Sign in to use this feature.

Years

Between: -

Subjects

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Journals

Article Types

Countries / Regions

Search Results (50)

Search Parameters:
Keywords = AHP-entropy-TOPSIS

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
39 pages, 9517 KiB  
Article
Multidimensional Evaluation Framework and Classification Strategy for Low-Carbon Technologies in Office Buildings
by Hongjiang Liu, Yuan Song, Yawei Du, Tao Feng and Zhihou Yang
Buildings 2025, 15(15), 2689; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15152689 (registering DOI) - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 101
Abstract
The global climate crisis has driven unprecedented agreements among nations on carbon mitigation. With China’s commitment to carbon peaking and carbon neutrality targets, the building sector has emerged as a critical focus for emission reduction, particularly because office buildings account for over 30% [...] Read more.
The global climate crisis has driven unprecedented agreements among nations on carbon mitigation. With China’s commitment to carbon peaking and carbon neutrality targets, the building sector has emerged as a critical focus for emission reduction, particularly because office buildings account for over 30% of building energy consumption. However, a systematic and regionally adaptive low-carbon technology evaluation framework is lacking. To address this gap, this study develops a multidimensional decision-making system to quantify and rank low-carbon technologies for office buildings in Beijing. The method includes four core components: (1) establishing three archetypal models—low-rise (H ≤ 24 m), mid-rise (24 m < H ≤ 50 m), and high-rise (50 m < H ≤ 100 m) office buildings—based on 99 office buildings in Beijing; (2) classifying 19 key technologies into three clusters—Envelope Structure Optimization, Equipment Efficiency Enhancement, and Renewable Energy Utilization—using bibliometric analysis and policy norm screening; (3) developing a four-dimensional evaluation framework encompassing Carbon Reduction Degree (CRD), Economic Viability Degree (EVD), Technical Applicability Degree (TAD), and Carbon Intensity Degree (CID); and (4) conducting a comprehensive quantitative evaluation using the AHP-entropy-TOPSIS algorithm. The results indicate distinct priority patterns across the building types: low-rise buildings prioritize roof-mounted photovoltaic (PV) systems, LED lighting, and thermal-break aluminum frames with low-E double-glazed laminated glass. Mid- and high-rise buildings emphasize integrated PV-LED-T8 lighting solutions and optimized building envelope structures. Ranking analysis further highlights LED lighting, T8 high-efficiency fluorescent lamps, and rooftop PV systems as the top-recommended technologies for Beijing. Additionally, four policy recommendations are proposed to facilitate the large-scale implementation of the program. This study presents a holistic technical integration strategy that simultaneously enhances the technological performance, economic viability, and carbon reduction outcomes of architectural design and renovation. It also establishes a replicable decision-support framework for decarbonizing office and public buildings in cities, thereby supporting China’s “dual carbon” goals and contributing to global carbon mitigation efforts in the building sector. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 3903 KiB  
Article
An Integrated Multi-Criteria Decision Method for Remanufacturing Design Considering Carbon Emission and Human Ergonomics
by Changping Hu, Xinfu Lv, Ruotong Wang, Chao Ke, Yingying Zuo, Jie Lu and Ruiying Kuang
Processes 2025, 13(8), 2354; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13082354 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 295
Abstract
Remanufacturing design is a green design model that considers remanufacturability during the design process to improve the reuse of components. However, traditional remanufacturing design scheme decision making focuses on the remanufacturability indicator and does not fully consider the carbon emissions of the remanufacturing [...] Read more.
