Sustainability

30 pages, 1572 KB

Open AccessArticle

Circular Economy Implementation in the Electric and Electronic Equipment Industry: Challenges and Opportunities

by Margaret Zoka and Romana Korez Vide

Sustainability 2025, 17(17), 7700; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17177700 (registering DOI) - 26 Aug 2025

The circular economy (CE) encourages sustainability by shifting towards business models that prolong resource use. The quantity of waste generated by electric and electronic equipment (WEEE or e-waste) is rapidly rising and is one of the fastest-growing waste streams. Our paper explores the [...] Read more.

The circular economy (CE) encourages sustainability by shifting towards business models that prolong resource use. The quantity of waste generated by electric and electronic equipment (WEEE or e-waste) is rapidly rising and is one of the fastest-growing waste streams. Our paper explores the awareness, benefits, barriers, incentives, and implementation of CE in the electric and electronic equipment (EEE) industry in Slovenia and Croatia. In the theoretical section, we review the existing literature on CE, the EEE industry in both countries, and their policy frameworks for developing CE. Based on primary research through a survey and inferential statistical analysis in the empirical section, we investigate the implementation of CE in the EEE industry in both countries. This paper identifies which CE practices companies in the EEE industry implement, how company size affects CE implementation, how companies evaluate institutional support to CE, and their plans regarding CE. The results highlight some differences between the two countries. Drawing on the empirical findings, we determine key challenges and opportunities for increasing CE adoption in this sector and formulate some European suggestions for policymakers, industry practitioners, and researchers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrating Digital Technologies for Sustainable and Intelligent Supply Chains in Industry 4.0)

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56 pages, 1849 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Sustainable Development Process for Visually Interactive Companions in Ubiquitous Passenger Information Systems

by Thomas Schlegel and Waldemar Titov

Sustainability 2025, 17(17), 7699; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17177699 (registering DOI) - 26 Aug 2025

Abstract

In today’s increasingly complex and multimodal mobility environments, passengers are confronted with fragmented information, inconsistent user interfaces, and limited context-adaptivity across public transport systems and services. These challenges hinder a positive mobility experience, reduce trust, and limit the broader adoption of sustainable transport [...] Read more.

In today’s increasingly complex and multimodal mobility environments, passengers are confronted with fragmented information, inconsistent user interfaces, and limited context-adaptivity across public transport systems and services. These challenges hinder a positive mobility experience, reduce trust, and limit the broader adoption of sustainable transport options. This paper addresses these gaps by introducing a structured, user-centered development methodology for Visually Interactive Companion Technologies in Ubiquitous Passenger Information Systems (VICUPISs). The approach incorporates system characteristics, contextual factors, and a comprehensive process framework. Drawing on applied research and development projects, the methodology defines a five-phase development cycle—from field to concept and back—combining expert insights and user participation across iterative development stages. A central contribution is the integration of a rich context model spanning eight dimensions, enabling adaptive, multimodal, and personalized interaction across mobile, embedded, and public displays. The methodology also incorporates AI-supported adaptivity and addresses the resulting challenges for usability evaluation. Sustainability is considered at three levels: resource-efficient system development, long-term extensibility and adaptability of digital systems, and support for a modal shift toward environmentally friendly public transport. The proposed methodology offers a replicable and transferable foundation for designing human-centered, future-ready information systems in public mobility, complemented by practical heuristics and insights from two case studies of sustainable transport ecosystems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Towards Safe Horizons: Redefining Mobility in Future Transport)

23 pages, 6864 KB

Open AccessArticle

Spatiotemporal Dynamics of Eco-Environmental Quality and Driving Factors in China’s Three-North Shelter Forest Program Using GEE and GIS

by Lina Jiang, Jinning Zhang, Shaojie Wang, Jingbo Zhang and Xinle Li

Sustainability 2025, 17(17), 7698; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17177698 (registering DOI) - 26 Aug 2025

Abstract

The long-term sustainability of conservation efforts in critical reforestation regions requires timely, spatiotemporal assessments of ecological quality. In alignment with China’s environmental initiatives, this study integrates Google Earth Engine (GEE) and MODIS data to construct an enhanced Remote Sensing Ecological Index (RSEI) for [...] Read more.

