Sustainability

21 pages, 2235 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Metal Recovery from Electroplating Sludge: Bridging Technology and Environmental Regulation

by Jinfei Ma and Zhenfeng Xiong

Sustainability 2025, 17(11), 4957; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17114957 (registering DOI) - 28 May 2025

Electroplating sludge, a hazardous waste generated from the electroplating industry, contains significant quantities of heavy metals such as Cu, Cr, and Ni. Improper disposal of these metals poses severe environmental and health risks. This study proposes a comprehensive resource recovery process for Cu, [...] Read more.

Electroplating sludge, a hazardous waste generated from the electroplating industry, contains significant quantities of heavy metals such as Cu, Cr, and Ni. Improper disposal of these metals poses severe environmental and health risks. This study proposes a comprehensive resource recovery process for Cu, Ni, and Cr from electroplating sludge, involving leaching, solvent extraction, stripping, and precipitation. The extraction efficiency of three extractants (P507, LIX984, and M5640) was evaluated, with M5640 demonstrating superior performance in Cu recovery (near 100%) at pH 3.0–4.0. Multi-stage extraction and stripping experiments further optimized metal recovery, achieving high efficiencies for Cu, Cr, and Ni. The recovered metals were precipitated as CuCO₃, CrPO₄, and Ni(OH)₂, with wastewater discharge meeting environmental discharge standards. This study not only enriches the technical approaches for the selective recovery of high-value metals from electroplating sludge with complex components, but also closely aligns with the laws, regulations, and policies of the Chinese government regarding environmental governance. It serves as a driving force for promoting the construction of “waste-free cities” and the establishment of a closed-loop circular economy industrial chain. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Treatment, Recycling, and Utilization of Secondary Resources)

27 pages, 1325 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Carbon Transfer and Low Carbon Preferences on Firm Decision Making Under Two Power Structures

by Feng Xue, Zishan Liao, Qian Qian and Zhenggang Jiao

Sustainability 2025, 17(11), 4956; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17114956 (registering DOI) - 28 May 2025

Abstract

The dynamics of carbon transfer and shifting consumer preferences toward low-carbon products significantly influence firms’ strategic choices and accelerate their transition to greener practices. This study models a secondary supply chain involving a supplier, a high-carbon manufacturer, and a low-carbon manufacturer, analyzing equilibrium [...] Read more.

The dynamics of carbon transfer and shifting consumer preferences toward low-carbon products significantly influence firms’ strategic choices and accelerate their transition to greener practices. This study models a secondary supply chain involving a supplier, a high-carbon manufacturer, and a low-carbon manufacturer, analyzing equilibrium outcomes for pricing and profit under two power structures: one where the high-carbon manufacturer holds greater influence, and another where both manufacturers have equal power. Numerical simulations are used to examine how carbon transfer and consumer preferences shape pricing, profitability, and strategic responses across the supply chain. The results show that high-carbon manufacturers with greater market power raise prices to offset the cost of carbon, while those with equal power are more constrained by competition and have to track market dynamics in pricing. Low-carbon manufacturers, more sensitive to consumer preferences, benefit from rising demand, gaining pricing power and sales, while high-carbon manufacturers need to raise prices initially and then gradually reduce them. Although increased carbon transfers offer high-carbon manufacturers greater strategic flexibility, they raise supplier costs and prices for high-carbon products, with limited effect on low-carbon manufacturers. Full article

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18 pages, 4320 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Data-Driven Coordinated Voltage Control Strategy for Distribution Networks with High Proportion of Renewable Energy Based on Voltage–Power Sensitivity

by Ziwei Cheng, Lei Wang, Can Su, Runtao Zhang, Xiaocong Li and Bo Zhang

Sustainability 2025, 17(11), 4955; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17114955 (registering DOI) - 28 May 2025

Abstract

In order to achieve rapid and accurate voltage regulation in active distribution networks, this paper proposes a data-driven coordinated voltage control strategy for active distribution networks based on voltage–power sensitivity. Firstly, we establish a BP neural network regression prediction model for voltage–power sensitivity [...] Read more.