Remanufacturing design is a green design model that considers remanufacturability during the design process to improve the reuse of components. However, traditional remanufacturing design scheme decision making focuses on the remanufacturability indicator and does not fully consider the carbon emissions of the remanufacturing process, which will take away the energy-saving and emission reduction benefits of remanufacturing. In addition, remanufacturing design schemes rarely consider the human ergonomics of the product, which leads to uncomfortable handling of the product by the customer. To reduce the remanufacturing carbon emission and improve customer comfort, it is necessary to select a reasonable design scheme to satisfy the carbon emission reduction and ergonomics demand; therefore, this paper proposes an integrated multi-criteria decision-making method for remanufacturing design that considers the carbon emission and human ergonomics. Firstly, an evaluation system of remanufacturing design schemes is constructed to consider the remanufacturability, cost, carbon emission, and human ergonomics of the product, and the evaluation indicators are quantified by the normalization method and the Kansei engineering (KE) method; meanwhile, the hierarchical analysis method (AHP) and entropy weight method (EW) are used for the calculation of the subjective and objective weights. Then, a multi-attribute decision-making method based on the combination of an assignment approximation of ideal solution ranking (TOPSIS) and gray correlation analysis (GRA) is proposed to complete the design scheme selection. Finally, the feasibility of the scheme is verified by taking a household coffee machine as an example. This method has been implemented as an application using Visual Studio 2022 and Microsoft SQL Server 2022. The research results indicate that this decision-making method can quickly and accurately generate reasonable remanufacturing design schemes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Manufacturing Processes and Systems)
Show Figures

Figure 1

42 pages, 951 KiB  
Article
Construction of Evaluation Indicator System and Analysis for Low-Carbon Economy Development in Chengdu City of China
by Yan Jia, Yuanyuan Huang, Junyang Zhou and Jushuang Sun
Systems 2025, 13(7), 573; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13070573 - 11 Jul 2025
Viewed by 358
Abstract
In order to promote the green and low-carbon transformation of the economy and society, as the economic center of the western region of China, Chengdu actively promotes the national green and low-carbon policies. Some specific measures are proposed to develop Chengdu’s low-carbon economy, [...] Read more.
In order to promote the green and low-carbon transformation of the economy and society, as the economic center of the western region of China, Chengdu actively promotes the national green and low-carbon policies. Some specific measures are proposed to develop Chengdu’s low-carbon economy, such as increasing the ownership of new energy vehicles, promoting the development of park cities and increasing the proportion of clean energy and non-fossil energy, etc. So, in order to accurately evaluate Chengdu’s low-carbon economy-development achievements, firstly, this paper uses literature research to construct an evaluation indicator system for the low-carbon economy development of Chengdu city from five dimensions: economy, energy, technology, environment, and transportation. Then, an improved Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) method based on judgment matrices is proposed to determine subjective weights of indicators, while Entropy Weight Method (EWM) and Variation Coefficient (VC) method are used to determine objective weights of the evaluation indicators. Finally, the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) is used for the multi-indicator comprehensive evaluation of Chengdu’s low-carbon economy development. The evaluation results show that the comprehensive performance of Chengdu’s low-carbon economy has continued to improve from 2018 to 2023, simultaneously, the main influencing factors and weak links are analyzed, and targeted suggestions and strategies for improvement are put forward to promote the low-carbon economy development of Chengdu city. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Systems Practice in Social Science)
Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 4870 KiB  
Article
Dynamic Identification Method of Distribution Network Weak Links Considering Disaster Emergency Scheduling
by Wenlu Ji, Lan Lan, Lu Shen, Dahang Shi and Chong Wang
Energies 2025, 18(13), 3519; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18133519 - 3 Jul 2025
Viewed by 258
Abstract
With the deterioration of the global climate, the losses caused by distribution network failures during natural disasters such as typhoons have become increasingly serious. In the whole process of disaster resistance, it is very important to effectively identify the weak links in distribution [...] Read more.