The long-term sustainability of conservation efforts in critical reforestation regions requires timely, spatiotemporal assessments of ecological quality. In alignment with China’s environmental initiatives, this study integrates Google Earth Engine (GEE) and MODIS data to construct an enhanced Remote Sensing Ecological Index (RSEI) for two decades of ecological monitoring. Hotspot analysis (Getis-Ord Gi*) revealed concentrated high-quality zones, particularly in Xinjiang’s Altay Prefecture, with ‘Good’ and ‘Excellent’ areas increasing from 21.64% in 2000 to 31.30% in 2020. To uncover driving forces, partial correlation and geographic detector analyses identified a transition in the Three-North Shelter Forest Program (TNSFP) from climate–topography constraints to land use–climate synergy, with land use emerging as the dominant factor. Socioeconomic influences, shaped by policy interventions, also played an important but fluctuating role. This progression—from natural constraints to active human regulation—underscores the need for climate-adaptive land use, balanced ecological–economic development, and region-specific governance. These findings validate the effectiveness of current conservation strategies and provide guidance for sustaining ecological progress and optimizing future development in the TNSFP. Full article

14 pages, 648 KB

Open AccessArticle

Tracing the Diffusion of Sustainability Discourse: Institutional Signals and Consumer Search Behavior in the United States

by Sang-Uk Jung

Sustainability 2025, 17(17), 7697; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17177697 (registering DOI) - 26 Aug 2025

Abstract

In the digital era, online search patterns provide a practical way to track changes in the public interest in sustainability. This study analyzes monthly Google Trends data in the United States (January 2019–December 2024) for five keywords: two institutional (“ESG”, “carbon neutral”), and [...] Read more.

In the digital era, online search patterns provide a practical way to track changes in the public interest in sustainability. This study analyzes monthly Google Trends data in the United States (January 2019–December 2024) for five keywords: two institutional (“ESG”, “carbon neutral”), and three consumer-oriented (“eco friendly”, “zero waste”, and “plastic free”). Drawing on agenda-setting theory and the diffusion-of-innovations framework, we test the directional links between institutional and consumer attention. The methods include Granger causality tests, impulse response functions, and cross-correlation analysis. The findings reveal a consistent lead–lag structure in which institutional terms precede consumer-oriented searches, but the timing and persistence of influence vary across concepts. A broad discourse such as ESG produces slower, yet more sustained, effects, whereas action-oriented concepts like carbon neutrality generate quicker but shorter-lived responses. Seasonal analysis also shows recurring peaks in consumer interest around events such as Earth Day and Plastic-Free July, underscoring the cyclical nature of attention to sustainability. By integrating communication theory with multi-year digital trace data, this study provides evidence of how institutional messaging diffuses into consumer behavior, while highlighting the roles of timing and message framing. The results contribute to sustainability communication research and offer practical insights for policymakers, NGOs, and marketers relevant to aligning campaigns with evolving public attention. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Marketing: Consumer Behavior in the Age of Data Analytics)

21 pages, 9589 KB

Open AccessArticle

Anionic Azo Dyes: Wastewater Pollutants as Functionalizing Agents for Porous Polycarbonate Membranes Aiding in Water Decolorization

by Alan Jarrett Messinger, Isabella S. Mays, Brennon Craigo, Jeffrey Joering and Sean P. McBride

Sustainability 2025, 17(17), 7696; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17177696 - 26 Aug 2025

Abstract

Efficient water decolorization techniques are vital for ensuring fresh water for future generations. Azo dyes are used heavily in the textile industry and are a challenge to remove from industrial wastewater. This research expands on recent innovative work where anionic azo dyes themselves [...] Read more.

Efficient water decolorization techniques are vital for ensuring fresh water for future generations. Azo dyes are used heavily in the textile industry and are a challenge to remove from industrial wastewater. This research expands on recent innovative work where anionic azo dyes themselves were used to functionalize track-etched porous polycarbonate filtration membranes with decolorized water obtained as a byproduct. The objective of this research is to determine whether the observed dye rejection is dependent on the magnitude of the intrinsic charge of the dye molecule or on its structure, using two selectively chosen anionic azo dye series during functionalization. The first group is a negative two intrinsic charge series with six dyes, each differing in structure, and the second group is a five-dye series that increases from −1 to −6 in intrinsic charge. Rejection measurements as a function of both time and concentration during functionalization are made using ultraviolet-visible light spectroscopy. For 100 µM aqueous dyes, comparing pre- and post-functionalization, a systematically increasing trend in the ability to functionalize porous polycarbonate based on the number of double 6-carbon ring structures in the dyes is illustrated and found to be independent of intrinsic charge. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Solutions for Wastewater Treatment and Recycling)

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38 pages, 2120 KB

Open AccessArticle

How Do Rural Households’ Livelihood Vulnerability Affect Their Resilience? A Spatiotemporal Empirical Analysis from a Multi-Risk Perspective

by Yue Sun, Yanhui Wang, Renhua Tan, Yuan Wan, Junwu Dong, Junhao Cai and Mengqin Yang

Sustainability 2025, 17(17), 7695; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17177695 - 26 Aug 2025

Abstract

Poor rural households still face vulnerability of the sustainable livelihood capacity caused by multiple risk disturbances even after they are lifted out of poverty, and become vulnerable poverty-eradicated households. However, quantifying the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of the impact of rural household livelihood vulnerability on [...] Read more.