In order to achieve rapid and accurate voltage regulation in active distribution networks, this paper proposes a data-driven coordinated voltage control strategy for active distribution networks based on voltage–power sensitivity. Firstly, we establish a BP neural network regression prediction model for voltage–power sensitivity to depict the nonlinear mapping relationship between power and node voltage and achieve rapid acquisition of voltage–power sensitivity. Secondly, based on the principle of stepwise regulation of voltage–power sensitivity, a voltage coordination control framework for a high-proportion photovoltaic active distribution network is constructed by using a two-stage voltage regulation mode of reactive power compensation and active power reduction to achieve efficient and rapid regulation of node voltages in the active distribution network. Finally, the correctness and effectiveness of the proposed method are verified through simulation calculation and analysis of typical power distribution systems of IEEE 33-nodes and IEEE 141-nodes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)

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16 pages, 1236 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment of Agriproducts in Latin America: Overview Based on Latent Dirichlet Allocation

by Lenin J. Ramírez-Cando, Yuliana I. Mora-Ochoa, Adriana S. Freire-Sanchez and Bryan X. Medina-Rodriguez

Sustainability 2025, 17(11), 4954; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17114954 (registering DOI) - 28 May 2025

Abstract

This study explores the use of Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs), Total Sustainability Assessment, and Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA) as tools to evaluate the environmental, social, and economic impacts in Agri-industry. It highlights the unique trajectory of LCA and LCSA implementation in Latin [...] Read more.

This study explores the use of Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs), Total Sustainability Assessment, and Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA) as tools to evaluate the environmental, social, and economic impacts in Agri-industry. It highlights the unique trajectory of LCA and LCSA implementation in Latin America, shaped by the region’s distinct environmental, social, and economic contexts, contrasted with global research trends. Evidence shows the importance of biodiversity, conservation, and deforestation mitigation in Latin American LCA applications, which differ from the urban-focused impacts seen in regions like Europe or North America. Furthermore, it emphasizes the significant role of LCSA in addressing socio-economic challenges unique to Latin America, such as inequality and labor conditions. The research reveals the benefits of LCA and LCSA methodologies in the agro-industrial sector, particularly in addressing social issues like land use rights and rural community welfare. Despite challenges such as limited access to high-quality data and the need for capacity building, the innovative application of these methodologies in Latin America offers valuable insights for the global community. Our work relies on Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) to analyze the LCSA literature from 1990 to 2024, identifying evolving trends and research focal areas in sustainability. The analysis herein presented highlights the need for a multi-dimensional and holistic approach to sustainability research and practice. Our findings also emphasize the importance of developing comprehensive models and integrated methodologies to effectively address complex sustainability challenges. Environmental information remains crucial for policy processes, acknowledging uncertainties in estimations and the connection between land use change, agriculture, and emissions from the global food economy and bioenergy sectors. The research underscores the dynamic nature of LCSA and the importance of continually reassessing sustainability efforts to address pressing challenges. Full article

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16 pages, 1024 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Substrate Composition Effects on the Microbial Enhancement of Biogenic Methane Production from Coal

by Liu Zhu, Wangjie Diao, Chenyao Gong, Haihan Wang, Peilin Zhu and Yi Liu

Sustainability 2025, 17(11), 4953; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17114953 (registering DOI) - 28 May 2025

Abstract

The conversion of coal to biomethane is an environmentally friendly and sustainable method of coal utilization, and algae is a nutrient additive that enhances the economic sustainability of coal-to-biomethane production. The key regulatory factors and interaction mechanism of methane production were studied by [...] Read more.

The conversion of coal to biomethane is an environmentally friendly and sustainable method of coal utilization, and algae is a nutrient additive that enhances the economic sustainability of coal-to-biomethane production. The key regulatory factors and interaction mechanism of methane production were studied by carrying out anaerobic fermentation experiments on coal and microorganisms. Spearman correlation analysis, multiple linear regression, random forest and principal component analysis (PCA) were used to evaluate the effects of 14 coal-quality and microorganism composition parameters on methane production. The results showed that the hemicellulose content of microorganisms was significantly positively correlated with methane production, while total sugar and total fat significantly reduced the gas production. The protein content of microorganisms in a reasonable range could promote methane production. Among the coal-quality parameters, the C/H ratio (β = 0.43) and dry volatile matter (β = 0.17) had a weak positive contribution to methane production, while a high carbonization degree (C% > 80%; vitrinite reflectance > 1.2%) significantly inhibited the fermentation activity. The higher the maturity of the coal, the lower the methane production. The optimal methanogenic performance was concentrated in the combination of a low degree of coalification in coal (PC1 < −1.5) and high hemicellulose in microorganisms (PC2 > 1.8). In this study, a process optimization strategy was put forward, and the combination of low-rank coal with vitrinite reflectance < 0.5%, volatile matter > 35%, microorganisms with hemicellulose > 4.5%, and total sugar < 20% was optimized in an anaerobic fermentation experiment of coal and microorganisms. The results provide theoretical support for the directional control of anaerobic digestion of coal enhanced by microorganisms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development of Biomass Energy under the Trend of Carbon Neutrality)

