Search Results (42)

With the continuous expansion of global trade, achieving sustainable maritime transport optimization and operations has become a key strategic direction for transforming maritime transport companies. To summarize the current state of research and identify emerging trends in sustainable maritime transport optimization and operations, this study systematically examines representative studies from the past decade, focusing on three dimensions, technology, management, and policy, using data sourced from the Web of Science (WOS) database. Building on this analysis, potential avenues for future research are suggested. Research indicates that the technological field centers on the integrated application of alternative fuels, improvements in energy efficiency, and low-carbon technologies in the shipping and port sectors. At the management level, green investment decisions, speed optimization, and berth scheduling are emphasized as core strategies for enhancing corporate sustainable performance. From a policy perspective, attention is placed on the synergistic effects between market-based measures (MBMs) and governmental incentive policies. Existing studies primarily rely on multi-objective optimization models to achieve a balance between emission reductions and economic benefits. Technological innovation is considered a key pathway to decarbonization, while support from governments and organizations is recognized as crucial for ensuring sustainable development. Future research trends involve leveraging blockchain, big data, and artificial intelligence to optimize and streamline sustainable maritime transport operations, as well as establishing a collaborative governance framework guided by environmental objectives. This study contributes to refining the existing theoretical framework and offers several promising research directions for both academia and industry practitioners. Full article

The sustainable development of autonomous vehicles (AVs) depends on effective collaboration among the government–industry–academia (GIA). Drawing on the Triple Helix theory, this study examines how the GIA interacts within emerging AV ecosystems at the local level. A qualitative research design was employed, including policy reviews and in-depth semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders in Suzhou’s AV ecosystem, to gain a detailed understanding of the collaborations. Our findings revealed three bottlenecks: (1) fragmented governance across administrative districts, which blurs responsibility for infrastructure investment and policy alignment; (2) short-term, project-based industry partnerships that limit knowledge spillovers and marginalize smaller local firms; and (3) limited academic engagement in R&D, despite a strong output in basic research. These factors lock the AV ecosystem into a hybrid configuration between government-led (Triple Helix I) and industry-driven (Triple Helix II) models, constraining sustained innovation. The study argues that to strengthen the AV ecosystem, it is essential to establish a cohesive policy framework, promote cross-sector collaboration, and involve academia more deeply in addressing social, ethical, and regulatory concerns. This paper contributes to the GIA and Triple Helix literature by offering insights into the complexity of collaboration within a rapidly developing AV sector and providing recommendations for enhancing the effectiveness of GIA collaborations to foster sustainable AV development. Full article

Global digitalization drives policy-led transformation in the construction industry, yet its effectiveness hinges on localized implementation. However, research on China’s regional digital policies remains insufficient, particularly in systematic evaluation mechanisms. Focusing on Wuhan, this study proposes a progressive “3M” (macro–meso–micro) policy evaluation framework to analyze local policy efficacy under national strategies. Macro-level PESTEL analysis identifies weak legal frameworks as a critical gap. Meso-level PMC index modeling establishes a hierarchical optimization pathway prioritizing incentive measures, followed by policy timeliness, assessment mechanisms, policy focus, and policy nature. Micro-level Spearman’s correlation analysis further pinpoints five implementation drivers: pilot projects, long-term planning, detailed measures, talent cultivation, and regulatory reinforcement. The results indicate that Wuhan’s policies require targeted improvements: (1) synergizing pilot innovation with legal safeguards, (2) integrating green principles into long-term planning, (3) refining technical standards and policy alignment, (4) enhancing multidisciplinary talent development through industry–academia collaboration, and (5) establishing IoT-enabled dynamic monitoring platforms. This hierarchical evaluation system provides empirical evidence for optimizing China’s construction policies while offering a transferable governance framework for global cities navigating digital transitions. Future research should extend the temporal and spatial coverage while incorporating adaptive evaluation tools to address policy dynamism. Full article

