Sustainability

28 pages, 555 KB

Open AccessArticle

Economic Growth, Energy Consumption, and Environmental Sustainability in Southeast Asia: Evidence from Symmetric and Asymmetric Models

by Moheddine Younsi and Rashed Alotaibi

Sustainability 2026, 18(15), 7532; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18157532 (registering DOI) - 23 Jul 2026

Abstract

This study examines the effects of economic growth and energy consumption on environmental degradation in nine Southeast Asian countries from 1990 to 2022. By jointly employing carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions and the ecological footprint (EFP) within both symmetric and asymmetric panel [...] Read more.

This study examines the effects of economic growth and energy consumption on environmental degradation in nine Southeast Asian countries from 1990 to 2022. By jointly employing carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions and the ecological footprint (EFP) within both symmetric and asymmetric panel ARDL frameworks, the study provides a more comprehensive assessment of environmental sustainability than previous studies that rely on a single environmental indicator or a linear specification. The empirical results indicate that economic growth and energy consumption remain key drivers of environmental degradation, although their effects vary with the environmental indicator used. Both the panel ARDL and NARDL estimates support the EKC hypothesis when environmental degradation is measured by CO₂ emissions, but reject it when the EFP is used, highlighting the importance of adopting multidimensional measures of environmental sustainability. Furthermore, the panel NARDL results reveal significant long-run asymmetric effects of energy consumption, with increases in energy use exerting stronger adverse impacts on both CO₂ emissions and the EFP than equivalent decreases. These contrasting findings suggest that improvements in carbon efficiency associated with economic growth do not necessarily alleviate broader pressures on natural resources and ecological systems. The robustness of the results is confirmed using FMOLS, DOLS, and CCR estimators, while the causality analysis identifies long-run bidirectional relationships among economic growth, energy consumption, and environmental degradation. These findings emphasize the need for integrated policy measures that promote renewable energy adoption, cleaner industrial development, improved energy efficiency, and stronger environmental governance to support sustainable economic growth and accelerate the transition toward net-zero emissions in Southeast Asia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)

25 pages, 544 KB

Open AccessArticle

Perceived Sustainable Digital Transformation Adoption in Retail: A Capability-Mediated Technology–Organization–Environment Perspective

by Ionica Oncioiu and Ana-Maria Ifrim

Sustainability 2026, 18(15), 7531; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18157531 (registering DOI) - 23 Jul 2026

Abstract

The increasing emphasis on sustainability and digitalization is reshaping retail environments, requiring organizations to respond simultaneously to technological change and sustainability-oriented pressures. However, the relationships between these external demands and the perceived sustainable digital transformation adoption, as well as the role of internal [...] Read more.

The increasing emphasis on sustainability and digitalization is reshaping retail environments, requiring organizations to respond simultaneously to technological change and sustainability-oriented pressures. However, the relationships between these external demands and the perceived sustainable digital transformation adoption, as well as the role of internal organizational conditions in these relationships, remain insufficiently understood. This study develops a conceptual model examining the direct and indirect associations among external sustainability pressures, digital capability, organizational readiness, and perceived adoption in Romanian retail organizations. Digital capability and organizational readiness are conceptualized as distinct internal enabling conditions within an extended Technology–Organization–Environment framework, while perceived sustainable digital transformation adoption is defined as the reported outcome. The model is evaluated using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) and cross-sectional survey data from 363 retail professionals representing 363 distinct Romanian retail organizations. The results indicate that the direct associations of digital capability and organizational readiness with perceived adoption are larger than the direct association of external sustainability pressures with perceived adoption. External sustainability pressures show a statistically significant but small direct association, together with significant indirect associations through digital capability and organizational readiness. The findings are consistent with a capability-mediated interpretation; however, the cross-sectional design and self-reported data do not establish causal or temporal relationships. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Business Management: Innovative Strategies for the Future of the Global Economy)

16 pages, 1734 KB

Open AccessArticle

New Records of Magallana gigas and Callinectes sapidus from the Romanian Black Sea Coast Based on Citizen-Reported Observations: Contributions to Marine Biodiversity Monitoring

by Adrian Filimon, Valeria Abaza and Mihaela Cosmina Teodorof

Sustainability 2026, 18(15), 7530; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18157530 (registering DOI) - 23 Jul 2026

Abstract

The number of alien species recorded in the Black Sea has increased over recent decades, raising concerns regarding their long-term ecological consequences. Among the taxa currently extending their distribution within the basin are the Pacific oyster, Magallana gigas, and the Chesapeake blue [...] Read more.

