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Sustainability

Sustainability is an international, peer-reviewed, open-access journal on environmental, cultural, economic, and social sustainability of human beings, published semimonthly online by MDPI. The Canadian Urban Transit Research & Innovation Consortium (CUTRIC), International Council for Research and Innovation in Building and Construction (CIB) and Urban Land Institute (ULI) are affiliated with Sustainability and their members receive discounts on the article processing charges.

Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE and SSCI (Web of Science), GEOBASE, GeoRef, Inspec, RePEc, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Environmental Studies) / CiteScore - Q1 (Geography, Planning and Development)
Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 19.3 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.4 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2025).
Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Testimonials: See what our editors and authors say about Sustainability.
Companion journals for Sustainability include: World, Sustainable Chemistry, Conservation, Future Transportation, Architecture, Standards, Merits, Bioresources and Bioproducts and Accounting and Auditing.

Impact Factor: 3.3 (2024); 5-Year Impact Factor: 3.6 (2024)

Imprint Information Journal Flyer Open Access ISSN: 2071-1050

Latest Articles

22 pages, 2337 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Study on Multi-Dimensional Analysis and Spatial Differentiation of the Resilience of Folk Cultural Spaces on Xiamen Island, China

by Mengqing Huang, Jingwei Wu and Tingting Hong

Sustainability 2025, 17(23), 10579; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172310579 - 25 Nov 2025

Amid rapid global urbanization, folk cultural spaces are facing a pronounced “resilience crisis.” Existing studies primarily emphasize material preservation while lacking a holistic assessment of cultural spaces. Using Xiamen Island as a case study, this research integrates GIS-based spatial analysis, questionnaire surveys, and [...] Read more.

Amid rapid global urbanization, folk cultural spaces are facing a pronounced “resilience crisis.” Existing studies primarily emphasize material preservation while lacking a holistic assessment of cultural spaces. Using Xiamen Island as a case study, this research integrates GIS-based spatial analysis, questionnaire surveys, and statistical modeling to develop a resilience assessment framework for folk cultural spaces, encompassing four key dimensions: connectivity, modularity, diversity, and adaptability. The study systematically identifies spatial differentiation, formation mechanisms, and typological patterns of these spaces. The main findings are as follows: First, the resilience of folk cultural spaces on Xiamen Island exhibits a spatial pattern characterized by “dual-core leadership, corridor transition, and marginal vulnerability.” High-resilience areas are mainly concentrated in Siming Old Town and the Wuyuanwan district, representing two typical development trajectories—“organic evolution” and “planned intervention.” Second, the influencing mechanisms of each resilience dimension show pronounced spatial heterogeneity, reflecting the coupled effects of structural characteristics, social processes, and governance logics across different urban contexts. Third, three resilience zones are identified through K-means clustering, providing a typological basis for developing differentiated strategies for protection and renewal. This study provides theoretical insights and methodological references for the “living” preservation and adaptive governance of folk cultural spaces. Full article

41 pages, 723 KB

Open AccessReview

A Thorough Investigation into the Current State of the Art in Safety Management on Battery Fire and Explosion Risks

by Paul Lindhout and Genserik Reniers

Sustainability 2025, 17(23), 10578; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172310578 - 25 Nov 2025

Battery-powered applications are rapidly spreading in handheld, domestic, business and power storage appliances and in propelling a range of electric vehicles. Fast developments of new battery technology sparked an equally fast development of a new and wide range of applications, showing new safety [...] Read more.

Battery-powered applications are rapidly spreading in handheld, domestic, business and power storage appliances and in propelling a range of electric vehicles. Fast developments of new battery technology sparked an equally fast development of a new and wide range of applications, showing new safety problems at the same time. The acceptability of these new safety risks across the range has so far not been thoroughly assessed due to lack of statistical incident data. This study explores the wide range of new technology-based battery applications where people are exposed to these hazards, gathers credible incident scenarios and assesses currently available means for incident prevention and mitigation. Battery fire, explosion and toxic fume incidents are emerging as key safety issues in aerospace, shipping, transport and storage, waste handling, the high-risk chemical industry, domestic appliances, industrial power storage, road traffic and carparks. Incidents are causing severe injuries, death and considerable environmental impacts and financial losses. Implementation of both preventive and repressive safety measures is ongoing, yet complicated due to re-ignition and chemicals involved in battery fires. New firefighting strategies and techniques are needed. The authors present an indicative risk assessment based on the presence of risk factors, as derived from a triangulation of experiences reported from practice, scientific literature findings and expert interviews, thereby initiating a risk-based perspective. Several ways to move forward are recommended. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Hazards and Sustainability)

37 pages, 1829 KB

Open AccessArticle

Dual-Layer Optimization Control for Furnace Temperature Setting and Tracking in Municipal Solid Waste Incineration Process

by Yicong Wu, Wei Wang, Jian Tang, Zenan Li and Jian Rong

Sustainability 2025, 17(23), 10577; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172310577 - 25 Nov 2025

In the global trend towards a sustainable circular economy, incineration technology is widely used for the treatment of municipal solid waste (MSW), as it effectively achieves waste harmlessness, reduction, and energy recovery. During the MSW incineration (MSWI) process, the furnace temperature (FT) is [...] Read more.

