Sustainability

21 pages, 557 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Sustainability in Solution Projects through Social CRM: An Expansion of the Self-Efficacy Value Adoption Model

by Yuli Sartono, Endang Siti Astuti, Wilopo Wilopo and Teuku Noerman

Sustainability 2024, 16(19), 8353; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16198353 (registering DOI) - 26 Sep 2024

Abstract

This study applies the Self-Efficacy Value Adoption Model (SVAM), which views users of technology as customers, to explore the influence of Perceived Environmental Value (PEV) and the cultural dimension of Uncertainty Avoidance (UA) on the intention to adopt Social Customer Relationship Management (Social [...] Read more.

This study applies the Self-Efficacy Value Adoption Model (SVAM), which views users of technology as customers, to explore the influence of Perceived Environmental Value (PEV) and the cultural dimension of Uncertainty Avoidance (UA) on the intention to adopt Social Customer Relationship Management (Social CRM). The research addresses the challenge of improving organizational sustainability by adopting Social CRM for managing solution projects that integrate products and services. The objectives are to evaluate the impact of self-efficacy (SE) on PEV and adoption intentions and to assess how UA moderates this relationship. This study sampled 205 professionals from the Indonesian energy industry who have been using CRM for 24 years. The data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) with AMOS version 26. The results show that SE has a significant positive effect on PEV and adoption intention, with UA moderating this effect (path coefficient of 0.602, p ≤ 0.001). PEV was found to strongly influence the intention to adopt Social CRM, and PEV fully mediated the relationship between SE and adoption intention. This research highlights that the type and level of technological knowledge influence perceptions of emotional and social value, and that combining the SVAM with PEV and UA enhances solution projects that align with business and sustainability goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Trends in Circular Economy, Innovation and Management)

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21 pages, 2201 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Reference Modelling Approach for Cost Optimal Maintenance for Offshore Wind Farms

by Rasmus Dovnborg Frederiksen, Grzegorz Bocewicz, Peter Nielsen, Grzegorz Radzki and Zbigniew Banaszak

Sustainability 2024, 16(19), 8352; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16198352 (registering DOI) - 25 Sep 2024

Abstract

This paper presents a novel reference model designed to optimize the integration of preventive and predictive maintenance strategies for offshore wind farms (OWFs), enhancing operational decision-making. The model’s flexible and declarative architecture facilitates the incorporation of new constraints while maintaining computational efficiency, distinguishing [...] Read more.

This paper presents a novel reference model designed to optimize the integration of preventive and predictive maintenance strategies for offshore wind farms (OWFs), enhancing operational decision-making. The model’s flexible and declarative architecture facilitates the incorporation of new constraints while maintaining computational efficiency, distinguishing it from existing methodologies. Unlike previous research that did not explore the intricate cost dynamics between predictive and preventive maintenance, our approach explicitly addresses the balance between maintenance expenses and wind turbine (WT) downtime costs. We quantify the impacts of these maintenance strategies on key operational metrics, including the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE). Using a constraint programming framework, the model enables rapid prototyping of alternative maintenance scenarios, incorporating real-time data on maintenance history, costs, and resource availability. This approach supports the scheduling of service logistics, including the optimization of vessel fleets and service teams. Simulations are used to evaluate the model’s effectiveness in real-world scenarios, such as handling the maintenance of up to 11 wind turbines per business day using no more than four service teams and four vessels, achieving a reduction in overall maintenance costs in simulated case of up to 32% compared to a solution that aims to prevent all downtime events. The prototype implementation as a task-oriented Decision Support System (DSS) further shows its potential in minimizing downtime and optimizing logistics, providing a robust tool for OWF operators. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Logistics and Supply Chain Management Challenges and Opportunities in the COVID-19 World – Smart, Agile and Sustainable Trends, Methods and Practices)

13 pages, 534 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Awareness of Renewable Energy Resources on Sustainable Production in Dairy Farming: The Case of Konya Province (Turkey)

by Aysun Yener Ögür

Sustainability 2024, 16(19), 8351; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16198351 (registering DOI) - 25 Sep 2024

Abstract

In this study, the effect of awareness of renewable energy sources on sustainable production in dairy farming was determined. One hundred thirty-six surveys were conducted in the research area. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to determine the effect of awareness of renewable [...] Read more.