The number of alien species recorded in the Black Sea has increased over recent decades, raising concerns regarding their long-term ecological consequences. Among the taxa currently extending their distribution within the basin are the Pacific oyster, Magallana gigas, and the Chesapeake blue crab, Callinectes sapidus. This study presents new records of both species from the Romanian Black Sea coast obtained through citizen-reported observations. Five specimens of M. gigas collected from Constanța and Mangalia harbours were examined, together with one ovigerous female specimen of C. sapidus collected from Vadu Beach. In addition, two male C. sapidus records from Sinoe Lake were documented and validated based on photographic evidence. The finding of M. gigas in Mangalia Harbour extends the known distribution of the species along the Romanian coastline and suggests that the species is more widespread than previously documented. The occurrence of an ovigerous C. sapidus female confirms that reproduction is taking place in Romanian Black Sea waters. Morphometric measurements and reproductive traits were within the ranges reported from other Black Sea and Mediterranean populations. While none of these species can currently be regarded as invasive in Romanian coastal waters due to the absence of documented ecological impacts, the increasing frequency of records suggests that both warrant continued monitoring. The results further indicate that citizen-reported observations, when validated by specialists, can complement conventional surveys and provide valuable information on the occurrence and spread of conspicuous alien marine species, thereby supporting sustainable marine biodiversity monitoring and informed ecosystem management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainability, Biodiversity and Conservation)

24 pages, 1431 KB

Open AccessArticle

Supporting Sustainable Senior Housing: Preliminary Assessment of Predicted Thermal Comfort in a Timber-Based Prototype Building in Poland

by Olga Szlachetka, Katarzyna Jeleniewicz, Łukasz Mazur, Michał Kosakiewicz, Manuel Carlos Gameiro da Silva and Robert Kocewicz

Sustainability 2026, 18(15), 7529; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18157529 (registering DOI) - 23 Jul 2026

Abstract

Population ageing and the need to provide affordable, healthy, and energy-efficient housing represent important sustainability challenges in many European countries. Sustainable senior housing should not only reduce environmental impacts through low-carbon construction technologies but also ensure high indoor environmental quality and occupant well-being. [...] Read more.

Population ageing and the need to provide affordable, healthy, and energy-efficient housing represent important sustainability challenges in many European countries. Sustainable senior housing should not only reduce environmental impacts through low-carbon construction technologies but also ensure high indoor environmental quality and occupant well-being. This paper presents a preliminary assessment of predicted thermal comfort and local thermal discomfort in a prototype senior home constructed a prefabricated timber-based building system incorporating renewable and recycled materials and designed to support low operational energy demand. The research forms part of a broader development study of technology, in which indoor thermal conditions were monitored in a prototype building consisting of two 30 m² residential units intended for older adults. Predicted thermal comfort was evaluated using the PMV (Predicted Mean Vote) and PPD (Predicted Percentage of Dissatisfied) indices together with local thermal discomfort criteria. The analysis was based on short-term winter and summer measurement campaigns conducted in the prototype building. The results indicated category B thermal environment conditions in both winter and summer according to ISO 7730. In winter, local discomfort associated with a cool floor corresponded to category C, while summer conditions met category B requirements without significant local discomfort. The findings provide preliminary evidence that timber-based low-carbon construction technologies can support acceptable indoor thermal conditions while addressing environmental and social sustainability objectives related to an ageing population. The study also identifies the need for longer monitoring campaigns and future investigations involving older occupants to validate actual thermal sensation and further optimize sustainable senior housing solutions. Since the building was unoccupied during the measurements, the results should be interpreted as a prediction of predicted thermal comfort conditions rather than an assessment of thermal sensations experienced by older adults. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Green Building)

31 pages, 1464 KB

Open AccessArticle

Engineering Geological Constraints in the Design of Sustainable Stormwater Retention and Reuse Systems for Residential Developments: A Case Study from Kraków

by Justyna Pamuła, Karolina Łach and Gabriela Trybuch

Sustainability 2026, 18(15), 7528; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18157528 (registering DOI) - 23 Jul 2026

Abstract

Progressive climate change and rapid urbanization are placing increasing pressure on water resources, highlighting the need for local stormwater retention and reuse in residential areas. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of geological-engineering and geotechnical conditions on the design of stormwater management [...] Read more.

