Search Results (44)

Urban areas are facing increasing traffic congestion, pollution, and infrastructure strain. Traditional urban transportation systems are often fragmented. They require users to plan, pay, and travel across multiple disconnected services. Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) integrates these services into a single digital platform, simplifying access and improving the user experience. This review critically examines the role of MaaS in fostering sustainable mobility ecosystems. MaaS aims to enhance user-friendliness, service variety, and sustainability by adopting a customer-centric approach to transportation. The findings reveal that successful MaaS systems consistently align with multimodal transport infrastructure, equitable access policies, and strong public-private partnerships. MaaS enhances the management of routes and traffic, effectively mitigating delays and congestion while concurrently reducing energy consumption and fuel usage. In this study, the authors examine MaaS as a new mobility paradigm for a sustainable transportation system in smart cities, observing the challenges and opportunities associated with its implementation. To assess the environmental impact, a sustainability index is calculated based on the use of different modes of transportation. Significant findings indicate that MaaS systems are proliferating in both quantity and complexity, increasingly integrating capabilities such as real-time multimodal planning, dynamic pricing, and personalized user profiles. Full article

The equitable allocation of clean energy access across towns–rural divides is a critical benchmark of modernization in developing economies. This is because it is intricately linked to the realization of strategic goals such as shared prosperity, ecological civilization advancement, and national energy security reinforcement. This research examines the impact of China’s digital village (DV) construction in reducing the urban–rural disparity in household clean energy access, evaluates the effect on towns–rural clean energy consumption inequality (CEI), explores the mediating mechanisms, and considers regional heterogeneity. It is an innovative approach to test the influence of digital village construction on clean energy consumption inequality between urban and rural areas, beyond which conventional research is limited to infrastructure investment and policy considerations. We can reach the following three results: (1) With the continuous improvement of digital village construction, CEI between towns and rural areas shows an “inverted U-shaped” change. (2) From the perspective of the intermediary mechanism, agricultural technological progress (ATP) and industrial structure upgrading (IND) can facilitate digital village construction and reduce the disparity in clean energy consumption between towns and rural regions. (3) From the perspective of heterogeneity analysis, digital village construction in areas with low urbanization levels, high terrain undulation, and non-clean energy demonstration provinces can significantly alleviate CEI. It is on this basis that the present paper proposes a policy recommendation for the Chinese government to effectively reduce the gap between towns and rural clean energy consumption in the process of digital village construction. Full article

Shared energy storage (SES) represents a transformative approach to advancing sustainable energy systems through improved resource utilization and renewable energy integration. In order to enhance the economic benefits of energy storage and prosumers, as well as to increase the consumption rate of renewable energy, this paper proposes a bilevel optimization model for multi-prosumer power complementarity based on SES. The upper level is the long-term energy storage capacity configuration optimization, aiming to minimize the investment and operational costs of energy storage. The lower level is the intra-day operation optimization for prosumers, which reduces electricity costs through peer-to-peer (P2P) transactions among prosumers and the coordinated dispatch of SES. Meanwhile, an improved Nash bargaining method is introduced to reasonably allocate the P2P transaction benefits among prosumers based on their contributions to the transaction process. The case study shows that the proposed model can reduce the SES configuration capacity by 46.3% and decrease the annual electricity costs of prosumers by 0.98% to 27.30% compared with traditional SES, and the renewable energy consumption rate has reached 100%. Through peak–valley electricity price arbitrage, the annual revenue of the SES operator increases by 71.1%, achieving a win–win situation for prosumers and SES. This article, by optimizing the storage configuration and trading mechanism to make energy storage more accessible to users, enhances the local consumption of renewable energy, reduces both users′ energy costs and the investment costs of energy storage, and thereby promotes a more sustainable, resilient, and equitable energy future. Full article

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) with wearable bioelectronics is revolutionizing digital healthcare by enabling proactive, personalized, and data-driven medical solutions. These advanced devices, equipped with multimodal sensors and AI-powered analytics, facilitate real-time monitoring of physiological and biochemical parameters—such as cardiac activity, glucose levels, and biomarkers—allowing for early disease detection, chronic condition management, and precision therapeutics. By shifting healthcare from reactive to preventive paradigms, AI-driven wearables address critical challenges, including rising chronic disease burdens, aging populations, and healthcare accessibility gaps. However, their widespread adoption faces technical, ethical, and regulatory hurdles, such as data interoperability, privacy concerns, algorithmic bias, and the need for robust clinical validation. This review comprehensively examines the current state of AI-enhanced wearable bioelectronics, covering (1) foundational technologies in sensor design, AI algorithms, and energy-efficient hardware; (2) applications in continuous health monitoring, diagnostics, and personalized interventions; (3) key challenges in scalability, security, and regulatory compliance; and (4) future directions involving 5G, the IoT, and global standardization efforts. We highlight how these technologies could democratize healthcare through remote patient monitoring and resource optimization while emphasizing the imperative of interdisciplinary collaboration to ensure equitable, secure, and clinically impactful deployment. By synthesizing advancements and critical gaps, this review aims to guide researchers, clinicians, and policymakers toward responsible innovation in the next generation of digital healthcare. Full article