In this study, the effect of awareness of renewable energy sources on sustainable production in dairy farming was determined. One hundred thirty-six surveys were conducted in the research area. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to determine the effect of awareness of renewable energy resources of dairy cattle farms on sustainable production. According to the results of the analysis, the number of animals, land assets, and age of farmers were found to be statistically significant at a 5% significance level. Awareness of renewable energy sources, environmental factors, and economic factors were found to be significant at a 10% significance level. Therefore, biogas should be converted into electricity. In order to provide waste management, organization should be ensured, and animal waste collection centers should be established. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Sustainability in Agricultural Systems and Ecosystem Services)

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16 pages, 272 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Strategic Adoption of Genetically Modified Crops in Lebanon: A Comprehensive Cost–Benefit Analysis and Implementation Framework

by Richard J. Roberts and Viviane Naimy

Sustainability 2024, 16(19), 8350; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16198350 (registering DOI) - 25 Sep 2024

Abstract

This paper investigates the economic feasibility and benefits of introducing genetically modified (GM) crops into Lebanon’s agricultural sector. The methodology combines a rigorous cost–benefit analysis with qualitative insights from local farmers and agricultural scientists to ensure relevance to Lebanon’s unique agricultural context. Through [...] Read more.

This paper investigates the economic feasibility and benefits of introducing genetically modified (GM) crops into Lebanon’s agricultural sector. The methodology combines a rigorous cost–benefit analysis with qualitative insights from local farmers and agricultural scientists to ensure relevance to Lebanon’s unique agricultural context. Through this study, we identified tomatoes and potatoes as the most suitable crops for GM implementation. The findings indicate that GM tomatoes could increase net income by USD 10,000 per hectare in the short term and USD 50,000 over five years. These economic benefits are primarily driven by higher yields and reduced pesticide costs. This study emphasizes the necessity of a holistic approach, including financial support, infrastructure development, farmer education, and robust market access strategies, to maximize the potential of GM crops. This research provides a strategic framework for leveraging GM technology to address Lebanon’s agricultural challenges, promoting sustainable practices, enhancing food security, and ensuring long-term economic stability. By integrating local context and stakeholder perspectives, this paper offers a unique and actionable pathway for successful GM crop implementation in Lebanon. Full article

21 pages, 697 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Building Sustainability: Integrating User Behaviour and Solar Orientation in the Thermal Performance of Houses

by Kácia Henderson Barbosa, Taylana Piccinini Scolaro and Enedir Ghisi

Sustainability 2024, 16(19), 8349; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16198349 (registering DOI) - 25 Sep 2024

Abstract

The literature highlights the importance of building orientation for energy efficiency. However, assessing its impact without considering user behaviour is insufficient. This study aims to evaluate the influence of user behaviour on the impact of solar orientation on the thermal performance of a [...] Read more.

The literature highlights the importance of building orientation for energy efficiency. However, assessing its impact without considering user behaviour is insufficient. This study aims to evaluate the influence of user behaviour on the impact of solar orientation on the thermal performance of a single-family house. The research methodology involved five steps: monitoring a house in Goiânia (Brazil), calibrating the model, determining use patterns to identify user behaviour, conducting computer simulation, and performing data analysis. Questionnaires were applied in 66 houses to understand how occupants use rooms, operate doors and windows, and use electrical appliances, lighting, and air-conditioning. The use patterns were applied in simulations across eight main orientations. The thermal performance was measured by hours of thermal discomfort. Findings reveal that solar orientation individually does not define thermal performance. A house with low internal thermal loads, oriented east or west, can outperform a house oriented north or south with high internal thermal loads. Among the use patterns assessed, window operation, occupancy, and the electrical equipment in operation were the ones that most influenced the thermal performance of the monitored house. The study concludes that modifying user behaviour can significantly modify the thermal effects of solar orientation, influencing building sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Efficiency and Life Quality in Indoor Environment)