In the global trend towards a sustainable circular economy, incineration technology is widely used for the treatment of municipal solid waste (MSW), as it effectively achieves waste harmlessness, reduction, and energy recovery. During the MSW incineration (MSWI) process, the furnace temperature (FT) is closely linked to pollutant emission concentrations. Therefore, precise control and stable monitoring of the FT are essential for minimizing pollution emissions. However, existing studies generally treat the optimization of FT setpoint value and tracking control as separate issues, lacking a unified optimization framework that can link environmental objectives with control parameters in an online, automatic, and closed-loop manner. To address these issues, a dual-layer optimization control method for FT setting and tracking, aimed at minimizing pollutant concentrations, is proposed. In the first layer, the optimization targets the lowest possible NOx and CO₂ emission concentrations, using a genetic algorithm (GA) to determine optimal FT setpoints. In the second layer, the optimization minimizes the Integral of Time-weighted Absolute Error (ITAE) as the performance index, optimizing the parameters of multi-loop PID controllers via an improved GA. Additionally, an innovative shared-memory judgment mechanism is proposed to transmit process data in real time. Based on residual dynamic correction of the optimization function, an effective double-loop closed control architecture is established. Experimental validation shows that, compared to traditional methods, the optimized control system exhibits faster setpoint value tracking, smaller steady-state errors, and stronger anti-interference capabilities, leading to a significant reduction in pollutant emissions. This study provides a new approach for intelligent optimization control in MSWI with substantial application prospects. Full article

19 pages, 726 KB

Open AccessArticle

Policy Implementation and Sustainable Governance in Chinese SOEs: A Study of Mixed-Ownership Reform and ESG Rating Divergence

by Hui Wang, Yue Sun and Xin Wang

Sustainability 2025, 17(23), 10576; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172310576 - 25 Nov 2025

Enterprises fulfilling ESG responsibilities represent a strategic choice to achieve sustainable and high-quality development. Using the sample of A-share state-owned listed companies in China from 2015 to 2022, this study investigates the association of mixed ownership reform (MOR) of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) with [...] Read more.

Enterprises fulfilling ESG responsibilities represent a strategic choice to achieve sustainable and high-quality development. Using the sample of A-share state-owned listed companies in China from 2015 to 2022, this study investigates the association of mixed ownership reform (MOR) of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) with ESG rating divergence. The findings reveal that MOR significantly exacerbates ESG rating divergence, particularly in firms with lower equity concentration, smaller scale, those in heavily polluting industries, and those with higher ESG disclosure levels. Robustness checks, including utilizing alternative measurement approaches, lagging sample periods, the propensity score matching (PSM) method, and the difference-in-differences (DID) model, address potential endogeneity issues and confirm the validity of these results. Further analysis demonstrates that MOR increases ESG rating divergence by reducing information transparency and cutting human capital investment, while enhancing ESG disclosure quality mitigates this divergence. These insights advance understanding of the tensions between governance reforms and sustainability metrics in transitional economies, providing a perspective for sustainable corporate governance of enterprises in the background of policy reform. Full article

42 pages, 50263 KB

Open AccessArticle

How AR-Enhanced Cultural Heritage Landscapes Influence Perception in Rural Tourism Spaces: Evidence from Eye Tracking and HRV

by Wenzhuo Fan, Chen Li, Songhua Gao, Nisha Ai and Nan Li

Sustainability 2025, 17(23), 10575; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172310575 - 25 Nov 2025

Against the backdrop of globalization, environmental pressures, and rapid tourism development, digital technologies are emerging as vital supplementary tools for cultural heritage preservation. This study investigates the impact of augmented reality (AR)-enhanced cultural heritage landscapes on rural tourists’ perceptions, validating their effects through [...] Read more.

