read more.
This paper demonstrates the utility of the focus group discussions (FGDs) methodology in the scientific exploration of food waste. The main objective is to show how FGDs can be designed and implemented by collecting data on household food waste (HFW). The paper provides an empirical application of FGDs to members of urban and rural households in Greece through 10 steps. It is qualitative research that was implemented as a supplement in the framework of a large-scale study on HFW, providing an in-depth interpretation of the statistical results that were arrived at. The research shows that FGDs are an effective data collection methodology that reveals insights into HFW through interactions and complex behaviors. Further, the methodology used gives the opportunity to bring information to the fore. The role of women in relation to food-related responsibilities in the Greek household and the impact of rural experiences on HFW composition constitute two topics under exploration. A detailed understanding of HFW examined through the FGDs methodology enriches the global bibliography, mainly for the case of Greece. In addition, useful information is provided to local and governmental bodies, enabling them to collaborate with academics and experts in food waste management. There is a willingness among household members to raise their awareness of HFW reduction and prevention. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Policy as a Tool for Sustainable Development)
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19 pages, 487 KiB  
Article
The Regionally Heterogeneous Impact of China’s Environmental Regulation on the Transformation and Upgrading of Its Industrial Structure
by Yutian Dou and Shuai Guan
Sustainability 2023, 15(24), 16939; https://doi.org/10.3390/su152416939 - 18 Dec 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1389
Abstract
Approaches to promoting the transformation and upgrading of China’s industrial structure represent an important issue in high-quality economic development. The upgrading of industrial structures is beneficial not only for environmental protection but also for sustainable economic development. This article first tests the correlation [...] Read more.
Approaches to promoting the transformation and upgrading of China’s industrial structure represent an important issue in high-quality economic development. The upgrading of industrial structures is beneficial not only for environmental protection but also for sustainable economic development. This article first tests the correlation between environmental regulation and the transformation and upgrading of industrial structure through an impulse response function and then uses provincial panel data to analyze the regionally heterogeneous impact of environmental regulation on industrial structure upgrading. The research results indicate that: (1) the presented impulse response graph indicates that environmental regulation shocks have a significant impact on the rationalization and upgrading of industrial structure, and subsequent variance decomposition indicates that environmental regulation has a strong explanatory power on the transformation and upgrading of industrial structure; (2) overall, strengthening the level of environmental regulation is not conducive to the rationalization of industrial structure (RIS), but a strong level of environmental regulation can significantly promote the upgrading of industrial structure (UIS); and (3) at the regional level, there is significant regional heterogeneity in the impact of environmental regulation on the transformation and upgrading of industrial structure in different regions. Environmental regulation can promote UIS in China’s eastern and western regions, but it is not conducive to RIS. Environmental regulation can promote RIS in China’s central region, but it has a negative impact on UIS. The conclusion of this article provides inspiration for sustainable economic development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Policy as a Tool for Sustainable Development)
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Review