24 pages, 1552 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Moving Pieces and Allocating Budget Together: A Framework for Using Analog Serious Games in Sustainable Collaborative Planning

by Micael Sousa

Sustainability 2024, 16(19), 8348; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16198348 (registering DOI) - 25 Sep 2024

Abstract

The process of seeking games as tools for participatory and collaborative approaches applied to planning and public engagement is thriving. Despite the growing literature, and in contrast to the increasing number of experiences, there is a lack of methods for developing game-based approaches. [...] Read more.

The process of seeking games as tools for participatory and collaborative approaches applied to planning and public engagement is thriving. Despite the growing literature, and in contrast to the increasing number of experiences, there is a lack of methods for developing game-based approaches. We propose using the MIQUAPA method to support low-tech and low-cost serious games for collaborative planning and participatory budgeting. We designed two serious games using modern board game mechanisms and tested them to address two sustainability problems related to a university campus. The games engaged the participants and delivered collaborative planning experiences. However, the experiences revealed several simulation limitations of this method. The participants’ preparedness, context, and motivation also affected the game outcome. This paper proposes a method to develop future game-based approaches, informing the advantages and limitations of such approaches and proposing data collection and facilitation solutions. It warns future practitioners about the required preparedness to use game-based approaches. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Co-creating the Future of Cities with Games: New Technologies and Methods for Sustainable and Smart City Planning)

17 pages, 3064 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prototype Pultrusion of Recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate Plastic Bottles into Filament for 3D Eco-Printing: Education for a Sustainable Development Project

by Ginés Morales Méndez, Alicia del Cerro Pérez and Francisco del Cerro Velázquez

Sustainability 2024, 16(19), 8347; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16198347 (registering DOI) - 25 Sep 2024

Abstract

In light of mounting environmental concerns surrounding the overuse and accumulation of plastic waste, the United Nations (UN) has turned its attention towards sustainable materials and the Circular Economy (CE). Polymer recycling technologies have the potential to reduce the environmental impact and carbon [...] Read more.

In light of mounting environmental concerns surrounding the overuse and accumulation of plastic waste, the United Nations (UN) has turned its attention towards sustainable materials and the Circular Economy (CE). Polymer recycling technologies have the potential to reduce the environmental impact and carbon footprint of plastic waste production, thereby contributing to the achievement of several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In response to this challenge, students enrolled in the fourth year of secondary education, specializing in technology, during the 2021–2022 academic year, developed an open-source prototype that automatically transforms polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles into recycled rPET filament for 3D printing using an automated pultrusion model. In this working group, one of the students identified as gifted developed the pultrusion prototype using challenge-based learning and the project method (PM), which is now known as project-based learning. The resulting prototype has the capacity to transform PET bottles into rPET filament with mechanical properties comparable to those of commercial filaments, thereby enabling the manufacture of a wide range of products through 3D printing. It is not the intention of this work to create a commercial product. Rather, it is designed to promote social and sustainable entrepreneurship, CE, and the values of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) through the recycling of polymers by means of 3D printing production. In addition, it seeks to develop the key competences for sustainability described in the methodological framework established by UNESCO in 2017. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Educational Research for Sustainability: A Focus on Preparing Teachers for the 21st Century)

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31 pages, 995 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Digital Transformation in Sports Companies on Green Innovation: Evidence from Listed Companies in China

by Yina Zhang, Wu Zhao and Haiman Liu

Sustainability 2024, 16(19), 8346; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16198346 (registering DOI) - 25 Sep 2024

Abstract

In the context of the “dual carbon” strategic goal and sustainable development, the digital transformation of sports companies has emerged as a crucial factor in overcoming barriers to green growth and addressing institutional and efficiency challenges. This study examines the mechanism by which [...] Read more.

