Search Results (1,599)

The shift to circular agrosystems necessitates using new ideas like sustainable biochar, which provides many eco-beneficial attributes like enhancing soil fertility, storing atmospheric carbon dioxide, and retaining soil moisture. However, there is still a small number of farmers worldwide (particularly those located in low-income countries) adopting biochar. Accordingly, this research is focused primarily on determining how factors affecting behavior will influence the decision of wheat producers in Marvdasht County, in Iran’s Fars Province, to use biochar as a circular technology for farming. The study will focus on addressing issues related to environmental challenges (e.g., degradation of soil and drought) through the implementation of resource-efficient, sustainable agricultural technologies. The intent of this paper was to research the behavioral characteristics associated with wheat farmers who choose to use biochar in the city of Marvdasht, Fars Region, Iran, using a new Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). The model is theoretically enriched through the inclusion of personal norms and connectedness to the land, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of pro-environmental decision-making. Data was collected from a total of 386 wheat farmers through the use of a structured survey. The data was analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) with the software Smart-PLS 3.0. The results reveal that attitude (β = 0.342, p < 0.001) and personal norms (β = 0.278, p < 0.001) are the strongest predictors of behavioral intention, while perceived behavioral control showed a weaker but significant effect (β = 0.178, p = 0.049). Subjective norms do not have a significant direct effect (β = 0.115, p = 0.199) but significantly influence intention indirectly through personal norms (β = 0.100, p < 0.001). Furthermore, connectedness to the land strongly affects personal norms (β = 0.420, p < 0.001) and exerts a significant indirect effect on intention (β = 0.117, p < 0.001), highlighting the importance of emotional attachment to land. The findings are significant because they demonstrated that farmers’ biochar adoption decisions are shaped not only by rational evaluations but also by moral obligations and emotional relationships with land. This study makes significant theoretical contributions by extending TPB with moral and relational constructs and empirically demonstrating their mediating roles in agricultural innovation adoption. The novelty of this study lies in integrating personal norms and connectedness to the land into the TPB framework to explain biochar adoption behavior within the context of circular agriculture in a developing country. Practically, the findings provide evidence-based insights for designing policies that integrate cognitive, ethical, and emotional drivers to promote biochar adoption and advance circular agriculture. Specifically, policymakers and extension agencies should prioritize behavioral-level strategies such as awareness campaigns, farmer training programs, and community-based initiatives that strengthen positive attitudes, environmental responsibility, and farmers’ emotional connection to land in order to enhance biochar adoption. Full article

In recent years, synergistic effects between inorganic clay minerals (e.g., montmorillonite, sepiolite, kaolinite) and bio-based flame retardants (e.g., chitosan-based, lignin-based, phytate-based) have achieved certain progress in the area of polymer flame retardancy. The effects of bio-based flame retardants are exerted through mechanisms such as catalytic char generation and vapour-phase hindrance. However, they have limitations when used alone, including insufficient thermal stability and the need for a high dosage. Inorganic clays form physical barriers through their layered or tubular structures. The high thermal stability of these structures suppresses heat and mass transfer, thereby offsetting the shortcomings of bio-based flame retardants. This synergistic combination greatly improves the flame retardancy of polymer composites, often strengthening their mechanical performance in the process. It therefore offers great potential for the design of multifunctional, eco-friendly flame-retardant polymer composites. Nevertheless, a systematic review of the synergistic mechanisms, fabrication approaches and application progress of different inorganic clay minerals when combined with various bio-based flame retardants is still lacking. Therefore, this article offers a comprehensive review of the current developments of synergistic systems that incorporate various primary clays, such as sepiolite and montmorillonite, with bio-based flame retardants for usage in polymers. Before this, the synergistic flame-retardant mechanism and the key preparation techniques of the composite system were explained in detail. Finally, this article puts forward solutions to the current challenges and sets out prospects for innovation in the designing of flame-retardant materials and the optimisation of processes. The aim is to promote the sustainable growth of efficient, eco-friendly flame-retardant materials. Full article