Against the backdrop of globalization, environmental pressures, and rapid tourism development, digital technologies are emerging as vital supplementary tools for cultural heritage preservation. This study investigates the impact of augmented reality (AR)-enhanced cultural heritage landscapes on rural tourists’ perceptions, validating their effects through two physiological dimensions: visual attention and autonomic nervous system regulation. Employing a mixed experimental design (n = 81), the research integrates heart rate variability, eye tracking, and subjective questionnaires, with the Aoluguya Village in Inner Mongolia serving as the testing site. Participants viewed videos and images of real and AR environments in an isolated space. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA and paired t-tests. The results revealed that AR significantly increased RMSSD in the native rural environment (t(89) = −3.606, p = 0.001, d = 0.38), indicating heightened parasympathetic activity, while no significant effect was observed in the artificially recreated environment (t(89) = −2.020, p = 0.407), demonstrating that physiological benefits depend on the setting. Eye tracking data revealed that both AR environments increased total gaze duration and gaze frequency (average increase of 1.5–2.0 gazes), enhancing visual attention. The questionnaire results (n = 26) supported this finding on attention focus, novelty, and esthetic dimensions, though improvements in authenticity and overall satisfaction were limited. This study demonstrates that AR environments significantly capture visitor attention, particularly when integrated with authentic local spaces to enhance visitor experiences. The findings provide practical insights for revitalizing traditional village cultural heritage and optimizing rural tourism. Full article

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28 pages, 9107 KB

Open AccessArticle

Urban Afforestation as Spatial Strategy: Applied Design Research on the Eastern Greenway in Rome

by Alessandra Capuano and Marco Sorrentino

Sustainability 2025, 17(23), 10574; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172310574 - 25 Nov 2025

Urban forestation has become a key policy tool for addressing contemporary environmental, climatic, and social challenges. In Italy—particularly in Rome—recent climate mitigation and environmental improvement initiatives have promoted afforestation through predominantly quantitative approaches. Yet, increasing tree numbers alone is insufficient to enhance urban [...] Read more.

Urban forestation has become a key policy tool for addressing contemporary environmental, climatic, and social challenges. In Italy—particularly in Rome—recent climate mitigation and environmental improvement initiatives have promoted afforestation through predominantly quantitative approaches. Yet, increasing tree numbers alone is insufficient to enhance urban environmental quality or create more livable and resilient cities. An effective strategy requires a spatial and cultural vision that integrates vegetation with urban form and everyday collective life. This paper frames urban afforestation as a strategic instrument of territorial transformation, landscape design, and social regeneration. It critically examines afforestation policies implemented in Rome and the Lazio Region and compares them with international experiences in Medellín, Philadelphia, and Milan. The study highlights current program weaknesses and emphasizes the need for integrated planning and design frameworks capable of generating qualitative improvements in urban space alongside quantitative gains. The Serenissima Park case study illustrates how afforestation can function as a “green infrastructure architecture,” connecting ecological systems, urban fabrics, and communities, and supporting climate adaptation, sustainable mobility, and social inclusion. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Landscapes, Forestry and Green Infrastructure: From a Sustainable Perspective)

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15 pages, 9660 KB

Open AccessArticle

Ecological Suitability Modeling of Sweet Cherry (Prunus avium L.) in the Fez-Meknes Region of Morocco Under Current Climate Conditions

by Kamal El Fallah, Amine Amar, El Hassan Mayad, Zahra El Kettabi, Miloud Maqas and Jamal Charafi

Sustainability 2025, 17(23), 10573; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172310573 - 25 Nov 2025

Sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.), a temperate fruit species highly sensitive to thermal and hydric stress, faces increasing cultivation challenges in semi-arid regions such as Fez-Meknes (Morocco) due to climate change. This study aims to identify ecologically suitable zones for sweet cherry [...] Read more.

Sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.), a temperate fruit species highly sensitive to thermal and hydric stress, faces increasing cultivation challenges in semi-arid regions such as Fez-Meknes (Morocco) due to climate change. This study aims to identify ecologically suitable zones for sweet cherry cultivation by modeling its current potential distribution using the MaxEnt (Maximum Entropy) approach. A total of 1151 georeferenced occurrence records were collected through field surveys and validated with satellite imagery. Nineteen bioclimatic variables from the WorldClim database were initially considered, and a subset with low multicollinearity (|r| < 0.7) was retained for analysis. Model performance, evaluated using the area under the ROC curve (AUC), yielded a high mean value of 0.960 ± 0.014, indicating excellent predictive accuracy. Elevation, annual precipitation (BIO12), and precipitation seasonality (BIO15) emerged as key drivers of the species’ distribution, as confirmed by both Jackknife and SPCPI analyses. Spatial prediction maps highlighted high-suitability zones in the provinces of Ifrane, El Hajeb, Azrou, and Sefrou, aligning with known agro-climatic production areas. In contrast, lower suitability was observed in more arid or heat-prone provinces such as Boulemane and Midelt. These findings provide a robust bioclimatic framework for agroecological planning, supporting adaptive varietal zoning and long-term planning for climate-resilient horticulture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable and Innovative Agriculture in Issues of Energy Production and Food Safety)

