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Enhancing Decision-Making Processes for Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

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A special issue of Sustainability (ISSN 2071-1050). This special issue belongs to the section "Sustainable Management".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 December 2026 | Viewed by 12233

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Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Yuan-Wei Du

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Guest Editor

School of Business and Tourism Management, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, China
Interests: management decision making and its application
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Dr. Ye-Cheng Wang

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Guest Editor

Institute of Marine Economy and Management, Shandong University of Finance and Economics, Jinan, China
Interests: marine economic management; management decision making

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide the framework for the world's nations to address unprecedented environmental, social, and economic challenges; however, the existing decision-making process faces new situations and requirements to achieve these goals. The increasing complexity and interconnectedness of social, economic, and environmental issues have made it necessary for decisionmakers to go beyond single-domain thinking and adopt a systemic, interdisciplinary approach to achieve an integrated effect in decision making. In the actual decision-making process, problems such as a lack of systematization, weakened scientific evidence, ineffective cross-sectoral collaboration, and a lack of effective feedback and management mechanisms are still affecting the reliability and rationality of decision-making results for achieving the SDGs. With the 2030 deadline for achieving the SDGs less than a few years away, more effective decision-making processes are urgently required to significantly improve progress and accelerate the transition to a sustainable future.

This Special Issue primarily focuses on enhancing decision making for achieving SDGs. We believe that this kind of research, conducted under current complex situations, can provide guidance and support for the faster and better realization of the SDGs. We are seeking papers that involve the theory, models, methods, and applications of decision making for achieving the SDGs. Potential topics for submissions to this Special Issue include (but are not limited to) the following:

Decision-making theory or mechanism for achieving the SDGs.
Decision-making model or method for achieving the SDGs.
Systematic thinking in the decision-making process for sustainable development.
AI-involved decision making for sustainable development.
Data-driven decision making for sustainable development.
Risk management for sustainable development.
Emergency management for sustainable development.
Decision making in agriculture management for sustainable development.
Decision making in marine management for sustainable development.
Decision making in tourism management for sustainable development.
Decision making for ecological security in plateau characteristic agriculture.
Decision making for ecological security in marine ranching.
Multiple-criteria decision making for sustainable development.
Group decision making for sustainable development.
Decision making under uncertainty for sustainable development.

Prof. Dr. Yuan-Wei Du
Dr. Ye-Cheng Wang
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 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

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

sustainable development goals (SDGs)
sustainable development
ecological safety
systematic thinking
group decision making
multiple-criteria decision making
decision making under uncertainty
risk management
emergency management

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Published Papers (8 papers)

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Research

23 pages, 1096 KB

Open AccessArticle

Strategic Interaction of Online Travel Platforms: Cancellation Policies Under Heterogeneous Reputation Sensitivity

by Jinlong Fan, Wuyong Qian and Chunyi Ji

Sustainability 2026, 18(5), 2651; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18052651 - 9 Mar 2026

Viewed by 486

Abstract

The sustainable development of online travel platforms relies on consumer trust and a healthy ecosystem. However, challenging cancellation policies have become a significant issue, threatening the industry’s sustainability. Existing research often analyzes cancellation policies from a short-term profit perspective, lacking a dynamic evolutionary analysis. This study employs evolutionary game theory and the Hotelling model, introducing heterogeneity in reputation loss sensitivity to explore how platforms evolve optimal cancellation policies between strict and lenient policies. We find that in markets with low reliance on reputation, platforms tend to adopt differentiated policies, making it difficult for the equilibrium to be unified and lenient. As reputation becomes more important, the market exhibits policy imitation or differentiation, both of which are significantly influenced by user loyalty. In highly competitive environments, reputation becomes central, and even reputation-insensitive platforms may adopt lenient policies to gain market share. Notably, increased user loyalty drives the market toward more lenient cancellation policies. This research provides a theoretical basis for platforms to formulate sustainable policies in dynamic competition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Decision-Making Processes for Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs))

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27 pages, 5399 KB

Open AccessArticle

An Analysis of Key Constraining Factors on Load Control for Power Grid Companies from the Perspective of Industrial Chain Sustainability

by Xiaohua Yang, Wenhua Zhang, Jiahui Tan and Yonghe Sun

Sustainability 2026, 18(1), 528; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18010528 - 5 Jan 2026

Viewed by 548

Abstract

In the context of high renewable energy penetration and increasing supply–demand imbalances, power grid companies face complex challenges in load control due to multiple constraints. Based on the actual operational context of power grid companies in China, this study systematically analyzes the key constraints on load control from an industrial chain perspective. First, a systematic analytical framework is constructed from an industrial chain perspective to identify the factors constraining load control in power enterprises. Then, by integrating in-depth qualitative insights with a rigorous quantitative analysis, we propose an analytical method for identifying key constraining factors using a novel interactive group Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) approach. Finally, using Yunnan Power Grid Company in China as a case study, we identify specific constraining factors, including power generation costs, electricity pricing policies, distribution equipment capacity, and the level of grid intelligence. Based on the findings, this study proposes to establish a multi-dimensional coordination mechanism for Yunnan Power Grid, encompassing infrastructure-driven planning, policy–technology synergy, and cost-transmission optimization. This integrated approach will systematically enhance load control capabilities and support the transition toward a green, low-carbon power system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Decision-Making Processes for Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs))