This study examines the effectiveness of an innovative solar-electric paddy winnowing machine titled “Synergy of Solar and Electric Power”. Conducted in the agricultural hubs of Barangay Tagbongabong and Barangay Lemon in the Philippines, the project utilized a multi-stakeholder collaboration involving small-scale farmers, students, faculty, and technical experts. Findings revealed significant improvements in operational efficiency and reduced labor requirements. Modularity and Ergonomics received the highest evaluation ratings (3.64), highlighting a user-centric design. The study concludes that this hybrid system provides a practical, eco-friendly solution for advancing sustainable agricultural mechanization in resource-limited settings. Full article

The study investigated the tensile strength and elongation properties of abaca fiber-reinforced polymer (AFRP) composites after varying durations of seawater soaking, with a focus on their potential for reinforcing fiber-optic cables. It aims to bridge industrial technology education, experiential learning, and green technology by evaluating abaca fiber as a sustainable alternative to synthetic aramid yarn. Conducted at Caraga State University, Cabadbaran Campus (CSUCC), the research utilized a quasi-experimental product development design involving industrial technology students and instructors. Tensile strength testing and comparative analysis were performed on abaca fiber samples (A, B, and C) subjected to different seawater soaking durations. Results show that soaking time significantly affects the fiber strength, with Sample A achieving the highest tensile strength (5631.5 MPa) and Sample C the lowest (1679.8 MPa). Findings indicate that prolonged exposure to seawater weakens abaca fiber, emphasizing the need for controlled treatment to optimize its industrial applications. This study emphasizes the importance of hands-on learning in industrial technology education, promoting critical thinking and technical skills while underscoring sustainability. The research advocates for eco-friendly materials in industrial applications and highlights the potential of abaca fiber composites. Future studies should investigate pre-treatment methods to enhance fiber durability, assess the long-term environmental performance, and conduct large-scale pilot testing to evaluate commercial viability. By integrating sustainable innovations into industrial technology education, this study contributes to advancing natural fiber composites for manufacturing and telecommunications infrastructure. Full article

Sustainability in higher education plays a crucial role in shaping future professionals with an eco-conscious mindset. This study focuses on developing and simulating a portable solar food dehydrator as a practical application of sustainability principles in technology education. By integrating sustainability into the curriculum, this research enhances students’ technical skills while promoting the use of renewable energy and effective food preservation methods. Furthermore, the project aligns with green campus initiatives by encouraging energy-efficient practices and reducing food waste. This study emphasizes the significance of education for sustainable development by offering learners hands-on experience in designing eco-friendly solutions, promoting innovation, and equipping them to contribute to a more sustainable future. A food dehydrator is a device that removes moisture from food to aid in its preservation, utilizing a heat source and airflow to reduce its water content. The researchers used two methods to dehydrate food: direct sunlight (sun drying) and indirect sunlight (solar drying). The study used a developmental research design. Simulations revealed that, with solar-powered electricity, the longer the drying time, the greater the reduction in the moisture content. This was evident in the eighth experiment, which was conducted on fruits and vegetables. While drying with direct sunlight, the same trends, albeit to a lesser extent, were observed in the reduction in the moisture content of the fruits and vegetables. These insights can inform future design improvements, making the products more visually appealing and distinctive, thereby enhancing their attractiveness and novelty. Full article

The transition to a circular economy (CE) represents a complex socio-technical evolution, requiring synchronized policy frameworks and strategic capital reallocation. Adopting a systems-thinking lens, this study combines bibliometric network mapping with exploratory econometric modelling, to examine the associations between five core policy instruments and tangible circular investments (INV_CE) across the EU-27. Bibliometric analysis identifies the “firm” and “supply chain” as central functional hubs within the CE knowledge system, acting as primary mediators for capital flows. Econometric results indicate that Tradable Permits (TPOs) and an integrated Policy Integration Index (PII), comprising subsidies and energy-based taxes, show the strongest statistical association with circular investment patterns (p ≤ 0.001). However, patterns of structural disparity emerge between OECD and non-OECD Member States (p = 0.014), where the latter often exhibit a more rigid, tax-centric approach. Spearman correlations point toward institutional maturity, specifically government effectiveness (r_s = 0.48) and eco-innovation capacity, as a potential systemic gateway for investment absorption. Furthermore, a structural decoupling appears between voluntary approaches (VAs) and governance capacity in emerging systems, suggesting that such instruments may be less effective without “institutional readiness.” The findings suggest that circular transition is path-dependent and congruent with the co-evolution of policy and institutional regimes. To bridge the investment gap, the study highlights the need for systemic interventions that move beyond “one-size-fits-all” regulations toward targeted strategies that strengthen the institutional and data reporting infrastructures of circular systems. Full article