In the context of the “dual carbon” strategic goal and sustainable development, the digital transformation of sports companies has emerged as a crucial factor in overcoming barriers to green growth and addressing institutional and efficiency challenges. This study examines the mechanism by which digital transformation drives green innovation, using a sample of Chinese-listed companies in the sports industry from 2011 to 2022. Fixed effects models were employed. The study’s findings are as follows: (1) Digital transformation has a significant positive impact on green innovation, indicating that the digitalization of companies plays a crucial role in promoting green practices. (2) A mechanism analysis revealed that digital transformation facilitates green innovation by enhancing human capital and improving internal control levels. (3) A heterogeneity analysis demonstrated that stricter environmental regulations strengthen the driving effect of digital transformation. Moreover, state-owned sports companies exhibit a stronger endogenous impetus for green innovation than non-state-owned companies, driven by their alignment with national strategic planning, thus enhancing the role of digital transformation. This study contributes to the literature by offering insights into the integration of digitization and green innovation. Furthermore, it provides practical guidance and path selection for achieving coordinated digitization and green innovation in Chinese sports companies within the framework of the “dual carbon” goal. Full article

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20 pages, 616 KiB

Open AccessReview

Analysis of Influencing Factors of Level 3 Automated Vehicle Takeover: A Literature Review

by Hanying Guo, Haoyu Qiu, Yongjiang Zhou and Yuxin Deng

Sustainability 2024, 16(19), 8345; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16198345 (registering DOI) - 25 Sep 2024

Abstract

Level 3 automated vehicles (L3 AVs) enable the driver to perform non-driving tasks, taking over in an emergency. In recent years, studies have extensively discussed the influencing factors of L3 AV takeovers. Extensive literature review shows that L3 AV takeovers are affected by [...] Read more.

Level 3 automated vehicles (L3 AVs) enable the driver to perform non-driving tasks, taking over in an emergency. In recent years, studies have extensively discussed the influencing factors of L3 AV takeovers. Extensive literature review shows that L3 AV takeovers are affected by human factors, traffic environment, and automatic driving systems. On this basis, this study proposes a conceptual framework of L3 AV takeovers. The main findings of this study include the following: (1) non-driving tasks, non-driving posture, individual characteristics, and trust have an impact on takeover behavior; (2) high traffic density, poor road geometry, and extreme weather have a negative impact on the takeover; (3) multimodal interaction design can improve collection performance. Although the existing research has made rich achievements, there are still many challenges. The influence of human factors on takeover performance is controversial, the quantification standard of takeover influencing factors is insufficient, and the prediction accuracy needs to be improved. It is suggested to refine the criteria of driver participation in NDRT, formulate an effective measurement standard of driver fatigue, and develop a takeover prediction model combining driver status and traffic environment conditions. It provides a research basis for the formulation of laws, infrastructure construction, and human–computer interaction design. Full article

17 pages, 4405 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Integration of Technological Tools in Teaching Statistics: Innovations in Educational Technology for Sustainable Education

by Cristian Uchima-Marin, Julian Murillo, Luis Salvador-Acosta and Patricia Acosta-Vargas

Sustainability 2024, 16(19), 8344; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16198344 (registering DOI) - 25 Sep 2024

Abstract

Integrating technological tools in teaching statistics can revolutionize educational methods, making learning more engaging, interactive, and effective. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of a math application for Android in enhancing the teaching and learning of statistics for eighth-grade students in Alcalá, [...] Read more.

Integrating technological tools in teaching statistics can revolutionize educational methods, making learning more engaging, interactive, and effective. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of a math application for Android in enhancing the teaching and learning of statistics for eighth-grade students in Alcalá, Valle del Cauca, Colombia. The project involved coordinating with local mathematics teachers to implement the app in the classroom, focusing on interactive digital content to improve student engagement. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, gathering data from 63 students through surveys that measured user satisfaction, topic relevance, interface usability, and the likelihood of recommending the app. The evaluation revealed a high likelihood of recommendation, with 74.6% of the students indicating they would “Almost always” recommend the app. Positive feedback was also noted in terms of user satisfaction and topic relevance. However, technical performance and content engagement were identified as needing improvement. The study also highlighted limitations, including a small sample size, reliance on self-reported data, and a short-term evaluation period. The Math app shows considerable promise as a tool for teaching statistics, supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDGs 4 and 9, involving quality education, industry, innovation, and infrastructure. Future work should address the identified limitations and focus on continuous improvement to enhance the app’s effectiveness and reach. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Technologies in Digital and Sustainable Transformation of Teaching and Learning)

