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Search Results (269)

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Keywords = economy–society–resource–environment

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25 pages, 12130 KiB  
Article
Site Selection for Solar–Wind Hybrid Energy Storage Plants Based on Triangular Fuzzy Numbers: A Case Study of China
by Hui Zhao and Hongru Zang
Energies 2025, 18(14), 3851; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18143851 - 19 Jul 2025
Viewed by 327
Abstract
Against the backdrop of the energy revolution, global energy demands are rising. Solar–wind hybrid energy storage plants (SWHESPs) are undoubtedly a research hotspot in this field for enhancing energy efficiency. However, the primary challenge in constructing SWHESPs is site selection. This paper aims [...] Read more.
Against the backdrop of the energy revolution, global energy demands are rising. Solar–wind hybrid energy storage plants (SWHESPs) are undoubtedly a research hotspot in this field for enhancing energy efficiency. However, the primary challenge in constructing SWHESPs is site selection. This paper aims to comprehensively investigate the site selection process for SWHESPs and determine the optimal site scientifically and objectively by considering various aspects, including technology, society, environment, and economy. This study employs a literature review and the Delphi method to establish the site selection index system of SWHESPs. The triangular fuzzy number (TFN) is used in relative similarity as an objective weight, while the Decision-Making Test and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) is used as a subjective weight. The comprehensive weights are computed using the Lagrange optimization method. Additionally, the options are ranked and evaluated using Geographic Information System (GIS) and the VlseKriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje (VIKOR) methods based on prospect theory. The study also performs comparative and sensitivity analyses to confirm the effectiveness of the proposed methods. Proper siting can optimize the efficiency of resource use, which not only helps achieve more efficient use of clean energy but also promotes local economic development and job creation. Full article
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30 pages, 6698 KiB  
Article
Dynamic Evolution and Driving Mechanisms of Vulnerability in Coupled Urban Systems in Northeast China, 2000–2020
by Xinlong Wang, Peng Chen and Yingyue Sun
Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6413; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146413 - 13 Jul 2025
Viewed by 379
Abstract
This study examined urban vulnerability in the three northeastern provinces of China—Heilongjiang, Jilin, and Liaoning—from 2000 to 2020, addressing challenges such as resource shortages, harsh environments, and inadequate education and healthcare. Using the weighted summation method and geographic detector model, this study analyzes [...] Read more.
This study examined urban vulnerability in the three northeastern provinces of China—Heilongjiang, Jilin, and Liaoning—from 2000 to 2020, addressing challenges such as resource shortages, harsh environments, and inadequate education and healthcare. Using the weighted summation method and geographic detector model, this study analyzes the temporal and spatial evolution of urban vulnerability in 34 prefecture-level cities. The results show that overall vulnerability initially increased and then decreased, while economic vulnerability continued to rise. Spatially, vulnerability shifted from weak agglomeration to dispersion by 2020. Key drivers include new fixed assets, local fiscal revenue, and altitude. The findings highlight the need for tailored, coordinated development strategies to reduce urban vulnerability and promote sustainable regional growth, emphasizing the importance of balancing resources, environment, economy, society, and nature. Full article
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13 pages, 233 KiB  
Article
Policy Makers’ Perceptions on Implementation of National Action Plans on Antimicrobial Resistance in South Africa and Eswatini Using Coordination, Accountability, Resourcing, Regulation and Ownership Framework (2018–2019)
by Kholiwe Shabangu, Sabiha Yusuf Essack and Sinegugu Evidence Duma
Antibiotics 2025, 14(7), 696; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14070696 - 11 Jul 2025
Viewed by 370
Abstract
Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global threat that affects humans, animals, plants, the environment, societies, and economies—requiring urgent coordinated action. In May 2015, the World Health Assembly (WHA) adopted the Global Action Plan (GAP) on AMR, urging member states to develop [...] Read more.
Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global threat that affects humans, animals, plants, the environment, societies, and economies—requiring urgent coordinated action. In May 2015, the World Health Assembly (WHA) adopted the Global Action Plan (GAP) on AMR, urging member states to develop and implement their own National Action Plans (NAPs) using a One Health approach. Objective: Both South Africa and Eswatini have developed NAPs and are currently in the implementation phase. However, no study has explored policymakers’ perceptions regarding NAP implementation particularly concerning coordination, accountability, resourcing, regulation and ownership. Methods: This qualitative study employed a narrative approach to explore these perceptions in South Africa and Eswatini. A total of 36 key informants were recruited using purposive and snowball sampling methods. Data was collected between November 2018 and March 2019 and transcribed verbatim. Results: Findings revealed that while governance structures for implementing NAPs exist in South Africa and Eswatini, several critical areas require urgent attention. These include limited accountability across One Health sectors, the absence of dedicated national budgets for NAP implementation, poor intra- and inter- ministerial coordination, weak medicine regulation and enforcement, and delayed multisectoral ownership of the NAPs. Conclusions: To address AMR effectively, both countries must allocate dedicated budgets, improve multisectoral integration, and strengthen regulatory frameworks regarding antimicrobial access and use across all One Health sectors. A firm commitment from all sectors is required—not just formal endorsement of the NAPs—to ensure sustainable implementation and ownership. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue A One Health Approach to Antimicrobial Resistance, 2nd Edition)
19 pages, 1925 KiB  
Perspective
Research and Development Challenges Faced by Plant Factories to Solve Global Problems: From the Perspectives of Civilization and Culture
by Toyoki Kozai, Hiroko Nakaoka, Na Lu, Duyen T. P. Nguyen and Eri Hayashi
Horticulturae 2025, 11(7), 793; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11070793 - 4 Jul 2025
Viewed by 376
Abstract
This perspective paper examines the research and development challenges faced by plant factories with artificial lighting (plant factories hereafter). The global and local challenges facing our planet can be divided into the following four categories: (1) food and agriculture; (2) environment and ecosystems; [...] Read more.
This perspective paper examines the research and development challenges faced by plant factories with artificial lighting (plant factories hereafter). The global and local challenges facing our planet can be divided into the following four categories: (1) food and agriculture; (2) environment and ecosystems; (3) depletion, uneven distribution, and the overuse of nonrenewable resources; and (4) society, economy, and quality of life. All of the aspects of this four-way deadlock problem must be resolved simultaneously, since solving only one of them could exacerbate one or more of the remaining three. In this paper, the role of plant factories in solving the four-way deadlock problem is discussed from the following perspectives: (1) civilization and culture, (2) participatory science, and (3) the integration of biotechnology and the latest nonbiological technology, such as artificial intelligence (AI). The relationship and interactions between the environment and plant ecosystems are easily observed in the plant factories’ cultivation room. Thus, it is easy to analyze their relationship and interactions. The findings from such observations can also be applied to increase the yield in plant factories, with minimum resource inputs. Moreover, if the electricity generated by renewable energy sources is used, it will become an energy-autonomous plant factory. This means that the plant factory can be operated with the minimum contribution of greenhouse gas emissions to global warming and land area use. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Protected Culture)
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13 pages, 2551 KiB  
Article
Risk Assessment of International Seabed Mining Implementing the Analytic Hierarchy Process
by Xinyu Ma, Yejian Wang, Kehong Yang, Jinrong Li, Yan Li, Dongsheng Zhang, Rong Wang and Yinxia Fang
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(5), 937; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13050937 - 10 May 2025
Viewed by 577
Abstract
The international seabed area (“the Area”) harbors abundant metal mineral resources that are critical to address global metal supply–demand and sustainable development. However, exploitation of mineral resources in the Area faces complex risks spanning politics, economy, technology, science, environment, society, industry, and law. [...] Read more.