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19 pages, 3527 KiB

Open AccessArticle

One-Step Synthesis of In Situ Sulfur-Doped Porous Carbons for Efficient CO₂ Adsorption

by Jiang Guo, Yun-Peng Ma, Wen-Jun Wu, Xue-Fang Cao and Yu-Ping Fu

Sustainability 2025, 17(11), 4952; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17114952 - 28 May 2025

Abstract

Porous carbons for CO₂ capture were synthesized from a sulfur-rich bituminous coal via a one-step method concurrently including carbonization and KOH activation. The activation parameters were controlled by varying KOH/coal mass ratios (1:1, 2:1, and 3:1) and temperatures (700 °C, 800 °C, [...] Read more.

Porous carbons for CO₂ capture were synthesized from a sulfur-rich bituminous coal via a one-step method concurrently including carbonization and KOH activation. The activation parameters were controlled by varying KOH/coal mass ratios (1:1, 2:1, and 3:1) and temperatures (700 °C, 800 °C, and 900 °C) to optimize their CO₂ capture performance. The surface physicochemical structural properties of these porous carbons were characterized by applying a Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. The results show that the S_BET of sample SCC-800-3 is as high as 2209 m²/g, the CO₂ adsorption capacity of sample SCC-700-2 at normal temperature and pressure reaches 3.46 mmol/g, and the CO₂/N₂ selectivity of sample SCC-700-1 reaches 24. The synergistic effect of moderate activation conditions ensures optimal pore evolution without compromising sulfur species retention. Furthermore, these porous carbons also demonstrate excellent cycling stability and thermal stability. The fitting of the adsorption isotherm model for all samples were further conducted. Adsorption isotherm modeling demonstrated superior fitting accuracy with the dual-parameter Freundlich and tri-parametric Redlich–Peterson formulations across all samples, indicating that the CO₂ capture by high-sulfur coal-based porous carbons belongs to multilayer adsorption and the carbon surface is heterogeneous. The CO₂ adsorption on porous carbon exhibits spontaneous, exothermic behavior according to the thermodynamic data. These findings confirm the great potential of high-sulfur coal-based porous carbons on the capture of CO₂. The presenting research provides a strategy that leverages the synergistic effect of in situ sulfur doping and milder activation conditions, achieving the high-efficiency utilization of high-sulfur coal resources and developing low-cost CO₂ capture materials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue CO₂ Capture and Utilization: Sustainable Environment)

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21 pages, 402 KiB

Open AccessArticle

‘Making a Positive Environmental Impact’: Exploring the Role of Volunteering at a Campus Community Garden

by Dina Izenstark and Barbara Ann Boone

Sustainability 2025, 17(11), 4951; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17114951 - 28 May 2025

Abstract

Promoting sustainability in higher education is a social and environmental imperative. This paper explores how and why volunteering at a campus community garden (CCG) can serve as a unique context for promoting sustainability. Twenty-five undergraduate students between the ages of 18 and 27, [...] Read more.

Promoting sustainability in higher education is a social and environmental imperative. This paper explores how and why volunteering at a campus community garden (CCG) can serve as a unique context for promoting sustainability. Twenty-five undergraduate students between the ages of 18 and 27, who had volunteered at a campus garden, participated in individual semi-structured interviews. A majority of participants identified as female (80%) and Asian American (52%). Using reflexive thematic analysis, we first found students were motivated to volunteer for personal and academic reasons as well as to learn more about gardening. Childhood gardening experiences influenced participants’ re-engagement as adults. Second, building social connections and spending time in nature, especially when living in an urban area, sustained students’ engagement in the garden, whereas time constraints and physical tasks made it challenging to volunteer. Finally, the findings suggest that volunteering promoted pro-environmental behaviors. Students felt that their volunteer work allowed them to make a positive environmental impact. Participants also gained new environmental knowledge and skills, which encouraged them to adopt environmentally friendly lifestyle changes, advocate for environmental and social justice issues, and reflect on how they might integrate pro-environmental behaviors into their future careers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Motivating Pro-Environmental Behavior in Youth Populations)

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19 pages, 1078 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ecological Assessment and SWOT–AHP Integration for Sustainable Management of a Mediterranean Freshwater Lake

by Olga Petriki and Dimitra C. Bobori

Sustainability 2025, 17(11), 4950; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17114950 - 28 May 2025

Abstract

The Mediterranean region is highly vulnerable to environmental and anthropogenic pressures, including climate change, which significantly affect its aquatic ecosystems, especially shallow lakes. This study examines the fish community and ecological quality of Lake Paralimni, a shallow mesotrophic lake in Central Greece that [...] Read more.