This study explores the factors influencing the adoption of Metaverse technology in the Indonesian tourism sector through the lens of the Technological–Organizational–Environmental (TOE) framework. Data collected from 303 respondents representing academia, government, and industry were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with SmartPLS 4. The findings reveal that relative advantage, compatibility, top management support, government policy and regulation, and competitive pressure significantly influence the intention to adopt Metaverse technology, while complexity does not. Notably, competitive pressure emerged as the most critical factor, especially among university and government respondents. The study provides theoretical insights into technology adoption and practical recommendations for fostering Metaverse integration in tourism. Despite its contributions, limitations such as sample composition and excluded TOE variables suggest avenues for future research. This work underscores the importance of strategic collaboration among academia, government, and industry to enhance Metaverse adoption in the tourism industry, paving the way for innovation and competitive advantage. Full article

Electric vehicles are regarded as key players in reducing CO₂ emissions. However, managing the end-of-life (EoL) of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) poses significant environmental and technical challenges. This presents a daunting task for governments, companies, and academics when discussing and developing initiatives for the EoL of LIBs. As more LIBs reach the end of their vehicular use, it becomes essential to identify key challenges. This research aims to analyze possible pathways, identify LIBs’ challenges in reaching the appropriate destinations, and propose actions to overcome these obstacles. Additionally, this study addresses those responsible for each challenge. A narrative review was employed as a methodological approach to achieve the proposed objectives, utilizing available literature on EoL LIB management. The research findings highlight various challenges, including safety, commercialization, and disassembly. To address these issues, this work recommends strategies such as extended producer responsibility, automation, and regulation. The study also emphasizes the necessity for a collaborative effort, particularly highlighting the key roles of government and industry in developing regulations, implementing effective waste management strategies, and driving market expansion, while academia contributes through research and technological advancements. The research contributes to a better understanding of sustainable LIB management, advocating for responsible disposal and reducing environmental and economic impacts. Full article

The Circular Economy (CE) has become an essential management model to address the environmental challenges of the traditional linear model employed by companies, protecting society and ecosystems from resource depletion and intensified ecological emissions. Thus, this study proposes a framework with recommendations for CE implementation, structured around the Triple Helix (TH) model and designed to be government-led in guiding joint actions among government, organizations, and academia. The framework comprises 21 recommendations distributed across six interconnected stages: (1) Policy Generation from Academic Inputs, (2) Development of Pilot Projects with Industry, (3) Analysis and Academic Validation of Results, (4) Policy Improvement and Scaling, (5) Promotion of Innovation and Technology Transfer, and (6) Global Connection and Replicability. These stages collectively enhance policies and practices, accelerating the transition to a CE. This framework underscores the importance of regionally adapted public policies, technological innovations to extend material lifespans, and the promotion of conscious consumption. It also emphasizes the need for intersectoral collaboration to foster sustainability and efficiency in resource management. Methodologically, this study employs an integrative review to map technical and scientific CE practices in the United Kingdom, China, and the United States. The theoretical contribution validates the TH model as a strategic tool for developing the CE. Furthermore, the practical contribution is the structured pathway to implementing the CE, detailing the main phases of collaboration among TH actors to ensure the effective operationalization of circular strategies. Full article

Blue Biotechnology (BBt) is a young and promising sector in the Mediterranean region with the potential to drive innovation and strengthen the Blue Economy (BE). However, its progress is constrained by fragmented coordination among stakeholders, impeding policy development and efficient resource management. Under this context, this study investigates the role of networks of diverse stakeholders, particularly the Spanish Blue Biotechnology Hub (BBHub) and a digital tool, ICT Matchmaking Tool (which connects network actors), in addressing these challenges by fostering collaboration, enhancing governance and supporting sustainable innovation. Building on this, the research employed the quadruple helix model (administrations, academia and research, industry and society), engaging 214 individuals from 130 organizations in the BBHub network. A survey assessed participants’ involvement and influence perceptions, followed by the formation of a discussion group “called sherpa group” of 10 key stakeholders for in-depth discussions through semi-structured interviews and meetings. Through this approach, key barriers to BBt and potential solutions for BE sustainable growth in Spain were identified, including regulatory obstacles, limited funding or weak public-private collaboration. Among the solutions proposed were the simplification of administrative processes to create new business, the creation of specific funding opportunities or the implementation of labelling policies to promote BBt products and value chains. Considering these findings, the study demonstrates that the BBHub network and ICT Matchmaking Tool could enhance stakeholder coordination, governance and decision-making processes in Spain. By addressing these gaps, these tools enable collaboration and better coordination among actors, contributing to sustainable marine resource use and innovation in the BBt and BE sector. However, sustained progress requires stable funding and stronger stakeholder commitments. In turn, as a broader implication, this research provides a replicable model for leveraging open innovation and multi-stakeholder frameworks to promote coordination, policy development and sustainable growth in the BBt and BE sectors. Thus, it offers insights into addressing governance challenges in Spain and the Mediterranean, advancing the use of marine bioresources through collaborative approaches. Full article