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22 pages, 469 KB

Open AccessArticle

Towards an Impact Performance Measurement Approach for Impact Investing: Results from a Benchmarking Study for Credit Finance

by Rajna Nicole Gibson Brandon, Melita Leousi and Camilo Mondragon-Velez

Sustainability 2025, 17(23), 10431; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172310431 - 21 Nov 2025

Viewed by 1703

Abstract

Unlocking SDG-relevant capital depends on coherent and robust impact performance metrics that enable ex ante decision-making across investment options and ex post assessment of both forecasted and realized impact. This study proposes a “synthetic” approach for measuring the impact performance of investments that can be adopted by impact investors and that complements standard impact reporting. We identify five criteria relevant for impact performance measurement—intentionality, measurability, feasibility, incrementality, and comparability—and use them to benchmark a sample of 84 metrics developed by academics and practitioners in the credit finance sector, which attracts the largest volume of impact investments. While over half of the metrics satisfy the criteria of intentionality, measurability, and feasibility—necessary for impact reporting—none meet all five, which are required for robust impact performance measurement. This highlights a significant gap between current practices and what is required to assess impact performance. Based on our findings, we propose a limited set of impact performance metrics suited to credit finance, underlined by a sector-specific theory of change. These metrics, and those that we plan to develop for other sectors, as well as for SDG themes like employment, gender, and climate, are essential to scale up the capital needed to meet the SDGs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Decision-Making Processes for Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs))

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14 pages, 967 KB

Open AccessArticle

Spatial Variability of Rainfall and Vulnerability Assessment of Water Resources Infrastructure for Adaptive Management Implementation in Ceará, Brazil

by Gabriela de Azevedo Reis, Larissa Zaira Rafael Rolim, Ticiana Marinho de Carvalho Studart, Samiria Maria Oliveira da Silva, Francisco de Assis de Souza Filho and Maria Aparecida Melo Rocha

Sustainability 2025, 17(20), 9147; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17209147 - 15 Oct 2025

Viewed by 794

Abstract

Given that a robust water resource management strategy requires the knowledge of natural and climatic factors and social and economic factors, we applied a variability and vulnerability assessment as a quantitative tool to characterize water resources in Ceará, Brazil. A methodological approach that identifies and quantifies variability and vulnerability would allow better solutions to management decision problems. This approach functions as an indicator-based framework separating areas with similar water availability and water resources infrastructure, indicating the influence of natural and anthropogenic factors in the area’s water resources. The assessment proceeded with the regions’ delimitation, classifying them according to rainfall amount and spatial variability. The Adaptive Capacity for Water Management Index (ACWM) was evaluated using georeferenced water infrastructure information based on that classification. Most of the state’s area is subjected to low rainfall (below average). Nonetheless, of the areas with low rainfall, 48% have high variability. Within those areas critical water infrastructures are located that supply water to the state’s main industrial and populated city. Thus, the acknowledgment of this characteristic can complement current water management. Lastly, the authors provided recommendations based on the coupling of variability and vulnerability assessments with adaptive management to address improvements in the current water allocation system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Decision-Making Processes for Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs))

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30 pages, 2141 KB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Efficiency in Sustainable IoT Enterprises: Modeling Indicators Using Pythagorean Fuzzy and Interval Grey Approaches

by Mimica R. Milošević, Miloš M. Nikolić, Dušan M. Milošević and Violeta Dimić

Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 7143; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17157143 - 6 Aug 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1307

Abstract

“The Internet of Things” is a relatively new idea that refers to objects that can connect to the Internet and exchange data. The Internet of Things (IoT) enables novel interactions between objects and people by interconnecting billions of devices. While there are many IoT-related products, challenges pertaining to their effective implementation, particularly the lack of knowledge and confidence about security, must be addressed. To provide IoT-based enterprises with a platform for efficiency and sustainability, this study aims to identify the critical elements that influence the growth of a successful company integrated with an IoT system. This study proposes a decision support tool that evaluates the influential features of IoT using the Pythagorean Fuzzy and Interval Grey approaches within the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP). This study demonstrates that security, value, and connectivity are more critical than telepresence and intelligence indicators. When both strategies are used, market demand and information privacy become significant indicators. Applying the Pythagorean Fuzzy approach enables the identification of sensor networks, authorization, market demand, and data management in terms of importance. The application of the Interval Grey approach underscores the importance of data management, particularly in sensor networks. The indicators that were finally ranked are compared to obtain a good coefficient of agreement. These findings offer practical insights for promoting sustainability in enterprise operations by optimizing IoT infrastructure and decision-making processes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Decision-Making Processes for Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs))

