Search Results (106)

Traditional air conditioning consumes substantial electricity, exacerbates the urban heat island effect, and creates a maladaptive feedback loop, necessitating a shift toward passive-first net-zero pathways. This study takes a typical six-story residential building in Nanjing’s hot summer and cold winter climate zone as a case study. Using EnergyPlus hourly simulations, three progressive passive strategy packages are designed to quantify the impact of building envelope heat exchange on cooling loads, grid stress, and heat resilience. Package A includes external shading and natural ventilation. Package B adds reflective coating and a green roof. Package C further adds night ventilation precooling and high-performance windows. The results show that Package C achieves a 62.5% reduction in peak cooling load and a 63.0% reduction in seasonal cooling load. Daytime peak inward heat gain decreases from 68 W/m² to 22 W/m², while nighttime outward heat dissipation increases from 12 W/m² to 38 W/m². Under an extreme heat day of 41.2 °C with no active cooling, indoor peak temperature drops from 36.8 °C to 29.4 °C, and heat risk hours decrease by 73.6%. Peak-hour power demand is reduced by 70.4%, with a systemic leverage factor of 1.08. Innovations include achieving over 60% load reduction using only mature passive strategies, introducing the systemic leverage factor to quantify urban heat island mitigation benefits, and establishing a vulnerability-to-resilience transformation framework. The passive-first pathway validates building envelope as the first line of defense for net-zero futures. However, the findings are based on a typical six-story residential building in Nanjing and require validation through field measurements or broader application across different climate zones and building typologies before generalization. Full article

The increasing number of sustainability claims may reduce the perceived reliability of formal eco-labels, creating an environment in which greenwashing can erode institutional trust. This study explores how consumers navigate significant information asymmetry when standardized environmental signals are absent. Using a qualitative research design, we conducted focus group discussions with Hungarian- and Romanian-speaking consumers in Transylvania, Romania, a multiethnic transitioning market. Computational text analysis, including topic modeling, was used to support this interpretive approach and effectively decode the complex typologies of green claim evaluation. The findings suggest that signal degradation among the participants was associated with culturally embedded heuristic substitution rather than a uniform rejection of green claims. Romanian-speaking participants described more analytical, information-seeking heuristics that are tightly integrated into routine purchasing decisions. Conversely, Hungarian-speaking participants articulated a looser connection between generalized skepticism and their purchasing routines. This study contributes to signaling theory and administrative science by suggesting that standardized governance tools may be less effective when they are not aligned with localized trust structures. Reconceiving greenwashing as a failure of signal fit rather than as deceptive marketing communication, the study contributes to a process-oriented understanding of how consumers evaluate sustainability claims under uncertainty. Future research should quantitatively test these heuristic pathways across diverse regulatory and cultural environments. Full article

The increasing vulnerability of global food systems—exacerbated by the pandemic, climate change, and disruptions to international supply chains—has highlighted the importance of local food production for sustainability, food security, and rural resilience. At the same time, the LOHAS (Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability) value system is gaining prominence, shaping consumer demand for locally produced, environmentally responsible, and health-oriented products. While the existing literature predominantly addresses LOHAS consumers and local food systems as separate research domains, limited empirical attention has been paid to the value-based alignment between LOHAS principles and local food producers, particularly from a territorial and place-based perspective. This study seeks to address this gap by examining how LOHAS value dimensions are reflected in the self-identification and operational practices of local food producers, and by analyzing how such value alignment may be interpreted as contributing to the sustainability and resilience of territorially embedded rural production systems. From a systems perspective, LOHAS-related value alignment may be interpreted as a potential coordination mechanism that may contribute to strengthening feedback loops between producers and consumers and may enhance the adaptive capacity of short food supply chains as socio-ecological systems. The empirical analysis draws on an online survey conducted in the second quarter of 2024 among 73 local producers operating in Zala and Vas counties in Western Hungary. Factor analysis and cluster analysis were applied to identify underlying value structures and producer typologies. The results reveal two distinct producer clusters, one of which exhibits a strong alignment with LOHAS values. Producers within this cluster place particular emphasis on sustainability, environmental responsibility, health consciousness, and authenticity, alongside a pronounced commitment to local embeddedness and community-oriented practices. Overall, the findings demonstrate that LOHAS-related values are not confined to the consumer side but are increasingly embedded in territorially grounded local production models. This value alignment may contribute to strengthening short food supply chains rooted in specific geographical contexts, thereby contributing to the long-term socio-economic and environmental sustainability of rural regions. Full article