Drought is an increasingly critical global challenge, significantly impacting agricultural productivity, food security, and ecosystem stability. As climate change intensifies the frequency and severity of drought events, innovative strategies are essential to enhance plant resilience and sustain agricultural systems. This review explores the vital role of beneficial microbes in conferring drought tolerance, focusing on Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR), mycorrhizal fungi, endophytes, actinomycetes, and cyanobacteria. These microorganisms mitigate drought stress through diverse mechanisms, including osmotic adjustment, enhancement of root architecture, modulation of phytohormones, induction of antioxidant defenses, and regulation of stress-responsive gene expression. Ecological and agricultural innovations leveraging these beneficial microbes have demonstrated significant potential in bolstering drought resilience. Strategies such as soil microbiome engineering, bioaugmentation, and the integration of microbial synergies within pest management frameworks enhance ecosystem resilience and agricultural sustainability. Additionally, advancements in agricultural practices, including seed coating, soil amendments, the development of microbial consortia, and precision agriculture technologies, have validated the effectiveness and scalability of microbial interventions in diverse farming systems. Despite promising advancements, several challenges hinder the widespread adoption of microbial solutions. Environmental variability can affect microbial performance, necessitating the development of robust and adaptable strains. Scale-up and commercialization hurdles, economic constraints, and regulatory and safety considerations also pose significant barriers. Furthermore, the complex interactions between microbes, plants, and their environments require a deeper understanding to optimize microbial benefits consistently. Future research should focus on integrating cutting-edge technologies such as genomics, synthetic biology, and precision agriculture to refine and enhance microbial interventions. Collaborative efforts among academia, industry, and government are essential to bridge the gap between research and practical implementation. By addressing these challenges and harnessing microbial innovations, it is possible to develop resilient and sustainable agricultural systems capable of thriving in an increasingly water-scarce world. Full article

Recent advances in all-solid-state battery (ASSB) research have significantly addressed key obstacles hindering their widespread adoption in electric vehicles (EVs). This review highlights major innovations, including ultrathin electrolyte membranes, nanomaterials for enhanced conductivity, and novel manufacturing techniques, all contributing to improved ASSB performance, safety, and scalability. These developments effectively tackle the limitations of traditional lithium-ion batteries, such as safety issues, limited energy density, and a reduced cycle life. Noteworthy achievements include freestanding ceramic electrolyte films like the 25 μm thick Li_0.34La_0.56TiO₃ film, which enhance energy density and power output, and solid polymer electrolytes like the polyvinyl nitrile boroxane electrolyte, which offer improved mechanical robustness and electrochemical performance. Hybrid solid electrolytes combine the best properties of inorganic and polymer materials, providing superior ionic conductivity and mechanical flexibility. The scalable production of ultrathin composite polymer electrolytes shows promise for high-performance, cost-effective ASSBs. However, challenges remain in optimizing manufacturing processes, enhancing electrode-electrolyte interfaces, exploring sustainable materials, and standardizing testing protocols. Continued collaboration among academia, industry, and government is essential for driving innovation, accelerating commercialization, and achieving a sustainable energy future, fully realizing the transformative potential of ASSB technology for EVs and beyond. Full article