With the deterioration of the global climate, the losses caused by distribution network failures during natural disasters such as typhoons have become increasingly serious. In the whole process of disaster resistance, it is very important to effectively identify the weak links in distribution networks during typhoon disasters. In this paper, the weak links in distribution networks during typhoons are identified dynamically from four indexes: real-time failure rate, load loss caused by line disconnection, line degree, and line betweenness. First, the Batts typhoon model is established to simulate the whole process of the typhoon and obtain the real-time failure rate of the distribution network. Secondly, the distribution network is powered by distributed generators when there are line disconnections, and a mixed integer linear programming model is established to solve the problem. Then, the line degrees and the line betweenness are calculated to obtain the structure indexes of the line, both of which are dynamically related to the power flow and the loads of the distribution network. Finally, the four indexes are comprehensively analyzed, and the dynamic identification of the weak links in the distribution network are realized by the analytic hierarchy process (AHP)—entropy weight (EW)—technique for order preference by similarity to an ideal solution (TOPSIS) method. The results of the case study show that the proposed method can effectively identify the weak links in a distribution network during a typhoon and provide a reference to resist extreme disasters. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section F2: Distributed Energy System)
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 912 KiB  
Article
Evaluation Model for Emergency Material Suppliers in Emergency Logistics Systems Based on Game Theory–TOPSIS Method
by Lihao Lei, Songtao Yu, Yuxian Ke, Linhong Deng and Qian Kang
Systems 2025, 13(6), 493; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13060493 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 271
Abstract
Emergency material suppliers serve as a critical component within emergency logistics systems, with their capabilities directly influencing operational efficiency. To identify suppliers with comprehensive capabilities, this study establishes an evaluation index system encompassing four key dimensions: emergency resilience, logistics costs, material quality, and [...] Read more.
Emergency material suppliers serve as a critical component within emergency logistics systems, with their capabilities directly influencing operational efficiency. To identify suppliers with comprehensive capabilities, this study establishes an evaluation index system encompassing four key dimensions: emergency resilience, logistics costs, material quality, and supplier internal conditions. The methodology integrates subjective weights derived from the G1 method and objective weights calculated by entropy weighting, subsequently employing game theory to reconcile conflicts between weighting methods and determine comprehensive weights. The TOPSIS method is applied to identify optimal suppliers through relative approximation comparisons. A case study demonstrates the model’s effectiveness, with comparative analysis against AHP and traditional combination weighting methods revealing distinct advantages: under information distortion conditions, the game theory combination weighting exhibits significantly lower weight fluctuations (0.00018) compared to the additive synthesis (0.00044) and multiplicative synthesis methods (0.000503). This evidence confirms that game theory not only demonstrates superior stability and adaptability for emergency evaluations but also effectively balances weight conflicts, yielding more rational assessment outcomes. The research findings validate the practical utility of this game theory–TOPSIS integrated evaluation model, providing valuable decision support for emergency management professionals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Sustainable Operations and Supply Chain Management)
Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 2064 KiB  
Article
Core Competency Assessment Model for Entry-Level Air Traffic Controllers Based on International Civil Aviation Organization Document 10056
by Yi Hu, Hanyang Shen, Bing Wang, Jichuan Teng, Chenglong Guo and Yanjun Wang
Aerospace 2025, 12(6), 486; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace12060486 - 28 May 2025
Viewed by 584
Abstract
With the increasing air traffic flow, the workload of air traffic controllers is also growing, and their proficiency directly impacts civil aviation safety and efficiency. To address the lack of clear training objectives and inconsistent evaluation methods in the initial controller training at [...] Read more.
With the increasing air traffic flow, the workload of air traffic controllers is also growing, and their proficiency directly impacts civil aviation safety and efficiency. To address the lack of clear training objectives and inconsistent evaluation methods in the initial controller training at the Southwest Air Traffic Management Bureau, this study aimed to develop and validate a core competency model for initial air traffic controllers. Referencing ICAO Document 10056, the study first defined core competencies. Subsequently, using job analysis, the behavioral event interview (BEI) method, and expert panels, a core competency model tailored to the training objectives of the Southwest ATMB was constructed. The key findings of this research include: first, the defined structure of the developed model, comprising seven competency dimensions, 21 elements, and 26 observable behaviors (OBs); second, the determination of combined weights for each dimension and indicator using questionnaire surveys, the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), and the Entropy Weight Method; and third, the successful application and validation of the model. Specifically, in its application, the weighted TOPSIS method was employed to evaluate trainees in a specific group. This not only provided a ranking of trainee abilities but also facilitated in-depth analysis through radar charts of competency dimensions and box plots of OB items. These application results demonstrate the model’s effectiveness and practicality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Air Traffic and Transportation)
Show Figures

Figure 1

37 pages, 6596 KiB  
Article
Optimizing Route Planning via the Weighted Sum Method and Multi-Criteria Decision-Making
by Guanquan Zhu, Minyi Ye, Xinqi Yu, Junhao Liu, Mingju Wang, Zihang Luo, Haomin Liang and Yubin Zhong
Mathematics 2025, 13(11), 1704; https://doi.org/10.3390/math13111704 - 22 May 2025
Viewed by 869
Abstract
Choosing the optimal path in planning is a complex task due to the numerous options and constraints; this is known as the trip design problem (TTDP). This study aims to achieve path optimization through the weighted sum method and multi-criteria decision analysis. Firstly, [...] Read more.