Poor rural households still face vulnerability of the sustainable livelihood capacity caused by multiple risk disturbances even after they are lifted out of poverty, and become vulnerable poverty-eradicated households. However, quantifying the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of the impact of rural household livelihood vulnerability on resilience from a multi-risk perspective remains a challenge. This study integrates the theoretical connotations of livelihood vulnerability and resilience to develop a systematic analysis framework of sustainable livelihood-vulnerability-resilience for rural households from the perspective of multi-risk disturbance, and reveals the dynamic interaction process and mechanism of the three. On this basis, the VEP model for forward-looking and multi-risk perspectives, which embeds multiple risk factors as feature vectors, and the cloud-based fuzzy integrated evaluation method are employed to measure rural households’ livelihood vulnerability and resilience, respectively. Subsequently, based on clarifying the correlation between the two, we use the quantile regression method and factor contribution model to reveal the spatiotemporal impact mechanism of multi-level and multi-risk dominated vulnerability of rural households on resilience. These methods collectively enable us to quantify the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of vulnerability and resilience impacts from a risk perspective, taking a step forward and broadening the analytical perspective in the field of sustainable livelihoods research. The case study in Fugong County of China shows that, both rural households’ livelihood vulnerability and resilience exhibit spatiotemporal heterogeneity, and the negative correlation between the two gradually increases over time; as the level of livelihood vulnerability increases, the internal main contributing factors of livelihood resilience and their degree of contribution change accordingly; as the types of risks that dominate vulnerability change, the impact of vulnerability on the overall livelihood resilience and its internal dimensions also varies, where the change in resilience is greatest when the vulnerability is dominated by social risks, while the least change occurred when vulnerability is dominated by labor and income risks. This study provides a feasible methodological reference and a technical foundation for decision-making aimed at guiding rural households out of poverty sustainably and achieving sustainable livelihood. It can effectively enhance the predictive and post-event coping capacity of vulnerable rural households when subjected to multi-risk disturbances. Full article

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24 pages, 2939 KB

Open AccessArticle

Dynamic Process Modeling and Innovative Tertiary Warning Strategy for Weir-Outburst Debris Flows in Huocheng County, China

by Xiaomin Dai, Xinjun Song, Zehao Zhang, Dongchen Han, Fukai Sun, Mayibaier Maihamuti and Yunxia Ma

Sustainability 2025, 17(17), 7694; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17177694 - 26 Aug 2025

Abstract

In China, weir-gully-type debris flows pose severe threats to transportation infrastructure, yet existing studies lack systematic analysis of their dynamic processes and early-warning strategies. This study innovatively integrates depth-integral modeling and field monitoring to investigate two unstable weirs upstream of the Zangyinggou Tunnel [...] Read more.

In China, weir-gully-type debris flows pose severe threats to transportation infrastructure, yet existing studies lack systematic analysis of their dynamic processes and early-warning strategies. This study innovatively integrates depth-integral modeling and field monitoring to investigate two unstable weirs upstream of the Zangyinggou Tunnel on the G30 Saiguo Expressway. The main research conclusions are as follows: (1) the influence of terrain and water source conditions on the weir-valley debris flow plays a dominant role; (2) the debris flows triggered by Weir I and II collapses reach the G30 Saiguo Expressway at 3560 s and 4000 s, respectively, with peak destructive capacities (cross-sectional sweep areas of 10.26 m²/s and 11.69 m²/s); (3) a three-level early-warning strategy was proposed, mainly based on water-level gauge monitoring and early warning, supplemented by video surveillance and regular measurement by small unmanned aerial vehicles. This study has established a brand-new idea for the monitoring and early warning of debris flow disasters induced by the collapse of barrier lakes along the G30 km line in Xinjiang. These achievements provide feasible insights for disaster reduction in mountainous transportation corridors, thus having significant practical value for promoting the sustainable development of infrastructure under the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Latest Studies on Natural Hazards and Sustainable Civil Engineering)

27 pages, 332 KB

Open AccessArticle

Equity and Debt Financing Dependence, Green Innovation, and the Moderating Role of Financial Reporting Quality: Evidence from Chinese Firms

by Hongzhuo Chen, Mohd Faizal Basri and Hazianti Abdul Halim

Sustainability 2025, 17(17), 7693; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17177693 - 26 Aug 2025

Abstract

Green innovation is essential for the sustainable transformation of enterprises. This study investigates how equity and debt financing dependence influence green innovation using panel data from manufacturing firms listed in Shanghai and Shenzhen between 2012 and 2022. We construct dynamic indicators of equity [...] Read more.