Lightweight structures such as Schwedler domes offer high strength-to-weight ratios for large-span applications; however, their design typically involves time-consuming iterative processes. This study proposes an integrated parametric workflow combining geometry generation, structural analysis, and automated load application to improve both design efficiency and structural performance. The methodology is based on Python scripting within Grasshopper, enabling parametric control of dome geometry and direct interoperability with Autodesk Robot Structural Analysis Professional. Three open-apex Schwedler dome configurations were analyzed as a focused demonstration of the workflow, differing in cross-sectional typology and structural layout. The results show that the use of closed sections reduces structural mass by up to 31%, while hybrid configurations achieve significantly improved member utilization, reaching 0.87 for ribs and 0.63 for rings. Importantly, the parametric workflow enabled the rapid generation and evaluation of multiple design variants, significantly reducing modeling time and eliminating inconsistencies between geometric and analytical models. The study demonstrates that parametric modeling provides an effective framework for designing efficient dome structures, enabling both material optimization and accelerated design processes. The same parametric source is also suitable for extension into BIM and fabrication environments, as well as into life-cycle assessment, which are identified as planned continuations of this research. Full article

This study investigates the typology of the pastoral farming systems in the arid region of southern Tunisia, with a particular focus on the governorate of Tataouine. A field survey was conducted among 111 livestock farmers distributed across different agro-ecological zones. The typology of breeding systems was established using a Factor Analysis of Mixed Data (FAMD), which identified eleven dimensions explaining 69.74% of the total data variance. The first three dimensions accounted for 15.91%, 8.79%, and 7.67% of the variability, respectively, and were defined by herd composition, resource availability, and management strategies, including variables such as the number of goats, sheep, and camels, distance to water sources, infrastructure, reproductive practices, and workforce availability. Hierarchical clustering revealed three distinct systems: System 1, regrouping “Small Urban Farmers”, defined by small-scale operations relying on family labor, localized feed resources, and market-driven production targeting urban consumers; System 2, representing large livestock, composed of professionalized operations with improved infrastructure, hired labor, and transhumance practices to optimize resource use and productivity; and System 3, for herds with camels, characterized by extensive systems utilizing collective rangelands and camels to adapt to arid conditions and ensure ecological resilience. The results emphasize how ecological constraints, infrastructure, and spatial organization shape the diversity of these systems. This typology provides critical insights into the challenges and potential of livestock farming in arid environments and offers a foundation for designing targeted interventions to support the sustainability of pastoral systems under increasing environmental and economic pressures. Full article

Cities are among the major consumers of environmental resources and contribute significantly to the degradation of many ecosystems. For this reason, the European Union is prioritising the transformation of the role of European cities to become key actors in enabling sustainable and efficient urban systems. Part of this effort is enacted through the Mission “Cities,” that guides cities in developing Climate City Contracts (CCC), which are innovative governance instruments that outline municipalities’ collaborative and systemic plans to reach climate neutrality. This article examines how 102 Mission Cities across Europe plan to reach climate neutrality by 2030, by analysing the selection of typologies of actions included in their CCCs. Results reveal distinct regional patterns in how municipalities design their portfolios of climate actions in key topics: an integrated and diversified combination of sectoral measures and governance innovations in Northern and Western Europe, a focus on upgrading core infrastructures in Central and Eastern Europe, and prioritisation of interventions in mobility and the Built Environment in Southern Europe. These findings provide insights for policy and planning strategies, and highlight countries that progress faster in specific topics and those that still face relevant barriers. Full article

Food waste remains a significant challenge in the European Union, reflecting structural differences across economic sectors and member states. This study examines how macroeconomic conditions relate to sectoral food waste using harmonized Eurostat data for the EU-27, covering five stages of the food chain and three economic indicators: GDP (Gross Domestic Product) per capita, adjusted gross disposable income per capita, and the Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices for food. The research design integrates factor analysis, structural equation modeling, and hierarchical clustering. Results show that income-related variables have a positive, statistically significant effect on overall food waste, particularly in manufacturing and distribution. In contrast, food prices show a negative, statistically non-significant relationship with waste generation. Cluster analysis identifies two statistically distinct country groups; however, substantial internal heterogeneity indicates that these clusters reflect structural economic configurations rather than typological or behavioral categories. The findings suggest that macroeconomic factors partially explain cross-country differences in food waste and support the need for context-sensitive, sector-specific policy interventions. Full article