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21 pages, 728 KB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Pathways in International Student Recruitment: The Strategic Role of Peer Referrals and Agent Engagement in Northern Cyprus

by Tarık Atan and Uğur Uysal Yorulmaz

Sustainability 2025, 17(23), 10572; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172310572 - 25 Nov 2025

This study examines the key determinants influencing international students’ university choice decisions from the perspective of recruitment agents, an often overlooked yet critical intermediary in higher education marketing. Using a quantitative research design, data were collected using a structured questionnaire, which was administered [...] Read more.

This study examines the key determinants influencing international students’ university choice decisions from the perspective of recruitment agents, an often overlooked yet critical intermediary in higher education marketing. Using a quantitative research design, data were collected using a structured questionnaire, which was administered to 474 prospective international students via participating recruitment agents’ networks. The survey measured the impact of Peer Referrals (PRs), University Image (UI), social life, Country Image (CI), and Financial Considerations (FC) on students’ Intention to Enroll (IE). Data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) in SmartPLS 4.0. Results indicate that Peer Referrals (PR) exert the strongest influence on students’ Intention to Enroll (IE), followed by perceptions of social life (SL) and university image (UI). These findings underscore the dual role of recruitment agents as both relational trust-builders and data-informed marketers in shaping student choices. By focusing on recruitment agents’ perspectives rather than solely institutional or student viewpoints, this research addresses a critical literature gap pertaining to international higher education. Grounded in relationship marketing and data-driven marketing theories, this study offers actionable insights for higher education managers seeking to enhance recruitment strategies, particularly in emerging destinations, such as North Cyprus. The implications are especially relevant for institutions committed to sustainable internationalization practices, aligning with sustainability’s focus on advancing long-term, ethical and inclusive growth in global education. Importantly, this research is grounded in empirical evidence, which provides a data-driven contribution rather than a conceptual or theoretical discussion. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring Education Management Strategies for Sustainable Development—2nd Edition)

16 pages, 533 KB

Open AccessArticle

Subjective Well-Being, Active Travel, and Socioeconomic Segregation

by Mohammad Paydar and Asal Kamani Fard

Sustainability 2025, 17(23), 10571; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172310571 - 25 Nov 2025

The relationships among subjective well-being (SWB), active travel, and the built and social environment have been rarely studied, especially in southern cities of Chile. The goal of this research is to investigate the connections between SWB and active travel, along with the associated [...] Read more.

The relationships among subjective well-being (SWB), active travel, and the built and social environment have been rarely studied, especially in southern cities of Chile. The goal of this research is to investigate the connections between SWB and active travel, along with the associated social, built environment, and individual aspects in Temuco. Furthermore, due to the high levels of socioeconomic segregation (SES) in the city’s various urban neighborhoods, these relationships were studied independently based on two categories of neighborhoods, namely low-SES (NLSES) and high-SES (NHSES), which represent the majority of the city’s areas and population. To ascertain the number of responders in each SES category, a power analysis and simple random sampling were used. Consequently, 481 and 301 respondents were identified for NLSES and NHSES, respectively. A quantitative method and hierarchical multiple regression analysis were used to investigate the goals. The findings indicate that SWB is generally higher in NHSES than in NLSES. It was also found that there was a correlation between subjective well-being and several factors, such as age, some job-related categories, social cohesion, role models, and accessibility to shops, parks, and bus stops. Less SWB is a result of a higher unemployment rate in NLSES as opposed to NHSES. Additionally, a certain lifestyle type in NHSES demonstrated a positive correlation with SWB. Furthermore, there was a positive association found between the NHSES’s SWB and access to the bus network. This study provides evidence from a highly segregated Latin American city that shows how SWB is shaped differently across low- and high-SES neighborhoods. Temuco’s urban policymakers could use these data to improve SWB according to the different types of neighborhoods within this city. Full article

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24 pages, 2493 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Intersectional Lens: Unpacking the Socio-Ecological Impacts of Oil Palm Expansion in Rural Indonesia

by Mukhlis Mukhlis, Nirwasita Daniswara, Abdillah Abdillah and Siti Sofiaturrohmah

Sustainability 2025, 17(23), 10570; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172310570 - 25 Nov 2025

The Indonesian palm oil industry faces enduring social, environmental, and sustainability challenges stemming from rapid expansion over the past decade. Although technologies exist to enhance productivity and balance economic and ecological goals, adoption among smallholders remains limited. This study explores how rural communities [...] Read more.