The Mediterranean region is highly vulnerable to environmental and anthropogenic pressures, including climate change, which significantly affect its aquatic ecosystems, especially shallow lakes. This study examines the fish community and ecological quality of Lake Paralimni, a shallow mesotrophic lake in Central Greece that experienced complete desiccation between 1991 and 1996. Using field surveys, fish species composition, abundance, and biomass were assessed, and the lake’s ecological quality was evaluated through the Greek Lake Fish Index (GLFI) alongside an integrated SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats) and AHP (Analytic Hierarchy Process) analysis. Six fish species from three families were recorded, predominantly native and endemic, with introduced species representing a minor fraction. While GLFI rated the lake’s quality as “Good,” other multi-metric indicators downgraded it to “Moderate”, highlighting the importance of comprehensive assessments. SWOT analysis revealed strengths such as high native biodiversity and legal protection under Natura 2000, but also weaknesses like fluctuating water levels and limited monitoring. Opportunities include sustainable fisheries and conservation efforts, while threats involve climate change, eutrophication, and illegal species introductions. AHP emphasized threats and weaknesses as top priorities. The study recommends hydrological regulation, invasive species control, and long-term monitoring for sustainable lake management and biodiversity conservation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tools for Ecological Assessment and Supporting Decision-Making in Sustainable Freshwater Ecosystem Management)

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18 pages, 2907 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Eco-Efficient Transition Pathways for Urban Transportation: A Case Study of Chengdu’s Decarbonization Initiatives

by Qinyi Liu and Chenglin Ma

Sustainability 2025, 17(11), 4949; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17114949 - 28 May 2025

Abstract

Under the “dual-carbon goals” (carbon peaking and carbon neutrality), the accelerated global transition toward green and low-carbon development has become an irreversible trend. As a key carbon-emitting sector in China, the transportation industry accounts for approximately 10% of the nation’s total carbon emissions. [...] Read more.

Under the “dual-carbon goals” (carbon peaking and carbon neutrality), the accelerated global transition toward green and low-carbon development has become an irreversible trend. As a key carbon-emitting sector in China, the transportation industry accounts for approximately 10% of the nation’s total carbon emissions. Transportation decarbonization is therefore critical not only for addressing global climate change challenges and fulfilling international emission reduction commitments but also for driving the industry’s green transformation, optimizing energy structures, enhancing public livelihood and ecological environment quality, and, ultimately, achieving sustainable development. Taking Chengdu as a case study, systematically, this paper (1) objectively summarizes the current status and achievements of green development in Chengdu’s transportation sector; (2) identifies bottlenecks hindering its green transition; (3) calculates carbon emissions across various transport modes in recent years using the GHG Protocol framework to identify key influencing factors; and (4) proposes targeted strategies to establish Chengdu as a national pioneer in developing innovative “dual-carbon” pathways for transportation. The findings are intended to provide decision-making support for building a low-carbon transportation system that aligns with Chengdu’s megacity development goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)

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32 pages, 3952 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Predicting Business Failure with the XGBoost Algorithm: The Role of Environmental Risk

by Mariano Romero Martínez, Pedro Carmona Ibáñez and Julián Martínez Vargas

Sustainability 2025, 17(11), 4948; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17114948 - 28 May 2025

Abstract

This study addresses the increasing emphasis on sustainability and the importance of understanding how environmental risk influences business failure, a factor unexplored in traditional financial prediction models. Environmental risk, or environmental financial exposure, refers to the potential percentage of a company’s revenue at [...] Read more.

This study addresses the increasing emphasis on sustainability and the importance of understanding how environmental risk influences business failure, a factor unexplored in traditional financial prediction models. Environmental risk, or environmental financial exposure, refers to the potential percentage of a company’s revenue at risk due to the environmental damage it causes. Previous research has not sufficiently integrated environmental variables into failure prediction models. This study aims to determine whether environmental risk significantly predicts business failure and how it interacts with conventional financial indicators. Utilizing data from 971 Spanish cooperative companies in 2022, including financial ratios, the VADIS bankruptcy propensity indicator, and the TRUCAM environmental risk score, the study employs the Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) machine learning algorithm, chosen for its robustness in handling multicollinearity and nonlinear relationships. The methodology involves training and validation samples, cross-validation for hyperparameter tuning, and interpretability techniques such as variable importance analysis and partial dependence plots. Results demonstrate that the variable related to environmental risk (TRUCAM) ranks among the top predictors, alongside liquidity, profitability, and labor costs, with higher TRUCAM values correlating positively with failure risk, underscoring the importance of sustainable cost management. These findings suggest that firms facing substantial environmental risk are more prone to financial distress. By incorporating this environmental variable into a machine learning framework, this work contributes to the interaction between sustainability practices and corporate viability. Full article