Choosing the optimal path in planning is a complex task due to the numerous options and constraints; this is known as the trip design problem (TTDP). This study aims to achieve path optimization through the weighted sum method and multi-criteria decision analysis. Firstly, this paper proposes a weighted sum optimization method using a comprehensive evaluation model to address TTDP, a complex multi-objective optimization problem. The goal of the research is to balance experience, cost, and efficiency by using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Entropy Weight Method (EWM) to assign subjective and objective weights to indicators such as ratings, duration, and costs. These weights are optimized using the Lagrange multiplier method and integrated into the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) model. Additionally, a weighted sum optimization method within the Traveling Salesman Problem (TSP) framework is used to maximize ratings while minimizing costs and distances. Secondly, this study compares seven heuristic algorithms—the genetic algorithm (GA), particle swarm optimization (PSO), the tabu search (TS), genetic-particle swarm optimization (GA-PSO), the gray wolf optimizer (GWO), and ant colony optimization (ACO)—to solve the TOPSIS model, with GA-PSO performing the best. The study then introduces the Lagrange multiplier method to the algorithms, improving the solution quality of all seven heuristic algorithms, with an average solution quality improvement of 112.5% (from 0.16 to 0.34). The PSO algorithm achieves the best solution quality. Based on this, the study introduces a new variant of PSO, namely PSO with Laplace disturbance (PSO-LD), which incorporates a dynamic adaptive Laplace perturbation term to enhance global search capabilities, improving stability and convergence speed. The experimental results show that PSO-LD outperforms the baseline PSO and other algorithms, achieving higher solution quality and faster convergence speed. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test confirms significant statistical differences among the algorithms. This study provides an effective method for experience-oriented path optimization and offers insights into algorithm selection for complex TTDP problems. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 920 KiB  
Article
Comprehensive Benefit Evaluation Analysis of Multi-Energy Complementary Off-Grid System Operation
by Yu Lei, Xiaobin Yan, Shenhao Yang, Yu Fan, Chao Ma, Qingsong Li, Yuanfeng Huang and Wei Yang
Energies 2025, 18(9), 2159; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18092159 - 23 Apr 2025
Viewed by 404
Abstract
In the future, China’s demand for centralized industrial development in remote areas will gradually increase, but the operation evaluation analysis of off-grid systems applicable to the development of such areas has not yet matured, and it is an urgent challenge to improve the [...] Read more.
In the future, China’s demand for centralized industrial development in remote areas will gradually increase, but the operation evaluation analysis of off-grid systems applicable to the development of such areas has not yet matured, and it is an urgent challenge to improve the operation mechanism of off-grid systems and then conduct a comprehensive benefit evaluation of off-grid systems. First of all, this paper focuses on the problem that the existing dimensions of the benefit evaluation of multi-energy complementary off-grid systems are not refined and comprehensive enough, and takes into account their high safety and reliability requirements, as well as the potential impacts on local industries and people’s lives after their completion, and then constructs a more complete comprehensive benefit evaluation indicator system for multi-energy complementary off-grid systems. Secondly, the subjective and objective weighting method based on the combination of the AHP (analytic hierarchy process) and AEM (anti-entropy method) is used to assign weights to the evaluation indicators. Finally, based on the TOPSIS (Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution) comprehensive evaluation method, a comprehensive benefit evaluation of a multi-energy complementary off-grid system under different operation schemes is conducted, and the example results show that the size of the relative closeness under different operation schemes has a maximum difference of 0.5592, which verifies that the proposed evaluation indicator system and the multilevel evaluation method can comprehensively evaluate and analyze the strengths and weaknesses of multi-energy complementary off-grid systems under different operation schemes, and provide theoretical guidance and decision-making support for the further promotion and construction of multi-energy complementary off-grid systems. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 8894 KiB  
Article
A Method for Selecting and Optimizing Pocket Park Design Proposals Based on Multi-Attribute Decision Making
by Xiaosai Duan, Baogang Lin, Lei Meng and Feng Zhao
Buildings 2025, 15(7), 1026; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15071026 - 24 Mar 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 661
Abstract
To address the issues of subjectivity in the selection of design schemes for pocket parks in public building environments, as well as the lack of scientific and objective decision making, a comprehensive TOPSIS method-based optimization decision model for pocket park design schemes was [...] Read more.