The Indonesian palm oil industry faces enduring social, environmental, and sustainability challenges stemming from rapid expansion over the past decade. Although technologies exist to enhance productivity and balance economic and ecological goals, adoption among smallholders remains limited. This study explores how rural communities respond to the climate crisis and how social and environmental justice is distributed within palm oil-producing regions in Indonesia. Using an exploratory qualitative design grounded in a collective social change perspective, data were collected through observations and document studies to examine institutional dynamics influencing smallholder behavior. The analysis applies institutional logic to understand smallholder attitudes toward sustainability and innovation, and institutional context to assess constraints such as limited access to land, credit, and technical resources. Findings reveal that structural barriers—including corruption, weak legal certainty, and social exclusion—impede innovation and reinforce inequality. This study contributes theoretically by integrating eco-colonialism, intersectionality, and political ecology frameworks to advance understanding of socio-ecological justice in palm oil governance. It highlights how gender, ethnicity, and class shape access to resources, vulnerability, and resilience, emphasizing that environmental issues are embedded in broader power structures rooted in colonial legacies and neoliberal policies. Practically, the research calls for community-centered, participatory policies that recognize customary land rights, institutionalize transparent licensing and FPIC processes, and strengthen smallholder capacity through ISPO-aligned training. These measures can foster inclusive governance, mitigate conflict, and enhance sustainability, contributing to more equitable and resilient palm oil supply chains. Full article

19 pages, 869 KB

Open AccessArticle

Towards a Sustainable Cybersecurity Governance: Threat Modelling with Large Language Models

by Nika Jeršič, Muhamed Turkanović and Tina Beranič

Sustainability 2025, 17(23), 10569; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172310569 - 25 Nov 2025

With the increased complexity of applications and systems, threat modelling struggles to keep pace with the evolution of risks. This article addresses this challenge by exploring how large language models (LLMs) can be leveraged to create comprehensive threat models across different risk assessment [...] Read more.

With the increased complexity of applications and systems, threat modelling struggles to keep pace with the evolution of risks. This article addresses this challenge by exploring how large language models (LLMs) can be leveraged to create comprehensive threat models across different risk assessment methodologies. We examine whether a single generic prompt can support frameworks such as LINDDUN, PASTA, and STRIDE, despite their different requirements. Through this comparative analysis, we identify components that enable AI-based assessments, while acknowledging that privacy, regulatory, and dynamic risks require adaptation of the frameworks. Our findings show that a universal guideline is feasible for broad applications, but adaptation is necessary for effective use. Overall, LLM-based threat modelling improves the accessibility, repeatability, and effectiveness of risk analysis and supports stronger and more sustainable practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Engineering and Science)

19 pages, 4470 KB

Open AccessArticle

Machine Learning-Driven Bayesian Optimization of Transmission Gear Ratios for Fuel Economy Enhancement in Conventional Passenger Vehicles

by Khaled Alnamasi

Sustainability 2025, 17(23), 10568; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172310568 - 25 Nov 2025

The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from conventional vehicles powered by internal combustion engines remains a critical challenge for sustainable transportation. Improving fuel efficiency through optimized transmission gear ratio design directly influences engine operation under diverse driving conditions. In this study, a machine [...] Read more.

The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from conventional vehicles powered by internal combustion engines remains a critical challenge for sustainable transportation. Improving fuel efficiency through optimized transmission gear ratio design directly influences engine operation under diverse driving conditions. In this study, a machine learning-based Bayesian Optimization (BO) framework, integrated within vehicle modeling, was employed to optimize gear ratio configurations for a six-speed transmission representative of midsize passenger cars. The Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicle Test Cycle (WLTC) was used to assess fuel economy under transient operating conditions. The BO algorithm was structured to minimize fuel consumption while ensuring acceptable performance and compliance with WLTP regulations. The results showed that the optimized gear ratios reduced overall fuel consumption by 6.2% compared to the baseline, without requiring any modifications to the engine or other hardware components. Although the largest percentage reductions occurred in cruising (−22.9%) and deceleration (−14.4%), deceleration contributed the largest absolute share of the total saving, whereas acceleration contributed a significant share owing to its dominant baseline consumption (68.9%) despite a smaller relative reduction (−4.2%). Sensitivity analysis indicated that upper gears, particularly sixth gear, had the greatest influence on optimization outcomes. The findings demonstrate that Bayesian Optimization provides an effective and computationally efficient methodology for transmission gear ratios optimization, offering a machine-learning enabled pathway to enhance fuel economy in passenger vehicles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)

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37 pages, 1876 KB

Open AccessReview

Renewable Energy in Policy Frameworks: A Comparative Analysis of EU and Global Strategies for Sustainable Development

by Henryk Wojtaszek

Sustainability 2025, 17(23), 10567; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172310567 - 25 Nov 2025

The global energy transition is a central pillar of climate change mitigation and sustainable development. While international frameworks such as the Paris Agreement and the UN 2030 Agenda emphasize renewable energy as a driver of decarbonization, the degree of ambition and coherence across [...] Read more.

