Search Results (300)

Smart cities aim to integrate technological, infrastructural, and socio-environmental systems in order to improve urban sustainability and quality of life. To qualify as both smart and sustainable, a city is generally expected to pursue self-sufficiency through the adoption of sustainable practices in energy production, water supply, and food systems. Such cities also seek to reduce operational costs for both private operators and municipalities, while aiming to enhance the quality of life of their residents. Within this context, the relevance of a web-based application becomes particularly apparent. An application equipped with predefined indicators can provide a structured and measurable framework for assessing the current status of a city or town in relation to smart and sustainable development. This framework allows for the evaluation of the extent to which a city aligns with established criteria associated with smart and sustainable urban models. This paper introduces a Python-based web application, developed using Python version 3.10, designed to assess or support the self-assessment of a city’s alignment with identified smart and sustainable development indicators. This study does not claim empirical validation or benchmarking performance; the proposed system is presented as a proof-of-concept framework. The work does not propose new smart city indicators. Rather, it presents an integrative system that seeks to operationalise existing smart and sustainable city indicators within a unified and modular web-based assessment framework, designed to support cross-domain evaluation and citizen-accessible self-assessment. Full article

Background and Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on physical activity among various populations. Due to a lack of country-representative studies on the prevailing trends in leisure-time physical activity since the COVID-19 pandemic, the aim of this study was to assess the temporal, social, and demographic inequalities in the prevalence of engagement in exercise and sports among working-age citizens of Lithuania from 2021 to 2024. Materials and Methods: This study included four samples of working-age citizens (1600 per year, 6400 in total). Four surveys were conducted, and the distribution of respondents among the groups was compared. Results: In general, the prevalence of engagement in exercise and sports did not change over a four-year period (48.8%, p = 0.256). The prevalence of regular exercise and sports increased, while engagement in irregular exercise and sports decreased (p = 0.014). Binary logistic regression analysis showed that younger age, male sex, being single, having no children under 18 years of age, selecting foods for health strengthening, positive self-assessment of nutrition and health status, use of dietary supplements, attention to purchasing healthy products, and university education attainment were associated with engagement in exercise and sports (regular or irregular) (p < 0.05). Analysis focused specifically on regular exercise and sports revealed associations with a longer time since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, younger age, urban residence, selection of foods for health strengthening, positive assessment of nutrition and health status, and university education attainment (p < 0.05), while no significant associations were observed with sex, marital status, presence of children under 18 years of age, use of dietary supplements, or attention to purchasing healthy products (p > 0.05). Conclusions: The overall prevalence of physical activity engagement among working-aged Lithuanian citizens did not change from 2021 to 2024, engagement in regular and irregular exercise and sports has changed. Engagement in regular and irregular exercise and sports is associated with different social profiles. Full article

Background/Objectives: Policies to promote healthy eating often work through local food systems, which link food supply chains and food environments to individuals. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in national and global supply chains and emphasized the importance of local food systems in meeting community and individual needs. Unfortunately, we know too little about how to shape local food systems. This case study reports the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the New Orleans food system and the subsequent response from the community and local government to strengthen it through city and state policy changes, public–private collaborations, and grassroots citizens’ efforts. Methods: This study uses a participant–observer approach in which observations from an online 2020 survey of local food organizations (n = 56) were fielded by the New Orleans Food Policy Action Council (FPAC), a local coalition of food and agriculture groups. The authors, who worked with or were a part of FPAC, analyzed survey data for recurrent themes and then synthesized this with archived written materials and the authors’ own observations. Results: Key themes from this survey are detailed, along with an exploration of related efforts within the community, including: (1) Greaux the Good, a campaign developed by local food system stakeholders to successfully advocate for increased food assistance funds from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program; (2) policy change related to food vendor permitting; and (3) establishment of two positions within the local government: a City Food Specialist to increase collaboration between organizations in the food system and an Urban Agriculture Liaison to support local food production. Lastly, innovative programs of grassroots citizens’ organizations are detailed due to their positive impact on food access for community members. Conclusions: The cumulative impacts of these efforts added to the resiliency of the local food system and may protect it against the effects of future disasters as well as strengthen its ability to promote healthy eating. Full article