Green innovation is essential for the sustainable transformation of enterprises. This study investigates how equity and debt financing dependence influence green innovation using panel data from manufacturing firms listed in Shanghai and Shenzhen between 2012 and 2022. We construct dynamic indicators of equity and debt financing dependence based on firms’ external financing relative to internal capital and assess their effects using panel regressions. Both financing types significantly enhance green innovation. Equity financing dependence increases green patent applications and green invention patent applications by approximately 1.4%, while debt financing dependence leads to gains of 0.9% and 1.1%, respectively. Financial reporting quality positively moderates these effects, with a stronger influence on debt financing dependence. High-quality reporting amplifies the impact of debt financing dependence by about 27% for green patent applications and 22% for green invention patent applications, while its effect on equity financing dependence is limited. Heterogeneity analysis reveals that equity financing dependence is most effective in small and young firms, while debt financing dependence has the strongest impact in medium-sized firms, particularly on green patent applications. The findings highlight the long-term influence of financing behavior on green innovation and inform green finance policy. Full article

25 pages, 261 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Differential Effects of Bidirectional Urban–Rural Mobility on Agricultural Economic Resilience: Evidence from China

by Jinjie Qiao and Xinrong Li

Sustainability 2025, 17(17), 7692; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17177692 - 26 Aug 2025

Abstract

The bidirectional flow of population between urban and rural areas, not limited to rural-to-urban migration, influences the sustainable development of agricultural economic resilience in multiple ways. This study employs panel data from 31 provincial-level regions in China spanning 2017–2022 to comprehensively examine the [...] Read more.

The bidirectional flow of population between urban and rural areas, not limited to rural-to-urban migration, influences the sustainable development of agricultural economic resilience in multiple ways. This study employs panel data from 31 provincial-level regions in China spanning 2017–2022 to comprehensively examine the impact of bidirectional urban–rural mobility on diverse dimensions of agricultural economic resilience, while further investigating its underlying mechanisms. Benchmark regression shows that the bidirectional urban–rural mobility exerts a suppressive effect on the agricultural economic resilience. Mechanism analyses indicate that such mobility contributes to strengthening agricultural economic resilience by catalyzing land-scale operational efficiency and amplifying labor productivity gains and that the advancement of smart agriculture technologies effectively mitigates the inhibitory impacts of bidirectional mobility on agricultural economic resilience. Furthermore, according to heterogeneity analysis, the mobility exerts a suppressive effect on the resistance (Res.) and reconstruction (Recons.) of agricultural economic resilience, while concurrently enhancing its restoration (Rest.). Meanwhile, the bidirectional mobility has significantly impeded the agricultural economic resilience of the eastern, central, and western regions, as well as the primary grain-producing areas, production and marketing balance areas, and the primary grain-selling areas. Further investigation reveals that the reverse mobility has a positive effect on the resistance but a negative effect on its restoration and reconstruction. Full article

25 pages, 828 KB

Open AccessArticle

Multi-Criteria Evaluation of Transportation Management System (TMS) Software: A Bayesian Best–Worst and TOPSIS Approach

by Cengiz Kerem Kütahya, Bükra Doğaner Duman and Gültekin Altuntaş

Sustainability 2025, 17(17), 7691; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17177691 - 26 Aug 2025

Abstract

Transportation Management Systems (TMSs) play a pivotal role in streamlining logistics operations, yet selecting the most suitable TMS software remains a complex, multi-criteria decision-making problem. This study introduces a hybrid evaluation framework combining the Bayesian Best–Worst Method (BBWM) and TOPSIS to identify, weigh, [...] Read more.

