Sign in to use this feature.

Years

Between: -

Subjects

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Journals

Article Types

Countries / Regions

Search Results (151)

Search Parameters:
Keywords = non-metropolitan regions

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
16 pages, 647 KiB  
Article
Geographic Scale Matters in Analyzing the Effects of the Built Environment on Choice of Travel Modes: A Case Study of Grocery Shopping Trips in Salt Lake County, USA
by Ensheng Dong, Felix Haifeng Liao and Hejun Kang
Urban Sci. 2025, 9(8), 307; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci9080307 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Compared to commuting, grocery shopping trips, despite their profound implications for mixed land use and transportation planning, have received limited attention in travel behavior research. Drawing upon a travel diary survey conducted in a fast-growing metropolitan region of the United States, i.e., Salt [...] Read more.
Compared to commuting, grocery shopping trips, despite their profound implications for mixed land use and transportation planning, have received limited attention in travel behavior research. Drawing upon a travel diary survey conducted in a fast-growing metropolitan region of the United States, i.e., Salt Lake County, UT, this research investigated a variety of influential factors affecting mode choices associated with grocery shopping. We analyze how built environment (BE) characteristics, measured at seven spatial scales or different ways of aggregating spatial data—including straight-line buffers, network buffers, and census units—affect travel mode decisions. Key predictors of choosing walking, biking, or transit over driving include age, household size, vehicle ownership, income, land use mix, street density, and distance to the central business district (CBD). Notably, the influence of BE factors on mode choice is sensitive to different spatial aggregation methods and locations of origins and destinations. The straight-line buffer was a good indicator for the influence of store sales amount on mode choices; the network buffer was more suitable for the household built environment factors, whereas the measurement at the census block and block group levels was more effective for store-area characteristics. These findings underscore the importance of considering both the spatial analysis method and the location (home vs. store) when modeling non-work travel. A multi-scalar approach can enhance the accuracy of travel demand models and inform more effective land use and transportation planning strategies. Full article
25 pages, 7131 KiB  
Article
Spatiotemporal Patterns of Non-Communicable Disease Mortality in the Metropolitan Area of the Valley of Mexico, 2000–2019
by Constantino González-Salazar, Kathia Gasca-Gómez and Omar Cordero-Saldierna
Diseases 2025, 13(8), 241; https://doi.org/10.3390/diseases13080241 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 254
Abstract
Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a leading cause of mortality globally, contributing significantly to the burden on healthcare systems. Understanding the spatiotemporal patterns of NCD mortality is crucial for identifying vulnerable populations and regions at high risk. Objectives: Here, we evaluated the spatiotemporal [...] Read more.
Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a leading cause of mortality globally, contributing significantly to the burden on healthcare systems. Understanding the spatiotemporal patterns of NCD mortality is crucial for identifying vulnerable populations and regions at high risk. Objectives: Here, we evaluated the spatiotemporal patterns of NCD mortality in the Metropolitan Area of the Valley of Mexico (MAVM) from 2000 to 2019 for five International Classification of Diseases chapters (4, 5, 6, 9, and 10) at two spatial scales: the municipal level and metropolitan region. Methods: Mortality rates were calculated for the total population and stratified by sex and age groups at both spatial scales. In addition, the relative risk (RR) of mortality was estimated to identify vulnerable population groups and regions with a high risk of mortality, using women and the 25–34 age group as reference categories for population-level analysis, and the overall MAVM mortality rate as the reference for municipal-level analysis. Results: Mortality trends showed that circulatory-system diseases (Chapter 9) are emerging as a concerning health issue, with 45 municipalities showing increasing mortality trends, especially among older adults. Respiratory-system diseases (Chapter 10), mental and behavioral disorders (Chapter 5) and nervous-system diseases (Chapter 6) predominantly did not exhibit a consistent general mortality trend. However, upon disaggregating by sex and age groups, specific negative or positive trends emerged at the municipal level for some of these chapters or subgroups. Endocrine, nutritional, and metabolic diseases (Chapter 4) showed a complex pattern, with some age groups presenting increasing mortality trends, and 52 municipalities showing increasing trends overall. The RR showed men and older age groups (≥35 years) exhibiting higher mortality risks. The temporal trend of RR allowed us to identify spatial mortality hotspots mainly in chapters related to circulatory, endocrine, and respiratory diseases, forming four geographical clusters in Mexico City that show persistent high risk of mortality. Conclusions: The spatiotemporal analysis highlights municipalities and vulnerable populations with a consistently elevated mortality risk. These findings emphasize the need for monitoring NCD mortality patterns at both the municipal and metropolitan levels to address disparities and guide the implementation of health policies aimed at reducing mortality risk in vulnerable populations. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 1447 KiB  
Article
Heat Risk Perception and Vulnerability in Puerto Rico: Insights for Climate Adaptation in the Caribbean
by Brenda Guzman-Colon, Zack Guido, Claudia P. Amaya-Ardila, Laura T. Cabrera-Rivera and Pablo A. Méndez-Lázaro