To address the issues of subjectivity in the selection of design schemes for pocket parks in public building environments, as well as the lack of scientific and objective decision making, a comprehensive TOPSIS method-based optimization decision model for pocket park design schemes was developed. Firstly, an evaluation index system for the pocket park design schemes was established through a literature review and expert interviews. Secondly, the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Entropy Weight Method (EWM) were employed to determine the weight coefficients of various evaluation criteria, combining qualitative and quantitative approaches. Finally, the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) algorithm was applied, constructing a weighted decision matrix for the design schemes based on each criterion. By calculating the distance between each evaluation scheme and the ideal solution, the final ranking was determined, thus completing the comprehensive evaluation and optimization of the design schemes. This model was used to assist designers in the decision-making process for scheme optimization, achieving a priority ranking of five pocket park design schemes in a district of Xi’an, and validating the objectivity, feasibility, and scientific nature of this method. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 2132 KiB  
Article
Piping Material Selection in Water Distribution Network Using an Improved Decision Support System
by Xing Wei, Ming Wang, Qun Wei and Xiangmeng Ma
Water 2025, 17(3), 342; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17030342 - 25 Jan 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1465
Abstract
This study introduces an integrated Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) methodology combining the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), Entropy Weight Method (EWM), and Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) to optimize the selection of municipal water supply pipeline materials. A [...] Read more.
This study introduces an integrated Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) methodology combining the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), Entropy Weight Method (EWM), and Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) to optimize the selection of municipal water supply pipeline materials. A comprehensive evaluation system encompassing thirteen criteria across technical, economic, and safety dimensions was developed to ensure balanced decision-making. The method employs a weight determination model based on Jaynes’ maximum entropy theory to harmonize subjective AHP-derived weights with objective EWM-derived weights, addressing inconsistencies in traditional evaluation approaches. This framework was validated in a case study involving a DN400 pipeline project in Jiaxing, Zhejiang Province, China, where five materials—steel, ductile iron, reinforced concrete, High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), and Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride (UPVC)—were assessed using quantitative and qualitative criteria. Results identified HDPE as the most suitable material, followed by UPVC and reinforced concrete, with steel ranking lowest. Comparative analysis with alternative MCDM techniques demonstrated the robustness of the proposed method in balancing diverse factors, dynamically adjusting to project-specific priorities. The study highlights the flexibility of this approach, which can extend to other infrastructure applications, such as drainage systems or the adoption of innovative materials like glass fiber-reinforced plastic (GFRP) mortar pipes. By integrating subjective and objective perspectives, the methodology offers a robust tool for designing sustainable, efficient, and cost-effective municipal water supply networks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Water, Agriculture and Aquaculture)
Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 15454 KiB  
Article
A Method for the Transformation of Abandoned Coal Mine Clusters and the Coordination Planning of Cultural Tourism Resources
by Haoyu Tao, Xiaodan Li, Zhen Liu, Zhiping Liu, Jing Li and Yangyang Wang
Land 2024, 13(12), 2228; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13122228 - 19 Dec 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1097
Abstract
To promote the economic revitalization and cultural prosperity of abandoned coal mine clusters and facilitate regional sustainable development, this study involved the construction of a ranking system for coal mines suitable for cultural tourism transformation and a regional cultural tourism resource coordination planning [...] Read more.
