Search Results (56)

Single-use plastics (SUPs) are deeply embedded in everyday consumption in rapidly developing Asian cities, yet their widespread use contributes to marine debris, microplastic pollution, and health risks. This study aimed to inform evidence-based policymaking to mitigate marine plastic pollution in the ASEAN+3 region. Stratified random sampling surveys (n = 1492) were conducted both face to face and online across five representative cities between September 2022 and February 2023. We quantified and compared the consumption and disposal patterns across nine SUP categories, assessed demographic influences, evaluated the impact of COVID-19, and derived insights for targeted policy interventions. Non-parametric tests were used to evaluate the differences. The results reveal significant inter-city variation: Shanghai and Harbin reported high overall SUP use despite a lower consumption of plastic shopping bags; Hanoi and Depok showed lower overall use but distinct preferences for plastic shopping bags and party cups; and Phnom Penh had the highest consumption of plastic shopping bags, bottles, and straws. Plastic shopping bags were the most used item in all cities (18–34 bags per week), with no significant differences between urban and rural areas, ages, or genders. In contrast, urban residents reported a higher use of plastic takeout containers, cutlery, coffee cups, and party cups. The COVID-19 pandemic notably reshaped SUP consumption patterns. Additionally, over half of SUPs were disposed of without proper separation. These findings underscore the need for flexible, phased, and context-specific interventions to support a resilient circular economy. Full article

Augmented Reality (AR) enables users to see or interact with virtual objects in real-world environments. This case study examines three AR lessons integrated into a beginner-level Spanish course at a university. The participants were 18 undergraduate students enrolled in this class. The AR lessons portrayed a classroom, a coffee shop, and a family setting aimed at improving students’ retention of Spanish vocabulary related to each AR environment. The research data included pre-test and post-test scores, in-class observations, and interviews. Paired-sample t-tests were conducted before and after the AR sessions to examine vocabulary retention. The quantitative findings revealed significant differences in test scores among all three interventions, suggesting the efficacy of AR-based learning methods. A thematic analysis was conducted on qualitative data, encompassing interviews with six students and in-class observations. Students shared that the AR-based lessons made learning more engaging and enhanced vocabulary recall. Student interactions increased, and the AR-based lessons inspired students to transition from technology users to designers. This study addresses the need for more AR learner-centered empirical studies in learning Spanish and provides implications for AR educational application design and implementations. Full article

The number of coffee shops in China is rapidly increasing, and they are becoming a gathering place for young people. In order to enhance their competitiveness, the design of coffee shops has become the core force of competition. To clarify the preferences of young people for coffee shop design, this study takes the most intuitive exposure of consumers to building façades as the starting point. Based on the façade model in the previous research, the façade model was reconstructed through expert group discussions. In total, 80 out of 490 design cases were selected and combined with the reconstructed façade model to construct a questionnaire. Then, a questionnaire survey was conducted on 595 Chinese YZ generation members. The results of the classification summary and post hoc multiple comparison analysis showed that façade design was considered an important factor affecting their choices, and if the façade design met their aesthetic preferences, they would visit the store again. In addition, the aesthetic preferences of the YZ generation for coffee shop façade design, including different façade shapes, contours, visual forms, functional forms, decorative material types, textures, tones, brightness, and color matching methods, are consistent. They prefer the modernist style and pursue more visually stimulating exterior design, and this preference does not differ in terms of generational and gender differences. The differences in aesthetic standards for façades are more reflected in income levels. The YZ generation gave a “like” rating to all façade model contents and cases, but their aesthetic differences in different façade models can still be seen through specific numerical differences. Full article