Progressive climate change and rapid urbanization are placing increasing pressure on water resources, highlighting the need for local stormwater retention and reuse in residential areas. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of geological-engineering and geotechnical conditions on the design of stormwater management systems and to develop a conceptual solution for a residential property in Kraków, Poland. Geological, hydrogeological, hydrological, and topographic conditions were assessed using archival data verified through field investigations. Rainfall data from the Kraków-Balice meteorological station (2014–2023) were used to estimate rainwater harvesting potential and evaluate system performance. The proposed system consists of surface and subsurface drainage, two storage tanks, and an infiltration well. The first tank collects roof runoff for non-potable domestic use, whereas the second stores water from the drainage system and paved surfaces for irrigation. The annual rainwater harvesting potential was comparable to the non-potable water demand of a five-person household, while water collected from the drainage system and paved surfaces was sufficient for irrigation. Monthly precipitation analysis revealed pronounced seasonal variability, with winter shortages and summer surpluses. Integrating the storage tanks with the infiltration well enabled effective management of excess stormwater while supporting groundwater recharge. The results demonstrate that consideration of geological-engineering conditions is essential for the effective and sustainable design of residential stormwater management systems. Full article

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

50 pages, 23132 KB

Open AccessReview

Industry 5.0 and Human-Centric Sustainability in the Age of Intelligent Technologies

by David Mhlanga

Sustainability 2026, 18(15), 7527; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18157527 (registering DOI) - 23 Jul 2026

Abstract

The rapid expansion of intelligent technologies and digital transformation has intensified global debates regarding sustainability, ethical governance, industrial resilience, and human well-being within contemporary industrial systems. Industry 5.0 has emerged as a human-centred and sustainability-oriented framework that seeks to balance technological innovation with [...] Read more.

The rapid expansion of intelligent technologies and digital transformation has intensified global debates regarding sustainability, ethical governance, industrial resilience, and human well-being within contemporary industrial systems. Industry 5.0 has emerged as a human-centred and sustainability-oriented framework that seeks to balance technological innovation with broader societal and environmental objectives. This paper critically examines the relationship between Industry 5.0, intelligent technologies, and human-centric sustainability in the digital age. The study adopts a conceptual and integrative literature review methodology grounded in an interpretivist research philosophy. The findings reveal that intelligent technologies such as artificial intelligence, IoT, blockchain, collaborative robotics, and digital twins have substantial potential to improve sustainability, resource efficiency, industrial resilience, and workforce empowerment when responsibly governed. The paper develops a Human-Centric Sustainability Framework for Industry 5.0 and recommends strengthening ethical governance, inclusive innovation, workforce reskilling, and sustainability-oriented policies to support resilient and human-centred industrial transformation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industry 5.0 and Sustainability in the Digital Revolution)

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22 pages, 3340 KB

Open AccessArticle

Diffusion Model with Multi-Source Data for Day-Ahead Renewable Energy Scenario Generation

by Lin Chen, Xinran Liu, Quanqi Chen, Guinan Ye, Wen Liu and Xiaotong Dai

Sustainability 2026, 18(15), 7526; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18157526 (registering DOI) - 23 Jul 2026

Abstract

High-quality renewable energy (RE) scenario generation is essential for secure, reliable, and economic power system operation under high RE penetration. To address the limitations of existing methods in preserving scenario fidelity, diversity, spatiotemporal dependence, and engineering consistency, this paper proposes a three-stage framework [...] Read more.

High-quality renewable energy (RE) scenario generation is essential for secure, reliable, and economic power system operation under high RE penetration. To address the limitations of existing methods in preserving scenario fidelity, diversity, spatiotemporal dependence, and engineering consistency, this paper proposes a three-stage framework that combines a variational autoencoder (VAE) with a conditional latent diffusion model (CLDM), hereafter referred to as VAE-CLDM, for day-ahead renewable energy scenario generation. First, multi-source features are constructed by integrating renewable power outputs, meteorological variables, temporal lag information, and spatial correlation characteristics among wind farms and photovoltaic stations. Then, VAE compresses the high-dimensional features into a compact latent space while retaining key statistical and spatiotemporal information. Based on this latent representation, a CLDM generates realistic scenarios by progressively denoising random noise under meteorological conditions. A spatiotemporal feature modeling strategy is incorporated to better represent temporal fluctuations and inter-site correlations, while a diversity regulation factor is selected on the validation set to balance scenario fidelity and tail-event coverage. Finally, the generated scenarios are reconstructed into the physical space and checked using output-bound and ramp-consistency correction to improve their practical usability. Results on the open dataset released by the Chinese State Grid Renewable Energy Generation Forecasting Competition show that the proposed framework achieves the lowest root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), and maximum mean discrepancy (MMD) among the tested models on the training-statistics-standardized renewable-power benchmark, with RMSE of