To promote the economic revitalization and cultural prosperity of abandoned coal mine clusters and facilitate regional sustainable development, this study involved the construction of a ranking system for coal mines suitable for cultural tourism transformation and a regional cultural tourism resource coordination planning framework. The research findings and innovations are as follows: (1) Through a combination of subjective judgment and quantitative analysis, an AHP–entropy–TOPSIS evaluation model for the transformation of abandoned coal mine clusters was developed. This model significantly enhances the scientific and precise nature of the decision-making process. (2) By integrating cultural tourism land use indicators, a ranking system for the suitability of coal mines for transformation into cultural tourism destinations was established, enabling the identification of the most suitable coal mines for transformation. (3) The most suitable coal mines for transformation were then integrated with regional historical cultural resources. An innovative application of circuit theory was used to optimize the regional road network, while a kernel density analysis was employed to perform the functional zoning of the study area. This resulted in a comprehensive regional cultural tourism resource coordination planning framework. This study offers a valuable reference for transforming abandoned coal mines and integrating cultural tourism, contributing to regional sustainable development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Land Planning and Landscape Architecture)
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 1527 KiB  
Article
Decision Analysis Approaches on the Collection Methods of Polyethylene Terephthalate Waste
by Johnson A. Oyewale, Lagouge K. Tartibu and Imhade P. Okokpujie
Recycling 2024, 9(6), 124; https://doi.org/10.3390/recycling9060124 - 13 Dec 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1019
Abstract
The rising challenge of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) waste necessitates efficient collection methods to mitigate environmental impacts. The Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) is one of the Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) approaches utilized in this study. The Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to [...] Read more.
The rising challenge of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) waste necessitates efficient collection methods to mitigate environmental impacts. The Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) is one of the Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) approaches utilized in this study. The Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to the Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) was used to rank each alternative according to the objective weight that AHP had produced. Also, sensitivity analysis was performed to determine how robust the findings were when considering equal weights and entropy weights to maximize PET waste collection techniques. The alternative achieved the objective of obtaining the best collection method, Threshold Plastic Bottle Waste Collection (Tpbw), out of all the three alternatives considered. Another MCDA approach, VIseKriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje (VIKOR), was used to compare the results and validate the ranking result achieved by the TOPSIS method. The VIKOR technique’s validation of the TOPSIS approach showed that the outcomes were highly consistent. Data for the study were gathered from the archives of waste management companies on possible practices of plastic waste collection, addressing costs, environmental impacts, social acceptance, feasibility, and efficiency. The findings provide a prioritized framework for enhancing PET waste collection strategies, contributing to sustainable waste management. Many criteria are considered when deciding the best collecting method for PET waste recycling, making it challenging. By using criteria importance, MCDA was applied in this study, and the objective weight of the criteria was determined using the AHP. The five criteria considered in this study are Initial investment cost, operational cost, transportation cost, environmental risk, employment potential, and the objective weights allocated to them. AHP results 0.4952, 0.1997, 0.1565, 0.0870, and 0.0616 are, respectively, determined. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

37 pages, 12671 KiB  
Article
Effect of Water and Nitrogen Coupling Regulation on the Growth, Physiology, Yield, and Quality Attributes of Isatis tinctoria L. in the Oasis Irrigation Area of the Hexi Corridor
by Yucai Wang, Xiaofan Pan, Haoliang Deng, Mao Li, Jin Zhao and Jine Yang
Agronomy 2024, 14(10), 2187; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14102187 - 24 Sep 2024
Viewed by 1048
Abstract
To address the prevailing problems of high water and fertilizer input and low productivity in Isatis tinctoria L. production in the Hexi Corridor in China, the effects of different irrigation amounts and nitrogen application rates on growth characteristics, photosynthetic physiology, root yield, and [...] Read more.