The global energy transition is a central pillar of climate change mitigation and sustainable development. While international frameworks such as the Paris Agreement and the UN 2030 Agenda emphasize renewable energy as a driver of decarbonization, the degree of ambition and coherence across governance levels remains uneven. The European Union (EU), through the European Green Deal, the “Fit for 55” package, and the REPowerEU plan, has adopted legally binding targets for climate neutrality by 2050 and a 55% emission reduction by 2030. However, national implementation via National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs) reveals substantial divergences among Member States. This study applies qualitative content analysis and comparative policy review to EU-level strategies, selected NECPs (Poland, Germany, France, Spain), and global frameworks (Agenda 2030, Paris Agreement, IEA, IRENA, IPCC reports). The analysis also incorporates a comparative perspective with other major economies, including China, Japan, and the United States, to situate EU policy within the global context. Documents were coded according to categories of strategic goals, regulatory and financial instruments, and identified barriers. Triangulation with secondary literature ensured validity and contextualization. The findings show that EU frameworks demonstrate higher ambition and legal enforceability compared to global initiatives, yet internal fragmentation persists. Germany and Spain emerge as frontrunners with ambitious renewable targets, while France relies heavily on nuclear power and Poland lags behind with the latest coal phase-out date. Global frameworks emphasize inclusivity and energy access but lack binding enforcement. The study contributes a comparative framework for evaluating renewable energy policies, identifies best practices and structural gaps, and highlights the dual challenge of EU climate leadership and internal coherence. These insights provide guidance for policymakers and a foundation for future research on governance and just transition pathways. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Energy as a Pillar of Sustainable Development—a Revolution Changing the World)

24 pages, 3999 KB

Open AccessArticle

Unlocking Collaborative Low-Carbon Innovation in Industrial Clusters Environment: A Network Evolutionary Game Approach

by Xiangyu Mao, Yichong Mao and Ying Wang

Sustainability 2025, 17(23), 10566; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172310566 - 25 Nov 2025

Numerous small and micro enterprises in Industrial clusters cannot directly participate in low-carbon technology co-innovation cooperation due to their limited technological research and development capabilities, and they need to rely on the diffusion of the results of low-carbon technology co-innovation cooperation in order [...] Read more.

Numerous small and micro enterprises in Industrial clusters cannot directly participate in low-carbon technology co-innovation cooperation due to their limited technological research and development capabilities, and they need to rely on the diffusion of the results of low-carbon technology co-innovation cooperation in order to obtain the necessary technology and knowledge. However, scientific research is still needed to clarify the diffusion mechanism of cooperative results in a cluster environment and what factors can accelerate the diffusion efficiency. To address this gap, this paper constructs a complex network game model using a scale-free network as its framework. Through simulation analysis, the following conclusions are drawn: (1) Increasing equipment procurement subsidies can promote the diffusion of outcomes, and the larger the cluster, the greater the subsidy required; (2) Increasing carbon emission tax rates can also promote diffusion, but it is necessary to assess corporate affordability based on cluster scale and scientifically formulate tax rates; (3) Carbon tax incentives have limited effects on the diffusion of outcomes, and large-scale clusters exhibit sluggish responses to them; (4) Enhancing cluster management capabilities and fostering distinctive features can promote diffusion, with large-scale clusters demanding even higher standards; (5) Adjusting the prices of low-carbon products has a limited impact on diffusion and is not a sufficient condition; large-scale clusters are insensitive to this factor. Full article

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15 pages, 615 KB

Open AccessArticle

Bridging the Gap: Assessing Sanitation Practices and Community Engagement for Sustainable Rural Development in the King Sabatha Dalindyebo Municipality, South Africa

by Siyakubonga Buso and Tom Were Okello

Sustainability 2025, 17(23), 10565; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172310565 - 25 Nov 2025

Background: Sustainable sanitation underpins Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6.2, which mandates safe, equitable services and the elimination of open defecation by 2030. Rural South African communities continue to face significant Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) challenges driven by economic, environmental and governance constraints. [...] Read more.