0.3013 \pm 0.0022

, MAE of

0.3636 \pm 0.0010

, and MMD of

0.04269 \pm 0.00040

. After post-correction, lower- and upper-bound violations are reduced to 0.00%, and the ramp-violation rate is reduced to 0.08%, indicating that the proposed VAE-CLDM can provide useful scenario inputs for day-ahead dispatch and risk assessment in renewable-dominated power systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Planning, Operation and Control Methods for Sustainable Power Systems)

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43 pages, 1629 KB

Open AccessArticle

Artificial Intelligence Utilization and Perceived Firm Performance in Chinese Logistics Firms: The Roles of Innovation Capability and Logistics Efficiency

by Chenghao Shang and Changone Kim

Sustainability 2026, 18(15), 7525; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18157525 (registering DOI) - 23 Jul 2026

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) is used in logistics, but the mechanisms linking AI utilization to firm performance remain insufficiently differentiated. Drawing on the information technology business value perspective and dynamic capabilities theory, this study examines whether managers’ perceptions of logistics-oriented AI utilization are associated [...] Read more.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is used in logistics, but the mechanisms linking AI utilization to firm performance remain insufficiently differentiated. Drawing on the information technology business value perspective and dynamic capabilities theory, this study examines whether managers’ perceptions of logistics-oriented AI utilization are associated with perceived firm performance through innovation capability and logistics efficiency, with managerial support treated as a secondary boundary condition. Cross-sectional survey data from 254 middle- and senior-level managers in Chinese logistics firms were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics 27 and IBM SPSS Amos 29 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA), and the PROCESS macro version 4.2 (Andrew F. Hayes, Calgary, AB, Canada), with Model 83 and 5000 bootstrap samples. Perceived AI utilization was positively associated with innovation capability, logistics efficiency, and perceived firm performance. Both mediators showed significant indirect effects, and their sequential indirect effect was also significant. The two individual indirect effects did not differ significantly, but both exceeded the sequential indirect effect. The proposed sequential, reverse-sequence, and parallel-mediation models produced identical fit indices, whereas the restricted direct-effects model showed weaker fit. Neither the AI utilization–managerial support interaction nor the moderated mediation indices was significant. Exploratory item-level analyses showed differentiated associations for demand forecasting and order allocation and for AI infrastructure; the pattern remained stable among 194 respondents involved in AI- or digital transformation-related activities. Innovation capability and logistics efficiency appear to function as complementary mechanisms, with a smaller capability-to-process pathway. Their relative ordering cannot be determined from the cross-sectional data. As the data are self-reported, the findings represent associations among managerial perceptions rather than objective causal effects. Sustainability implications are limited to operational efficiency because environmental outcomes were not directly measured. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue AI for Sustainable Development: Applications and Impacts across Industries)

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20 pages, 1359 KB

Open AccessArticle

Factor Structure of Sustainability Awareness Among First-Year University Students in Japan and Its Impact on Environmentally Conscious Behavior: The Mediating Effect of SDG Education Experience and the Moderating Effect of Connection to Nature

by Hiroko Taguchi, Yoko Iio, Manato Seguchi, Harumi Ejiri and Morihiro Ito

Sustainability 2026, 18(15), 7524; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18157524 (registering DOI) - 23 Jul 2026

Abstract

Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) education is being promoted to foster future leaders of a sustainable society; however, the relationship between SDG education experiences and environmentally conscious behavior and the role of nature connectedness have not been sufficiently examined. This study examined the factor [...] Read more.

Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) education is being promoted to foster future leaders of a sustainable society; however, the relationship between SDG education experiences and environmentally conscious behavior and the role of nature connectedness have not been sufficiently examined. This study examined the factor structure of the Sustainability Consciousness Questionnaire (SCQ), the mediating effect of sustainability consciousness, and the moderating effect of nature connectedness among 2347 first-year university students in Japan. Exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, mediation analysis, and moderation analysis confirmed a three-factor structure of the SCQ (Global Sustainability Attitude, Social Norm and Ethics, Daily Environmental Action). A significant partial mediating effect of sustainability consciousness (B = 0.120, 95% CI [0.094, 0.149]) and a significant moderating effect of nature connectedness (p = 0.011) were observed in the relationship between SDG education experience and environmentally conscious behavior; the stronger the connection with nature, the greater the effect of SDG education on behavior. These findings empirically demonstrate the mechanism through which SDG education experiences lead to environmentally conscious behavior and the moderating role of nature connectedness, contributing to sustainability consciousness research and Education for Sustainable Development. These results suggest the importance of fostering psychological connections with nature alongside knowledge provision. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Educational Research in the Era of 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (2nd Edition))

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19 pages, 1095 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Intermediate Environmental Courts on Corporate Climate-Related Disclosure: Evidence from China

by Ying Yang, Jingxuan Yang, Jinlei Liu and Xizhe Wang

Sustainability 2026, 18(15), 7523; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18157523 (registering DOI) - 23 Jul 2026

Abstract

Climate-related corporate disclosure is increasingly important for investors and other stakeholders when assessing firms’ exposure to climate risks. This study examines whether the establishment of intermediate environmental courts affects corporate climate-related disclosure in China. Using a staggered difference-in-differences design and a sample of [...] Read more.

Climate-related corporate disclosure is increasingly important for investors and other stakeholders when assessing firms’ exposure to climate risks. This study examines whether the establishment of intermediate environmental courts affects corporate climate-related disclosure in China. Using a staggered difference-in-differences design and a sample of Chinese listed firms from 2010 to 2022, we find that the establishment of environmental courts is associated with a significant increase in the intensity of climate-related disclosure in firms’ Management Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) sections. The effect is more pronounced among firms with lower levels of analyst coverage and research-report attention. In contrast, firms with stronger internal governance confidence and a stronger environmental orientation exhibit a more pronounced increase in disclosure. Further analysis suggests that environmental court establishment is associated with improvements in internal control quality, which helps explain the observed changes in disclosure. Overall, the findings suggest that specialized environmental adjudication constitutes an important institutional driver of firms’ climate-related reporting behavior, although the magnitude of this effect varies with firms’ external monitoring conditions and internal governance characteristics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Recent Advances in Green Energy and Economic Policy)

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19 pages, 1464 KB

Open AccessArticle

Mobilizing Pro-Environmental Values and Environmental Peace Culture Through Place-Based Education in the Colombian Amazon

by Nelsy Teresa Mancilla Rodríguez and Yois Smith Pascuas Rengifo

Sustainability 2026, 18(15), 7522; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18157522 (registering DOI) - 23 Jul 2026

Abstract

In schools located in the Colombian Amazon, there is still limited empirical evidence on how students connect pro-environmental values with emotions and environmental peace culture. In this article, environmental peace culture is understood as a way of learning to care for nature, live [...] Read more.

In schools located in the Colombian Amazon, there is still limited empirical evidence on how students connect pro-environmental values with emotions and environmental peace culture. In this article, environmental peace culture is understood as a way of learning to care for nature, live with it, and assume shared responsibility for its protection. The study investigated “Sembrando Paz Ambiental”, a place-based pedagogical proposal implemented among secondary school students through experiential, playful, and participatory activities. A convergent mixed-methods design was employed, integrating a quasi-experimental pretest–posttest component with a qualitative analysis of students’ perceptions and pedagogical productions. The quantitative component included 66 paired cases assessed through a 24-item Likert scale, with data analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. The qualitative component included open-ended responses, drawings, and written productions analyzed through thematic coding and co-occurrence analysis in ATLAS.ti. The findings revealed statistically significant increases across all pro-environmental values, with the hedonic value showing the largest effect size. Qualitative findings associated environmental peace culture with emotional well-being, cooperation, care for nature, and territorial belonging. The study contributes to the literature by showing that the mobilization of pro-environmental values depends not only on normative conservation discourses, but also on pedagogical experiences that connect emotion, territory, and environmental care. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Education and Approaches)

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34 pages, 7476 KB

Open AccessArticle

Spatiotemporal Transition Characteristics and Influencing Factors of New-Quality Productive Forces Development in China Based on Random Forest Model

by Yuanfeng Dai, Huixia Li, Hongyi Zhou, Hanmei Dang, Jiaru Luo and Fei Yang

Sustainability 2026, 18(15), 7521; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18157521 (registering DOI) - 23 Jul 2026

Abstract

New-quality productive forces provide an important conceptual lens for understanding how innovation-driven development, digital empowerment, and the green transition jointly support sustainable regional development. From a geographical perspective, this study develops a multidimensional evaluation system for new-quality productive forces based on the three [...] Read more.