Urban vitality is a critical driver of sustainable urban development, significantly contributing to the enhancement of human well-being. A thorough and multidimensional comprehension of urban vitality is essential for shaping future urban planning and policy-making. This study, focused on Chengdu, proposes a framework for assessing various dimensions of UV through the distribution of milk tea and coffee shops. Using random forest and multi-scale geographically weighted regression models, this study investigates the factors influencing urban vitality from both mathematical thresholds and spatial heterogeneity, and develops spatial maps of future vitality to inform targeted urban strategies. The results show that (1) the milk tea index is effective in capturing population vitality, while the coffee index is more closely associated with economic vitality and urban renewal; (2) office buildings (13.46%) and commercial complexes (13.70%) have the most significant impact on both economic and population vitality, while the importance of transportation factors has notably decreased; (3) the influence of these factors demonstrates spatial heterogeneity and nonlinear relationships, with subway station density of 0.5–0.8 stations per kilometer being optimal for stimulating both types of vitality. The minimum threshold for economic vitality in a given unit is a housing price exceeding 6000 RMB/m²; (4) the future vitality map suggests that urban planners should pay greater attention to non-central districts with high development potential. Moreover, spontaneous social interactions and consumer behaviors stimulated by various shops are critical components of urban vitality. In designing the physical environment and urban spatial forms, special attention should be given to enhancing the attractiveness of physical spaces and their capacity to accommodate social interaction. Full article

Currently, with the intensification of global education competition, how to cultivate innovative and versatile talents has become the focus of education today. Informal learning spaces (ILS) have received widespread attention due to their benefits for interdisciplinary interaction. Many forms of ILS have been built, and coffee shops are one of them. However, there is no uniform standard for the design of cafes as ILS, and there are many problems with the spatial quality. This study took a university cafe as a case study and conducted research on the environmental quality and influencing factors from the perspective of environmental behavior. In terms of research methods, this study adopted a combination of ultra-wideband positioning, questionnaire surveys, and environmental data measurements. This research method could obtain the complete relationship between user behavior, time, and location, which improved the shortcomings of traditional research methods of fragmented and accidental data acquisition, and helped to obtain more accurate research results. The study identified the impact proportions of four criteria layer elements and 26 scheme layer factors, which was also the main contribution of this study. In terms of four criteria layer elements, the physical elements had the highest proportion, accounting for 32.46%. The ontology elements ranked second, accounting for 27.07%. The atmosphere elements ranked third, accounting for 24.19%. Finally, facility elements accounted for 16.29%. The top three scheme layer factors were equipment and facilities, noise, and illumination, with weights of 11.18%, 10.71%, and 8.35%, respectively. The study summarized the development directions of cafes as ILS, such as considering the learning needs of different groups, installing sound-absorbing and soundproof devices, adding grilles to external windows, and improving glare problems. Full article

Background: The increase in serving sizes of energy-dense nutrient-poor discretionary foods over time, with attractively presented large servings and package sizes, has led to portion distortion and a new ‘normal’ for serving sizes. Little data exists on the variations of portion size norms of discretionary foods across settings. This study aimed to examine the differences in the range of normal portion sizes of commonly consumed foods between home and out-of-home settings (coffee shops, restaurants). Methods: A repeated cross-sectional design was used, with nine selected discretionary foods and beverages included in a validated online image-series questionnaire. Participants completed the questionnaire at two time points to report their normal portion sizes in home and out-of-home settings. Quantile regression models were used to examine differences in the range of normal portion sizes (17th to 83rd percentile, representing the majority of the study population) between settings. Results: A final sample of 295 participants was included in the analysis (51% females, mean age 40 ± 14 years). The ranges of normal portion sizes did not differ by settings for all test foods except for sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) tested in both containers and glassware. SSB showed smaller normal portion sizes at home compared to fast food restaurants (in a bottle/can and in a glass/cup; p < 0.001). Conclusions: These findings suggest that the portion size norms of many discretionary foods are mostly consistent in home and out-of-home settings. As the typical serving sizes available to consumers in the out-of-home settings are large, it is essential to establish practical serving size guidelines directed at the food industry to increase the availability of smaller size options and empower consumers towards better portion control. Full article

Conducting business nowadays has become much more challenging. Sustainability is a crucial goal for all industries, including the coffee sector, which has emerged as a robust trend in the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council), establishing Saudi Arabia as one of the pioneers in developing specialty coffee in the Gulf region. Hence, in an attempt to reveal the determinants of sustainability, this study examined the effect of collective individual capabilities (i.e., commitments, communication, connections, and coordination) on entrepreneurial resilience and the subsequent effect on economic, social, and environmental firm performance. This study used a cross-sectional design to collect quantitative data from 213 respondents using non-probability-based convenient sampling. Data were analyzed using SEM-PLS. Findings revealed that commitment has a significant positive effect on entrepreneurial resilience. On the other hand, resilience showed significant positive effects on the economic, social, and environmental performance of coffee shops in Saudi Arabia. Results further confirm a significant mediating effect of entrepreneurial resilience between commitments and economic, social, and environmental performance. Several key insights and policy implications have been drawn from the findings. Full article

