Search Results (808)

The effective design of green financial policies is crucial for balancing the operational pressures of heavily polluting enterprises with the goal of sustained carbon emission reduction. This study investigates the impact of the Green Finance Reform and Innovation Pilot Zone (GFRIPZ) policy by employing a multi-period difference-in-differences (DID) model based on firm-level panel data from 2012 to 2021, covering A-share listed enterprises in Shanghai and Shenzhen. The results show that GFRIPZs significantly reduced carbon emissions in pilot regions, with heterogeneous effects observed across enterprise types—particularly among large enterprises, state-owned enterprises, and those located in financially developed areas. To uncover the underlying mechanisms, we compare two behavioral responses: green innovation, marked by long-term investment in green technologies, and expedient compliance, involving short-term, strategic compliance behaviors. Our findings indicate that GFRIPZs did not effectively promote green innovation. Instead, it has encouraged a shift from productive capital investment toward un-productive, symbolic actions aimed at fulfilling policy requirements. These responses risk undermining the long-term objective of green transformation and may contribute to a broader shift from real economic activity toward speculative or less productive investments, raising concerns about the quality and sustainability of the low-carbon transition. Full article

Amidst global efforts toward sustainable development, this research addresses underexplored academic dimensions by evaluating the transformative potential of intelligent, sustainable architecture. Employing bibliometric techniques and Citespace 6.4.R1, we analyze two decades (2005–2024) of the Web of Science literature to identify patterns and challenges. Findings demonstrate rising scholarly output, dominated by themes like energy-efficient design, Building Information Modeling integration, and circular economy principles in urban contexts. While Europe and North America lead research activity, systemic limitations persist—including duplicated methodologies, fragmented institutional networks, and incompatible smart technologies. This study advocates for three strategic priorities: fostering interdisciplinary innovation to break homogeneity, establishing cross-sector collaboration frameworks, and accelerating industry–academia knowledge transfer. Intelligent, sustainable architecture emerges as a dual solution—technologically enabling carbon-neutral construction practices while redefining human-centric spatial quality. This dual advantage positions the International Sustainability Alliance as critical infrastructure for achieving UN Sustainable Development Goals, reconciling ecological responsibility with evolving societal demands for resilient, adaptive built environments. Full article

The UN’s “Global Agenda for Change” focused on global challenges, with the aim of improving quality of life. The focus on People, Planet, Prosperity, Peace, Partnership, and Integrated Action (EU) orients its efforts towards socially needed change. Although the above perspectives, which ultimately shape the goals of sustainable development, refer in effect to the security of the functioning of societies and economies, this issue has not been sufficiently explored in the literature. Taking the above into account, this paper explains the aspect of people’s sustainable security and well-being, and also indicates the importance of determining the social competences needed for a broadly understood sustainable future, which is the main goal of this article. Considering the importance of sustainable awareness among the younger generation, who are responsible for the future modeling of the pace and direction of sustainable changes, the analysis of the literature in the practical findings was supported by qualitative and quantitative methods, as well as statistical analysis techniques using PQstat software, to ensure in-depth research. The results confirm that the studied population generally has good knowledge of the idea of sustainable development. Importantly, this population combines development in a sustainable direction with actions to strengthen people’s safety and well-being. It should be noted that the studied population is most strongly aware of the environmental pillar of sustainable development, suggesting potential to improve knowledge in this area—which is crucial for effective development towards a safe future and important for future decision-makers (the young generation). The findings can serve as a source of information for teams designing study programs and information campaigns on sustainable development in order to further strengthen social education in the studied area. Full article

To achieve a significant breakthrough in the exploration of uranium resources in the Guangzitian area of northern Guangxi, China, an innovative combination of exploration methods was implemented at the peripheral regions of the Guangzitian uranium deposit under the guidance of the following principle: “exploring the edges and identifying the bottom, delving deep and un-covering blind spots”. This study introduces geo-electrochemical integrated technology for prospecting research at the peripheral areas of the Guangzitian deposit. By validating the technology’s effectiveness on known geological sections, distinct geo-electrochemical extraction anomalies were identified above recognized ore bodies. Simultaneously, soil ionic conductivity and thermally released mercury anomalies were observed, partially indicating the presence of concealed uranium deposits and fault structures. These findings demonstrate that geo-electrochemical integrated technology is effective in detecting buried uranium mineralization in this region. Subsequently, a geological-geoelectrical prospecting model was established through a systematic analysis of anomaly characteristics and metallogenic regularity, and it was subsequently applied to unexplored areas. As a result, one key anomaly verification zone, one Class A comprehensive anomaly zone, two Class B comprehensive anomaly zones, and one Class C comprehensive anomaly zone were identified within the unexplored research area. Drilling engineering validation was conducted in the No. Ι key anomaly verification zone, resulting in the discovery of an industrial-grade uranium ore body. This achievement not only provides critical technical support but also develops a robust theoretical foundation for future mineral exploration endeavors. Full article