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18 pages, 713 KiB

Open AccessArticle

What Type of Public Library Best Supports Agricultural Economic Development? An Empirical Study Based on Rural China

by Dimeng Zhang, Jiayao Li, Yingchi Ye, Rong Zhang and Yuntao Zou

Sustainability 2024, 16(19), 8343; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16198343 (registering DOI) - 25 Sep 2024

Abstract

Modernizing agricultural economies requires the infusion of knowledge and industrialization, necessitating the bridging of the “digital divide” and “talent gap” between urban and rural areas. Public libraries, as key knowledge dissemination institutions, play a crucial role in this process. This study aimed to [...] Read more.

Modernizing agricultural economies requires the infusion of knowledge and industrialization, necessitating the bridging of the “digital divide” and “talent gap” between urban and rural areas. Public libraries, as key knowledge dissemination institutions, play a crucial role in this process. This study aimed to explore how the development of such institutions can align with agricultural economic growth. Using China as a case study, where the Rural Revitalization Strategy has been implemented in recent years, including the extensive construction of rural public libraries and other infrastructure, we empirically analyzed the correlation between county-level public libraries and agricultural economic development from 2012 to 2019. The results show that the number of county-level public libraries and their assets, collection sizes, e-books, and professional staff have a significant positive impact on agricultural economics, while non-professional staff and facilities have a negative impact. It is recommended that future rural public library development should focus on enhancing professional standards and advancing digitalization and mobile internet integration, while being cautious about expanding the physical scale and staffing. This study fills a gap in the research on the correlation between rural public libraries and agricultural economics, and the methodology employed has a certain degree of general applicability. However, the applicability of the conclusions may be limited by China’s unique national conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Agricultural Economic Transformation and Sustainable Development)

22 pages, 1541 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Can Industrial Spatial Configuration Catalyze the Transition and Advancement of Resource-Dependent Regions? An Empirical Analysis from Heilongjiang Province, China

by Yingli Huang, Guoyi Lou and Yue Ren

Sustainability 2024, 16(19), 8342; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16198342 (registering DOI) - 25 Sep 2024

Abstract

Resource-based regions are built upon the endowment of abundant natural resources; however, they often fall into development dilemmas due to the depletion of natural resources and ecological environmental regulations. How to achieve transformative development relying on the original industrial base is an important [...] Read more.

Resource-based regions are built upon the endowment of abundant natural resources; however, they often fall into development dilemmas due to the depletion of natural resources and ecological environmental regulations. How to achieve transformative development relying on the original industrial base is an important choice for the sustainable development of resource-based regions. This paper takes Heilongjiang Province, a resource-based province in China, as the research area and analyzes its process and strategies of transformative development from the perspective of industrial spatial patterns. The results show that: (1) There is spatial convergence in the development of secondary industry and industry in Heilongjiang Province from 2011 to 2020. The construction industry does not have spatial convergence, and the development of tertiary industry and its sub-industry does not have spatial convergence on the whole. (2) From 2011 to 2022, the development of secondary and tertiary industries in Heilongjiang Province formed a relatively stable spatial correlation network with good accessibility, but the hierarchy of network structure is not obvious, and the correlation strength and stability of the network need to be improved. (3) Harbin, Hegang, Qitaihe and other regions occupy a relatively central position in the spatial association network of the secondary industry; Harbin, Jiamusi, Suihua and other regions are in a leading position in the spatial association network of the tertiary industry which plays an important role as an intermediary bridge; other regions are in a relatively marginal position in the spatial association network of the industrial industry. (4) The increase in network density can effectively promote the development of the secondary and tertiary industries, and the network level and network efficiency will inhibit the development of the secondary and tertiary industries. The increase in network density will narrow the spatial difference of the secondary and tertiary industries, and the decrease in network level and network efficiency can effectively promote the spatial balance of the development of the secondary and tertiary industries. (4) The closer the spatial correlation between each region and other regions, the more benefits from the overall network, the more conducive to the development of local secondary and tertiary industries. The aforementioned results indicate that Heilongjiang Province is constructing a spatial pattern characterized by the complementarity of the primary, secondary and tertiary industries, which serves as a strategy for the transformative development of resource-based regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Regional and Local Economic Development and Policies in Sustainable Economy)