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

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22 pages, 449 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Research on the Impact of Large-Scale Photovoltaic Development on Regional Economic Growth—A Case Study of Qinghai Province

by Zhun Qu and Suchang Yang

Sustainability 2025, 17(11), 4947; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17114947 - 28 May 2025

Abstract

Large-scale photovoltaic (PV) development has been widely promoted in northwest China and has yielded notable economic and industrial outcomes. However, the existing literature has not adequately examined the relationship between large-scale PV development and regional economic growth, particularly in high-altitude and ecologically fragile [...] Read more.

Large-scale photovoltaic (PV) development has been widely promoted in northwest China and has yielded notable economic and industrial outcomes. However, the existing literature has not adequately examined the relationship between large-scale PV development and regional economic growth, particularly in high-altitude and ecologically fragile areas. This study selects eight prefecture-level cities in Qinghai Province from 2014 to 2023 and employs a static fixed-effects panel regression model to empirically investigate the association between solar PV generation and regional economic performance. The findings indicate a significant positive correlation between PV power generation and regional GDP, with clear regional heterogeneity. In developed regions, the association is stronger, while in less developed regions, the effect is positive but comparatively weaker. Furthermore, the analysis reveals a nonlinear (inverted U-shaped) relationship between PV generation and economic growth in less developed areas, with a critical threshold beyond which the marginal economic benefit declines. These results provide empirical insights into optimizing PV development strategies based on local economic conditions. Notably, the study focuses on identifying statistical associations rather than establishing causality. Full article

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15 pages, 1387 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Effects of Hydraulic Fracturing on Streamflow Through Coupled Human–Hydrological Modeling

by Zhulu Lin, Tong Lin, Haochi Zheng and Siew Hoon Lim

Sustainability 2025, 17(11), 4946; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17114946 - 28 May 2025

Abstract

The Devonian–Mississippian Bakken Formation in western North Dakota (USA) is one of the largest hydraulic fracturing oil fields in the world. Streamflow analysis showed that the average seven-day low flows in the region surprisingly increased during the recent oil boom. The increase, ranging [...] Read more.

The Devonian–Mississippian Bakken Formation in western North Dakota (USA) is one of the largest hydraulic fracturing oil fields in the world. Streamflow analysis showed that the average seven-day low flows in the region surprisingly increased during the recent oil boom. The increase, ranging from 88% to 3648%, was largely due to the fact that the region had received 20% more precipitation than normal during that time period. To study the impact of hydraulic fracturing at Bakken on regional streamflow under normal precipitation and other scenarios, we integrated a socioeconomic agent-based model that simulates the hydraulic fracturing water uses with a hydrological model that simulates the streamflow in the Little Muddy River in the region. Our results showed that compared to the existing (baseline) scenario, the average seven-day low flows in the Little Muddy River decreased from 18% to 88%, while the annual average flows did not change much under drier to normal precipitation scenarios. Our research also finds that climate factors and water management policies were more influential than hydraulic fracturing and population growth. The emergency water management policies implemented at the peak of shale oil development had mitigated the hydraulic fracturing impact on regional streamflow at low-flow conditions and improved water resource sustainability in the region. Full article

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18 pages, 2916 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Triple-Level Proposal of the Circular Economy: Circular Performance, Case Studies and a Design Workshop

by Shuai Zhang, Yicheng Han and Dajian Zhu

Sustainability 2025, 17(11), 4945; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17114945 - 28 May 2025

Abstract

The conventional linear economic model has intensified global resource depletion and environmental degradation, underscoring the pressing necessity for a transformation toward the Circular Economy (CE). Currently, research generally segregates materials, products and services within the CE, overlooking their hierarchy and interactions in circular [...] Read more.