The eco-revetment structure on river bank slopes plays a positive role in regulating nearshore water flow characteristics, enhancing bank slope stability, and providing a stable living environment for aquatic organisms. This study proposes an innovative eco-revetment structure—the square platform hollow eco-revetment structure. Ecological feasibility study through numerical simulation, analyzing the characteristic hydraulic movement patterns and flow movement mechanisms near the eco-revetment structure under different research parameters. The following conclusion can be drawn: the special design of openings on the side walls of the revetment structure increases the fluidity between water bodies, leading to complex water flow conditions near the revetment structure. Therefore, in the absence of plants, there are two large eddies inside the structure, as well as a “flow zone” opposite to the direction of external water flow. In the presence of plants, large-scale vortex structures are broken down into small-sized vortex structures, and the “flow zone” disappears. The distribution of flow characteristics is related to the research parameters. In the region where y/H ≤ 1, the velocity distribution is positively correlated with the inflow. There is a negative correlation between water flow velocity and porosity. The maximum values of turbulence intensity and Reynolds stress both occur at the top of the eco-revetment structure, and their distribution is positively correlated with the size of the side-wall openings and the inflow rate. The presence of plants leads to an increase in turbulence intensity and Reynolds stress, which diffuses into the interior of the structure. The impact of revetment structures on water flow determines the efficiency of material information and energy transmission and affects the stability of water flow ecosystems. Turbulent water currents can stimulate grass carp reproduction and increase the fertilization rate of fish eggs. The ratio of mixed-layer thickness to momentum thickness (t_ml/θ) is correlated with water flow velocity, and the presence of plants leads to an increase in t_ml/θ. This study provides ideas and methods for designing eco-revetment structures and constructing ecological rivers in the future. Full article

The growth in açaí consumption and exports has increased waste generation, particularly from the seed, which accounts for approximately 85% of the fruit mass and is frequently discarded improperly, causing adverse environmental impacts. In this context, the valorization of açaí seeds as a raw material represents a promising and environmentally sustainable alternative. Recent studies indicate that the chemical composition of açaí seeds, characterized by high fiber content and antioxidant compounds, underlies bioactive properties with potential applications across multiple industrial sectors. Therefore, this review aims to provide an overview of the composition and industrial applications of açaí seeds, while identifying current gaps and challenges. Available evidence suggests that incorporating açaí seed flour or extracts into food formulations is promising, although the observed effects are concentration-dependent. In addition, seed-derived extracts have demonstrated biological activities associated with potential health benefits. Furthermore, açaí seeds have potential applications as biochar for soil remediation and as adsorbents in water and wastewater treatment. However, the use of this by-product in packaging materials and in the energy sector still requires further investigation to achieve industrial-scale feasibility. Overall, the valorization of açaí seeds supports more sustainable industrial practices and aligns with circular economy principles. Full article

Play is considered the primary activity of children, and toys are their essential tools. However, the toy industry extends beyond children, constituting a significant economic sector with annual revenues exceeding one hundred billion dollars and generating substantial environmental consequences. These include resource consumption, pollution during manufacturing, energy use, consumables during operation, and waste generation at the end of the product’s life cycle. This research presents a study of the state of the art of ecodesign in the toy sector and its potential within this field. Through the analysis of the available scientific literature and the expertise of the Toy Technology Institute (AIJU), experiences from companies in the sector have been identified and classified according to the ecodesign strategy wheel. Simultaneously, a survey of industry stakeholders compared the current situation with that of 30 years ago. The results reveal perceptual progress that is uneven across dimensions, with the strongest advances in materials and production, moderate gains in distribution and end-of-life strategies, and limited improvement in product durability, while innovation in new product concepts shows the highest growth. Correlation analyses indicate that experience and professional background influence how sustainability progress is perceived. Although most improvements have been motivated by cost reduction and regulatory compliance rather than environmental awareness, recent trends reflect a growing corporate commitment to ecological innovation. For consumers, it remains essential to overcome misconceptions about eco-friendly toys, while companies must continue to invest in new materials, technologies, and design strategies that support the transition toward circular and long-lasting toy products. Full article