Transportation Management Systems (TMSs) play a pivotal role in streamlining logistics operations, yet selecting the most suitable TMS software remains a complex, multi-criteria decision-making problem. This study introduces a hybrid evaluation framework combining the Bayesian Best–Worst Method (BBWM) and TOPSIS to identify, weigh, and rank software selection criteria tailored to the logistics business. Drawing on insights from 13 logistics experts, five main criteria—technological competence, service, functionality, cost, and software developer (vendor)—and 16 detailed sub-criteria are defined to reflect business-specific needs. The core novelty of this research lies in its systematic weighting of TMS software criteria using the BBWM, offering robust and expert-driven priority insights for decision makers. Results show that functionality (26.6%), particularly load tracking (35.8%) and cost (22.7%), mainly software license cost (39.8%), are the dominant decision factors. Beyond operational optimization, this study positions TMS software selection as a strategic entry point for sustainable digital transformation in logistics. The proposed framework empowers business to align digital infrastructure choices with sustainability goals such as emissions reduction, energy efficiency, and intelligent resource planning. Applying TOPSIS to a real-world case in Türkiye, this study ranks software alternatives, with “ABC” emerging as the most favorable solution (57.2%). This paper contributes a replicable and adaptable model for TMS software evaluation, grounded in business practice and advanced decision science. Full article

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21 pages, 988 KB

Open AccessArticle

A New Approach to Improving the Seismic Performance of Existing Reinforced Concrete Buildings Using Laminated Timber

by Yusuf Yıldız and Fethi Şermet

Sustainability 2025, 17(17), 7690; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17177690 (registering DOI) - 26 Aug 2025

Abstract

Following recent earthquakes in Van, Istanbul, Izmir, and Kahramanmaraş, concerns have once again been raised regarding whether existing buildings possess adequate seismic performance and the necessity of strengthening those that do not. A common theme in all related discussions is how to improve [...] Read more.

Following recent earthquakes in Van, Istanbul, Izmir, and Kahramanmaraş, concerns have once again been raised regarding whether existing buildings possess adequate seismic performance and the necessity of strengthening those that do not. A common theme in all related discussions is how to improve the seismic resilience of the existing building stock most efficiently and cost-effectively. In particular, seismic retrofitting efforts should be accelerated for residential buildings in areas where urban transformation has not been feasible due to low added value, as well as for public buildings in smaller settlements and school or dormitory structures in rural towns and villages. In this study, the seismic performance of a reinforced concrete (RC) frame was evaluated using the nonlinear single-mode pushover analysis method in accordance with the Turkish Building Earthquake Code (TBEC). For frames with inadequate performance, a retrofitting method was proposed using glued laminated timber (glulam), a renewable and sustainable material, as diagonal bracing. This intervention aimed to improve the structural performance to an acceptable level specified by the code. The results indicated that glulam braces can effectively enhance the seismic performance of RC buildings and may be considered a viable solution for this purpose. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Timber's Green Revolution: Sustainable Construction from Start to Finish)

23 pages, 1928 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Government Subsidies and Carbon Taxes on Emission Reductions for Intermodal Transport Operator and Carrier

by Yan Li, Jing Huang and Lingchunzi Li

Sustainability 2025, 17(17), 7689; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17177689 - 26 Aug 2025

Abstract

To address carbon emission challenges in the transportation sector, intermodal transport—which enhances both economic and environmental benefits—is becoming ever more crucial. Governments often implement policies like subsidies or carbon taxes to steer intermodal transport towards sustainable development. This paper constructs a Stackelberg game [...] Read more.

To address carbon emission challenges in the transportation sector, intermodal transport—which enhances both economic and environmental benefits—is becoming ever more crucial. Governments often implement policies like subsidies or carbon taxes to steer intermodal transport towards sustainable development. This paper constructs a Stackelberg game model involving an eco-conscious shipper, an intermodal transport operator, and a carrier to analyze the combined economic and environmental impacts of carbon taxes, subsidies, and their dual-policy implementation on the intermodal transport system. The results of the study were as follows: (1) While either carbon taxes or subsidies alone enhance emission reduction and freight volume, their dual implementation generates synergistic effects, achieving superior emission reduction and freight growth; the study also challenges conventional wisdom by demonstrating that “reducing subsidies for intermodal transport may promote carbon reduction in transportation, while increasing taxes does not necessarily disadvantage logistics companies.” (2) Governments can achieve a win–win outcome for the economy and the environment by first prioritizing the increase of carbon taxes to effective levels, and guiding carriers to bear higher emissions reduction costs, before increasing subsidies. (3) Continuously enhancing shippers’ environmental awareness can effectively reduce total emissions. However, its impact on profits depends on the decision-making mode (decentralized vs. centralized) and the cost sharing among logistics companies. (4) There exists an optimal value for the intermodal operator’s share of emission reduction costs. Values that are too low can weaken the incentives for emission reduction, whereas values that are too high may harm profits. This research quantifies the complex interactions among policy combinations, consumer preferences, and enterprise cooperation modes. It offers valuable guidance for governments to design precise emission-reduction policies and helps upstream–downstream enterprises in intermodal transport systems optimize their operational strategies. Full article