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the progress toward Sustainable Development Goal 3, particularly in developing countries, exacerbating existing health disparities and creating new challenges for health systems worldwide. This study explores the role of university research in advancing SDG 3 targets in a post-pandemic context using the University of the Western Cape as a case study. Through qualitative data analysis of research titles and abstracts registered between 2020 and 2022, we applied the WHERETO model of McTighe and Bloom’s Taxonomy to categorize research according to the SDG 3 targets and indicators. This approach provides insight into which health priorities were addressed through scholarly research at UWC in alignment with the UN 2030 Agenda, particularly during pandemic recovery. Our findings indicate that research priorities largely corresponded with South Africa’s health challenges, with the highest concentration of studies addressing non-communicable diseases and mental health (Target 3.4), infectious diseases (Target 3.3), and medicine development (Target 3.b). These priorities align with the National Health Research Committee’s identified health priorities for disadvantaged communities in the Western Cape. Notably, research on mental health and emergency preparedness (Target 3.d) increased significantly during the pandemic period, reflecting shifting priorities in response to COVID-19. This study offers critical insights into how university research shifted priorities adapted during the pandemic and identifies areas requiring focused attention to support post-pandemic recovery. By highlighting research gaps and opportunities, our findings provide a foundation for developing more comprehensive approaches to health research that address the disparities exacerbated by COVID-19 while advancing the 2030 agenda. This model could inform research prioritization at other institutions facing similar challenges in both local and global contexts. Full article

The construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) on the Blue Nile has heightened transboundary water tensions in the Nile River Basin, particularly affecting downstream Sudan and Egypt. This study leverages African Earth Observation Data Cubes, specifically Digital Earth Africa’s Water Observations from Space (WOfS) platform, to quantify the hydrological impacts of GERD’s three filling phases (2019–2022) on Sudan’s Roseires Dam. Using Sentinel-2 satellite data processed through the Open Data Cube framework, we analyzed water extent changes from 2018 to 2023, capturing pre- and post-filling dynamics. Results show that GERD’s water spread area increased from 80 km² in 2019 to 528 km² in 2022, while Roseires Dam’s water extent decreased by 9 km² over the same period, with a notable 5 km² loss prior to GERD’s operation (2018–2019). These changes, validated against PERSIANN-CDR rainfall data, correlate with GERD’s filling operations, alongside climatic factors like evapotranspiration and reduced rainfall. The study highlights the potential of Earth Observation (EO) technologies to support transparent, data-driven transboundary water governance. Despite the Cooperative Framework Agreement (CFA) ratified by six upstream states in 2024, mistrust persists due to Egypt and Sudan’s non-ratification. We propose enhancing the Nile Basin Initiative’s Decision Support System with EO data and AI-driven models to optimize water allocation and foster cooperative filling strategies. Benefit-sharing mechanisms, such as energy trade from GERD, could mitigate downstream losses, aligning with the CFA’s equitable utilization principles and the UN Watercourses Convention. This research underscores the critical role of EO-driven frameworks in resolving Nile Basin conflicts and achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 for sustainable water management. Full article

This study investigated how corporate maturity—measured through firm age and lifecycle stage—moderates the value relevance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) disclosures in a frontier market context, using Bangladesh as a case study. Drawing on panel data from 2011–2012 to 2023–2024 for 86 publicly listed non-financial firms, the study employed a modified Ohlson valuation framework, panel regression analysis, and multiple robustness techniques (2SLS, PSM). ESG disclosure was measured using a researcher-developed index aligned with international reporting standards (GRI, SASB, TCFD, UN SDGs). ESG disclosures are positively associated with firm value, but this relationship is significantly moderated by corporate maturity. Younger firms exhibit a stronger valuation effect from ESG transparency, driven by higher signaling and legitimacy needs. In contrast, mature firms experience a diminished marginal benefit, reflecting routine compliance rather than strategic differentiation. These findings challenge the uniform application of ESG assessment models and suggest the need for lifecycle-adjusted disclosure ratings, particularly in nascent regulatory environments like Bangladesh. Investors and regulators should tailor ESG evaluation criteria by firm age and industry sustainability exposure. Younger firms, often overlooked, may carry outsized ESG signaling value in emerging markets. Enhancing ESG transparency among younger firms can foster greater stakeholder trust, support inclusive growth, and strengthen social accountability in emerging economies. This study contributes to the ESG literature by introducing corporate maturity as a key moderating variable in value relevance analysis. It provides new empirical insights from a developing economy and proposes lifecycle-based adaptations to global ESG rating methodologies. Full article