To address the prevailing problems of high water and fertilizer input and low productivity in Isatis tinctoria L. production in the Hexi Corridor in China, the effects of different irrigation amounts and nitrogen application rates on growth characteristics, photosynthetic physiology, root yield, and quality of I. tinctoria plants were studied with the aim of obtaining the optimal irrigation level and nitrogen application rate. From 2021 to 2023, we established a two-factor split-plot experiment in the oasis irrigation area with three irrigation amounts (sufficient water, medium water, and low water are 100%, 85%, and 70% of the typical local irrigation quota) for the main zone; three nitrogen application rates (low nitrogen, 150 kg ha−1, medium nitrogen, 200 kg ha−1, and high nitrogen, 250 kg ha−1) for the secondary zone; and three irrigation amounts without nitrogen as the control to explore the response of these different water and nitrogen management patterns for I. tinctoria in terms of growth characteristics, photosynthetic physiology, root yield, and quality. The results showed the following: (1) When the irrigation amount was increased from 75% to 100% of the local typical irrigation quota and the nitrogen application rate was increased from 150 to 250 kg ha−1, while the plant’s height, leaf area index, dry matter accumulation in the stem, leaf, and root, as well as the net photosynthetic rate (Pn), the stomatal conductance (Gs), and the transpiration rate (Tr) of I. tinctoria increased gradually, and the root–shoot ratio decreased. (2) When the irrigation amount increased from 75% to 100% of the local typical irrigation quota, the yield and net proceeds of I. tinctoria increased from 43.12% to 53.43% and 55.07% to 71.61%, respectively. However, when the irrigation quota was 100% of the local typical irrigation quota, and the nitrogen application rate increased from 150 to 200 kg ha−1, the yield of I. tinctoria increased from 21.58% to 23.69%, whereas the increase in nitrogen application rate from 200 to 250 kg ha−1 resulted in a decrease in the yield of I. tinctoria from 10.66% to 18.92%. During the 3-year experiment, the maximum yield of I. tinctoria appeared when treated with sufficient water and medium nitrogen, reaching 9054.68, 8066.79, and 8806.15 kg ha−1, respectively. (3) The effect of different water and nitrogen combination treatments on the root quality of I. tinctoria was significant. Under the same irrigation level, increasing the nitrogen application rate from 150 to 250 kg ha−1 could increase the contents of indigo, indirubin, (R,S)–goitrin, total nucleoside, uridine, and adenosine in the root of I. tinctoria from 3.94% to 9.59%, 1.74% to 12.58%, 5.45% to 18.35%, 5.61% to 11.59%, 7.34% to 11.32%, and 14.98% to 54.40%, respectively, while the root quality of I. tinctoria showed a trend of first increasing and then decreasing under the same nitrogen application level. (4) AHP, the entropy weight method, and the TOPSIS method were used for a comprehensive evaluation of multiple indexes of water–nitrogen coupling planting patterns for I. tinctoria, which resulted in the optimal evaluation of the W3N2 combination. Therefore, the irrigation level was 100% of the local typical irrigation quota, the nitrogen application rate should be appropriately reduced, and controlling the nitrogen application rate at the level of 190.30–218.27 kg ha−1 can improve water–nitrogen productivity yields for I. tinctoria and root quality. The results of this study can provide a theoretical basis and technical support for a more reasonable water and fertilizer management model for the I. tinctoria production industry in the Hexi Corridor in China. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Water and Fertilizer Regulation Theory and Technology in Crops)
Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 1016 KiB  
Article
An Empirical Study on ESG Evaluation of Chinese Energy Enterprises Based on High-Quality Development Goals—A Case Study of Listed Company Data
by Xiaoyan Xu and Hong Zhao
Sustainability 2024, 16(15), 6602; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16156602 - 1 Aug 2024
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2847
Abstract
The high-quality development of energy is the basis for and premise of achieving the high-quality development of the economy, and energy enterprises, as the main body of the microeconomy, are the “carrier” of its success. The national strategy of dual carbon and energy [...] Read more.