This study aimed to develop a typology of consumers based on their behavior in the areas of sustainable consumption and digitalization in the pharmaceutical market. The analysis considered factors including (i) Schwartz’s universal values, (ii) demographic, and (iii) socioeconomic determinants. The study was based on a survey conducted on a sample of Polish adults (n = 1247) between April and July 2024, using a computer-assisted web interviewing method via SurveyMonkey^®. In the area of sustainability, the most frequently observed behaviors included: (i) packing purchased medicinal products into a personal bag, (ii) for medicinal products with short expiration dates owing to their origin, purchasing only the quantities that meet current needs without stockpiling, and (iii) for regularly used medicinal products, choosing larger packages. Whereas, in the area of digitalization, purchasing at an online pharmacy allows for (i) saving time and (ii) saving money, while also (iii) providing greater privacy. Importantly, the presence of four types of consumers was demonstrated, i.e., Sustainable-Active (20%), Digital-Adept (29%), Sustainable-Digital-Uninterested (21%), and Sustainable-Digital-Addicted (29%). In conclusion, within the pharmaceutical market, sustainability and digitalization are reflected in consumer behavior to varying degrees across consumer types, influenced by personal values. Full article

Greenwashing by unvalidated environmental labelling is increasingly common and highly problematic due to the potential to mislead consumers. This is especially concerning for products that pose health risks, including alcohol. As environmental sustainability becomes more important to consumers, it is vital to assess changes in the use of potentially misleading claims over time. Among the first studies of its kind globally, this study aimed to (i) develop a typology of environmental claims displayed on alcohol products in Australia, (ii) examine the prevalence of these claims to establish baseline data for ongoing tracking, and (iii) assess the provision of recycling information. Four claim categories were identified: sustainability, planet friendly, bio-related and carbon-related. Claims featured on 8% of the 5982 sampled products, with considerable variation between alcohol categories. Sustainability claims were the most prevalent (5%). Recycling information appeared on 72% of products. The results suggest ambiguous environmental claims are present although not yet widespread. In contrast, recycling information is much more common although not universal. These findings highlight the need to consider restrictions on unsubstantiated environmental claims on alcohol products that can mislead consumers. Further, a nationally standardised mandatory recycling label should be introduced to assist consumers in reducing their environmental impacts. Full article

The aim of this paper is to identify and psychographically characterize consumers operating in the phygital environment based on their emotional responses to tools used in commerce and services. The theoretical section involves a bibliometric analysis (Web of Science and Scopus papers from 2015 to 2024) using Bibliometrix and Biblioshiny in RStudio. The empirical study was conducted using the Internet survey technique in February 2025 on a nationwide random-quota sample of 2160 adult internet users. Based on cluster analysis, three types of consumers were identified: solution skeptics (48.1%), cautious explorers (20.1%), and tool enthusiasts (31.9%). The results indicate that emotions play a key role in the perception of phygital experiences. The article provides practical guidance for companies, including approaches for designing more inclusive and accessible shopping environments. A positive attitude toward these tools can foster more efficient use of services, reducing overconsumption and improving quality of life. In the context of sustainable development, these results point to the need for further research into the real impact of phygital solutions on consumer wellbeing—social, economic, and environmental. Full article

This study aims to develop a consumer typology based on attitudes and behaviors related to Household Food Waste in both urban and rural households in Greece, where data are limited. A structured questionnaire was administered to 279 residents of the Municipality of Eordaia through face-to-face interviews using stratified random sampling. A two-step cluster analysis identified four distinct consumer types: “Ecologically Conscious” (31%), “Empirical” (20%), “Modern” (28%), and “Socio-Ecologically Conscious” (21%). These clusters represent various levels of environmental awareness, consumer habits, and the influence of rural background on food-related practices. Findings highlight that rural background significantly impacts consumer behavior regarding Household Food Waste. This typology provides a valuable framework for designing targeted interventions and policy measures to reduce Household Food Waste. Future recommendations emphasize integrating educational food waste programs into primary schools, alongside institutional and policy support to ensure their effective implementation. Full article

Sustainable transport innovation often faces funding gaps, as traditional public and private sources rarely support early-stage or high-risk initiatives. Crowdfunding, enabled by digital transformation, is emerging as a complementary financing mechanism for this sector. This study presents a literature review combined with bibliometric mapping to examine the evolving research landscape on crowdfunding in transport. Three research questions guide the analysis: RQ1—What are the dominant research areas at the intersection of crowdfunding and transport? RQ2—What types of transport projects are financed via crowdfunding? RQ3—What research gaps and future directions emerge for transport innovation financing? Findings reveal three core research areas: (1) Sustainability and finance, (2) Fintech and blockchain, and (3) Management and consumer behavior. We propose a typology of crowdfunded transport projects comprising five categories: (1) Large-scale transport infrastructure, (2) Sustainable local mobility, (3) Innovative start-ups, (4) New business models, and (5) Advanced systems and technologies. This demonstrates crowdfunding’s versatility beyond traditional infrastructure, supporting high-risk innovations critical for decarbonization and technological transformation. The study highlights domain-specific challenges—such as integrating PPP models with digital finance and ensuring investor protection—and emphasizes crowdfunding’s role as an enabler of low-carbon transition aligned with global climate strategies (EU Green Deal, SDGs). Despite its potential, investor safety remains a major concern. Policy implications include sandbox regulation, standardized risk assessment, and operationalizing PPP–crowdfunding hybrids to unlock large-scale and innovative transport projects. Full article