The international seabed area (“the Area”) harbors abundant metal mineral resources that are critical to address global metal supply–demand and sustainable development. However, exploitation of mineral resources in the Area faces complex risks spanning politics, economy, technology, science, environment, society, industry, and law. No commercial-scale deep-sea mining operations have been conducted to date. Systematic risk identification and prioritization can inform strategic planning for stakeholders. This study employs literature analysis and an 80-expert questionnaire to identify key risk factors affecting mineral exploitation in the Area. Using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), we quantitatively assess the relative importance and weightings of these risks. Our results indicate that Level 1 risk groups prioritize (1) policy and public opinion risk, (2) extended continental shelf (ECS) delineation risk, (3) high sea marine protected areas (HSMPAs) establishment risk, and (4) mining area economic value risk. The five most critical Level 2 risk factors are (i) policy changes in contractor states, (ii) ECS-mining area boundary conflicts, (iii) environmental provisions in exploitation regulations at the international seabed (ER), (iv) ER implementation delays, and (v) mineral resource uncertainty. These findings provide actionable insights for contractors, policymakers, and stakeholders to optimize decision making in deep-sea mining projects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ocean Engineering)
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30 pages, 25292 KiB  
Article
Sustainability and Material Flow Analysis of Wind Turbine Blade Recycling in China
by Jianling Li, Juan He and Zihan Xu
Sustainability 2025, 17(10), 4307; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17104307 - 9 May 2025
Viewed by 739
Abstract
Many decommissioned wind turbines (WTs) present significant recycling management challenges. Improper disposal wastes resources and generates additional carbon emissions, which contradicts the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study constructs a sine cosine algorithm (SCA)–ITransformer–BiLSTM deep learning prediction model, integrated with dynamic material flow [...] Read more.
Many decommissioned wind turbines (WTs) present significant recycling management challenges. Improper disposal wastes resources and generates additional carbon emissions, which contradicts the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study constructs a sine cosine algorithm (SCA)–ITransformer–BiLSTM deep learning prediction model, integrated with dynamic material flow analysis (DMFA) and a multi-dimensional Energy–Economy–Environment–Society (3E1S) sustainability assessment framework. This hybrid approach systematically reveals the spatiotemporal evolution patterns and circular economy value of WTs in China by synthesizing multi-source heterogeneous data encompassing policy dynamics, technological advancements, and regional resource endowments. Results demonstrate that China will enter a sustained wave of WT retirements post-2030, with an annual decommissioned capacity exceeding 15 GW. By 2050, new installations and retirements will reach a dynamic equilibrium. North and Northwest China are emerging as core retirement zones, accounting for approximately 50% of the national total. Inner Mongolia and Xinjiang face maximum recycling pressures. The recycling of decommissioned WTs could yield approximately CNY 198.5 billion in direct economic benefits and reduce CO2 equivalent emissions by 4.78 to 8.14 billion tons. The 3E1S framework fills critical gaps in quantifying the comprehensive benefits of equipment retirement, offering a theoretically grounded and practically actionable paradigm for the global wind industry’s circular transition. Full article
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15 pages, 4860 KiB  
Article
Estimation of Reclaimed Water Utilization Benefits in a Typical Coastal River Network
by Lei Fu, Rongxiang Hu, Junmin Wang, Qiaoqiao Jin, Shiwu Wang and Chao Jiang
Water 2025, 17(9), 1270; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17091270 - 24 Apr 2025
Viewed by 346
Abstract
Nowadays, reclaimed water is widely acknowledged as a convincing alternative to fresh water resources, with it also recognized as an important material in water diversion projects around the world. As a typical coastal area, Taizhou city, located in southeast China, is close to [...] Read more.
Nowadays, reclaimed water is widely acknowledged as a convincing alternative to fresh water resources, with it also recognized as an important material in water diversion projects around the world. As a typical coastal area, Taizhou city, located in southeast China, is close to the East China Sea. In this study, the benefits of reclaimed water utilization in a water diversion project are estimated, and both field monitoring and numerical simulation are executed to demonstrate the improvements in the local plain river network water quantity and quality. The highly developed domestic society and economy have led to a huge contradiction between water supply and demand. As a result, the coastal plain river network in Taizhou city is always plagued by low flow velocity and poor water quality. The utilization of reclaimed water in Taizhou city has been proven to be efficient and effective for the local development and environment in this study, and it will be a good tool for the coastal plain river network in improving both the water quantity and quality in the future for those cities close to the shore area. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Water Quality, Wastewater Treatment and Water Recycling)
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20 pages, 4184 KiB  
Article
R3sNet: Optimized Residual Neural Network Architecture for the Classification of Urban Solid Waste via Images
by Mirna Castro-Bello, V. M. Romero-Juárez, J. Fuentes-Pacheco, Cornelio Morales-Morales, Carlos V. Marmolejo-Vega, Sergio R. Zagal-Barrera, D. E. Gutiérrez-Valencia and Carlos Marmolejo-Duarte
Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3502; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083502 - 14 Apr 2025
Viewed by 652
Abstract
Municipal solid waste (MSW) accumulation is a critical global challenge for society and governments, impacting environmental and social sustainability. Efficient separation of MSW is essential for resource recovery and advancing sustainable urban management practices. However, manual classification remains a slow and inefficient practice. [...] Read more.