21 pages, 2765 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhanced Early Detection of Cadmium Stress in Rice: Introducing a Novel Spectral Index Based on an Enhanced GAMI-Net Model

by Jie Liu, Zhao Zhang, Shangran Zhou, Xingwang Liu, Feng Li and Lei Mao

Sustainability 2024, 16(19), 8341; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16198341 (registering DOI) - 25 Sep 2024

Abstract

Soil cadmium contamination poses a significant threat to global food security and human health, making the timely and accurate diagnosis of cadmium stress in rice crucial for effective pollution control and agricultural management. However, during the early growth stages of rice, particularly the [...] Read more.

Soil cadmium contamination poses a significant threat to global food security and human health, making the timely and accurate diagnosis of cadmium stress in rice crucial for effective pollution control and agricultural management. However, during the early growth stages of rice, particularly the tillering stage, the spectral response to cadmium stress is subtle, rendering traditional remote sensing methods inadequate. This study aims to develop an efficient early diagnosis index, the Cadmium Early Stress Index (CESI), for rapid and accurate detection of cadmium stress in rice at a regional scale. By integrating field surveys with Sentinel-2 satellite data, the study extracts multi-angle spectral features and employs an enhanced Generalized Additive Model Neural Network (E-GAMI-Net) for analysis. E-GAMI-Net analysis identified key indicators for early diagnosis, including log-transformed reflectance at 941 nm (R941_log), Optimized Soil-Adjusted Vegetation Index (OSAVI), and the interaction between Red Edge Amplitude and Chlorophyll content. Based on these findings, CESI was constructed, demonstrating superior diagnostic performance (R²= 0.77, RMSE = 0.09 mg/kg) compared to existing methods. CESI also exhibited high stability under noise interference, with only a 5.6% reduction in R² under 15% noise. In regional-scale remote sensing applications, CESI successfully generated cadmium stress distribution maps, identifying previously undetected moderate stress areas. CESI’s high accuracy (R²= 0.6073, RMSE = 0.3021) and stability make it a promising tool for large-scale cadmium stress monitoring and precision agriculture management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Pollution Prevention, Mitigation and Sustainability)

23 pages, 863 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Food Sustainability through Probiotics Isolated from Fermented Cauliflower

by Kamila Rachwał, Klaudia Gustaw and Ilona Sadok

Sustainability 2024, 16(19), 8340; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16198340 - 25 Sep 2024

Abstract

In the face of increasing challenges to sustainable food production, biotechnology offers solutions to support the environmental and health aspects of the food industry. This study explores the probiotic potential of L. plantarum and L. brevis isolated from fermented cauliflower. The probiotic properties [...] Read more.

In the face of increasing challenges to sustainable food production, biotechnology offers solutions to support the environmental and health aspects of the food industry. This study explores the probiotic potential of L. plantarum and L. brevis isolated from fermented cauliflower. The probiotic properties of the strains and their biochemical characteristics were comprehensively assessed. They have been shown to be resistant to conditions in the human gastrointestinal tract and are able to adhere to colonic epithelial cells. Beneficial properties, such as antimicrobial activity and the production of phenolic acid and exopolysaccharides, were confirmed. The safety of these isolates was established, highlighting their suitability as pro- and prebiotics, and as fermentation starters. In particular, C5 and C2 strains have shown promising industrial potential, with C5 excelling in overall performance and C2 exhibiting strong antagonism to pathogenic strains and superior adhesion to intestinal cells. The resilience of strain C5 under various stress conditions and the exceptional exopolysaccharide production by strain C2 further underscore their unique capabilities and potential applications. These distinct properties make them particularly suitable for applications in functional foods and health-oriented products. These results emphasize the importance of fermented foods in promoting sustainable agricultural practices and consumer health, contributing to a more sustainable food industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Microbiology: Advancing Sustainability through Microbial Innovations)