Background/Objectives: A gluten-free diet (GFD) remains the only effective therapy for celiac disease (CD) and non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS). Strict adherence is essential, yet it can impose considerable psychological, social, and financial burdens. This study investigated factors influencing GFD adherence, explored the perceived burden of this therapy, and examined differences between individuals with CD and NCGS. Methods: A cross-sectional anonymous questionnaire was completed by 681 Romanian citizens living in Romania with either a medically confirmed or a self-reported diagnosis of CD or NCGS. The survey assessed GFD adherence and its potential predictors, including gender, family history, comorbidities, diagnostic confirmation, and food security and perceived availability, as well as various psychological, social, and financial factors. Results: Participants with CD showed significantly higher GFD adherence than those with NCGS. Self-diagnosis was more common among NCGS respondents and was associated with poorer adherence, whereas a medically confirmed diagnosis predicted stricter adherence. Longer time since diagnosis, a greater perceived importance of a GFD, consistent label reading, as well as weight gain after starting a GFD were also positively associated with adherence. Although gluten-free (GF) food security has improved over time, cost remains a major barrier. Social activities negatively influenced adherence, reflecting the isolating effects of dietary restrictions. Nearly 25% of respondents reported a family history of gluten-related disorders (GRDs). Women—although more frequently affected by GRDs—exhibited levels of adherence similar to men. Comorbidities were common (33.9%), predominantly autoimmune diseases (56.3%), with autoimmune thyroiditis (32%) and lactose intolerance (19.2%) being the most frequent comorbidities. Conclusions: Diagnostic certainty, motivation, and practical barriers influence GFD adherence. Enhanced public awareness, clear labeling, improved GF food security, and financial support could facilitate sustained adherence and reduce psychosocial burden. To the author’s knowledge, this is the first national study of its kind in Romania. Full article

Considering sustainable consumption not just as an exercise of individual choice but a shared and collective activity, this study explores the role of conscious and responsible consumption initiatives (CRCIs) driving citizens’ adoption of sustainable lifestyles. This research followed a qualitative approach, combining documentary research and twenty-six in-depth interviews with practitioners in eight grassroots consumer initiatives located in Galicia (Spain). The results show that CRCIs favor members’ consumption of organic, seasonal, fair, and locally produced food. The findings also reveal that engagement in these initiatives nurtures three interconnected types of learning—cognitive, attitudinal, and behavioral—which contribute to wider adoption of sustainable practices related to shifts in dietary habits, energy use, mobility, and frugality. CRCIs facilitate gradual transitions toward reduced meat consumption, favoring the intake of plant-based foods, and greater self-efficacy in preparing sustainable meals. These behavioral changes are incremental, motivated by inner reflection, practical experience, and consciousness around alternative economic models. However, the consistent adoption of sustainable eating habits is hindered by cultural and psychological barriers like cultural traditions, entrenched habits, and time constraints. In conclusion, these grassroots initiatives are interesting entry points for engaging citizens in sustainable lifestyles, becoming also gateways to the broader social and solidarity economy movement. Full article

The COVID-19 pandemic had a major impact on the reliability of global supply chains, the availability of selected products including food, food prices, food purchase and consumption behaviour. The aim of this study is to identify potential differences in food waste levels and behaviours in Germany during the pandemic compared to pre-pandemic periods. The data are based on two highly representative household diary studies on food waste with sample sizes of over 6500 participants each. This study uses descriptive statistics as well as a mixed model approach to examine food waste amounts per product group, disposal reason and life cycle category and compare the survey year 2020 with the years 2016/17. A linear mixed model is applied to examine the effects of the pandemic and lockdown phases on the development of food waste amounts in 2020. The results show that total and unavoidable food waste increased significantly in the 2020 pandemic period compared to the same period in the 2016/17 survey, while avoidable food waste decreased. This suggests an improvement of food management skills while, at the same time, food consumption, and therefore also food waste, shifted from outside to inside the home. Also, the composition of product groups was affected by altered consumption patterns during the pandemic. The results are relevant to the post-pandemic period, as they raise the question of whether a deceleration in everyday life is a prerequisite for adopting more sustainable food behaviours and developing appropriate planning, storage and handling. Policies should therefore focus on encouraging citizens to engage with the issue, prioritise it and develop an interest in food management. Future research should focus on the ways in which behaviours that reduce food waste can be encouraged, as well as on the long-term effects of food supply chain disruptions and events altering everyday life in households in relation to food waste. Full article

Lombardy is Italy’s leading region in primary agricultural production, yet it faces a significant decline in agricultural soil, primarily due to urban expansion. This land consumption largely affects arable areas, as land is repurposed for low-density residential developments, roads, logistics, and commercial or industrial hubs. The reduction in agricultural land threatens regional food security and increases dependency on external markets. This study determines the long-term sustainability of this trend by estimating the actual quantity of agricultural land required to satisfy the food demand of the region’s citizens. The research employed a two-part georeferenced analysis. First, a cross-tabulation matrix quantified the land consumption over two decades. Second, the Planning Forecasts Map was analyzed, coupled with new road projects, to estimate future potential land consumption embedded in Land Use Plans (PGT). Finally, food consumption was converted into the required hectares of agricultural land per capita and compared to the current stock of agricultural land to quantify the deficit by municipality. The dramatic spatial deficit confirms that the current trajectory of land consumption is unsustainable, leaving Lombardy’s food security highly dependent on imports. While regional laws have reduced planned urbanization, the limitation of land take remains far from the goals. The results highlight the urgent need for effective compensatory measures and mitigation strategies that account for the true magnitude and spatial distribution of the agricultural land deficit, particularly in the most critical urban and peri-urban areas. Full article