Modular and prefabricated buildings are advantageous in terms of construction, transport, energy efficiency, fixed costs, and the use of environmentally friendly materials. Our research aims to analyze, evaluate, and optimize a lightweight perimeter structure with an integrated active thermal protection (ATP). We have developed a mathematical–physical model of a wall fragment, in which we have analyzed several variants through a parametric study. ATP in the energy function of a thermal barrier (TB) represents a high potential for energy savings. Cold tap water (an average temperature of +6 °C, thermal untreated) in the ATP layer of the investigated building structure increases its thermal resistance by up to 27.24%. The TB’s mean temperature can be thermally adjusted to a level comparable to the heated space (e.g., +20 °C). For the fragment under consideration, optimizing the axial distance between the pipes (in the ATP layer) and the insulation thickness (using computer simulation) reveals that a pipe distance of 150 mm and an insulation thickness of 100 mm are the most suitable. ATP has significant potential in the design of sustainable, resilient, and climate-adaptive buildings, thereby meeting the UN SDGs, in particular the Sustainable Development Goal 7 ‘Affordable and Clean Energy’ and the Goal 13 ‘Climate Action’. Full article

Artificial intelligence is increasingly deployed as a vehicle for “social good” in agriculture, ostensibly advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals whilst uplifting smallholders. This study examines how such claims materialise through a selective case study analysis of eleven Thai Agricultural AI providers, analysing governance practices and impact framing. The research develops the “hybrid intersection” concept as an analytical lens for understanding how Agricultural AI simultaneously delivers genuine social benefits whilst reproducing structural constraints that limit transformative change. Findings reveal that “social good” becomes operationalised primarily through economic gains, reflecting farmers’ immediate financial predicament and market-driven innovation constraints. Governance practices prioritise functional trust over procedural safeguards, reflecting institutional pressures to demonstrate immediate value. The study reveals two systemic tensions: data commodification models enabling free farmer access whilst extracting behavioural surplus for third-party monetisation, and market optimisation approaches delivering incremental improvements whilst leaving structural challenges unaddressed. Thailand’s Agricultural AI landscape thus embodies a “hybrid intersection” where genuine social good coexists with constrained transformation, providing analytical tools for understanding similar patterns in other Southern contexts. Full article

This study examines the establishment of a Hub for Circular Economy and Industrial Symbiosis (HUB-CEIS) centred on a forest biomass waste plant in Fundão, Portugal, presenting an innovative model for rural industrial symbiosis, circular economy governance, and sustainable waste management. Designed as a strategic node within a reverse supply chain, the hub facilitates the conversion of solid waste into renewable energy and high-value co-products, including green hydrogen, tailored for industrial and agricultural applications, with an estimated 120 ktCO₂/year reduction and 60 direct jobs. Aligned with the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement, this initiative addresses global challenges such as decarbonization, resource efficiency, and the energy transition. Employing a mixed research methodology, this study integrates a comprehensive literature review, in-depth stakeholder interviews, and comparative case study analysis to formulate a governance framework fostering regional partnerships between industry, government, and local communities. The findings highlight Fundão’s potential to become a benchmark for rural industrial symbiosis, offering a replicable model for circularity in non-urban contexts, with a projected investment of USD 60 M. Special emphasis is placed on the green hydrogen value chain, positioning it as a key enabler for regional sustainability. This research underscores the importance of cross-sectoral collaboration in achieving scalable and efficient waste recovery processes. By delivering practical insights and a robust governance structure, the study contributes to the circular economy literature, providing actionable strategies for implementing rural reverse supply chains. Beyond validating waste valorization and renewable energy production, the proposed hub establishes a blueprint for sustainable rural industrial development, promoting long-term industrial symbiosis integration. Full article

This study analyses the impact of agricultural greenwashing on financial performance via green innovation. To this end, it employs data from Chinese A-share agribusinesses from 2012 to 2022. The study indicates the following results: (1) the practice of greenwashing (ESG disclosure–performance gap, GW) has a significant negative impact on ROA, particularly in non-state firms; (2) green innovation (patents, GI) partially mediates this relationship, with a percentage of 9.09%, as GW diverts research and development resources toward image management. Robustness checks are employed to confirm the results obtained using ROE and lagged models. Property rights moderate the effects: non-state firms are more adversely affected by innovation dependency, while state firms are protected by policies. The “double-edged” mechanism elucidates GW’s short-term legitimacy gains in contrast to long-term innovation suppression and financial decline. The report calls for the establishment of standardised ESG metrics (for example, the disclosure of pesticide residue) and targeted green incentives (for example, SME R&D subsidies) to be aligned with UN SDGs 9.4 (green tech) and 12.6 (responsible production). The present study offers insights into the governance of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) matters within the context of agriculture in China. Full article