Environmental research and development (R&D) support environmental improvement by advancing cleaner technologies, improving resource efficiency, reducing emissions, and helping firms meet sustainability goals and regulatory standards. This study examines the effect of environmental R&D on firms’ environmental performance and considers whether firm characteristics, specifically age and size, moderate this relationship. Using purposive sampling based on defined inclusion and exclusion criteria, the analysis draws on data for 303 non-financial firms listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange between 2007 and 2024, obtained from Refinitiv DataStream. Diagnostic tests revealed cross-sectional dependence, heterogeneity, and endogeneity in the dataset. To address these issues and ensure robust estimates, the Common Correlated Effects Mean Group (CCEMG), Feasible Generalized Least Squares (FGLS), and two-step difference Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) estimators were employed. The results show that environmental R&D has a positive and significant effect on environmental performance. Firm age and size further strengthen this relationship, indicating that older and larger firms benefit more from environmental R&D initiatives. The study recommends that firms increase investment in environmental R&D to stimulate innovation, enhance sustainable practices, and improve ecological outcomes. Policymakers should also encourage eco-innovation by developing supportive regulations, offering financial incentives for green technologies, and promoting sustainable technological advancement. Full article

Due to the changing climate, an increasing number of organizations are focusing on Eco-Innovations (EIs). In this study, we present a currently missing conceptual framework that classifies the determinants of EI across micro-(firm), meso-(intersectoral), and macro-(policy) dimensions. Based on a comprehensive review of the literature and its existing gaps, this framework comprises three levels and six categories (financial, technical, organizational, market, collaboration, and legal) with fourteen unique drivers and ten barriers. Theoretically, the EI framework is grounded in the Porter hypothesis and social network theory. To test the framework, novel secondary data collected from almost 11,000 European SMEs was employed. The baseline results using Logit and Poisson regression were used to empirically validate the framework, and moderation analysis revealed an interplay among the three levels. In addition to financial resources and technical expertise, meso-level cooperation is one of the most relevant factors for organizational EI actions. The meso-level arguably serves as an adhesive between the micro- and macro-levels. Furthermore, due to the ambiguous and dynamic implications of the Porter hypothesis, barriers—mainly located at the macro-level—may also foster EI. Therefore, this paper provides valuable new strategic insights for organizations aiming to adopt EI. Full article

Landfilling remains the dominant waste disposal method worldwide, particularly in developing countries, posing serious environmental, health, and climate challenges. Inefficient practices, weak regulations, and un-engineered sites contribute to massive greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and resource loss. Transitioning to a circular economy (CE) offers a transformative path for sustainable waste management. By closing material loops, recovering energy, urban mining, controlling emissions and CE strategies can convert traditional landfills into eco-efficient systems. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) further enhances this transition, enabling real-time monitoring, predictive management, and optimized resource recovery, thereby maximizing environmental and economic benefits. This review presents a three-level CE framework at micro (individual organizations), meso (industrial networks), and macro (national and international) levels designed to extract maximum value from waste streams and mitigate climate impacts. The proposed strategies demonstrate the potential to drastically reduce GHG emissions, promote clean energy via waste-to-energy routes, and contribute to SDGs 7, 11, 12, 13 and 15. By combining technology, innovation, and strategic management, this work highlights how AI-driven CE approaches can transform landfills from environmental liabilities into engines of sustainability and climate action. In implementing CE strategies at various levels, various challenges including technological, socio-economic, ethical, policy-based, and unintended consequences are encountered which impact sustainability initiatives. This review comprehensively discusses challenges associated with CE implementation and identifies technological advancement, social awareness and data-driven AI/ML-based modeling which could ensure success in circularity and ultimately curb climate change impacts in the long term. Full article