Aphasia is an acquired communication disorder caused by a cerebral lesion, such as a stroke. People with aphasia can experience various difficulties that may involve speaking, listening, reading, or writing. These difficulties have multiple impacts on their expression of their needs, interests, and opinions. Accordingly, people with aphasia often encounter barriers and facilitators when using local services, which reduces their participation. For instance, grocery shopping or going to a coffee house can be challenging for them. Hence, this systematic review was conducted to synthetize the barriers and facilitators for people with aphasia when using local services. Following the Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research guidelines, five databases and Google Scholar were searched for the literature published through April 2024. A total of nine studies were included in the present work. The results highlight that most of the barriers to communicational access to local services are environmental ones related to other people or society. A few environmental facilitators were mentioned, but these were mainly a reflection of the barriers. Personal facilitators were noted, but people with aphasia said that they were insufficient for counterbalancing environmental barriers. The results highlight the need to raise awareness of aphasia. Full article

The spreading knowledge of the health benefits of coffee and the development of gastronomy with a wide range of coffees prompt an evaluation of their caffeine content in terms of safe intake. The study analyzed the caffeine content of popular coffees in comparison with recommendations for a safe single dose (200 mg) and daily caffeine intake (400 mg), and guidelines for drinking 3–5 cups of coffee per day. A total of 299 coffee samples from franchise shops and homemade coffees were tested. The “takeaway” coffees had a three times higher mean caffeine content (p < 0.005) compared to homemade coffees. Americano coffee was the “strongest” (143 mg caffeine/serving on average), while coffee prepared by pouring hot water over one teaspoon of ground coffee was the “lightest” (23 mg caffeine/serving on average) (p < 0.05). Over 200 mg of caffeine per serving was found in 4% of samples. Over 400 mg of caffeine would be consumed by people drinking “on the go” 4–5 servings of many types of coffee, except espresso. In this respect, homemade coffees are safer. Therefore, recommendations on drinking coffee should be more practical, and indicate not only the number of cups, but also the “strength” of various types of coffee, in order to avoid the regular intake of high amounts of caffeine. Full article

Human capital management is a strategic element for companies in a globalized world. Therefore, they must use strategies and methods to recruit and select personnel assertively to focus their training, strengthening, and business growth efforts. Personnel selection can be seen as a decision problem and can be addressed in a multi-criteria decision-making context. This work aims to present the selection process of a barista in a Mexican coffee shop. The baristas could be the face of the company to customers, and they could significantly impact their overall experience. The personnel selection process included eleven candidates and three criteria. This process was performed using the ELECTRE-III to model the preferences of a decision-maker and RP2-NSGA-II+H, a multi-objective evolutionary algorithm that exploits fuzzy outranking relations to derive multi-criteria rankings. The ordering obtained with the algorithm did not have any inconsistency concerning the integral preference model, and it allowed for the selection of a candidate to occupy the barista position. The results show the relevance of combining preference modeling with multi-criteria analysis methods for decision-making and artificial intelligence techniques. Full article

Consumer interest in plant-based milk alternatives is growing, despite extra charges in coffeehouses. While much research exists on non-dairy alternatives, plant-based milks in coffee drinks remain understudied. This study examines consumer preferences and behaviors regarding milk alternatives in coffee, using the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) and the Behavior Change Wheel (BCW). A survey of 200 participants from 19 countries explored demographics, coffee habits, attitudes towards non-dairy milk charges, and marketing awareness. Market insights showed taste as the main reason for coffee choice, with a preference for cow’s milk and local cafes for quality. Many opposed the extra charges for non-dairy options, citing lactose intolerance or allergies, especially among Gen Z and Millennials. Regional variations included stronger opposition in the UK and Germany compared to the UAE and USA. The marketing for non-dairy milk was less memorable than general coffee advertisements. Regression analysis confirmed that viewing non-dairy milk as a dietary staple increased consumption, aligning with the TDF’s “Beliefs about Consequences” domain. Finally, within the BCW framework, the intervention strategies centered on training and coercion were discussed. Implementing these approaches could encourage the wider adoption of non-dairy milk options in coffee shops, fostering inclusivity, health awareness, and supporting environmental sustainability efforts. Full article