The conventional linear economic model has intensified global resource depletion and environmental degradation, underscoring the pressing necessity for a transformation toward the Circular Economy (CE). Currently, research generally segregates materials, products and services within the CE, overlooking their hierarchy and interactions in circular performance. Employing a mixed methodology of induction and deduction, this study constructs a triple-level proposal for the CE from a design perspective. The proposal integrates material recycling, product reuse and service circulation into a multi-hierarchical progression, clarifying the priorities of the CE and sustainable design. It not only enriches the theoretical basis of the CE and sustainable design, but also offers a transformative perspective for optimizing circular performance. Case studies in the deductive stage provide measurable criteria to assess the performance of each level, while a design workshop featuring the CE canvas and heuristics is adopted to test the effectiveness of our proposal in guiding practice. The results demonstrate the theoretical and practical feasibility of the proposal. This study emphasizes the progression from materials to products and services, exploring the potential of the triple-level proposal in guiding design and improving circular performance. By proposing policy recommendations based on the proposal, this study provides stakeholders with an actionable roadmap for CE implementation. Full article

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

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15 pages, 1453 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Insights into Enteric Methane Emissions in Conventional and Organic Dairy Grazing Systems in Island Regions

by Hélder P. B. Nunes, Cristiana Maduro Dias, Adriana Abreu, Alfredo Borba and Catarina D. Melo

Sustainability 2025, 17(11), 4944; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17114944 - 28 May 2025

Abstract

Pasture-based dairy systems are a cornerstone of agricultural practices in the Azores, contributing significantly to both the local economy and environmental sustainability. However, the environmental impact of these systems, particularly in terms of methane (CH₄) emissions, remains a major challenge, especially [...] Read more.

Pasture-based dairy systems are a cornerstone of agricultural practices in the Azores, contributing significantly to both the local economy and environmental sustainability. However, the environmental impact of these systems, particularly in terms of methane (CH₄) emissions, remains a major challenge, especially given the need to balance productivity with ecological preservation. This study aimed to compare enteric methane emissions, floristic composition, productivity, and nutritional quality between conventional and organic pasture systems in the Azores. Data were collected from representative dairy farms over a 12-month period, with pasture samples analyzed monthly to assess floristic diversity, dry matter productivity, and nutritional quality (crude protein and digestibility). Methane emissions were estimated using the IPCC Tier 2 methodology, incorporating data on animal performance, diet composition, and energy intake to calculate CH₄ emissions per cow per year. The results showed that organic pastures had greater floristic diversity (5.10 ± 0.25 species/m²) than conventional pastures (4.00 ± 0.23 species/m²). However, conventional systems exhibited higher dry matter productivity (22.85 g/m² vs. 15.35 g/m²) and incorporated corn silage, which enhanced digestible energy and reduced methane emissions (81.33 kg CH₄/cow/year) compared to organic systems (89.17 kg CH₄/cow/year). Although organic pastures had higher crude protein content (20.65%), their lower digestibility contributed to higher methane emissions. This study underscores the trade-offs between environmental sustainability, pasture productivity, and methane mitigation in pasture-based dairy systems, highlighting the need for integrated management approaches that balance ecological and production goals. Full article

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18 pages, 656 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainability Accounting and Reporting: An Ablative Reflexive Thematic Analysis of Climate Crisis via Conservative or Radical Reform Paradigms

by Simon Huston

Sustainability 2025, 17(11), 4943; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17114943 - 28 May 2025

Abstract

Despite the climate crisis, a significant barrier to sustainability is limitations to the current accounting and reporting system. These deficiencies, mean the global financial system continues to invest trillions of dollars annually in environmentally sub-optimal projects. To catalyze the economic transition away from [...] Read more.

Despite the climate crisis, a significant barrier to sustainability is limitations to the current accounting and reporting system. These deficiencies, mean the global financial system continues to invest trillions of dollars annually in environmentally sub-optimal projects. To catalyze the economic transition away from fossil-fuel and plastic configurations to more sustainable ones, sustainability accounting and reporting (SAR) is imperative. However, theoretical contention, pragmatic concerns, and costs stoke strong resistance to SAR. The research used ablative thematic analysis to apply hermeneutic phenomenology. First, it scanned the backdrop to the SAR problem and identified a corpus of recent literature from key associated institutions. The initial interpretation of the texts disentangled SAR’s conflicting threads and generated three themes of ‘climate crisis’ and ‘conservative’ or more ‘radical’ SAR reform paradigms. Iteratively harnessing these thematic lenses, the investigation re-examined the SAR literature corpus. The textual ‘dialogue’ generated understanding of the fragmented SAR responses to the climate crisis. Accordingly, the research reformulated its first theme to ‘dystopic climate crisis fragmentation’ and refined the other themes to take account of materiality and the split between Anglo-Saxon (IFRS, SSAB) or global (UN) and continental European accounting institutions (EU, GRI). Conservatives retain a single materiality investor-focus and concede only incremental standard improvements. Radicals seek to implement double materiality with a broader spectrum of stakeholders in mind. Both approaches have theoretical as well as pragmatic advantages and disadvantages, so the SAR contention rumbles on. Whilst the standard-setting landscape is evolving, disagreements remain. Its roots of contention are philosophical and pragmatic. Philosophically, radicals strive to temper libertarian anarcho-capitalist proclivities and broaden firm responsibility. Pragmatically, social, or environmental externalities are problematic to assign or measure. Given vested interests in the destructive status quo, it would be naïve to expect a harmonious SAR Ithaca to emerge anytime soon. Yet the challenges impel an intensification of SAR dialogue and concrete actions. Rather than a scientifically nomothetic contribution, the paper provides a qualitative, artful interpretation of a complex, contentious but crucial field. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Entrepreneurship: Business Innovation and Organizational Performance)