15 pages, 824 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Green Trade and Cultural Innovation: Examining the Impact on GTFP and Greenhouse Gas Emissions in OECD Countries

by N. R. Park, H. S. Yun and C. H. Choi

Sustainability 2024, 16(19), 8339; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16198339 - 25 Sep 2024

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of green trade exports (GTE) on green total factor productivity (GTFP) and environmental sustainability in OECD countries using panel data from 2003 to 2016. We employ linear regression models, polynomial models, and threshold regression techniques to analyze this [...] Read more.

This study investigates the impact of green trade exports (GTE) on green total factor productivity (GTFP) and environmental sustainability in OECD countries using panel data from 2003 to 2016. We employ linear regression models, polynomial models, and threshold regression techniques to analyze this relationship. Our findings reveal an inverted N-shaped curve between GTE and GTFP, with two turning points. The threshold regression results indicate that when clean energy is below 8.660%, a 1 unit increase in GTE decreases GTFP by 1.518 units. However, when clean energy exceeds this threshold, a 1 unit increase in GTE increases GTFP by 1.056 units. For R&D, the effect of GTE on GTFP changes from −3.165 to 1.193 as R&D exceeds the threshold of 0.664%. Additionally, we find that GTE has a lagged effect on increasing CO₂ emissions, with coefficients of 0.0234 and 0.0278 for 1-year and 2-year lags, respectively. The interaction between clean energy and GTE reduces CO₂ emissions by 0.00234 units and PM2.5 by 0.0145 units. These results provide important insights for policymakers in developing countries seeking to participate effectively in the global industrial chain while promoting sustainable development. Full article

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

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23 pages, 4302 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Planning for Sustainable Agri-Food Production: Factual or Fictional? An Example from Iceland

by Salvör Jónsdóttir and Karl Benediktsson

Sustainability 2024, 16(19), 8338; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16198338 - 25 Sep 2024

Abstract

The concept of sustainability has been widely recognized as a pivotal objective for future growth. Therefore, it is imperative to incorporate the principles of sustainability into policies and plans, particularly in land use and agri-food production, sectors often associated with negative environmental impacts. [...] Read more.

The concept of sustainability has been widely recognized as a pivotal objective for future growth. Therefore, it is imperative to incorporate the principles of sustainability into policies and plans, particularly in land use and agri-food production, sectors often associated with negative environmental impacts. Addressing all three pillars of sustainability—environmental, economic, and social—is essential, within the contexts of agri-food production and land use. Consequently, sustainable rural development is also critical. This study utilizes Iceland as a case to examine whether and how sustainability goals are translated from national policies to municipal plans, which represent the governance level closest to implementation. The research employs content analysis of national policies and municipal plans, utilizing grounded theory to code the content. The findings indicate that while the concept of sustainability is embedded in Icelandic policies and goals, there is a tendency to overlook the economic and social dimensions. Additionally, the study reveals a limited application of sustainability principles in rural development and agri-food production. Recognizing the “wicked” nature of sustainability, which complicates its implementation, is crucial for advancing from goal setting to effective action. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research on Agriculture and Food Systems Landscape towards Sustainability)

33 pages, 5663 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Review of Urban Digital Twins Integration, Challenges, and Future Directions in Smart City Development

by Silvia Mazzetto

Sustainability 2024, 16(19), 8337; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16198337 (registering DOI) - 25 Sep 2024

Abstract

This review paper explores Urban Digital Twins (UDTs) and their crucial role in developing smarter cities, focusing on making urban areas more sustainable and well-planned. The methodology adopted an extensive literature review across multiple academic databases related to UDTs in smart cities, sustainability, [...] Read more.