The scientific literature indicates that there is a limited number of data on the content of bioactive components in coffees consumed “on the go”. Therefore, this study examined the polyphenol and caffeine content of different types of coffee from franchise coffee shops, and the caffeine/total polyphenol ratio. The five most popular types of coffee purchased in six franchise coffee shops in Warsaw were analysed. A total of 120 coffee samples were tested. A significant positive (r = 0.7407, p < 0.001) correlation was found between the total polyphenol and caffeine content in all coffee types tested. Per unit volume, espresso coffee had the highest significant (p < 0.005) average total polyphenol and caffeine contents (232.9 ± 63.9 mg/100 mL and 198.6 ± 68.3 mg/100 mL, respectively). After taking into account the coffee’s serving size, a serving of Americano provided significantly (p < 0.05) the most total polyphenol (average 223.5 ± 81.5 mg), while the highest caffeine content was provided by a serving of ice latte/latte frappe (average 136 ± 57.0 mg). The most favourable ratio of caffeine to total polyphenols (0.56) was found in a serving of Americano coffee; therefore, it seems that this coffee can be considered optimal in terms of the content of both compounds. These findings demonstrate that the polyphenol and caffeine contents of coffees offered in franchise coffee shops are closely related to the serving size. Full article

This study examined eco-friendly practices (EFPs), green image, and brand attachment to identify antecedents that affect coffee shop consumers’ brand advocacy and brand loyalty, targeting Generation Z, who are emerging as the primary agents of eco-friendly consumption. In particular, we applied only the tangible EFPs that consumers can observe to identify a clear relationship between perceptions of EFPs and consumer behavior. This is the most significant difference from previous studies. In this study, 287 people who responded that they had visited Starbucks, which was selected as the coffee shop brand to be investigated through a pilot test, were used as a sample. As a result of the verification, EFPs demonstrated a positive influence on green image and brand attachment, and green image appeared to have a positive effect on brand attachment. Brand attachment was confirmed to be an antecedent that strengthens brand advocacy and brand loyalty. This study contributes to the literature on environmental friendliness in the hospitality industry and can be used to establish sustainable, eco-friendly marketing strategies in the food service business. Full article

Opening a business in an existing building incurs lower energy and material consumption than constructing a new building. However, implementing this strategy in certain domains, such as retail and hospitality, requires operational changes. Despite an increasing focus on sustainability in these sectors, the primary objective remains creating appealing spaces for consumers, with companies frequently stipulating numerous requirements for their stores’ new buildings. To promote sustainability, scholars have suggested that organizations, designers, and constructors find new uses for existing spaces. This study highlights how adapting buildings not built for commercial use can both promote sustainability and benefit new users. It explores a trend in European cities where existing buildings, often outside the usual commercial districts, are repurposed as cafés. Many of these projects provide attractive user destinations without requiring extensive renovations. Specifically, we investigate coffee shops in Copenhagen and the atmospheric characteristics that enhance their appeal. Based on observations and interviews, new and old atmospheric components and the atmospheres they jointly create are identified and divided into themes: capacious and accommodating environments, uniqueness, synergy between old and new, and appealing neighborhoods. Finally, user responses to these themes—such as lingering, revisiting, sharing narratives, influencing neighborhood development, and building communities—are described. Full article

COVID-19 has become a pandemic which has resulted in measures being taken for the health and safety of people. The spreading of this disease is particularly evident in indoor spaces, which tend to get overcrowded with people. One such place is the airport where a plethora of passengers gather in common places, such as coffee shops and duty-free shops as well as toilets and gates. Guiding the passengers to less overcrowded places within the airport may be a solution to reduce disease spread. In this paper, we suggest a passenger routing algorithm whereby the passengers are guided to less crowded places by using a weighting factor, which is minimised to accomplish the desired goal. We modeled a number of shops in an airport using the AnyLogic software and we tested the algorithm showing that the exposure time is less with routing and that people are appropriately spread out across the common spaces, thus preventing overcrowding. Finally, we added a real airport in Kavala, Greece to show the efficiency of our approach. Full article