Solid-state hydrogen storage technology has emerged as a disruptive solution to the “last mile” challenge in large-scale hydrogen energy applications, garnering significant global research attention. This paper systematically reviews the Chinese research progress in solid-state hydrogen storage material systems, thermodynamic mechanisms, and system integration. It also quantitatively assesses the market potential of solid-state hydrogen storage across four major application scenarios: on-board hydrogen storage, hydrogen refueling stations, backup power supplies, and power grid peak shaving. Furthermore, it analyzes the bottlenecks and challenges in industrialization related to key materials, testing standards, and innovation platforms. While acknowledging that the cost and performance of solid-state hydrogen storage are not yet fully competitive, the paper highlights its unique advantages of high safety, energy density, and potentially lower costs, showing promise in new energy vehicles and distributed energy fields. Breakthroughs in new hydrogen storage materials like magnesium-based and vanadium-based materials, coupled with improved standards, specifications, and innovation mechanisms, are expected to propel solid-state hydrogen storage into a mainstream technology within 10–15 years, with a market scale exceeding USD 14.3 billion. To accelerate the leapfrog development of China’s solid-state hydrogen storage industry, increased investment in basic research, focused efforts on key core technologies, and streamlining the industry chain from materials to systems are recommended. This includes addressing challenges in passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, and hydrogen refueling stations, and building a collaborative innovation ecosystem involving government, industry, academia, research, finance, and intermediary entities to support the achievement of carbon peak and neutrality goals and foster a clean, low-carbon, safe, and efficient modern energy system. Full article

This study empirically explores the Quadruple Helix model’s potential in facilitating an urgent open innovation project. By examining the life cycle of the project, developed during the COVID-19 pandemic crisis in Brazil, it reveals complex interactions among government, academia, industry, and civil society stakeholders, while also shedding light on the various risks arising from their dynamic collaboration. Employing an approach that combines case study analysis, risk assessment, and theoretical framework development, we unravel the project’s evolution, highlighting pivotal elements such as trust, collaboration, communication, agile mindset, stakeholder partnerships, scale, and logistics. Additionally, the study underscores concerns related to finance, time, reputation, and health, which warrant consideration. Risk analysis uncovers internal and external risks and categorizes thirty-two risks, with one deemed unacceptable, thus revealing valuable insights into stakeholders’ partnerships, institutional image, public equipment, manufacturing, project management, human resources, intellectual property, regulation, and sanitation risks. Building on these findings, we develop a new framework illustrating the management of the urgent open innovation project through the fast-paced Quadruple Helix formation. By exploring stakeholder collaboration and risk management, this research provides insights into the adaptability and speed required to successfully execute an emergency project, as well as presenting practical strategies for risk management and mitigation, significantly contributing to the domains of the Quadruple Helix and project management research. Full article

The sustainable development of products is of great interest to both industry and consumers due to various factors, such as anthropogenic climate change and the scarcity of resources and materials. In response to this, the simul⁺ Living Lab Sustainable Additive Manufacturing in Saxony (SAMSax) has been established as a physical experimental space aimed at improving the sustainability of products. This includes selecting resource-efficient manufacturing processes, using renewable materials, reducing energy consumption during use, and designing for recyclability. The innovative approach of the lab also integrates an open innovation process, involving present and potential stakeholders. Collaborating closely with stakeholders from industry, academia, and government fosters idea generation, provides solution approaches, and enhances acceptance and practical implementation. Methodologically, SAMSax focuses on upcycling organic and inorganic residues as well as by-products from industry and agriculture, reintegrating them as innovative components in industrial production using additive manufacturing (“3D printing”). The Living Lab provides a space for networking and active knowledge transfer through digital technologies, analyses, and collaborative developments, enabling the testing and evaluation of innovations in a real-world environment. Several potential waste materials suitable for additive manufacturing and new products have already been identified. In addition to industrial residues, materials, such as paper and wood dust; industrial by-products, such as sand; and agricultural residues, like harvest residues, are being analyzed, processed, and tested using additive manufacturing in the laboratory. In this way, SAMSax can contribute to an integrated and consistent circular economy. The research aims to demonstrate that the SAMSax Living Lab is a crucial driver of innovation in the field of additive manufacturing. Furthermore, this study contributes by presenting the Living Lab as an application-oriented research environment, focusing on innovative implementation in small- and medium-sized enterprises. Full article