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19 pages, 6878 KB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of the Endowment of Geothermal Resources and Its Impact on Regional Industrial Structure: A Case Study of Qinghai Province (China)

by Zhen Zhao, Guangxiong Qin, Baizhong Yan and Chuanlong Han

Sustainability 2025, 17(4), 1751; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17041751 - 19 Feb 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1319

Abstract

Geothermal resources are considered a clean energy source, and their development plays a key role in achieving sustainable development. This energy contributes to environmental protection, energy security, and economic growth, while also helping to alleviate energy poverty. Qinghai Province, rich in geothermal resources, holds significant potential for development. First, this study evaluated the geothermal resources in the uplifted mountainous regions of Qinghai Province using the volumetric method and analyzed their spatial distribution. Next, the degree of geothermal resource endowment was measured, and the relationship between geothermal resources and industrial structure was analyzed. Finally, the Vector Autoregression (VAR) model and impulse response function were applied to assess the impact and duration of geothermal resources on changes in the industrial structure from 2000 to 2020. Geothermal resources in Qinghai Province exhibit significant regional variation, with the northern and western regions being particularly rich in geothermal resources, peaking at 3.58 × 10¹⁷ J in Banma County. Geothermal resources in Qinghai are predominantly utilized for power generation, averaging 42.20% of energy consumption. The interplay between geothermal resource use and industrial structure is intensifying, notably in secondary and tertiary sectors. Initially restrictive, the influence of industrial structure on geothermal resource use is projected to become facilitative as clean energy technologies advance. This study revealed the relationship between geothermal resources and the local industrial structure in Qinghai Province, providing a scientific basis for the sustainable and efficient development and utilization of these resources. It contributed to the long-term sustainability of geothermal resource exploitation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Decision-Making Processes for Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs))

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21 pages, 2169 KB

Open AccessArticle

Theoretical Framework for the Supervision of Plateau-Characteristic Agroecological Security

by Yuanwei Du and Yiwei Zhang

Sustainability 2024, 16(24), 10802; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162410802 - 10 Dec 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1658

Abstract

To mitigate the conflict between ecological restoration and the pursuit of economic benefits in characteristic agriculture within plateau regions, this study proposes a theoretical framework for supervising plateau-characteristic agroecological security (PCAES). Initially, characteristic agriculture is conceptualized as an artificial ecosystem resulting from the complex interactions between the ecological environment and specific agricultural resources in a given plateau region; thus, PCAES is defined as a sustainable developmental state of plateau-characteristic agriculture that ensures a high-quality resource supply without compromising ecological integrity. Subsequently, a theoretical framework of PCAES is constructed by analyzing supervisory subjects, objects, and their interrelationships, followed by an in-depth study from three different perspectives. At the foundational level, the monitoring and evaluation mechanism focuses on gathering data regarding resource composition and environmental conditions to assess ecological security. At the intermediate level, the early warning and decision-making mechanism aims at estimating potential ecological security issues and then designing and selecting optimal measures. At a higher level, the control and assurance mechanism directs stakeholders toward compliance with ecological safety regulations via resource allocation and macro-policy interventions while ensuring effective system operation. This study holds significant implications for advancing green development initiatives, enhancing agricultural scientific innovation, and promoting sustainable practices in plateau agriculture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Decision-Making Processes for Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs))

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19 pages, 2056 KB

Open AccessArticle

Examining Strategies Developed by Insurance Companies for Addressing Carbon Emissions in the Automotive Supply Chain in the UK

by Yu Gong, Joshua Stanley, Bin Wang and Mohammed Alharithi

Sustainability 2024, 16(22), 9895; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16229895 - 13 Nov 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2697

Abstract

The automotive supply chain is one of the top eight value chains that cause 50% of global emissions. Despite its significance, limited literature has researched the role of insurance companies in addressing automotive supply chain emissions. This research explores strategies developed by insurance companies for addressing carbon emissions in the automotive supply chain in the UK. It employs a qualitative multiple case study approach and conducts in-depth analysis of main drivers, barriers, and strategies in four insurance companies in addressing automotive supply chain emissions. It finds that cost savings and competitive advantage, changing mindset, impending regulation, market changes, and increased connectedness are the main drivers. But further progress is slowed down by five main barriers: ‘the complexity of tracking and quantifying emissions’, ‘conflicts of interest in the supply chain’, ‘skill shortage’, ‘lack of accountability’, and ‘profit prioritisation’. To overcome this, the study establishes five main strategies for insurance companies to follow: ‘circular business model with green parts and repair-over-replace methodologies’, ‘supply chain collaboration’, ‘quantifying emissions and setting key performance indicators’, ‘higher weighting for ESG in tenders and policies’, and ‘education and awareness’. If followed correctly, businesses will be able to achieve ‘emission reductions’, ‘gain competitive advantage’, and ‘reduce costs in the supply chain’. Taking into account these findings and the academic literature, this study develops a framework for insurance companies to mitigate automotive supply chain emissions. This is one of the first papers to study carbon emissions in automotive supply chains from the perspective of the insurance industry. It provides practical implications for the insurance industry in developing carbon emission strategies in automotive supply chains. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Decision-Making Processes for Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs))

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