Jump to: Research, Other

21 pages, 1007 KiB  
Review
Exploring the Interplay Between Energy Policies and Sustainable Development Goals Within Lithuania’s Energy Sector: A Critical Review
by Alexandra Alonso Soto and Žaneta Stasiškienė
Sustainability 2024, 16(22), 10018; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162210018 - 17 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1211
Abstract
This paper presents a critical review of Lithuania’s climate change mitigation policies within the energy sector, focusing on their alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study highlights the significance of energy efficiency, renewable energy, and energy security in Lithuania’s efforts to reduce [...] Read more.
This paper presents a critical review of Lithuania’s climate change mitigation policies within the energy sector, focusing on their alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study highlights the significance of energy efficiency, renewable energy, and energy security in Lithuania’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to a sustainable energy system. The review analyzes the selected research literature that studies Lithuania’s efforts to adapt and fulfill EU energy directives and national goals, emphasizing the impacts of these policies on various sectors, including residential, transport, and industry. The methodology includes a comprehensive analysis of the existing literature and semi-structured interviews with stakeholders regarding their perceptions of the current state and future directions of Lithuania’s energy policies. Findings indicate substantial progress in renewable energy adoption and energy efficiency improvements, contributing to SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). However, challenges such as high costs, underdeveloped financing mechanisms, and limited public awareness hinder further advancements. This paper suggests that future policies should focus on overcoming these barriers, enhancing public engagement, and integrating technological innovations to achieve more significant energy savings and GHG reductions. Recommendations for policy improvements and further research directions are also discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Policy as a Tool for Sustainable Development)
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20 pages, 6246 KiB  
Review
Rethinking the Smart Green City Project in South Korea: A Critical Juncture Approach
by Myunghee Kim
Sustainability 2024, 16(22), 9864; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16229864 - 12 Nov 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1405
Abstract
Over the past 10 years, the Korean government has declared its intention to achieve carbon neutrality to the international community and strived to create smart cities and green cities as a practice to achieve carbon neutrality. In the same context, the Smart Green [...] Read more.
Over the past 10 years, the Korean government has declared its intention to achieve carbon neutrality to the international community and strived to create smart cities and green cities as a practice to achieve carbon neutrality. In the same context, the Smart Green City project, which began in earnest at the end of 2020, initially attracted national attention due to the strong will of the administration. However, limitations in its performance were revealed. This study aimed to identify the policy mechanisms that led the Korean government to pursue the Smart Green City project using a critical juncture approach and to derive useful implications for policy selection. A critical juncture framework was applied for in-depth analysis, and a descriptive case study based on critical thinking was conducted. The results confirmed that endogenous and exogenous environmental changes surrounding the government at critical junctures were mechanisms for establishing the Smart Green City project. In addition, the government’s attempt to differentiate itself from the policies of previous governments was confirmed to be a constraint that actually hindered the project’s progress. This study concludes that if a government facing a complex crisis makes hasty policy decisions, it is likely to repeat the policy pattern or institutional path of previous governments. It also argued that in this situation, policy choices that aim to cut a new path may cause the government to choose a wrong path, which may have irreversible consequences. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Policy as a Tool for Sustainable Development)
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19 pages, 848 KiB  
Review
An Overview of the Role of Forests in Climate Change Mitigation
by Kyriaki Psistaki, Georgios Tsantopoulos and Anastasia K. Paschalidou
Sustainability 2024, 16(14), 6089; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16146089 - 17 Jul 2024
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 9442
Abstract
Nowadays, climate change is recognized as one of the biggest problems the world is facing, posing a potential threat to the environment and almost all aspects of human life. Since the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in 1992, many efforts have [...] Read more.
Nowadays, climate change is recognized as one of the biggest problems the world is facing, posing a potential threat to the environment and almost all aspects of human life. Since the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in 1992, many efforts have been made to mitigate climate change, with no considerable results. According to climate change projections, temperatures will continue to rise, and extreme weather events will become more frequent, prolonged, and intense. Reflecting these concerns, the 2015 Paris Agreement was adopted as the cornerstone for reducing the impact of climate change, aiming to limit global warming below 2 °C and even keep the temperature rise below 1.5 °C. To achieve this international goal, focused mitigation actions will be required. Climate change has a strong impact on forests, enhancing their growth but also posing risks to them. Conversely, forests can mitigate climate change, as they have a considerable impact on global surface temperatures through their influence on the land–atmosphere energy exchange and the absorption of vast amounts of CO2 through photosynthesis. Consequently, afforestation and reforestation have become integral components of climate change mitigation strategies worldwide. This review aims to summarize the cutting-edge knowledge on the role of forests in climate change mitigation, emphasizing their carbon absorption and storage capacity. Overall, the impact of afforestation/reforestation on climate change mitigation hinges on strategic planning, implementation, and local forest conditions. Integrating afforestation and reforestation with other carbon removal technologies could enhance long-term effectiveness in carbon storage. Ultimately, effective climate change mitigation entails both restoring and establishing forests, alongside reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Policy as a Tool for Sustainable Development)
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Other

Jump to: Research, Review

22 pages, 981 KiB  
Essay
Decision Change: The First Step to System Change
by Arnold J. Bomans and Peter Roessingh
Sustainability 2024, 16(6), 2372; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16062372 - 13 Mar 2024
Viewed by 2091
Abstract
Global crises, such as climate change and ecological collapse, require changes in systemic factors that cause the crises. These factors include the economy, population growth, and decision-making in global affairs. Current decision-making processes have failed to accomplish the required system change, necessitating a [...] Read more.
Global crises, such as climate change and ecological collapse, require changes in systemic factors that cause the crises. These factors include the economy, population growth, and decision-making in global affairs. Current decision-making processes have failed to accomplish the required system change, necessitating a change to these processes (‘decision change’) for meaningful progress. The key question is how a procedure for deciding on the required system change should be designed in this setting. In this essay, we propose a three-step approach. First, independent experts in collective decision-making should design this procedure under monitoring by auxiliary bodies that safeguard the design process; second, proposals for system change should be collected; third, based on these proposals, system change should be designed and decided upon using the new decision-making procedure. We argue that authority can be given to the new decision-making body that decides on system change. A global team must convene the decision-making experts and auxiliary bodies, collect system-change proposals, and guarantee that the decision-making process is facilitated. We call on individuals and independent organisations to form such a team or support its formation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Policy as a Tool for Sustainable Development)
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