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23 pages, 688 KB

Open AccessArticle

Livestock Farmers’ Intentions to Adopt Climate-Smart Agricultural Practices in Kenya’s Arid and Semi-Arid Lands: What Role Do Behavioural Factors Play?

by Evaline Chepng′etich, Robert Mbeche, Josiah Mwangi Ateka and Forah Obebo

Sustainability 2025, 17(17), 7688; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17177688 - 26 Aug 2025

Abstract

Pastoral livelihoods are under an increasing threat from climate change in Sub-Saharan Africa with arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs) being especially vulnerable. Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) is widely promoted as a strategy for enhancing resilience among smallholder livestock farmers by improving productivity, increasing farmers’ [...] Read more.

Pastoral livelihoods are under an increasing threat from climate change in Sub-Saharan Africa with arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs) being especially vulnerable. Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) is widely promoted as a strategy for enhancing resilience among smallholder livestock farmers by improving productivity, increasing farmers’ incomes and strengthening adaptive capacity. However, CSA adoption rates among pastoralists remains low. While existing studies emphasise socio-economic and institutional factors, this study explores the often overlooked behavioural dimensions, attitudes, beliefs, and perceptions, which critically influence adaptation decisions. Guided by the theory of planned behaviour (TPB), this study investigates the behavioural drivers of CSA adoption among 737 livestock farmers in Kenya’s ASALs. Using ordered probit regression and structural equation modelling–confirmatory factor analysis (SEM-CFA), the results reveal that attitudes and perceived behavioural control are significant predictors of farmer intention to adopt CSA practices, with perceived behavioural control being the most influential predictor. Farmers with a positive attitude and confidence in their ability to implement CSA practices are more likely to adopt them. The study findings suggest that efforts to promote CSA adoption should prioritise transforming attitudes and building practical confidence by increasing exposure to demonstration farms and implementing awareness-raising initiatives within pastoral communities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Climate Change and Sustainable Agricultural System)

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25 pages, 7884 KB

Open AccessArticle

Watershed-BIM Integration for Urban Flood Resilience: A Framework for Simulation, Assessment, and Planning

by Panagiotis Tsikas, Athanasios Chassiakos and Vasileios Papadimitropoulos

Sustainability 2025, 17(17), 7687; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17177687 - 26 Aug 2025

Abstract

Urban flooding represents a growing global concern, especially in areas with rapid urbanization, unregulated urban sprawl and climate change conditions. Conventional flood modeling approaches do not effectively capture the complex dynamics between natural watershed behavior and urban infrastructure; they typically simulate these domains [...] Read more.

Urban flooding represents a growing global concern, especially in areas with rapid urbanization, unregulated urban sprawl and climate change conditions. Conventional flood modeling approaches do not effectively capture the complex dynamics between natural watershed behavior and urban infrastructure; they typically simulate these domains in isolation. This study introduces the Watershed-BIM methodology, a three-dimensional simulation framework that integrates Building and City Information Modeling (BIM/CIM), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Flood Risk Assessment (FRA), and Flood Risk Management (FRM) into a single framework. Autodesk InfraWorks 2024, Civil 3D 2024, and RiverFlow2D v8.14 software are incorporated in the development. The methodology enhances interoperability and prediction accuracy by bridging hydrological processes with detailed urban-scale data. The framework was tested on a real-world flash flood event in Mandra, Greece, an area frequently exposed to extreme rainfall and runoff events. A specific comparison with observed flood characteristics indicates improved accuracy in comparison to other hydrological analyses (e.g., by HEC-RAS simulation). Beyond flood depth, the model offers additional insights into flow direction, duration, and localized water accumulation around buildings and infrastructure. In this context, integrated tools such as Watershed-BIM stand out as essential instruments for translating complex flood dynamics into actionable, city-scale resilience planning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Project, Production and Service Operations Management)

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17 pages, 3154 KB

Open AccessArticle

Historical Evolution and Future Scenario Prediction of Hydrological Drought in the Upper Reaches of Xin’an River

by Lin Qi and Gang He

Sustainability 2025, 17(17), 7686; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17177686 - 26 Aug 2025

Abstract

Predicting future hydrological drought characteristics can assist relevant departments in taking proactive measures to mitigate drought losses. Based on the SWAT model and the Sixth International Coupled Model Comparison Program, this study employs an improved Mann–Kendall test, cumulative anomaly method, and continuous wavelet [...] Read more.