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23 pages, 717 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Attempt to Assess the Implementation of the Circular Economy in the EU-27 as an Important Element of Sustainable Development

by Anna Marciniuk-Kluska and Mariusz Kluska

Sustainability 2025, 17(11), 4942; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17114942 - 28 May 2025

Abstract

The development and implementation of appropriate measurement tools is a prerequisite for the effective introduction of the concept of a circular economy at every level of management. Fundamental to this system is the establishment and adoption of indicators, which are a monitoring tool [...] Read more.

The development and implementation of appropriate measurement tools is a prerequisite for the effective introduction of the concept of a circular economy at every level of management. Fundamental to this system is the establishment and adoption of indicators, which are a monitoring tool to diagnose, model, and forecast the circular economy. The full identification of indicators and the degree of their implementation provide the necessary knowledge for a comprehensive assessment of the state of change and the prospects for closed-loop circuits in EU countries. The main objective of the research conducted was an attempt to assess the implementation of the circular economy in the EU-27 countries. The research used indicators of the circular economy, analyzed the relative taxonomic measure of development, and established a ranking of EU countries. In this research, three questions formulated were as follows: do average circular economy indicators in EU countries show an increasing trend over the last decade? Is the circular economy development gap decreasing in EU countries? In which countries are the biggest barriers to circular economy implementation? Based on the research questions posed in this way, two hypotheses were adopted: in the last decade, there has been a slow transition from a linear to a circular economy in EU countries; there is a wide variation in circular economy indicators among EU countries. Achieving the main objective required recognizing the issue of natural resource management, characterizing the changes in individual conditions affecting the possibility of realizing the assumptions of the closed-loop economy, and assessing changes in the possibility of implementing the circular economy in individual EU countries over a period of 10 years. The analysis of the dynamics of change over the past 10 years in the 27 EU countries indicates a slow process of transition from a linear to a circular economy. The study shows that only 8 EU countries have seen an increase in the development measure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Resources and Sustainable Utilization)

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26 pages, 8541 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatiotemporal Evolution and Driving Mechanisms of Composite Ecological Sensitivity in the Western Sichuan Plateau, China Based on Multi-Process Coupling Mechanisms

by Defen Chen, Yuchi Zou, Junjie Zhu, Wen Wei, Dan Liang, Weilai Zhang and Wuxue Cheng

Sustainability 2025, 17(11), 4941; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17114941 - 28 May 2025

Abstract

The Western Sichuan Plateau, an ecologically critical transition zone between the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau and the Sichuan Basin, is also a typical fragile and sensitive area in China’s ecological security. This study established a multi-process evaluation model using the Spatial Distance Index Method, integrating [...] Read more.

The Western Sichuan Plateau, an ecologically critical transition zone between the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau and the Sichuan Basin, is also a typical fragile and sensitive area in China’s ecological security. This study established a multi-process evaluation model using the Spatial Distance Index Method, integrating cluster analysis, Sen–Mann–Kendall trend detection, and OWA-based scenario simulations to assess composite ecological sensitivity dynamics. The optimal geodetector was further applied to quantitatively determine the driving mechanisms underlying these sensitivity dynamics. The research showed the following findings: (1) From 2000 to 2020, the ecological environment of the Western Sichuan Plateau exhibited a phased pattern characterized by significant improvement, partial rebound, and overall stabilization. The composite ecological sensitivity grading index showed a declining trend, indicating a gradual reduction in ecological vulnerability. The effectiveness of ecological restoration projects became evident after 2010, with the area of medium- to high-sensitivity zones decreasing by 24.29% at the regional scale compared to the 2010 baseline. (2) The spatial pattern exhibited a gradient-decreasing characteristic from west to east. Scenario simulations under varying decision-making behaviors prioritized Jiuzhaigou, Xiaojin, Jinchuan, Danba, and Yajiang counties as ecologically critical. (3) Driving force analysis revealed a marked increase in the explanatory power of freeze-thaw erosion, with its q-value rising from 0.49 to 0.80. Moreover, its synergistic effect with landslide disasters spans 74.19% of county-level units. Dominant drivers ranked: annual temperature range (q = 0.32) > distance to faults (q = 0.17) > slope gradient (q = 0.16), revealing a geomorphic-climatic-tectonic interactive mechanism. This study provided methodological innovations and decision-making support for sustainable environmental development in plateau transitional zones. Full article