The high-quality development of energy is the basis for and premise of achieving the high-quality development of the economy, and energy enterprises, as the main body of the microeconomy, are the “carrier” of its success. The national strategy of dual carbon and energy security requires energy enterprises to achieve sustainable development. In the context of global sustainable development, ESG is an evaluation technology that comprehensively measures the environmental sustainability, social value and governance ability of enterprises and improves the sustainable development ability of enterprises by focusing on the non-financial performance of enterprises and the co-creation and sharing of stakeholder value. As an important energy producer and consumer, China has not yet established an ESG evaluation system for energy enterprises that is in line with international standards and national conditions. Therefore, this paper constructs an ESG evaluation model framework of energy enterprises and studies the high-quality development performance evaluation of energy enterprises under the sustainable development strategy from the two dimensions of theoretical enrichment and empirical analysis. The model framework includes a factor structure model, performance evaluation index system, index weight model and performance evaluation model. First, integrating the new development concept and the safe development concept, the ESG connotation of China’s energy enterprises was defined by localization. Second, using the Delphi method, an ESG evaluation system with 3 sub-target layers, 14 criteria layers and 40 index layers was constructed. Third, the weights of each index in the ESG evaluation system were established by using an AHP–entropy combination weighting method. Fourth, based on the statistical data of 2021, 79 key pollutant energy enterprises listed in China were selected. The TOPSIS method was used to establish an evaluation model to empirically evaluate the comprehensive level of ESG and the performance of the E, S and G dimensions of the sample companies, and the evaluation results were analyzed. The results show that the weight ratio of E, S and G is relatively balanced; and the weight of social responsibility ranks first at the target level, environmental response ranks first at the criterion level and energy supply guarantee ranks first at the index level. The overall ESG performance of the sample companies is average, and the G performance is not ideal. The ESG synthesis and the performance of all dimensions are significantly polarized, and the development of different dimensions of E, S and G is mostly unbalanced and uncoordinated. The results demonstrate the following: (1) Using the Delphi method, the ESG structural dimension model of energy enterprises is constructed by selecting evaluation indicators reflecting the concepts of innovation, coordination, green, open, sharing and safety, which enriches the connotation and extension theory of ESG. (2) The AHP–entropy combination weighting method model can scientifically obtain the weights of indicators at each level in the ESG evaluation system. (3) The proposed ESG evaluation index system can effectively measure the high-quality development level of energy enterprises. This research can provide regulatory authorities with sustainable development policy suggestions for strengthening the top-level design of ESG; building an ESG-healthy ecosystem; and integrating ESG investment with energy security, carbon-neutral goals and corporate strategies to promote the high-quality development of enterprises. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Management)
Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 1552 KiB  
Article
Improving the Selection of PV Modules and Batteries for Off-Grid PV Installations Using a Decision Support System
by Luis Serrano-Gomez, Isabel C. Gil-García, M. Socorro García-Cascales and Ana Fernández-Guillamón
Information 2024, 15(7), 380; https://doi.org/10.3390/info15070380 - 29 Jun 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1653
Abstract
In the context of isolated photovoltaic (PV) installations, selecting the optimal combination of modules and batteries is crucial for ensuring efficient and reliable energy supply. This paper presents a Decision Support System (DSS) designed to aid in the selection process of the development [...] Read more.
In the context of isolated photovoltaic (PV) installations, selecting the optimal combination of modules and batteries is crucial for ensuring efficient and reliable energy supply. This paper presents a Decision Support System (DSS) designed to aid in the selection process of the development of new PV isolated installations. Two different multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approaches are employed and compared: AHP (Analytic Hierarchy Process) combined with TOPSIS (technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution) and Entropy combined with TOPSIS. AHP and Entropy are used to weight the technical and economic criteria considered, and TOPSIS ranks the alternatives. A comparative analysis of the AHP + TOPSIS and Entropy + TOPSIS methods was conducted to determine their effectiveness and applicability in real-world scenarios. The results show that AHP and Entropy produce contrasting criteria weights, yet TOPSIS converges on similar top-ranked alternatives using either set of weights, with the combination of lithium-ion batteries with the copper indium gallium selenide PV module as optimal. AHP allows for the incorporation of expert subjectivity, prioritising costs and an energy yield intuitive to PV projects. Entropy’s objectivity elevates criteria with limited data variability, potentially misrepresenting their true significance. Despite these discrepancies, this study highlights the practical implications of using structured decision support methodologies in optimising renewable energy systems. Even though the proposed methodology is applied to a PV isolated system, it can effectively support decision making for optimising other stand-alone or grid-connected installations, contributing to the advancement of sustainable energy solutions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence and Decision Support Systems)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Back to TopTop