Predicting future hydrological drought characteristics can assist relevant departments in taking proactive measures to mitigate drought losses. Based on the SWAT model and the Sixth International Coupled Model Comparison Program, this study employs an improved Mann–Kendall test, cumulative anomaly method, and continuous wavelet transform to investigate future runoff and hydrological drought characteristics in the upper reaches of the Xin’an River under different Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs). The SSPs scenario consists of three typical paths. SSP126 represents the sustainable development path (low carbon emissions, ecological protection first), SSP245 is the intermediate balance path (equal emphasis on economic growth and environmental protection), and SSP585 is the fossil fuel-intensive path (high emissions, high development intensity). The results indicate that from 2000 to 2020, under the influence of ecological compensation policies, the upper reaches of the Xin’an River transitioned from hydrological drought to hydrological wetness in 2012. Under the three future scenarios, runoff volumes increased by 41.72%, 40.74%, and 40.72% compared to the historical period, respectively, with peak runoff occurring in May, June, and July, alleviating hydrological drought conditions. Under the SSP245 and SSP585 scenarios, drought characteristics were more pronounced, with the number of drought-free months increasing by 21 and 30 months, respectively, compared to the SSP126 scenario, and the number of extremely dry months increased by 9 months and 17 months, respectively. The standard runoff index in the SSP126 scenario exhibits two oscillation cycles of 400 months and 359 months, respectively, while SSP245 and SSP585 both exhibit an oscillation cycle of 835 months. After discussion, it was concluded that ecological compensation policies can improve hydrological drought conditions. Drought characteristics become increasingly pronounced as carbon emissions intensify. This research can provide theoretical references for water allocation and drought prevention in river basins. Full article

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29 pages, 5643 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Importance of Traditional Housing as a Cultural Architectural Heritage, Forming the Landscape and Identity of the City

by Daria Małgorzata Bręczewska-Kulesza and Małgorzata Kaus

Sustainability 2025, 17(17), 7685; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17177685 - 26 Aug 2025

Abstract

Architectural and cultural heritage play a key role in the sustainability of cities and their historic centres. A significant part of this heritage consists of residential buildings and rows of townhouses that were constructed in accordance with local traditions. These buildings line the [...] Read more.

Architectural and cultural heritage play a key role in the sustainability of cities and their historic centres. A significant part of this heritage consists of residential buildings and rows of townhouses that were constructed in accordance with local traditions. These buildings line the streets and squares of cities and historic centres. This study explores the significance of this unique, traditional, uniform development in term of its historical and social-cultural value and its role in identifying the city. Using examples of cities where residential buildings with specific characteristics have been preserved, the study analyses their value in terms of cultural heritage and sustainable development, as well as various revitalisation models that consider local traditions and needs. The impact of multi-tracking and interdisciplinarity on revitalisation outcomes is also considered, with the action models in the selected centres analysed in terms of their strengths and weaknesses. In addition to tangible cultural heritage, the study also considers intangible heritage and its interrelationships. The research revealed the high value of historic residential architecture, which, together with the urban layout, forms an important part of our architectural cultural heritage. It also drew attention to the fact that this aspect of architectural heritage is often neglected. The studies also demonstrated the important role of local authorities, conservation organisations and urban communities, as well as the necessity of well-planned, multi-track, interdisciplinary revitalisation measures. The research enabled the formulation of some general principles to be taken into account in the revitalisation process. However, it was found that each city or town has different building traditions and a different degree of historic architectural preservation, as well as different opportunities. Therefore, it is not possible to create a universal, ready-made programme for historic preservation. Nevertheless, it is important to promote good models, particularly in residential architecture, which is often undervalued and neglected despite its great potential. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development of Architectural, Structural and Material Sustainability Solutions)

15 pages, 884 KB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Sustainability Through Quality Controlled Energy Data: The Horizon 2020 EnerMaps Project

by Simon Pezzutto, Dario Bottino-Leone and Eric John Wilczynski

Sustainability 2025, 17(17), 7684; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17177684 - 26 Aug 2025

Abstract

The Horizon 2020 EnerMaps project addresses the fragmentation and variable reliability of European energy datasets by developing a reproducible quality control (QC) framework aligned with FAIR principles. This research supports sustainability goals by enabling better decision making in energy management, resource optimization, and [...] Read more.