The concept of awareness in the visual arts has become an ethical, professional, and social imperative. Adopting a sustainable approach to creative practice is no longer a trend but an established and necessary field of inquiry. Within this context, awareness has been expressed not only through eco-branding and design campaigns but also through artworks and contemporary artistic practices that embody sustainable values both aesthetically and philosophically. Visual arts thus function as a reflective and critical tool, capable of reassessing past and present paradigms, encouraging more responsible uses of resources, promoting environmental sustainability, and shaping public attitudes through conscious and critical forms of expression. This study adopts a qualitative approach to examine transformations in contemporary art practices within the Saudi Arabian art scene. Selected artworks are analysed to explore historical and conceptual narratives shaping artistic production. The research is based on a bibliographic and documentary review that includes academic literature, exhibition catalogues and press sources related to the Saudi cultural context. Data are gathered through observing artworks and, where possible, through interviews with artists. A comparative analysis was developed, with the study framed by art practices, their concepts, and their ecological contributions, leading to a sustainable awareness and their potential role in encouraging social change. The comparative study among artists provides an innovative research framework and initiates a broader dialogue on sustainable creative practices rooted in Saudi cultural contexts. The findings highlight how visual arts contribute to ecological awareness and climate activism through art installations, recycled materials, and digital practices, reinforcing sustainability as a core value within contemporary Saudi society. Full article

Eco-labeling has become an important tool for stimulating sustainable production and consumption, but the rapid increase in schemes can lead to a fragmented and sometimes confusing landscape. The purpose of this study is to map the eco-labeling landscape with a systematic review, trace the design and governance patterns, and identify gaps that prevent coherence. A systematic literature review was conducted using peer-reviewed journals and conference articles. The process followed predefined selection criteria, with consistent coding and synthesis used to categorize eco-labels by sector, region, governance type, and methodological features. The review shows a varied but fragmented eco-labeling landscape, with considerable overlap and inconsistency across sectors and regions. Governance approaches differ significantly: some schemes use third-party verification, while others depend on voluntary or industry-led systems. Major gaps include a lack of harmonization, poor integration of social factors, and little clear evidence that these labels change consumer behavior or drive meaningful sustainability results. Future research should focus on developing harmonized frameworks, strengthening meta-governance, and integrating social alongside environmental criteria. Policy efforts should aim to improve comparability and credibility, while balancing diversity and innovation. Advancing systematic evaluation of eco-label performance will be essential for informing coherent governance and guiding the future of sustainable consumption and production. Full article

Flotation is a fundamental unit operation in mineral processing; however, achieving high selectivity while reducing the environmental impact of reagents remains a major challenge in phosphate ore beneficiation. Conventional depressants often exhibit limited selectivity and may pose environmental concerns, highlighting the need for sustainable alternatives. This study reports, for the first time, the application of starch nanostructures derived from potato pulp processing residues as a depressant in phosphate flotation, representing an innovative and eco-friendly approach. An exploratory and experimental methodology was adopted, including nanostarch synthesis via acid hydrolysis followed by centrifugation and sonication, as well as comprehensive physicochemical characterization. The primary objective was to evaluate the selective depressant performance of the nanomaterial in apatite–calcite flotation systems. The synthesized nanostructures exhibited particle diameters ranging from 179 to 443.6 nm. Microflotation tests conducted in a Hallimond tube using pure mineral samples under alkaline conditions (pH ≈ 9), at a depressant dosage of 500 mg/L and in combination with a plant-based fatty acid collector, revealed a pronounced selectivity window, resulting in an approximately 77% difference in flotation recovery between apatite and calcite. These findings demonstrate that nanostarch derived from agro-industrial residues is a promising, biodegradable, and sustainable depressant capable of enhancing selectivity in phosphate flotation. The results contribute to the advancement of greener mineral processing Technologies, although Further studies are required to elucidate the underlying interaction mechanisms. Full article