The United Nations (UN) framework defines indicator 13.1.1 as the number of deaths, missing persons, and directly affected individuals due to disasters per 100,000 population. This indicator is associated with target 13.1, which calls for urgent actions against climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries. However, there is a lack of official data providers and well-established methodologies for assessing the resilience of populated areas to natural disasters. Earth observation (EO), geospatial technologies, and local data may support the estimation of this indicator and, as such, enhance the resilience of specific communities against hazards. Thus, the present study aims to enhance the capacity to monitor Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) using the abovementioned technologies. In this context, a methodology that integrates ecoregion-specific model training and flood potential related geospatial datasets has been developed to estimate the number of houses affected by floods. This methodology relies on disaster-related databases, such as the UN’s DesInventar, and flood- and exposure-related data, including precipitation and soil moisture products combined with hydro-modelling based on digital elevation models, infrastructure datasets, and population products. By integrating these data sources, different machine learning regression models were trained and stratified by ecoregions to predict the number of affected houses and, as such, provide a more comprehensive understanding of community resilience to floods in the Sahel region. This effort is particularly crucial as the frequency and intensity of floods significantly increase in many areas due to climate change. Full article

The remaining lifetime of the cable insulation is an important but hard topic for the industry and research groups as there are more and more cables nearing their designed life in China. However, it is hard to accurately and efficiently obtain the ageing characteristic parameters of cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) cable insulation. This study systematically analyzes the evolution of the remaining insulation lifetime of XLPE cables under different ageing states using the step-stress method combined with the inverse power model (IPM) and a physical-driven model (Crine model). By comparing un-aged and accelerated-aged specimens, the step-stress breakdown tests were conducted to obtain the Weibull distribution characteristics of breakdown voltage and breakdown time. Experimental results demonstrate that the characteristic breakdown field strength and remaining lifetime of the specimens decrease significantly with prolonged ageing. The ageing parameter of the IPM was calculated. It is found that the ageing parameter of IPM increases with the ageing time. However, it can hardly link to the other properties or physic parameters of the material. The activation energy and electron acceleration distance of the Crine model were also calculated. It is found that ageing activation energy stays almost the same in samples with different ageing time, showing that it is a material intrinsic parameter that will not change with the ageing; the electron acceleration distance increases with the ageing time, it makes sense that the ageing process may break the molecule chain of XLPE and increase the size of the free volume. It shows that the Crine model can better fit the physic process of ageing in theory and mathematic, and the acceleration distance of the Crine model is a physical driven parameter that can greatly reflect the ageing degree of the cable insulation and be used as an indicator of the ageing states. Full article

Corporate sustainability has emerged as a critical imperative for firms navigating volatile markets and ecological constraints, yet the mechanisms linking organizational practices to sustainability outcomes remain underexplored, particularly in developing economies. Drawing on the resource-based view and dynamic capabilities theory, this paper examines how transformational leadership and knowledge sharing synergistically enhance innovation capability, which in turn fosters environmental dynamism and corporate sustainability performance. Using a structured questionnaire within a cross-sectional design to gather data from 140 Moroccan SMEs, data were collected via an online questionnaire from 140 Moroccan SME owners and managers, with hypotheses tested using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The results show that knowledge sharing, and transformational leadership significantly strengthen innovation capability. Innovation capability further drives environmental dynamism, which positively impacts sustainability performance. These findings advance theory by integrating knowledge-based, leadership, and dynamic capability perspectives into a novel pathway for achieving sustainability goals. The study underscores the necessity for SMEs in developing nations to cultivate leadership that inspires knowledge exchange and adaptive innovation, enabling resilience amid ecological and market shifts. By highlighting these internal drivers, the research offers actionable insights for SMEs and policymakers seeking to align business innovation strategies with sustainability objectives and pro-environmental transformation in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Full article

The term BDSM is used to describe a wide range of sexual practices, with previously negotiated and mutually consented rules, which take place through a carefully dramatized exercise of roles and powers in the context of erotic and/or sexual interaction. This qualitative study explores the paths and discourses of 14 Portuguese men who practice BDSM and self-identify as submissive. In-depth online interviews were conducted to contextualize the emergence, development, and self-assessment of their practices. The thematic analysis of the results identified three themes: (1) between the awakening and consolidation of interest in the BDSM universe, (2) contacts, encounters, and (dis)continuities, and (3) erotic and sexual experiences (un)blindfolded. The reading of the results is based on a non-pathologizing perspective and highlights a positive evaluation of the sexual experiences reported, motivated by an intentional and collaborative search for pleasure and eroticism that violates traditional gender boundaries. It is recommended that future empirical studies are carried out using non-pathological models associated with BDSM, which could expand knowledge and legitimize different ways of experiencing sexuality. Full article