Recent advancements in photovoltaic (PV) and battery technologies, combined with improvements in power electronic converters, have accelerated the adoption of rooftop PV systems and electric vehicles (EVs) in distribution networks, while these technologies offer economic and environmental benefits and support the transition to sustainable energy systems, they also introduce operational challenges, including voltage fluctuations, increased system losses, and voltage regulation issues under high penetration levels. Traditional Voltage and Var Control (VVC) strategies, which rely on substation on-load tap changers, voltage regulators, and shunt capacitors, are insufficient to fully manage these challenges. This study proposes a novel Voltage, Var, and Watt Control (VVWC) framework that coordinates the operation of PV and EV resources, conventional devices, and demand responsive loads. A mixed-integer nonlinear multi-objective optimization model is developed, applying a Chebyshev goal programming approach to balance objectives that include minimizing PV curtailment, reducing system losses, flattening voltage profile, and minimizing demand not met. Unserved demand has, in particular, been modeled while incorporating the concepts of distributional and recognition energy justice. The proposed method is validated using a modified version of the IEEE 123-bus test distribution system. The results indicate that the proposed framework allows for high levels of PV and EV integration in the grid, while ensuring that EV demand is met and PV curtailment is negligible. This demonstrates an equitable access to energy, while maximizing renewable energy usage. Full article

The ever-growing demand for sustainable, efficient, and fair allocation in the next generation of wireless network applications is a serious challenge, especially in the context of high-speed communication networks that operate on Terahertz frequencies. This research work presents a novel approach to enhance queue management in 6G networks by integrating reinforcement learning, specifically Deep Q-Networks (DQN). We introduce an intelligent 6G Retrial Queueing System (RQS) that dynamically adjusts to varying traffic conditions, minimizes delays, reduces energy consumption, and guarantees equitable access to network resources. The system’s performance is examined under extensive simulations, taking into account multiple arrival rates, queue sizes, and reward scaling factors. The results show that the integration of RL in the 6G-RQS model successfully enhances queue management while maintaining the high performance of the system, and this is by increasing the number of mobile terminals served, even under different and higher traffic demands. Furthermore, singular value decomposition analysis reveals clusters and structured patterns, indicating the effective learning process and adaptation performed by the agent. Our research findings demonstrate that RL-based queue management is a promising solution for overcoming the challenges that 6G suffers from, particularly in the context of high-speed communication networks. Full article

Wind energy has emerged as a strategic pillar in the global energy transition, offering both environmental and economic benefits. This comprehensive review explores the development of wind energy with a focus on the regulatory, socio-economic, and technological challenges that shape its deployment in Europe, particularly in Poland. The study highlights disparities between countries in terms of both total and per capita installed capacity, emphasizing the importance of equitable access to renewable energy. Denmark and Germany outperform larger economies like China and India in per capita terms, indicating the significance of effective policy frameworks and public engagement. The article presents detailed case studies of successful wind farm projects across the EU alongside economic evaluations including cost structures, return on investment, and local development impacts. Additionally, the role of innovation—such as floating offshore wind farms and AI-based energy management—is discussed in the context of improving efficiency and overcoming infrastructure and environmental barriers. The analysis is supported by quantitative comparisons, graphical representations, and policy reviews, culminating in practical recommendations for future growth. Wind energy’s expansion depends on integrated strategies that combine policy reform, technological advancement, economic viability, and community participation. Full article

The intersection of energy, environment, and industry presents distinct challenges and opportunities in rural and urban settings, highlighting disparities in access, impact, and policy effectiveness. This paper examines the systemic inequities between rural and urban regions in the transition to a sustainable energy future. It explores how policies and technologies can promote a just transition that ensures equitable economic development, environmental protection, and energy access for all communities. The key findings reveal that the average urban environmental pollution has transitioned from 10.1574 in 2007 to 8.9540 in 2022, indicating an improvement over time. From 2007 to 2022, the average level of rural environmental pollution has transitioned from 15.1123 in 2007 to 14.2675 in 2022, suggesting an improvement in performance over the specified timeframe. This shows that rural environmental pollution (14.8442) is more serious than urban environmental pollution (9.0892), even though rural environmental pollution is constantly improving. Regarding driving factors affecting urban and rural environmental pollution, we illustrate that energy consumption and environmental protection investment are important factors through which environmental regulation influences urban environmental pollution, while only environmental protection investment is an important factor through which environmental regulation influences rural environmental pollution. The findings suggest that only in the western region do stronger environmental regulations significantly reduce urban pollution, while strengthening environmental regulations improves rural pollution across all three regions, with the most pronounced effect in the west. By integrating quantitative and policy analysis, the study proposes inclusive strategies that balance economic resilience, social justice, and environmental sustainability, fostering a fair transition toward a low-carbon future. Full article