Municipal solid waste (MSW) accumulation is a critical global challenge for society and governments, impacting environmental and social sustainability. Efficient separation of MSW is essential for resource recovery and advancing sustainable urban management practices. However, manual classification remains a slow and inefficient practice. In response, advances in artificial intelligence, particularly in machine learning, offer more precise and efficient alternative solutions to optimize this process. This research presents the development of a light deep neural network called R3sNet (three “Rs” for Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle) with residual modules trained end-to-end for the binary classification of MSW, with the capability for faster inference. The results indicate that the combination of processing techniques, optimized architecture, and training strategies contributes to an accuracy of 87% for organic waste and 94% for inorganic waste. R3sNet outperforms the pre-trained ResNet50 model by up to 6% in the classification of both organic and inorganic MSW, while also reducing the number of hyperparameters by 98.60% and GFLOPS by 65.17% compared to ResNet50. R3sNet contributes to sustainability by improving the waste separation processes, facilitating higher recycling rates, reducing landfill dependency, and promoting a circular economy. The model’s optimized computational requirements also translate into lower energy consumption during inference, making it well-suited for deployment in resource-constrained devices in smart urban environments. These advancements support the following Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, and SDG 13: Climate Action. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)
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36 pages, 2147 KiB  
Article
Recyclable Consumption and Its Implications for Sustainable Development in the EU
by Dumitru Alexandru Bodislav, Liviu Cătălin Moraru, Raluca Iuliana Georgescu, George Eduard Grigore, Oana Vlăduț, Gabriel Ilie Staicu and Alina Ștefania Chenic
Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 3110; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17073110 - 1 Apr 2025
Viewed by 997
Abstract
The transition to a circular economy is imperative in order to confer considerable benefits upon the environment, the economy, and society. The present study aimed to analyse the interdependence and causal relationships between recyclable material consumption as the dependent variable and other independent [...] Read more.
The transition to a circular economy is imperative in order to confer considerable benefits upon the environment, the economy, and society. The present study aimed to analyse the interdependence and causal relationships between recyclable material consumption as the dependent variable and other independent variables, including the raw material footprint, the trade in recyclable materials, greenhouse gas emissions, investments in the circular economy sectors, the real GDP per capita, renewable energy sources, the circular material use rate, and the population within the 27 EU Member States from 2013 to 2021. In order to achieve the objective, a two-stage economic model was constructed using a panel approach. The research findings indicate a direct and positive correlation between the consumption of recyclable materials and all the aforementioned independent variables, with the exception of greenhouse gas emissions. This study confirms that innovation and investment significantly reduce environmental degradation, and, moreover, the efficiency of investment remains unaffected. A further relationship that emerged from this study is that developed countries have higher resource consumption, which is consistent with the cause of increased consumption being the rapid growth of the middle class around the world. The main conclusion is that Europe cannot achieve sustainable development without a circular economy. Full article
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27 pages, 6945 KiB  
Article
Comprehensive Assessment and Obstacle Analysis on Low-Carbon Development Quality of 30 Provincial Regions in China
by Haoran Zhao, Zhen Yang, Shunan Wu, Zhuowen Zhang, Chuan Li, Chunhua Jin and Sen Guo
Sustainability 2025, 17(6), 2425; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17062425 - 10 Mar 2025
Viewed by 673
Abstract
Low-carbon development (LCD) in China has become the critical measure to achieve sustainable development and handle climate change. This investigation evaluates 30 provincial regions’ LCD quality from dimensions of low-carbon (LC) economy, resources utilization, LC environment, and LC society. According to the integrated [...] Read more.