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19 pages, 2048 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prediction of Annual Carbon Emissions Based on Carbon Footprints in Various Omani Industries to Draw Reduction Paths with LSTM-GRU Hybrid Model

by Chen Wang, Xiaomin Zhang, Zekai Nie and Sarita Gajbhiye Meshram

Sustainability 2025, 17(11), 4940; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17114940 - 28 May 2025

Abstract

Despite global efforts to address climate change, carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions are still on the rise. While carbon dioxide is essential for life on Earth, its increasing concentration due to human activities poses severe environmental and health risks. Therefore, accurately and [...] Read more.

Despite global efforts to address climate change, carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions are still on the rise. While carbon dioxide is essential for life on Earth, its increasing concentration due to human activities poses severe environmental and health risks. Therefore, accurately and efficiently predicting CO₂ emissions is essential. Hence, this research delves deeply into the prediction of CO₂ emissions by examining various deep learning models utilizing time series data to identify carbon dioxide levels in Oman. First, four important production materials of Oman (oil, gas, cement, and flaring), which have a great impact on CO₂ emissions, were selected. Then, the time series related to the release of CO₂ was collected from 1964 to 2022. After data collection, preprocessing was performed, in which outliers were removed and corrected, and data that had not been measured were completed using interpolation. Then, by dividing the data into two sections, education (1946–2004) and test (2022–2005) and creating scenarios, predictions were made. By creating four scenarios and modeling with two independent GRU and LSTM models and a hybrid LSTM-GRU model, annual carbon was predicted for Oman. The results were evaluated with three criteria: root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), and correlation coefficient (r). The evaluations showed that the hybrid LSTM-GRU model with an error of 2.104 tons has the best performance compared to the rest of the models. By identifying key contributors to carbon footprints, these models can guide targeted interventions to reduce emissions. They can highlight the impact of industrial activities on per capita emissions, enabling policymakers to design more effective strategies. Therefore, in order to reduce pollution and increase the productivity of factories, using an advanced hybrid model, it is possible to identify the carbon footprint and make accurate predictions for different countries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optimising Air Quality and Health Benefits of Transport Decarbonisation)

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16 pages, 1584 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Roses in the City Environment: A Heavy Metals Case Study

by Dawid Krakowiak, Dorota Adamczyk-Szabela, Małgorzata Szczesio and Wojciech M. Wolf

Sustainability 2025, 17(11), 4939; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17114939 - 27 May 2025

Abstract

Kutno is a picturesque city in central Poland, known for extensive rose breeding worldwide. Soil samples and rose petals were collected from 13 locations in the city and characterized by diverse environments. This allowed determining the response of plants to changing cultivation conditions. [...] Read more.

Kutno is a picturesque city in central Poland, known for extensive rose breeding worldwide. Soil samples and rose petals were collected from 13 locations in the city and characterized by diverse environments. This allowed determining the response of plants to changing cultivation conditions. Rose petals have found a wide range of applications. They are used in the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. The aim of the research was to assess the contents of Cu, Zn, Cd, Ni, Pb and Cr in soils and their accumulation in rose petals. Samples were subjected to the microwave mineralization process using a mixture of concentrated HCl and HNO₃. The metal contents in the soil and roses were determined by HR-CS-AAS and ICP-OES, respectively. Roses are usually cultivated in soils with a limited mobile fraction of heavy metals. In these unfavorable conditions, flower petals can absorb heavy metals substantially. Petals of roses cultivated for cosmetic, pharmaceutical or food purposes should be tested for heavy metal content. This study indicates that toxic metals are blocked at the root zone, and their transport to the above-ground parts is severely hampered. Nevertheless, metals related to the photo-synthesis process (Zn, Cu) are more intensively taken up by roses, while the uptake of toxic metals is partially inhibited. Full article

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