New-quality productive forces provide an important conceptual lens for understanding how innovation-driven development, digital empowerment, and the green transition jointly support sustainable regional development. From a geographical perspective, this study develops a multidimensional evaluation system for new-quality productive forces based on the three elements of productive forces: laborers, means of labor, and objects of labor. Using panel data for 31 provincial-level administrative units in China from 2012 to 2022, we integrate the entropy weight method, standard deviation ellipse, exploratory spatiotemporal data analysis, the obstacle degree model, and the random forest model to examine the spatiotemporal evolution and influencing mechanisms of new-quality productive forces. The results show that: (1) China’s new-quality productive forces increased steadily during the study period, but their overall level remained relatively low and regional disparities continued to widen. Spatially, they exhibited a pronounced “high in the east and low in the west” pattern, with South China and East China maintaining leading positions and Guangdong and Jiangsu forming a dual-core growth structure. (2) The spatial center of gravity remained southeast of the Hu Huanyong Line, and its expansion direction was broadly parallel to this line, indicating a relatively stable spatial configuration. The ESTDA results further reveal significant positive spatial autocorrelation, strong temporal inertia, and marked path dependence in local spatial transitions. (3) High-tech talent supply, innovation and entrepreneurship vitality, and ecological governance capacity constitute the main internal bottlenecks constraining the development of new-quality productive forces. The analysis of external factors indicates that economic scale and population size are the primary predictors of NQPF development, whereas government intervention, openness, urbanization, and industrial structure exhibit varying degrees of nonlinearity and regional heterogeneity. These findings enrich the geographical interpretation of new-quality productive forces and provide empirical evidence for formulating differentiated regional innovation policies and productivity transformation strategies. Full article

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21 pages, 266 KB

Open AccessArticle

Artificial Intelligence in Fashion Design Education: Implications for Sustainable Design Practices

by Tahani Nassar Alajaji and Tahani AlQudairi

Sustainability 2026, 18(15), 7520; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18157520 (registering DOI) - 23 Jul 2026

Abstract

This study investigated the implications of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) technologies into fashion design education and their relationship with supporting sustainable design practices. A descriptive–analytical approach was adopted, and an online questionnaire was administered to a sample of 404 female students and graduates [...] Read more.

This study investigated the implications of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) technologies into fashion design education and their relationship with supporting sustainable design practices. A descriptive–analytical approach was adopted, and an online questionnaire was administered to a sample of 404 female students and graduates specializing in fashion design in Saudi Arabia. The study examined the perceived usefulness of AI technologies in supporting sustainable design, the level of sustainable design self-efficacy, the relationship between these two variables, and differences associated with selected demographic variables. In addition, two optional open-ended questions provided complementary qualitative insights into participants’ perceptions of AI in sustainable fashion design. The findings revealed a high level of perceived usefulness of AI technologies in supporting sustainable design practices, as well as a high level of sustainable design self-efficacy among the participants. Statistically significant differences were found in perceived usefulness according to participants’ level of experience with AI tools and frequency of use, in favor of those with greater experience and more frequent use. The results also showed a strong positive relationship between perceived usefulness and sustainable design self-efficacy, along with statistically significant differences according to academic status, educational level, and geographic region. The qualitative findings further highlighted the role of AI in enhancing creativity, improving design efficiency, and reducing waste, while also pointing to challenges related to AI literacy, intellectual property, and ethical use. The study contributes empirical evidence from fashion design education in Saudi Arabia, a context that remains underrepresented in previous research, and emphasizes the importance of integrating AI technologies into fashion design education through educational and ethical frameworks that promote responsible AI use and sustainability-oriented design competencies. Full article

31 pages, 2665 KB

Open AccessArticle

Locomotives vs. Heavy Road Freight Vehicle Combinations: A Case Study of the Energy Intensity and WTW CO₂e Emissions of Freight Transport

by Martin Kendra, Matěj Daněček and Tomáš Skrúcaný

Sustainability 2026, 18(15), 7519; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18157519 (registering DOI) - 23 Jul 2026

Abstract

This study quantifies, based on real-world operational measurements, the energy intensity and greenhouse gas emissions of selected vehicle types in rail and road freight transport on the Brno–Břeclav corridor. Measurements were conducted on several generations of electric locomotives, one upgraded diesel locomotive, and [...] Read more.