This review paper explores Urban Digital Twins (UDTs) and their crucial role in developing smarter cities, focusing on making urban areas more sustainable and well-planned. The methodology adopted an extensive literature review across multiple academic databases related to UDTs in smart cities, sustainability, and urban environments, conducted by a bibliometric analysis using VOSviewer to identify key research trends and qualitative analysis through thematic categorization. This paper shows how UDTs can significantly change how cities are managed and planned by examining examples from cities like Singapore and Dubai. This study points out the main hurdles like gathering data, connecting systems, handling vast amounts of information, and making different technologies work together. It also sheds light on what is missing in current research, such as the need for solid rules for using UDTs effectively, better cooperation between various city systems, and a deeper look into how UDTs affect society. To address research gaps, this study highlights the necessity of interdisciplinary collaboration. It also calls for establishing comprehensive models, universal standards, and comparative studies among traditional and UDT methods. Finally, it encourages industry, policymakers, and academics to join forces in realizing sustainable, smart cities. Full article

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27 pages, 13977 KiB

Open AccessReview

Advanced Sensor Technologies in CAVs for Traditional and Smart Road Condition Monitoring: A Review

by Masoud Khanmohamadi and Marco Guerrieri

Sustainability 2024, 16(19), 8336; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16198336 - 25 Sep 2024

Abstract

This paper explores new sensor technologies and their integration within Connected Autonomous Vehicles (CAVs) for real-time road condition monitoring. Sensors like accelerometers, gyroscopes, LiDAR, cameras, and radar that have been made available on CAVs are able to detect anomalies on roads, including potholes, [...] Read more.

This paper explores new sensor technologies and their integration within Connected Autonomous Vehicles (CAVs) for real-time road condition monitoring. Sensors like accelerometers, gyroscopes, LiDAR, cameras, and radar that have been made available on CAVs are able to detect anomalies on roads, including potholes, surface cracks, or roughness. This paper also describes advanced data processing techniques of data detected with sensors, including machine learning algorithms, sensor fusion, and edge computing, which enhance accuracy and reliability in road condition assessment. Together, these technologies support instant road safety and long-term maintenance cost reduction with proactive maintenance strategies. Finally, this article provides a comprehensive review of the state-of-the-art future directions of condition monitoring systems for traditional and smart roads. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)

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18 pages, 2605 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Process-Based Approach to Guide the Observational Strategies for the Assessment of the Marine Environment

by Pier Francesco Moretti, Domenico D’Alelio, Aldo Drago, Jaime Pitarch, Patrick Roose, Isa Schön, Mario Sprovieri and Federico Falcini

Sustainability 2024, 16(19), 8335; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16198335 - 25 Sep 2024

Abstract

Ocean sustainability entails the management of marine ecosystems and their services. Monitoring and evaluation of the health of the sea is challenged by the complexity of the marine environment, whose multitude and interconnected aspects, together with the lack of comprehensive models, make the [...] Read more.

Ocean sustainability entails the management of marine ecosystems and their services. Monitoring and evaluation of the health of the sea is challenged by the complexity of the marine environment, whose multitude and interconnected aspects, together with the lack of comprehensive models, make the understanding of its functioning a very arduous endeavour. Observations are costly and time-consuming. For this reason, a European joint action, named Science for Good Environmental Status, tested a new approach to monitor and evaluate effectively the state of health of the sea. This approach is based on the identification of driving physical processes that are present in the sea basins and directing the observation strategy to be designed on the basis of preliminary space–time information and patterns. The proof-of-concept of this approach has been implemented offshore of the Belgian coast in an attempt to achieve ecosystem assessments with targeted data collection methods requiring a reduced combination of variables. The proposed approach can impact monitoring activities implemented by those countries aiming to fulfil the requests of the European Marine Strategy Framework Directive. A map of EU marine areas to further test this process-based approach is also provided. Full article

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