Search Results (27,277)

The rising demand for energy resources and industrial goods presents significant challenges to sustainable development. Sunflower oil, commonly utilized in the food sector, biofuels, and various industrial applications, is notably affected by this demand. In Bulgaria, it serves as a primary source of vegetable fats, ranking second to butter in daily consumption. The aim of this study is to evaluate and propose methods to improve energy and resource efficiency in sunflower oil production in Bulgaria. The analysis is based on data from an energy audit conducted in 2023 at an industrial sunflower oil production facility. Reconstruction and modernization initiatives, which included the installation of high-performance, energy-efficient equipment, led to a 34% increase in energy efficiency. The findings highlight the importance of adjusting the technological parameters such as temperature, pressure, grinding level, and pressing time to reduce energy use and operational costs. Additionally, resource efficiency is improved through more effective raw material utilization and waste reduction. These strategies not only enhance the economic and environmental performance of sunflower oil production but also support sustainable development and competitiveness within the industry. The improvement reduces hexane use by approximately 2%, resulting in energy savings of 12–15 kWh/t of processed seeds and a reduction in CO₂ emissions by 3–4 kg/t, thereby improving the environmental profile of sunflower oil production. Full article

The transition to smart, zero-carbon cities relies on advanced, sustainable energy solutions, with artificial intelligence (AI) playing a crucial role in optimizing renewable energy management. This study evaluates state-of-the-art AI models for solar power forecasting, emphasizing accuracy, reliability, and environmental sustainability. Using operational data from Benban Solar Park in Egypt and Sakaka Solar Power Plant in Saudi Arabia, two of the world’s largest solar installations, the research highlights the effectiveness of hybrid AI techniques. The hybrid Convolutional Neural Network–Long Short-Term Memory (CNN-LSTM) model outperformed other models, achieving a Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) of 2.04%, Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 184, Mean Absolute Error (MAE) of 252, and R² of 0.99 for Benban, and an MAPE of 2.00%, RMSE of 190, MAE of 255, and R² of 0.98 for Sakaka. This model excels at capturing complex spatiotemporal patterns in solar data while maintaining low computational CO₂ emissions, supporting sustainable AI practices. The findings demonstrate the potential of hybrid AI models to enhance the accuracy and sustainability of solar power forecasting, thereby contributing to efficient, resilient, and zero-carbon urban environments. This research provides valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to advance smart energy infrastructure. Full article

Coal serves as the primary energy source for China, with production anticipated to reach 4.76 billion tons in 2024. However, the mining process generates a significant amount of gangue, with approximately 800 million tons produced in 2023 alone. Currently, China faces substantial gangue stockpiles, characterized by a low comprehensive utilization rate that fails to meet the country’s ecological and environmental protection requirements. The environmental challenges posed by the treatment and disposal of gangue are becoming increasingly severe. This review employs bibliometric analysis and theoretical perspectives to examine the latest advancements in gangue utilization, specifically focusing on the application of computational chemistry to elucidate the structural features and interaction mechanisms of coal gangue, and to collate how these insights have been leveraged in the literature to inform its potential utilization routes. The aim is to promote the effective resource utilization of this material, and key topics discussed include evaluating the risks of spontaneous combustion associated with gangue, understanding the mechanisms governing heavy metal migration, and modifying coal byproducts to enhance both economic viability and environmental sustainability. The case studies presented in this article offer valuable insights into the gangue conversion process, contributing to the development of more efficient and eco-friendly methods. By proposing a theoretical framework, this review will support ongoing initiatives aimed at the sustainable management and utilization of coal gangue, emphasizing the critical need for continued research and development in this vital area. This review uniquely combines bibliometric analysis with computational chemistry to identify new trends and gaps in coal waste utilization, providing a roadmap for future research. Full article

The intensification of anthropogenic pressures, particularly those related to agriculture driven by increasing demands for food and cash crops, generates negative environmental externalities. Assessing these externalities is essential to better identify and implement measures that promote the environmental sustainability of rural landscapes. This study aims to develop a multi-criteria assessment method of the negative environmental externalities of rural landscapes in the northern Benin agricultural basin, based on satellite-derived data. Starting from a 12-class land cover map produced through satellite image classification, the evaluation was conducted in three steps. First, the 12 land cover classes were reclassified into Human Disturbance Coefficients (HDCs) via a weighted sum model multi-criteria analysis based on nine criteria related to the negative environmental externalities of anthropogenic activities. Second, the HDC classes were spatially aggregated using a regular grid of 1 km² landscape cells to produce the Landscape Environmental Sustainability Index (LESI). Finally, various discretization methods were applied to the LESI for cartographic representation, enhancing spatial interpretation. Results indicate that most areas exhibit moderate environmental externalities (HDC and LESI values between 2.5 and 3.5), covering 63–75% (HDC) and 83–94% (LESI) of the respective sites. Areas of low environmental externalities (values between 1.5 and 2.5) account for 20–24% (HDC) and 5–13% (LESI). The LESI, derived from accessible and cost-effective satellite data, offers a scalable, reproducible, and spatially explicit tool for monitoring landscape sustainability. It holds potential for guiding territorial governance and supporting transitions towards more sustainable land management practices. Future improvements may include, among others, refining the evaluation criteria and introducing variable criteria weighting schemes depending on land cover or region. Full article