Low-carbon development (LCD) in China has become the critical measure to achieve sustainable development and handle climate change. This investigation evaluates 30 provincial regions’ LCD quality from dimensions of low-carbon (LC) economy, resources utilization, LC environment, and LC society. According to the integrated weights combined subjective weights identified through the best–worst method (BWM) and objective weights attained through the anti-entropy weight (AEW) method, the top five sub-criteria in 2021 were coal consumption relative to total primary energy consumption, industrial sulfur dioxide (SO2) emission, carbon dioxide emissions intensity, industrial dust emission, and forest coverage rate. According to the comprehensive evaluation results obtained through the MARCOS model, Beijing’s comprehensive score is far ahead, and its scores in resource utilization, LC environment, and LC economy are also in a leading position. Moreover, the level of LCD quality shows a gradually reduced pattern from east to west. The obstacle analysis demonstrates that the obstacle factors with high frequency of occurrence include real GDP, energy intensity, coal consumption relative to total primary energy consuming, carbon dioxide emissions intensity, industrial dust emission, industrial SO2 emission, forest coverage rate, and the number of private vehicles. Suggestions are proposed based on the results, including increase infrastructure construction, optimize energy structure and develop renewable energy, protect the ecological environment with intensify efforts, and accelerate industrial transformation and upgrading to optimize industrial structure. Full article
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20 pages, 1857 KiB  
Article
Digital Transformation in Waste Management: Disruptive Innovation and Digital Governance for Zero-Waste Cities in the Global South as Keys to Future Sustainable Development
by Luiz Gustavo Francischinelli Rittl, Atiq Zaman and Francisco Henrique de Oliveira
Sustainability 2025, 17(4), 1608; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17041608 - 15 Feb 2025
Viewed by 3309
Abstract
Waste is a complex challenge that requires collaboration between multiple stakeholders to achieve a circular economy. In this context, there is a growing demand for digital solutions that integrate physical and digital infrastructure to create digital waste governance systems. Analog management, without accurate [...] Read more.
Waste is a complex challenge that requires collaboration between multiple stakeholders to achieve a circular economy. In this context, there is a growing demand for digital solutions that integrate physical and digital infrastructure to create digital waste governance systems. Analog management, without accurate data, is becoming increasingly unfeasible in light of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Tools such as online geographic information systems (WebGIS) allow the collection and integration of large volumes of physical and human data and the establishment of a digital governance structure that brings together different technologies, tools and methods in the same environment. This article aims to present the State of the Art on the topics of zero-waste cities, WebGIS, and disruptive innovation. The article starts from the hypothesis that only a process of disruptive and systemic innovation in the value chain and urban solid waste management (MSWMS), supported by the principle of zero-waste cities, circular economy and webGIS, can effectively help to solve this problem. The research uses an exploratory literature review on the concepts of zero-waste cities, systemic innovation and webGIS applied to waste management, linking them to the theoretical framework of sustainability as a science and to Brazilian public policies, such as the National Solid Waste Policy (Law 12.305/2010), the National Circular Economy Policy (Law 1.874/2022) and the National Digital Government Strategy of Brazil 2024–2027 (ENGD). As a result, scientific publications on zero-waste cities increased from 2018 to 2023 and several countries have adopted zero-waste guidelines in waste management policies. WebGIS, remote sensing, geoprocessing and different technologies are increasingly being incorporated into waste management, generating significant impacts on the diversion of resources from landfills, mitigating climate change, and generating and/or adding value to the useful life of waste and garbage resources, in addition to the optimization and efficiency of collection operators and citizen engagement in public policies. Disruptive innovation has proven to be a concrete process to enable the transition from obsolete sociotechnical systems (such as the linear economy), where sustainable finance and environmental entities play a fundamental role in orchestrating and coordinating the convergence of private, public and civil society actors towards this new sustainable development paradigm. The case study proved to be fruitful in proposing and encouraging the adoption of such methods and principles in municipal waste management, allowing us to outline a first conception of a digital government structure and digitalization of public services for zero-waste cities, as well as pointing out the difficulties of implementing and transforming these systems. This digital governance structure demonstrates the possibility of being replicable and scalable to other cities around the world, which can materialize an important tool for the implementation, articulation and development of a long-term sustainable development paradigm, based on the vision of the circular economy and zero-waste cities. Full article
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23 pages, 2526 KiB  
Article
A Systems View of Circular Economy
by Carlos Scheel and Eduardo Aguiñaga
Sustainability 2025, 17(3), 1268; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17031268 - 5 Feb 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1810
Abstract
In many developing countries, economic growth is often prioritized, sidelining critical issues such as social inequality, pollution, climate change, ocean degradation, and pressing needs for health, education, food, and water management. Traditional linear models in organizations, based on product innovation and hierarchical governance, [...] Read more.