(1) Background: This research aims to determine the main factors that influence: (i) purchase decisions for flour and bakery products, (ii) consumer preferences, attitudes, and consumption frequency of those products, and (iii) the degree of knowledge and confidence in innovative functional food products. (2) Methods: Questionnaires were randomly distributed to 639 Greek citizens aged 18–75 years. The statistical analysis included Chi-Square, Kruskal–Walis H, and Mann–Whitney U tests, and Spearman correlations. (3) Results: Flour purchasing decisions were influenced by age, income, marital status, and education, while bakery products were widely regarded as nutritious. Women and older individuals were more knowledgeable regarding alternative flours. Trust in functional products increased with age, marital status, household minor and adult size, and income. (4) Conclusions: Several demographic characteristics may affect the purchasing decisions and attitude towards flour, bakery, and functional food products. Full article

New and old scientific methodologies are constantly emerging. Citizen science (CS) is a research methodology that enables the involvement of citizens in scientific research, fostering new knowledge while empowering society. This pilot study explored university students’ perceptions regarding citizen science and the food system through a focus group. None of the participants had prior experience with CS, and most had never heard of it; nevertheless, they identified knowledge acquisition and societal change as the main motivators for participation. Concerning the food system, participants expressed concerns about unhealthy and unbalanced diets, lack of food and health literacy, and limited access to healthy options. Proposed solutions included transparent labeling, support and access to local food production, intersectoral awareness campaigns, and reinforcement of the relevance of citizen-led approaches to solving complex food-related issues. These findings highlight the potential of CS as a powerful approach to engage citizens in scientific research and, consequently, contribute to actionable solutions that address the complex challenges of the food system. Full article

The circular economy (CE) supports sustainable development through local action, with municipalities playing a central role in governance, service provision, and citizen involvement. This paper presents a systemic analysis of public attitudes, behaviours, and perceptions related to CE, aiming to identify governance gaps and recommend strategies to align implementation with societal needs. Data was collected through a survey across five consumption categories: food, textiles, plastics, electronics, and mobility. The findings indicated that the public is generally willing to adopt circular practices provided adequate services are available. The study applied the 10R framework to categorize circular strategies and mapped services to these relevant governance instruments: infrastructure, economic and planning instruments, education and information, and collaboration. A document analysis of multi-level governance frameworks further contextualized the results. A polarized engagement pattern emerged: preventive strategies like Reduce and Repair are supported by both public behaviour and municipal services, while end-of-pipe approaches such as Recycling and Landfilling continue to dominate. In contrast, mid-level strategies (Reuse, Refurbish, Remanufacture, and Repurpose) are significantly underrepresented. This gap highlights a critical shortfall in governance and service provisioning. The study concludes that advancing CE requires targeted interventions in infrastructure, improved access to circular services, and greater public awareness to enable broader participation. Full article

In advanced economies, most food waste occurs at the downstream stages of the supply chain; within the EU, it has been estimated that 64.57% of food waste occurs at the consumption stage, with about 5.4 million tons (9.45% of the total) being generated in food service. This study aims to contribute to this stream of research by providing evidence about the quantity of food waste produced in Italian primary schools and discussing the results against the evidence available in other EU countries. This research is based on a large-scale study involving 78 primary schools and over 11,000 students for a total number of almost 110,000 monitored meals. The results show that the amount of food not consumed at lunch is 21.7% of the food prepared every day. Plate waste accounts for almost 90 g/day per capita and the total amount of wasted food, including unserved food, accounts for 117 g/day per capita. To our knowledge, this study represents the largest sample size monitored in Italy under the framework of the EC Delegated Decision (EU) 2019/1597 on food waste measurement. Given its scale and adherence to the EU’s standardized methodology, this dataset should serve as the reference data for Italy reported to Eurostat, as it is based on direct measurements rather than estimates or secondary data sources. This underscores the importance of systematic, comparable data collection for tracking progress on food waste reduction at both national and European levels. Full article