Sustainability education has become a global priority in educational systems, aiming to equip learners with the knowledge, values, and skills necessary to address complex environmental and social challenges. This study specifically aims to understand the role of science education in promoting students’ awareness of sustainability and their understanding of the interconnected relationship between humans and the environment, based on the perceptions and practices of primary science teachers in Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia. A qualitative approach was utilized, which included semi-structured interviews complemented by classroom observations as primary data collection instruments. The targeted participants comprised a purposive sample consisting of forty-nine primary-level science instructors from the Al-Ahsa district, located in eastern Saudi Arabia. Emergent concepts from open and axial coding processes by using grounded theory were developed with the gathered data. Based on the findings, teachers perceive science teaching not only as knowledge delivery but as an opportunity to cultivate critical thinking and nurture eco-friendly actions among pupils. Classroom practices that underscore environmental values and principles of sustainability foster a transformative view of the teacher’s role beyond traditional boundaries. The data also highlighted classroom practices that integrate environmental values and sustainability principles, reflecting a transformative perspective on the teacher’s educational role. Full article

This article aims to explore and analyze current issues and features of environmental protection in managing local tourism destinations based on the principles of sustainable development through the relevant literature and thus to provide an insight into major environmental measures and activities that should be implemented in practice, emphasizing the importance of environmental sustainability as a key factor in the development and success of local tourist destinations in today’s business environment. Qualitative methods were used, with the literature review based on content analysis by keywords. This particularly affects the business process efficiency and the participation of destination stakeholders and in many cases leads to a low level of environmentally sustainable destination practices. In addition to this theoretical approach, this study also has direct managerial implications for destination environmental business operations. An attractive and well-preserved environment is the primary factor of tourism and local tourism destination development and its success, as well as an integrated part of the tourism product. This study addresses a critical gap in the existing literature on environmental sustainability at local destinations, where prior work has often overlooked the integration of actionable, practice-oriented frameworks tailored for both researchers and practitioners. While theoretical insights into sustainable practices abound, there remains a scarcity of holistic analyses that bridge scholarly understanding with implementable strategies for on-the-ground application. To fill this void, our research provides a comprehensive overview and systematic analysis of current practices, with targeted emphasis on co-developing scalable frameworks for improving environmentally sustainable practices at local destinations. Full article

The successful deployment of sustainable building construction (SBC) is connected to sound knowledge sharing. Concerning SBC, knowledge sharing has been identified to directly and indirectly increase innovation, environmental performance, cost saving, regulatory compliance awareness and so on. The necessity of enhancing SBC practice globally has been emphasised by earlier research. Consequently, this study aims to investigate knowledge-sharing elements to enhance SBC in South Africa (SA). Utilising a questionnaire survey, this study elicited data from 281 professionals in the built environment. Data analysis was performed with “descriptive statistics”, the “Kruskal–Wallis H-test”, and “principal component analysis” to determine the principal knowledge-sharing features (KSFs). This study found that “creating public awareness of sustainable practices”, the “content of SBC training, raising awareness of green building products”, “SBC integration in professional certifications”, an “information hub or repository for sustainable construction”, and “mentoring younger professionals in sustainable practices” are the most critical KSFs for SBC deployment. These formed a central cluster, the Green Education Initiative and Eco-Awareness Alliance. The results achieved a reliability test value of 0.956. It was concluded that to embrace the full adoption of SBC, corporate involvement is critical, and all stakeholders must embrace the sustainability paradigm. It is recommended that the principal knowledge-sharing features revealed in this study should be carefully considered to help construction stakeholders in fostering knowledge sharing for a sustainable built environment. Full article