This study quantifies, based on real-world operational measurements, the energy intensity and greenhouse gas emissions of selected vehicle types in rail and road freight transport on the Brno–Břeclav corridor. Measurements were conducted on several generations of electric locomotives, one upgraded diesel locomotive, and two heavy road freight vehicle combinations. Energy flows were converted to a common basis, and both energy intensity and greenhouse gas emissions were assessed on a well-to-wheel (WTW) basis. Unlike many previous studies, this research focuses on a comparison of specific, currently operated vehicles rather than on an aggregated comparison of transport modes. The results reveal substantial differences not only between rail and road freight transport, but also within rail traction itself, where pronounced differences were identified among individual locomotive generations. At the same time, they confirm that, even when diesel traction is used, rail freight transport remains more energy-efficient and exhibits lower greenhouse gas emissions than heavy road freight vehicle combinations, both per gross and per net tonne-kilometre. Overall, the findings indicate that the environmental performance of freight transport is determined not only by the transport mode itself, but also by vehicle technology, traction type, and the structure of transport performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)

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26 pages, 2832 KB

Open AccessArticle

Two-Stage Data-Driven Trip Purposes and Socio-Economic Attribute Inference Framework of Public Transit Riders

by Chao Yang, Wentao Dong, Chengcheng Yu, Yuliang Zhang and Yingfei Tu

Sustainability 2026, 18(15), 7518; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18157518 (registering DOI) - 23 Jul 2026

Abstract

Data-driven research is becoming a new paradigm in transportation, but the natural lack of individual socio-economic attributes in transportation data makes research such as activity purpose inference and mobility pattern identification lack convincingness and verifiability. In this paper, a two-stage trip purpose and [...] Read more.

Data-driven research is becoming a new paradigm in transportation, but the natural lack of individual socio-economic attributes in transportation data makes research such as activity purpose inference and mobility pattern identification lack convincingness and verifiability. In this paper, a two-stage trip purpose and socio-economic attributes inference model is proposed based on travel resident survey and smart card data. In the first stage, the trip purpose of each trip is inferred by a combination of rule-based and XGBoost models. In the second stage, based on the trip purpose, a machine-learning model is built to infer the socio-economic attributes of individuals. A teacher–student model based on self-training is then applied to the models above to transfer them to smart card data. The impact of independent variables of the socio-economic attributes inference model is also investigated. The results show that the proposed framework achieves an overall accuracy of 92.7% for trip-purpose inference, and an average accuracy of 76.3% across the three socio-economic attributes (age, job status, and income). Travel time, arrival time, departure time, and purpose of the first two trips are the most important factors on age and job status, while the land price related to jobs and housing is significant when inferring individuals’ incomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intelligent Transport System and Sustainable Traffic Management)

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23 pages, 853 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Nonlinear Impact of Environmental Regulations on Urban Employment: Evidence from the Yangtze River Economic Belt of China

by Wenyong Li, Fei Wang and Caijing Zhao

Sustainability 2026, 18(15), 7517; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18157517 - 23 Jul 2026

Abstract

As an important policy tool for promoting green development, environmental regulation (ER) has exerted a profound impact on the employment sector. Using panel data from 106 prefecture-level and above cities in China’s Yangtze River Economic Belt (YREB) from 2011 to 2022, we examine [...] Read more.

As an important policy tool for promoting green development, environmental regulation (ER) has exerted a profound impact on the employment sector. Using panel data from 106 prefecture-level and above cities in China’s Yangtze River Economic Belt (YREB) from 2011 to 2022, we examine the impact and mechanisms of ER on employment scale and structure. Empirical results reveal that the strengthening of ER has a significant inhibitory effect on employment growth, but a positive impact on the optimization of the employment structure. As regulatory intensity increases, the suppressive effect on employment scale diminishes, while structural optimization strengthens. Moreover, the effects vary across regions. The scale-inhibiting effect is more pronounced in the Upper-Middle Yangtze regions, in areas with initially low regulation intensity, and in large cities. Structural optimization is most significant in the Lower Yangtze regions and in small/medium-sized cities. We also find that ER indirectly changes employment through three channels: industrial structure upgrading (ISU), green innovation (GV), and foreign direct investment (FDI). Our findings underscore the necessity of balancing environmental stringency with social sustainability, and the conclusions of our study are applicable to policymakers in China and other economies. Full article