With the global emphasis on sustainable growth and development, the depletion of natural energy reserves due to reliance on fossil fuels and non-renewable sources remains a critical concern. Despite strides in transitioning to electrical mobility, rural and agricultural communities depend heavily on liquefied petroleum gas and firewood for cooking, lacking viable, sustainable alternatives. This study focuses on community-led efforts to advance biogas adoption, providing an eco-friendly and reliable energy alternative for rural and farming households. By designing and developing balloon-type anaerobic biodigesters, this initiative provides a robust, cost-effective, and scalable method to convert farm waste into biogas for household cooking. This approach reduces reliance on traditional fuels, mitigating deforestation and improving air quality, and generates organic biofertilizer as a byproduct, enhancing agricultural productivity through organic farming. The study focuses on optimizing critical parameters, including the input feed rate, gas production patterns, holding time, biodigester health, gas quality, and liquid manure yield. Statistical tools, such as descriptive analysis, regression analysis, and ANOVA, were employed to validate and predict biogas output data based on experimental and industrial-scale data. Artificial neural networks (ANNs) were also utilized to model and predict outputs, inspired by the information processing mechanisms of biological neural systems. A comprehensive database was developed from experimental and literary data to enhance model accuracy. The results demonstrate significant improvements in cooking practices, health outcomes, economic stability, and solid waste management among beneficiaries. The integration of statistical analysis and ANN modeling validated the biodigester system’s effectiveness and scalability. This research highlights the potential to harness renewable energy to address socio-economic challenges in rural areas, paving the way for a sustainable, equitable future by fostering environmentally conscious practices, clean energy access, and enhanced agricultural productivity. Full article

Global peace, security, and sustainable energy development depend on effective nuclear energy governance. While the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) has served as a cornerstone in this domain, it faces challenges such as trust deficits, inequitable access to nuclear technologies, and regional instability. This paper proposes the Qudrat-Ullah Nuclear Peace and Trust (Q-NPT) framework, a dynamic implementation roadmap designed to address these issues. The framework focuses on fostering trust among stakeholders, ensuring equitable access to nuclear technologies, and promoting inclusivity in governance structures. A key theoretical contribution is the integration of trust-building measures with sustainable energy transitions, highlighting nuclear energy’s role in decarbonization and global energy security. The paper outlines actionable pathways for implementing the Q-NPT framework, including enhanced oversight by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), capacity-building initiatives, and training programs to enable safe and sustainable nuclear cooperation, particularly in developing nations. By operationalizing nuclear programs through this approach, the Q-NPT framework aligns nuclear energy governance with global sustainable energy objectives. Full article

Service, or catchment areas of public transport stops are traditionally assessed using Euclidean or network distances, often neglecting other relevant factors such as topography. This study proposes a refined approach that integrates network-based accessibility with terrain variations and the effect they have on walking time and on the physical effort required for pedestrian movement. Using geographic information systems-based analysis that include walking time and walking energy cost models, the impact of topography on accessibility to public transport is evaluated in a case study of the hilly city of Coimbra, Portugal. Results show that, as compared to their flat counterparts, network distance-based service areas that consider hilliness, exhibit a decrease in accessibility of circa 10% in terms of area covered and population affected. These findings highlight the need for more realistic accessibility assessments to support more realistic and equitable public transport planning. Because extensive network datasets are not always available to decision-makers, this article also introduces the concept of surrogate buffers as a practical alternative for obtaining catchment areas, summarized by the “0.7/0.6R rule”. Full article