A growing number of scientific and policy institutions recognize predominantly plant-based diets as the most sustainable dietary patterns, for both public health and the environment, and are therefore encouraging citizens to shift their eating habits. Alongside this, more people are adopting vegan or vegetarian diets in response to environmental concerns and animal welfare. In this context, the responsibility for planning nutritionally adequate diets cannot be solely individual, with household solutions, but collective actions are needed at the industrial and agricultural level. Historically, the food industry has improved the nutritional value of animal-derived foods through feed modification and supplementation. Today, similar efforts are needed to enhance the nutrient profile of plant-based foods. In addition, nutrient recommendations originally designed for mixed diets may not be directly applicable to populations following exclusively plant-based diets, given the differences in bioavailability and metabolism. This review aims to (1) identify nutrients that may be absent or present in insufficient amounts in plant-based and especially vegan diets; (2) explore potential solutions, ranging from soil management and crop biofortification to food processing, fortification, and supplementation; and (3) call for a revision of dietary reference intakes that better reflects the specific needs of populations consuming total or predominantly plant-based diets. Full article

Urban public space is a crucial constituent of livable city construction. A pleasant and comfortable public space is not simply spacious, bright, and accessible but also subjectively preferred by citizens who use it. Efforts to understand how citizens experience and perceive therein thus matters and would significantly aid urban design and well-being improvement. This research constructs a perception lexicon for 129 sites of public street space, a significant type of public space, in Shanghai and identifies how citizens comment on these sites through sentiment analysis based on social platform texts. A Chinese natural language processing (NLP) tool is applied to sort out the extent of citizens’ feelings on the urban street environment through a 0–1 scoring system. Six types of built environment elements and five categories of urban public spaces are identified. Pleasantly perceived sites primarily locate in the urban center and sporadically distribute in the outskirts and are normally “high-density” and “multi-function” in nature. Among the five categories of urban public spaces, sites that are commercially dynamic with culture, arts, and historical elements or that have gourmet food and good walkability generally receive the higher sentiment scores, but scores of ancient town commercial streets (many are antique streets), once popular and contributing much to tourism economy, are not satisfactory. The NLP-based text analysis also quantifies the intensity of emotional perceptions toward the six types of built environment elements and their associations with the general perception. This study not only offers insights for designers and policy makers in public space optimization but also showcases a scalable, data-driven approach for integrating public emotional and experiential dimensions into urban livability assessments. Full article

Water is essential for ecological balance, environmental sustainability, and food security, particularly in arid regions where effective water management increasingly depends on farmer cooperation. The Samarkand region of Uzbekistan, known for its favorable climate and leading role in grape production, is facing rising drought conditions. This study explores the factors influencing grape farmers’ willingness to collaborate on water management in the districts of Ishtikhan, Payarik, and Kushrabot, which together produce 75–80% of the region’s grapes. A quantitative survey of 384 grape-producing households was conducted across 19 county citizens’ gatherings (38.7% of such gatherings), and structural equation modeling was employed to analyze a framework consisting of four dimensions: norms, environmental concerns, economic barriers, and the intention to adopt sustainable practices. The results indicate that norms and environmental concerns positively influence collaboration, suggesting a collective orientation toward sustainability. In contrast, economic barriers such as high costs and limited financial capacity significantly hinder cooperative behavior. Furthermore, a strong individual intention to adopt sustainable practices was associated with a greater likelihood of collaboration. These findings highlight the critical drivers and constraints shaping collective water use in agriculture and suggest that targeted policy measures and community-led efforts are vital for promoting sustainable water governance in drought-prone regions. Full article

Regulatory air pollution monitoring is performed using a sparse monitoring network designed to provide background concentrations of pollutants but may miss small area variations due to local emission sources. Low-cost air pollution sensors operated by trained citizen scientists provide an opportunity to fill this gap. We describe the development and implementation of an air pollution monitoring and community engagement plan in response to resident concerns regarding excessive smoke production from a neighborhood restaurant. Particulate matter (PM_2.5) was measured using a low-cost, portable sensor. When cooking was taking place, the highest PM_2.5 readings were within 50 m of the source (mean PM_2.5 36.9 µg/m³) versus greater than 50 m away (mean PM_2.5 13.0 µg/m³). Sharing results with local government officials did not result in any action to address the source of the smoke emissions, due to lack of jurisdiction. A review of air pollution regulations across the United States indicated that only seven states regulate food cookers and six states specifically exempted cookers from air pollution regulations. Concerns about the smoke were communicated with the restaurant owner who eventually changed the cooking fuel. Following this change, less smoke was observed from the restaurant and PM_2.5 measurements were reduced to background levels. Although current environmental health regulations may not protect residents living near sources of food cooker-based sources of PM_2.5, community engagement shows promise in addressing these emissions. Full article