Native to the western Atlantic, the Atlantic blue crab Callinectes sapidus (CS) has spread to the Mediterranean, affecting local ecosystems and mussel aquaculture and leading to severe ecological and financial losses in Italy and other areas. Given its rapid spread and socio-economic impacts, several countries have begun to exploit CS commercially, but the consumers’ interest is still limited. In this study, we analysed both nutrient and nutraceutical profiles of CS meats, evaluating potential differences related to sex and meat typology. We found that CS meats are rich in high quality proteins and contain all the essential amino acids required for a correct diet. The fat of CS is not only rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) but also displays remarkably low atherogenicity and thrombogenicity indices, highlighting its strong potential in promoting cardiovascular health. In addition, CS is rich in nutraceutical compounds, in particular polyphenols and astaxanthin, revealing a good antioxidant activity maintained after simulated gastrointestinal hydrolysis. Last but not least, CS has remarkable α-glucosidase and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitory activity, highlighting potential benefits in controlling glycaemic peaks and hypertension. Full article

The increase in extreme weather underscores the critical need for combining innovative architecture, urban, and landscape design to render our cities more resilient. Conventional approaches, heavily relying on energy consuming and dioxide producing technology, often falter during extreme events, worsening climate challenges. A project in Melbourne exemplifies a shift towards nature-inspired, distributed designs implementing passive strategies of shading, ventilation, water capture, and evaporative cooling. It transformed underused urban spaces into “climate oases” connected through walkable ecological corridors to mitigate urban heat and flooding while providing social and recreational benefits. Its design combined architectural, urban, and ecological strategies in interconnected city ecologies involving buildings, landscapes, and human activities. Local climate adaptation could similarly inform architectural and urban strategies in other locations across the globe. They could similarly draw on the needs of each climate: tropical cities would benefit from embracing cross-ventilation and shade, arid regions from integrating cooling gardens and introverted dense layouts, temperate climates from seasonal strategies alternating rain and sun protection, while cold areas could optimize sun exposure and wind protection. A study of climate design principles across architecture, urban, and landscape sections demonstrate tailored approaches for specific climates over one-size-fits-all models. They combine strategies to drive innovative urban ecologies that prioritize human and environmental well-being. While the Melbourne Cool Lines initiative exemplifies the integration of climate sensitive urban and ecological approaches within existing urban areas, the typological study ignites discussions on how to take these ideas into different contexts, transforming cities into resilient ecosystems that could better respond to changing climates. Full article

Local agri-food markets are a key link in the sustainability and resilience of rural communities, as they merge producers and consumers, create jobs and ensure food security. This paper analyzes the state and perspectives of the development of local markets in rural regions of Russia, relying on demographic, economic, structural and innovation indicators. The results show marked regional differences: in urbanized areas the share of the rural population is low and markets are weak, while in Siberia and the Far East, local markets remain vital, albeit under pressure from depopulation. Structural shifts in favor of plant production, along with worsening price parity, indicate reduced profitability of small producers, but also open opportunities for diversification through processing and branding. Analysis of production concentration shows that sectors with more dispersed production (vegetables, milk) enable greater flexibility and resilience of local markets. Highly concentrated sectors remain vulnerable to market shocks. The findings confirm that local markets can be not only guardians of tradition, but also drivers of modernization and growth. The work thereby makes an empirical contribution to the understanding of the sustainability of rural markets and shows that, with targeted policies that link demographic stability, economic incentives, digital tools and ecological practices, local markets can become a pillar of sustainable development and a significant instrument for strengthening the resilience of the agri-food sector in Russia and beyond. Methodologically, the article applies a mixed approach: (i) quantitative analysis of several sets of statistical data (Rosstat, supplementary FAO/OECD/Eurostat) through descriptive indicators and indices (incl. input/output price parity), as well as cluster typology of regions; and (ii) qualitative mapping of findings to contemporary policies and practices. This framework allows structural trends to be directly linked to implications for local food markets. Full article