Background: Sustainable sanitation underpins Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6.2, which mandates safe, equitable services and the elimination of open defecation by 2030. Rural South African communities continue to face significant Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) challenges driven by economic, environmental and governance constraints. Methods: An explanatory sequential mixed-methods design was conducted in King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality, Eastern Cape. Quantitative data comprised household surveys (n = 246) and structured observations of VIP latrines (n = 50). Qualitative data were gathered from 20 semi-structured interviews with community representatives and four focus groups (n = 32). Results: While 63% of households owned VIP latrines, only 22% of the inspected facilities were in good working condition and 20% were abandoned; 58% required major maintenance. Major barriers to sustainable sanitation included limited financial capacity, structural damage related to a high-water table, gendered safety risks, and low community engagement in sanitation planning and maintenance. Conclusions: Achieving SDG 6.2 in rural South Africa requires co-productive governance that integrates infrastructure maintenance with community leadership. Recommended actions include delegated WASH committees, targeted subsidies for vulnerable households, routine gender and safety audits, and enforcement of environmental protection measures to secure long-term sanitation sustainability. Full article

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16 pages, 2225 KB

Open AccessArticle

Nutrition-Sensitive Homestead Pond Polyculture Technology Empowers Women in Rural Bangladesh

by Rumana Akter, Shakuntala H. Thilsted and Nobuyuki Yagi

Sustainability 2025, 17(23), 10564; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172310564 - 25 Nov 2025

Women’s empowerment in aquatic food systems play a critical role in increasing production and ensuring food and nutrition security. This study used qualitative data from a mixed-method study to assess whether participation in a nutrition-sensitive homestead pond polyculture systems, targeting both women and [...] Read more.

Women’s empowerment in aquatic food systems play a critical role in increasing production and ensuring food and nutrition security. This study used qualitative data from a mixed-method study to assess whether participation in a nutrition-sensitive homestead pond polyculture systems, targeting both women and men, strengthens women’s decision-making power in fish culture, harvesting, and household food purchase. The project promoted pond polyculture technology of nutrient-rich small and large fish species, which was adopted by the majority of project households (86.3%). Fish harvesting for family consumption and sale was more frequent in project households (24% twice/week; 54.9% once/year) compared to non-project households (13%; 47.8%). Joint decision-making by both women and men on the types of fish species to culture (80.39%) and harvesting time for sale (54.9%) was more common in project households, compared to non-project households (43.48% and 21.74%, respectively). More women in project households (41.2%) decided which fish species to harvest for family consumption, including harvested fish for family consumption (7.8%) and sale (3.9%), compared to non-project households (26.1%, 4.4% and none respectively). The findings reveal three interlinked empowerment pathways: the consumption pathway, via frequent fish harvesting, the income pathway, through fish sales, and the empowerment pathway, through enhanced decision making. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender Equality: Empowering Women and Girls for Sustainable Development)

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21 pages, 3038 KB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Indoor Thermal Environment and Air Quality in Stone Cave Dwellings in Northern Shanxi, China

by Xujuan Dong and Yanchun Li

Sustainability 2025, 17(23), 10563; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172310563 - 25 Nov 2025

Traditional stone cave dwellings in northern Shanxi exhibit distinct differences from conventional cave dwellings in terms of form and material, characterized by their freestanding stone-built structures that possess unique value. In the context of rapid urbanization, these dwellings encounter issues related to decreasing [...] Read more.

Traditional stone cave dwellings in northern Shanxi exhibit distinct differences from conventional cave dwellings in terms of form and material, characterized by their freestanding stone-built structures that possess unique value. In the context of rapid urbanization, these dwellings encounter issues related to decreasing quantities and a lack of comprehensive systematic research. This research utilizes a mixed objective–subjective methodology to assess the indoor environment of the stone cave dwellings in Dongwa Village, Shuozhou City. Thermal comfort is evaluated using the PMV-PPD and TSV models, whereas air quality is assessed through gray correlation analysis. Results indicate: (1) The thermal inertia of stone cave dwellings’ envelopes significantly surpasses that of brick structures. However, their exterior wall and roof thermal conductance coefficients exceed national standard limits, respectively, by 4 times and 1.7 times; (2) The PMV thermal neutral temperature (21.32 °C) was notably higher than the TSV thermal neutral temperature (10.96 °C), suggesting that residents have developed cold adaptation. The thermal preference temperature (12.75 °C) exceeded the TSV value, reflecting strong resident demand for improvements; (3) Winter pollutant exceedance rates were markedly higher than those in summer, with air quality classified as experiencing “heavy pollution” levels. Residents reported a high level of subjective satisfaction, suggesting the presence of a cognitive bias. This study aims to reveal environmental issues in traditional local stone cave dwellings under modern residential demands, providing references for sustainable improvements in rural building environments. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Developing a Model for Determining the Charging Station Location for Electric Vehicles

by Sura Hussein Mijdim AL_HAMEEDAWI and Halit Ozen

Sustainability 2025, 17(23), 10562; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172310562 - 25 Nov 2025

Electric vehicles, or EVs, have taken the spotlight in recent years in attempts to minimize the negative environmental effects associated with conventional modes of transportation. The location of charging infrastructure is an significant roadblock to promoting EV adoption; it demands careful planning in [...] Read more.