In many developing countries, economic growth is often prioritized, sidelining critical issues such as social inequality, pollution, climate change, ocean degradation, and pressing needs for health, education, food, and water management. Traditional linear models in organizations, based on product innovation and hierarchical governance, have been successful in certain contexts but are no longer viable in the face of finite natural resources and environmental degradation. This paper proposes a Systems Approach to Circular Economy as a practical framework for achieving “circular business-driven sustainability”, a concept proposed by major global organizations such as COP-25. This approach redefines sustainability, aiming to generate “sustainable wealth increasing returns” that benefit all key stakeholders, including the environment, society, and the economy. The primary objective of this paper is to introduce a new paradigm that facilitates the transition to more conscious, long-term growth. The proposed circular iterative thinking framework shifts from linear, reductionist thinking to a more holistic, systemic vision, underpinned by disruptive sustainable innovation. This novel paradigm creates positive impacts across the economy, environment, and global geopolitics. The paper demonstrates the application of this framework in two case studies, providing concrete evidence of its utility in real-world scenarios, including Heineken’s sustainable practices at its Meoqui brewery, which recovered methane for energy use, reduced water consumption, and contributed to local irrigation. The results underscore the effectiveness of the Systems Approach to Circular Economy in achieving economic decoupling and enhancing sustainability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Management)
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29 pages, 5916 KiB  
Article
The Coordinated Development and Identification of Obstacles in the Manufacturing Industry Based on Economy–Society–Resource–Environment Goals
by Jiaojiao Yang, Ting Wang, Min Zhang, Yujie Hu and Xinran Liu
Systems 2025, 13(2), 78; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13020078 - 26 Jan 2025
Viewed by 978
Abstract
Given the deficiencies in the definition of connotation, the construction of index systems, and the coordination of targets within the research on sustainable development in the manufacturing industry, an evaluation index system for sustainable development has been established. This system includes economic benefits, [...] Read more.
Given the deficiencies in the definition of connotation, the construction of index systems, and the coordination of targets within the research on sustainable development in the manufacturing industry, an evaluation index system for sustainable development has been established. This system includes economic benefits, social benefits, resource management, and environmental goals and is built upon a clear definition of the concept’s connotation. The CRITIC–entropy–TOPSIS–CCDM approach is employed for the computation of the coordinated development level of the manufacturing industry. To identify the main factors influencing the coupling coordination degree (CCD) from a mechanistic and compositional point of view, a logarithmic mean divisia index (LMDI) is used. Furthermore, the obstacle degree model analyzes the factors that restrict subsystem development. The results show the following. (1) The coordinated development level of the Chinese manufacturing industry has been maintained at 0.6–0.7, while the CCD of Hainan, Qinghai, and Xinjiang remains to be enhanced. (2) The key factor affecting the CCD is the coupling degree. The evaluation value of the economy and employment system determines the trend of coordinated development in the regional manufacturing industry. (3) The economic and employment scenarios in most provinces (cities) led to a significant decrease in the CCD compared to the baseline scenario, with average growth rates of −10.55% and −12.69%. This suggests that policymakers’ priorities significantly influence the CCD. The research presents a theoretical framework for assessing the sustainability of the manufacturing industry, offering valuable insights to guide the industry towards more sustainable practices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Data Analytics for Social, Economic and Environmental Issues)
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14 pages, 554 KiB  
Article
What Drives Firms to Go Green in China? The Role of Digitalization
by Xiaoyan Pan and Shufeng Xiao
Sustainability 2025, 17(1), 234; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17010234 - 31 Dec 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1331
Abstract
With the deep integration and development of both the digital economy and the ecological economy, governments, media, researchers and others have begun paying great attention to green digital issues. Yet whether and how digital resources shape corporate social responsibility (CSR) remains unclear. This [...] Read more.