This article provides a critical review of the current design and research challenges in contemporary timber architecture. Conducted from the perspective of a designer-researcher, the review focuses on the role of wood as a material at the intersection of environmental performance, cultural meaning, and spatial practice. The study adopts a conceptual, problem-oriented approach, eschewing the conventional systematic aggregation of existing data. The objective of this study is to identify, interpret and categorise the key issues that are shaping the evolving discourse on timber architecture. The analysis is based on peer-reviewed literature published between 2020 and 2025, sourced from the Scopus and Web of Science Core Collection databases. Fifteen thematic challenges have been identified and classified according to their recognition level in academic and design contexts. The subjects under discussion include well-established topics, such as life cycle assessment and carbon storage, as well as less commonly explored areas, such as symbolic durability, social acceptance, traceability, and the upcycling of low-grade wood. The review under consideration places significant emphasis on the importance of integrating technical, cultural, and perceptual dimensions when evaluating timber architecture. The article proposes an interpretive framework combining design thinking and transdisciplinary insights. This framework aims to bridge disciplinary gaps and provide a coherent structure for understanding the complexity of timber-related challenges. The framework under discussion here encourages a broader understanding of wood as not only a sustainable building material but also a vehicle for systemic transformation in architectural culture and practice. The study’s insights may support designers, educators, and policymakers in identifying strategic priorities for the development of future-proof timber-based design practices. Full article

The growing demand for food and the environmental impact of conventional agriculture have prompted the search for sustainable alternatives. Phycocyanin (PC) and total phenolic compounds (TPC) extracted from Spirulina platensis have shown potential for the biological control of phytopathogens. The extraction method directly influences the yield and stability of these compounds. This study aimed to establish an efficient extraction protocol for PC and TPC and to evaluate their antimicrobial efficacy in vitro against Colletotrichum orchidearum, Fusarium nirenbergiae, and Alternaria sp. isolated from hydroponically grown lettuce. The phytopathogens were identified based on phylogenetic analyses using sequences from the ITS, EF1-α, GAPDH, and RPB2 gene regions. This is the first report of C. orchidearum in hydroponic lettuce culture in Brazil, expanding its known host range. Extracts were obtained using hydroalcoholic solvents and phosphate buffer (PB), combined with ultrasound-assisted extraction (bath and probe). The extracts were tested for in vitro antifungal activity. Data were analyzed by ANOVA (p < 0.05), followed by Tukey’s test. The combination of the PB and ultrasound probe resulted in the highest PC (95.6 mg·g⁻¹ biomass) and TPC (21.9 mg GAE·g⁻¹) yields, using 10% (w/v) biomass. After UV sterilization, the extract retained its PC and TPC content. The extract inhibited C. orchidearum by up to 53.52% after three days and F. nirenbergiae by 54.17% on the first day. However, it promoted the growth of Alternaria sp. These findings indicate that S. platensis extracts are a promising alternative for the biological control of C. orchidearum and F. nirenbergiae in hydroponic systems. Full article

In modern agriculture, tractors play a crucial role in powering tools and implements. Proper operation of agricultural tractors in mechanized field operations can support sustainable agriculture and reduce emissions of pollutants such as carbon dioxide (CO₂). This has been a recurring concern associated with agricultural intensification for food production. This study aimed to evaluate the optimization of tractor gears and engine speed during crop operations to minimize CO₂ emissions and promote sustainability. The experiment was conducted using a strip plot design with subdivided sections and six replications, following a double factorial structure. The first factor evaluated was the type of agricultural implement (disc harrow, subsoiler, or sprayer), while the second factor was the engine speed setting (nominal or reduced). Operational and energy performance metrics were analyzed, including fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions, travel speed, effective working time, wheel slippage, and working depth. Optimized gear selection and engine speeds resulted in a 20 to 40% reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions. However, other evaluated parameters remain unaffected by the reduced engine speed, regardless of the implement used, ensuring the operation’s quality. Thus, optimizing operator training or configuring machines allows for environmental impact reduction, making agricultural practices more sustainable. Full article

The eruption of the Cumbre Vieja volcano on 19 September 2021 resulted in the deposition of over 20 million cubic meters of tephra, posing significant environmental and logistical challenges in the affected areas. This study aimed to explore the valorization of volcanic ash (VA) by evaluating its potential use in producing sustainable mortar by incorporating it as a replacement for cement or sand. Various experimental mixtures were prepared with different proportions of VA which substituted either cement or sand, and these mixes were characterized through a mechanical and microstructural campaign. Additionally, shrinkage was evaluated for the mixtures which showed good mechanical results. The results suggest that partially replacing cement with up to 15% ground VA as well as substituting sand with up to 25% VA are promising strategies for the production of sustainable mortar mixes. This research contributes to the understanding of the influence of VA in cementitious matrices and offers a novel approach for integrating locally available geomaterials into infrastructure design in volcanic active regions. Full article