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26 pages, 782 KB

Open AccessArticle

Digital Infrastructure and Manufacturing Supply Chain Capabilities: Evidence from China’s Pilot Cities

by Weibo Jin, Yiming Wang, Zhe Liu, Shuang Wang and Xiaolu Yang

Sustainability 2026, 18(15), 7516; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18157516 - 23 Jul 2026

Abstract

The reconfiguration of global value chains has raised concerns about the resilience and upgrading of manufacturing supply chains. This study examines whether digital infrastructure improves manufacturing supply chain capabilities, using the 2016 “Information for the People” pilot city program as a quasi-natural experiment. [...] Read more.

The reconfiguration of global value chains has raised concerns about the resilience and upgrading of manufacturing supply chains. This study examines whether digital infrastructure improves manufacturing supply chain capabilities, using the 2016 “Information for the People” pilot city program as a quasi-natural experiment. Based on panel data from Chinese prefecture-level cities from 2006 to 2023, a difference-in-differences model is employed to identify the causal effect. The results show that digital infrastructure significantly enhances manufacturing supply chain capabilities, and this finding remains robust after multiple tests. Heterogeneity analysis indicates that the effect differs across China’s eight economic regions and strengthens with longer policy implementation, showing regional and cumulative characteristics. Mechanism analysis suggests that innovation-oriented talent inflow is an important transmission channel. Further analysis shows that financial development positively moderates the impact of digital infrastructure by improving cities’ capacity to absorb and allocate digital and innovation resources. These findings suggest that policymakers should shift from uniform digital infrastructure investment to region-specific strategies that integrate talent attraction, financial support, and supply chain modernization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Manufacturing Supply Chain and Logistics Technology)

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26 pages, 4167 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing Regional Disparities and Spatiotemporal Dynamics of Smart Transportation Development in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei Urban Agglomeration

by Fengwen Hou and Xubiao Yang

Sustainability 2026, 18(15), 7515; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18157515 - 23 Jul 2026

Abstract

The continued implementation of the coordinated development strategy for the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region has placed higher demands on regional transportation integration and smart transportation development. However, regional disparities in smart transportation development and their spatiotemporal evolution within the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei urban agglomeration have not yet [...] Read more.

The continued implementation of the coordinated development strategy for the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region has placed higher demands on regional transportation integration and smart transportation development. However, regional disparities in smart transportation development and their spatiotemporal evolution within the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei urban agglomeration have not yet been comprehensively investigated. This study focused on 13 cities in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei urban agglomeration during 2016–2023. A comprehensive evaluation index system was constructed to systematically examine regional disparities, spatiotemporal evolution, and the driving factors of smart transportation development. The results showed the following: (1) The overall level of smart transportation development increased steadily during the study period, exhibiting a hierarchical pattern featuring a leading core, differentiated levels of development, and persistent lagging areas. (2) Overall regional disparity declined from 0.147 to 0.137, indicating a gradual convergence trend. Inter-regional disparities remained the primary contributor to overall imbalance, accounting for up to 81.1%. (3) Smart transportation development demonstrated significant negative spatial autocorrelation. Although spatial dependence weakened over time, the interspersed distribution of high- and low-development cities remained largely unchanged. Moreover, smart transportation development exhibited strong path dependence and neighborhood effects, with limited upward mobility and stronger constraining effects from low-level neighboring areas than promoting effects from high-level neighbors. (4) Digital human capital, economic development, and R&D investment significantly promoted smart transportation development, whereas government support for science and technology and urbanization had not yet effectively generated development momentum. This study advances understanding of the disparities and evolutionary patterns in smart transportation development within the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei urban agglomeration and provides empirical evidence to inform the design of differentiated policies under the coordinated regional development strategy. Full article

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1 pages, 130 KB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: Habimana Simbi et al. Sustainable Development in Africa: A Comprehensive Analysis of GDP, CO₂ Emissions, and Socio-Economic Factors. Sustainability 2025, 17, 679

by Claudien Habimana Simbi, Fengmei Yao and Jiahua Zhang

Sustainability 2026, 18(15), 7514; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18157514 - 23 Jul 2026

Abstract

The authors would like to make the following corrections about the published paper [...] Full article

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