This research endeavors to investigate the impacts of information and communication technology, green technological innovation, and environmental tax on the attainment of ecological sustainability with advanced panel date estimation for 2001–2019. The results of this study demonstrate a noteworthy inverse relationship between information and communication technology and ecological footprint, suggesting that progress in ICT has the potential to yield positive consequences in terms of ecological restoration and the promotion of environmental sustainability. Furthermore, this study underscores the significance of GTI in mitigating carbon emissions and effectively addressing environmental challenges. The findings indicate that the incorporation of environmentally sustainable technology can yield favorable ecological consequences and make significant contributions towards the attainment of worldwide climate targets. Nevertheless, the study highlights the importance of considering potential rebound effects. It underscores the imperative for ongoing research and the implementation of comprehensive policies within the realm of environmentally sustainable technology. Moreover, the present study elucidates the favorable ramifications of GF on ecological sustainability, underscoring its pivotal contribution in curtailing carbon emissions, augmenting environmental benchmarks, and facilitating the ecological footprint. Enhancing the utilization of green finance, making adjustments to national regulatory frameworks, and achieving harmonization of public financial incentives to bolster sustainable development are important. Additionally, the study posits that the incorporation of ET can catalyze businesses and individuals to embrace environmentally friendly energy sources and sustainable practices, thereby fostering positive outcomes for the environment. The study offers significant insights into the contributions of information and communication technology, green technology innovation, and environmental technology to advancing ecological sustainability. It emphasizes the need for collaborative endeavors among academia, industry, and government to cultivate a supportive ecosystem for sustainable development. Full article

This comprehensive review explores recent developments in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) and evaluates their alignment with the ambitious targets established by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Notable advancements have been made in developing catalysts, membrane technology advancements, gas diffusion layers (GDLs), and enhancements in bipolar plates. Notable findings include using carbon nanotubes and graphene oxide in membranes, leading to substantial performance enhancements. Innovative coatings and materials for bipolar plates have demonstrated improved corrosion resistance and reduced interfacial contact resistance, approaching DOE targets. Nevertheless, the persistent trade-off between durability and cost remains a formidable challenge. Extending fuel cell lifetimes to DOE standards often necessitates higher catalyst loadings, conflicting with cost reduction objectives. Despite substantial advancements, the ultimate DOE goals of USD 30/kW for fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) and USD 600,000 for fuel cell electric buses (FCEBs) remain elusive. This review underscores the necessity for continuous research and innovation, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts among academia, industry, and government agencies to overcome the remaining technical barriers. Full article

Industrial sectors’ innovative and sustainable development relies not only on solid government, society, academia, and industry but also on how they interact to set and implement strategic goals. In the fashion industry context, the new sociocultural scenario is increasingly driven by pressures from stakeholders to limit the impacts of industrial practices and to move toward new open ecosystems to create and maintain sustainable innovation. This article explores how such innovation can be enabled by design-driven actions in the context of the quadruple helix. Such a model aims to revitalize the areas of technological innovation and gradually advance the construction of the infrastructure needed for sustainable fashion growth, combining and integrating different knowledge. An initial literature review, complemented by case studies analysis, identifies the European fashion industry dynamics of innovation and the roles of industry, government, university, and society. In particular, the government is transforming from a mere controller to a facilitator of innovation synergies. Society relies on citizens revising their consumption habits by shifting toward a performative economy. Industry understands the need for collaboration and adopts new closed-loop supply chains to create and maintain its sustainable development. Universities enable new open system flows to make innovations concerning knowledge, technologies, and systems thrive, from technology transfer to knowledge co-creation. Based on the analysis, we propose a conceptual framework to understand the micro- and macro-dynamics of open innovation with a quadruple helix model to implement sustainability practices in the fashion sector through design-driven actions—reuse, repair, recycle, and refashion—that aim to eliminate the concept of waste to support local ecosystems toward establishing a closed-loop chain. Full article