This study aims to evaluate the level of awareness and practical adoption of green wall systems in the Nigerian construction industry. It seeks to examine the current state of green wall implementation and recommend strategies to enhance their integration into construction practices among Nigerian construction professionals. A thorough review of the existing literature was conducted to identify different types of green wall systems. Insights from this review informed the design of a structured questionnaire, which was distributed to construction professionals based in Lagos State. The data collected were analyzed using statistical tests. The study reveals that while there is generally high awareness of green wall systems among Nigerian construction professionals, the practical use remains low, with just 8 out of the 18 systems being actively implemented, eclipsing the mean value of 3.0. The findings underscore the need for targeted education, industry incentives, and increased advocacy to encourage the use of green wall systems in the Nigerian construction sector. The results have significant implications for the Nigerian construction industry. The limited awareness and adoption of green wall systems highlight the need for strategic actions from policymakers, industry leaders and educational institutions. Promoting the use of green walls could drive more sustainable building practices, improve environmental outcomes and support the broader goals of decarbonization and circularity in construction. This research adds to the body of knowledge on sustainable construction by offering a detailed evaluation of green wall awareness and adoption within the Nigerian context. While green wall systems have been studied globally, this research provides a regional perspective, which in this case focuses on Lagos State. The study’s recognition of the gap between awareness and implementation highlights an important area for future research and industry development. Full article

This review aims to discuss how heat stress affects ovarian follicles and oocytes, steroidogenesis, and embryo development in ruminants. The literature shows that quiescent primordial follicles appear to be less susceptible to heat stress, but from the primary follicle stage onwards, they begin to suffer the consequences of heat stress. These adverse effects are exacerbated when the follicles are cultured in vitro. In antral follicles, heat stress reduces granulosa cell viability and proliferation in both in vivo and in vitro models. Oocyte maturation, both nuclear and cytoplasmic, is also compromised, and embryo quality declines under elevated thermal conditions. These effects are linked to intracellular disturbances, including oxidative imbalance, mitochondrial dysfunction, and altered hormonal signaling. The differences between in vivo and in vitro responses reflect the complexity of the biological impact of heat stress and emphasize the protective role of the physiological microenvironment. A better understanding of how heat stress alters the function of ovarian follicles, oocytes, and embryos is crucial. This knowledge is critical to devise effective strategies that mitigate damage, support fertility, and improve outcomes in assisted reproduction for livestock exposed to high environmental temperatures. Full article

Urban sustainability challenges demand integrated frameworks capable of addressing the dynamic, non-linear nature of cities. This study explores how the principles of the circular economy and complexity theory intersect to support systemic transformation in sustainable urban planning. Through a systematic literature review of 71 peer-reviewed articles published between 2015 and 2025, we analyze conceptual, methodological, and practical articulations across multiple thematic axes, including circular governance, urban metabolism, regenerative design, adaptive planning, digital integration, and environmental justice. Bibliometric and content analyses were conducted using Scopus metadata, VOSviewer for thematic clustering, and the StArt software (Version 3.4) to structure article selection. The findings reveal that circular economy provides practical tools for resource efficiency and regeneration, while complexity theory offers an adaptive framework to navigate uncertainty, emergent behaviors, and feedback dynamics. The synthesis suggests that their integration enables a more holistic and resilient approach to urban transformation. However, gaps remain in social inclusivity, long-term assessment, and the operationalization of complexity-informed planning. This study contributes to advancing a transdisciplinary agenda for circular and adaptive urban futures, offering insights for scholars, planners, and policymakers aiming to reconfigure cities within planetary boundaries. Full article

Background: Rapid urbanization has intensified the challenges of freight transport, particularly in last-mile (LM) delivery, leading to rising costs and environmental externalities. Autonomous vehicles (AVs) have emerged as a promising innovation to address these issues. While much of the existing literature emphasizes business and operational perspectives, this study focuses on the acceptance of AVs from the standpoint of e-consumers—individuals who make purchases via digital platforms—in an emerging market context. Methods: Grounded in an extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT2), which is specifically suited to consumer-focused technology adoption research, this study incorporates five constructs tailored to AV adoption. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was applied to survey data collected from 304 e-consumers in Northeast Brazil. Results: The findings reveal that performance expectancy, hedonic motivation, and environmental awareness exert significant positive effects on acceptance and intention to use AVs for LM delivery. Social influence shows a weaker, yet still positive, impact. Importantly, price sensitivity exhibits a minimal effect, suggesting that while consumers are generally cost-conscious, perceived value may outweigh price concerns in early adoption stages. Conclusions: These results offer valuable insights for policymakers and logistics providers aiming to implement consumer-oriented, cost-effective AV solutions in LM delivery, particularly in emerging economies. The findings emphasize the need for strategies that highlight the practical, emotional, and environmental benefits of AVs to foster market acceptance. Full article