Electric vehicles, or EVs, have taken the spotlight in recent years in attempts to minimize the negative environmental effects associated with conventional modes of transportation. The location of charging infrastructure is an significant roadblock to promoting EV adoption; it demands careful planning in order to ensure the sustainability of EV use. Models like the Flow Capturing Location Model (FCLM) and Flow Refueling Location Model (FRLM) address this by considering operational constraints, system features, and uncertainties to provide effective solutions. In this study, Using MATLAB, R2020a the FCLM and FRLM were applied in Al-Karkh, Baghdad. When combined, the results revealed three key outcomes: identification of the nodes most frequently connected by traffic flows, with the shortest path method used to exclude paths that could not be utilized due to vehicle range limitations, and determination of the best nodes located along the shortest feasible routes dependent on the number of stations that the models chose. Full article

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34 pages, 1358 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Industrial-Financial Collaboration on Enterprise Innovation: Research on DID Based on Dual Machine Learning

by Hongmei Wen and Tong Sun

Sustainability 2025, 17(23), 10561; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172310561 - 25 Nov 2025

Currently, corporate innovation has become a key driver of economic growth and a critical factor in enhancing core competitiveness, which is of great significance for achieving sustainable economic development. Our research is based on panel data from A-share-listed manufacturing companies in China between [...] Read more.

Currently, corporate innovation has become a key driver of economic growth and a critical factor in enhancing core competitiveness, which is of great significance for achieving sustainable economic development. Our research is based on panel data from A-share-listed manufacturing companies in China between 2012 and 2022, employing a multi-time point Difference-in-Differences (DID) model and a DID model extended with the Dual Machine Learning (DML) estimation method for empirical testing. We investigate the underlying mechanisms and analyze corporate heterogeneity. The findings reveal that the pilot policy of industry–finance collaboration has a significant positive impact on corporate innovation, particularly for companies facing severe financing constraints, intense market competition, and relatively small scales. Additionally, the study finds that the pilot policy promotes corporate innovation through three channels: reducing information asymmetry, increasing local government fiscal subsidies, and enhancing corporate access to bank credit. Finally, we provide recommendations for the government, enterprises, and financial institutions to further leverage and enhance the effectiveness of the industry–finance collaboration pilot policy in boosting corporate innovation. Full article

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29 pages, 14239 KB

Open AccessArticle

Urban Harvesting: Building Resilience Through Circular Agriculture

by Anna Zaręba, Alicja Krzemińska, Mariusz Adynkiewicz-Piragas and Haifeng Jia

Sustainability 2025, 17(23), 10560; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172310560 - 25 Nov 2025

Contemporary food systems have reached a turning point, as they are required to simultaneously ensure food security and minimize the pressure they exert on the environment, aiming to balance human needs and the rhythm of nature. The low efficiency of current models of [...] Read more.

Contemporary food systems have reached a turning point, as they are required to simultaneously ensure food security and minimize the pressure they exert on the environment, aiming to balance human needs and the rhythm of nature. The low efficiency of current models of food production and distribution systems have revealed the need for a major transition toward circular solutions based on resource circulation, local adaptation, and the responsible use of urban spaces. This study explored the integration of circular economy principles with urban agriculture as a new framework for developing resilient, low-emission, and human-centered cities. In addition, a multiscale (micro, midi, and maxi) approach, combined with SWOT, Weighted SWOT, and TOWS analyses, was applied to identify key factors, barriers, and possible directions for implementation and development strategies. The results showed that the greatest potential of these systems lies in the synergy between water and energy recovery and resource efficiency, while energy intensity and regulatory frameworks have remained major challenges. The proposed strategic approach highlights the need to link food production to renewable energy sources, implement simplified evaluation standards (TEA/LCA-lite), and strengthen social acceptance through education and transparency. Circular urban agriculture emerged as a new type of infrastructure, both technological and social, that may become a pillar of sustainable and resilient cities in the future, supporting the achievement of SDGs 11, 12, and 13. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Geography and Urban Planning: Urban Ecology, Livability, Nature Connection, and Water-Sensitive Urban Design)

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