With the deep integration and development of both the digital economy and the ecological economy, governments, media, researchers and others have begun paying great attention to green digital issues. Yet whether and how digital resources shape corporate social responsibility (CSR) remains unclear. This paper examines the relationship between digital resources, CSR, and environmental performance during a period of rapid technological development, with a focus on Chinese manufacturing enterprises. We draw on structural equation modeling (SEM) to verify how digitalization contributes to more environmentally friendly and sustainable economic development. Our dataset comprises survey data from 174 Chinese manufacturing companies, providing a theoretical basis and empirical support for the deep integration of digitalization with green and low-carbon transformation. The results demonstrate that digital resources significantly promote CSR, which in turn facilitates the improvement of environmental performance. We thus find that CSR plays a mediating role in the digital resources–environmental performance relationship. Consequently, companies can consider greening their innovations through CSR practices as part of the digital transformation environment. Finally, digital resources and CSR contribute to greening innovation in different ways. This study highlights the critical role of robust CSR in driving green performance during digital transformation. It addresses a significant research gap by exploring the synergistic relationship between digitalization and green innovation, emphasizing the strategic importance of integrating CSR to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes for both society and businesses. Additionally, the study identifies deficiencies in existing research regarding the interplay between digital transformation and CSR and investigates how enterprises can directly enhance environmental performance by leveraging digital resources within the context of the digital economy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Transformation and Innovation for a Sustainable Future)
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17 pages, 1875 KiB  
Review
Bibliometric-Based Research Status and Development Trends of Dam Breach Studies
by Pengtao Wang, Wei Guo, Chunling Liang, Bingyi She and Donghu Li
Sustainability 2025, 17(1), 209; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17010209 - 30 Dec 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1447
Abstract
Dam breach can trigger severe flood disasters, threatening life and property safety, and having long-term impacts on the environment, society, and the economy. Dam breach floods also contaminate water bodies, degrading water quality and its sustainability. This study analyzes the characteristics and trends [...] Read more.
Dam breach can trigger severe flood disasters, threatening life and property safety, and having long-term impacts on the environment, society, and the economy. Dam breach floods also contaminate water bodies, degrading water quality and its sustainability. This study analyzes the characteristics and trends of dam breach research using research findings included in the CNKI (China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Beijing, China) database and the Web of Science (WoS) core database. Bibliometric methods, including word frequency analysis, co-citation analysis, and clustering analysis, were applied to the retrieved data. Using the CiteSpace (v6.3.R2) visualization tool, the study conducted statistical analyses and generated maps for publication trends, research institutions, and research hotspots. The findings indicate the following. (1) From 2000 to 2023, the number of research outcomes has been continuously growing both domestically and internationally with significantly more foreign-language publications than Chinese ones. (2) Chinese research institutions, notably the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the Nanjing Hydraulic Research Institute, have substantial international influence. (3) In terms of research hotspots, Chinese studies focus on the failure mechanisms of earth-rock dams, while foreign studies emphasize dam breach flood flows. (4) Establishing numerical models has emerged as a common trend in both Chinese and foreign research. These insights help identify deficiencies in current methods and technologies, allowing for the proposal of more scientific strategies for dam safety assessment. Based on these conclusions, some insights are proposed with the aim of reducing the risk of dam breaches, ensuring sustainable water resource management and utilization, promoting environmental protection, and fostering harmonious socio-economic development. Full article
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