The current changing climate requires the development of water–energy–food (WEF) nexus-oriented systems capable of mainstreaming climate-smart innovations into resource management. This study demonstrates the cross-sectoral impacts of climate change on interlinked sectors of water, energy, and food in Narok County, Kenya, and Vhembe District, South Africa. This study used projected hydroclimatic extremes across past, present, and future scenarios to examine potential effects on the availability and accessibility of these essential resources. The projected temperature and rainfall are based on nine dynamically downscaled Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP 5) of the Global Climate Models (GCMs). The model outputs were derived from two IPCC “Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs)’’, the RCP 4.5 “moderate scenario”, and RCP 8.5 “business as usual scenario”, also defined as the addition of 4.5 W/m² and 8.5 W/m² radiative forcing in the atmosphere, respectively, by the year 2100. For the climate change projections, outputs from the historical period (1976–2005) and projected time intervals spanning the near future, defined as the period starting from 2036 to 2065, and the far future, spanning from 2066 to 2095, were considered. An ensemble model to increase the skill, reliability, and consistency of output was formulated from the nine models. The statistical bias correction based on quantile mapping using seven ground-based observation data from the South African Weather Services (SAWS) for Limpopo province and nine ground-based observation data acquired from the Trans-African Hydro-Meteorological Observatory (TAHMO) for Narok were used to correct the systematic biases. Results indicate downscaled climate change scenarios and integrate a modelling framework designed to depict the perceptions of future climate change impacts on communities based on questionnaires and first-hand accounts. Furthermore, the analysis points to concerted efforts of multi-stakeholder engagement, the access and use of technology, understanding the changing business environment, integrated government and private sector partnerships, and the co-development of community resilience options, including climate change adaptation and mitigation in the changing climate. The conceptual climate and WEF resource modelling framework confirmed that future climate change will have noticeable interlinked impacts on WEF resources that will impact the livelihoods of vulnerable communities. Building the resilience of communities can be achieved through transformative WEF nexus solutions that are inclusive, sustainable, equitable, and balance adaptation and mitigation goals to ensure a just and sustainable future for all. Full article

This study conducts a bibliometric and content analysis based on publications indexed in the Web of Science Core Collection, aiming to map the evolution and key themes in horticultural research in the context of technological innovation and sustainability. The results reveal a strong orientation toward digitalization and automation, particularly through the integration of artificial intelligence, mechatronic systems, and sensor-based monitoring in crop management. In the field of biotechnology, keywords such as gene expression, genetic diversity, and micropropagation reflect a sustained research interest in improving crop resilience and disease resistance through genetic and in vitro propagation techniques. Furthermore, concepts such as environmental control, soilless culture, energy efficiency, and co-generation highlight the focus on optimizing growing conditions and integrating renewable energy sources into protected horticultural systems. The geographical distribution of studies highlights increased academic output in countries like India and regions of sub-Saharan Africa, reflecting a global interest in transferring advanced technologies to vulnerable areas. Moreover, collaboration networks are dominated by leading institutions such as Wageningen University, which act as hubs for knowledge diffusion. The findings suggest that future research should prioritize the development of durable, energy-efficient horticultural technologies adapted to various agro-climatic zones. It is recommended that policymakers and stakeholders support interdisciplinary research initiatives, promote knowledge transfer mechanisms, and ensure equitable access to innovation for smallholder farmers and emerging economies. Full article

This paper introduces the Composite Energy and Transport Poverty Indicator (CETPI), a tool designed to address rural vulnerabilities in the EU, with a focus on Croatia, Italy, and the Netherlands. By assuming a social practice theory perspective, this article explores the intersection of energy and transport poverty, emphasizing the need for a far more holistic approach to capture the complexity of these phenomena. Using data on household energy consumption, transport expenditure, and socioeconomic variables, the study developed a replicable indicator, pointing at areas where disparities in energy and transport access might be elusive and therefore unaddressed. As such, the findings reveal that rural areas experience unique challenges, including generally higher costs and limited access to affordable services, contributing to deeper levels of social exclusion. The CETPI provides policymakers with a framework to better understand these intertwined issues to inform targeted interventions that can alleviate both energy and transport poverty. The paper concludes by advocating for policy solutions that can improve equitable access to essential services for vulnerable rural populations. Full article

Industrial robotics has shifted from rigid, task-specific tools to adaptive, intelligent systems powered by artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and sensor integration, revolutionizing efficiency and human–robot collaboration across manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and agriculture. Collaborative robots (cobots) slash assembly times by 30% and boost quality by 15%, while reinforcement learning enhances autonomy, cutting errors by 30% and energy use by 20%. Yet, this review transcends descriptive summaries, critically synthesizing these trends to expose unresolved tensions in scalability, cost, and societal impact. High implementation costs and legacy system incompatibilities hinder adoption, particularly for SMEs, while interoperability gaps—despite frameworks, like OPC UA—stifle multi-vendor ecosystems. Ethical challenges, including workforce displacement and cybersecurity risks, further complicate progress, underscoring a fragmented field where innovation outpaces practical integration. Drawing on a systematic review of high-impact literature, this study uniquely bridges technological advancements with interdisciplinary applications, revealing disparities in economic feasibility and equitable access. It critiques the literature’s isolation of trends—cobots’ safety, ML’s autonomy, and perception’s precision—proposing the following cohesive research directions: cost-effective modularity, standardized protocols, and ethical frameworks. By prioritizing scalability, interoperability, and sustainability, this paper charts a path for robotics to evolve inclusively, offering actionable insights for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers navigating this dynamic landscape. Full article