The Horizon 2020 EnerMaps project addresses the fragmentation and variable reliability of European energy datasets by developing a reproducible quality control (QC) framework aligned with FAIR principles. This research supports sustainability goals by enabling better decision making in energy management, resource optimization, and sustainable policy development. This study applies this framework to an initial inventory of 50 spatially referenced energy datasets, classifying them into three assessment levels and subjecting each level to progressively deeper checks: expert consultation, metadata verification against a customized “DataCite/schema.org” schema, documentation review, completeness analysis, consistency testing via simple linear regressions, comparative descriptive statistics, and community feedback preparation. The results show that all datasets are findable and accessible, yet critical FAIR attributes remain weak: 68% lack explicit licenses and 96% omit terms-of-use statements; methodology descriptions are present in 77% of cases, while quantitative accuracy information appears in only 43%. Completeness screening reveals that more than half of the datasets exhibit over 20% missing values in one or more key dimensions. Consistency analyses nevertheless indicate statistically significant correlations (p < 0.05) for the majority of paired comparisons, supporting basic reliability. By improving the FAIRness (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) of energy data, this study directly contributes to more effective sustainability assessments and interventions. The proposed QC workflow therefore provides a scalable route to improve the transparency, comparability, and reusability of heterogeneous energy data, and its adoption could accelerate open energy modelling and policy analysis across Europe. Full article

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19 pages, 511 KB

Open AccessArticle

Research on the Impact of Executives with Overseas Backgrounds on Corporate ESG Performance: Evidence from Chinese A-Share Listed Companies

by Lele Feng and Zhiqiang Ma

Sustainability 2025, 17(17), 7683; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17177683 - 26 Aug 2025

Abstract

As sustainable development gains importance, corporate ESG performance has become a key factor in investment decisions and long-term business growth. Drawing on upper echelon theory and stakeholder theory, this study examines the impact of executives with overseas backgrounds on ESG performance using data [...] Read more.

As sustainable development gains importance, corporate ESG performance has become a key factor in investment decisions and long-term business growth. Drawing on upper echelon theory and stakeholder theory, this study examines the impact of executives with overseas backgrounds on ESG performance using data from A-share listed companies in Shanghai and Shenzhen from 2010 to 2022. The findings show that: (1) Executives with overseas backgrounds significantly enhance ESG performance; (2) this effect operates through three main channels—promoting corporate green technology innovation, improving the quality of corporate internal control, and enhancing the level of corporate risk-taking—while digital transformation positively moderates the relationship; (3) the effect is more pronounced in non-polluting, manufacturing, capital-intensive, and technology-intensive firms. This study clarifies the internal mechanisms by which executive backgrounds influence ESG outcomes and offers insights into enhancing ESG practices to support China’s “dual carbon” goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic The Future of Global Finance and Business: Trends, Policies and Market Evolution)

34 pages, 1013 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Conceptual Model and Instructional Design Principles of Intelligent Problem-Solving Learning

by Yuna Lee and Sang-Soo Lee

Sustainability 2025, 17(17), 7682; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17177682 - 26 Aug 2025

Abstract

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence has fundamentally transformed how knowledge is created, disseminated, and applied in problem-solving, presenting new challenges for educational models. This study introduces Intelligent Problem-Solving Learning (IPSL)—a capability-based instructional design framework aimed at cultivating learners’ adaptability, creativity, and meta-learning [...] Read more.

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence has fundamentally transformed how knowledge is created, disseminated, and applied in problem-solving, presenting new challenges for educational models. This study introduces Intelligent Problem-Solving Learning (IPSL)—a capability-based instructional design framework aimed at cultivating learners’ adaptability, creativity, and meta-learning in AI-enhanced environments. Grounded in connectivism, extended mind theory, and the concept of augmented intelligence, IPSL places human–AI collaboration at the core of instructional design. Using a design and development research (DDR) methodology, the study constructs a conceptual model comprising three main categories and eight subcategories, supported by eighteen instructional design principles. The model’s clarity, theoretical coherence, and educational relevance were validated through two rounds of expert review using the Content Validity Index (CVI) and Inter-Rater Agreement (IRA). IPSL emphasizes differentiated task roles—those exclusive to humans, suitable for human–AI collaboration, or fully delegable to AI—alongside meta-learning strategies that empower learners to navigate complex and unpredictable problems. This framework offers both theoretical and practical guidance for building future-oriented education systems, positioning AI as a learning partner while upholding essential human qualities such as ethical judgment, creativity, and agency. It equips educators with actionable principles to harmonize technological integration with human-centered learning in an age of rapid transformation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Digital Education: Innovations in Teaching and Learning)

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