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(8), 1197; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22081197 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 187
Abstract
Extreme heat poses growing health risks in tropical regions, yet public perception of this threat remains understudied in the Caribbean. This study examines how residents in Puerto Rico perceived heat-related health risks and how these perceptions relate to vulnerability and protective behaviors during [...] Read more.
Extreme heat poses growing health risks in tropical regions, yet public perception of this threat remains understudied in the Caribbean. This study examines how residents in Puerto Rico perceived heat-related health risks and how these perceptions relate to vulnerability and protective behaviors during the extreme heat events of the summer of 2020. We conducted a cross-sectional telephone survey of 500 adults across metropolitan and non-metropolitan areas of Puerto Rico, using stratified probability sampling. The questionnaire assessed heat risk perception, sociodemographic characteristics, health status, prior heat exposure, and heat-related behaviors. While most participants expressed concern about climate change and high temperatures, fewer than half perceived heat as a high level of personal health risk. Higher levels of risk perception were significantly associated with being male, aged 50–64, unemployed, and in fair health, having multiple chronic conditions, and prior experience with heat-related symptoms. Those with symptoms were nearly five times more likely to report high levels of risk perception (OR = 4.94, 95% CI: 2.93–8.34). In contrast, older adults (65+), despite their higher level of vulnerability, reported lower levels of risk perception and fewer symptoms. Nighttime heat exposure was widespread and strongly associated with heat-related symptoms. Common coping strategies included the use of fans and air conditioning, though economic constraints and infrastructure instability limited access. The findings highlight the disparity between actual and perceived vulnerability, particularly among older adults. Public health strategies should focus on risk communication tailored to vulnerable groups and address barriers to heat adaptation. Strengthening heat resilience in Puerto Rico requires improved infrastructure, equitable access to cooling, and targeted outreach. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 5832 KiB  
Article
Innovative Participatory Practices in Three Sub-Regional Spatial Plans in the Valencian Autonomous Region (Spain)
by Joaquín Farinós-Dasí, Ignacio Díez-Torrijos and Pilar Lloret-Gual
Land 2025, 14(6), 1244; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14061244 - 10 Jun 2025
Viewed by 386
Abstract
Between 2017 and 2023, three sub-regional spatial plans were developed for specific areas of the Valencian Autonomous Region: the Alicante–Elche Metropolitan Area, Vega Baja del Segura County, and the Central Valencian Counties. Their main aim was to develop an envisaged territorial model as [...] Read more.
Between 2017 and 2023, three sub-regional spatial plans were developed for specific areas of the Valencian Autonomous Region: the Alicante–Elche Metropolitan Area, Vega Baja del Segura County, and the Central Valencian Counties. Their main aim was to develop an envisaged territorial model as a binding framework for municipal urban master plans. During the elaboration of these plans, a set of activities was developed to understand the main consensus among stakeholders. The main axes of the planning process were addressed during territorial working groups conducted with relevant stakeholders, including those focused on green infrastructure, settlement systems, and infrastructure systems. Participants were selected from the public administration, non-governmental organizations, the economic sector, and the university. Drawing on the outcomes of the participatory activities, various factors are analyzed, including the ratio between invited stakeholders and actual participants in the territorial workshops, the contributions made by participants in each main axis of the plan, the inputs provided according to stakeholder type, the nature of these contributions, and the degree of alignment between the inputs and the objectives of the PAT. The present study reveals how contextual factors can influence the orientation of the participatory process. At times, contingency may emerge as an opportunity to energize a governance process. Similarly, the participatory technique is validated for its potential to enrich the process, while also highlighting the absence of voices not aligned with spatial planning in the participatory settings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Participatory Land Planning: Theory, Methods, and Case Studies)
Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 2272 KiB  
Article
Environmental Pollution and Biological Invasions Threaten Native Freshwater Infaunal Bivalves in the Guandu River Basin, Southeast Brazil
by Nathália Rodrigues, Igor C. Miyahira, Antonio J. S. Rodrigues, Luciano N. Santos and Raquel A. F. Neves
Limnol. Rev. 2025, 25(2), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/limnolrev25020024 - 3 Jun 2025
Viewed by 391
Abstract
Freshwater bivalves play essential ecological roles in ecosystems, but they are among the most threatened fauna worldwide. Despite receiving industrial and domestic wastes, the Guandu River is the main source of drinking water for more than nine million people in the Rio de [...] Read more.
Freshwater bivalves play essential ecological roles in ecosystems, but they are among the most threatened fauna worldwide. Despite receiving industrial and domestic wastes, the Guandu River is the main source of drinking water for more than nine million people in the Rio de Janeiro metropolitan region. This study aimed to assess how infaunal bivalves respond to water and sediment quality in the Guandu River basin. Samples were collected at 10 sites across reservoirs, lotic, and lentic systems during cold–dry and warm–rainy seasons. Four bivalves were identified: Anodontites trapesialis, Diplodon ellipticus, Corbicula fluminea (non-native), and C. largillierti (non-native). Native species were restricted to two lentic sites at Guandu Lagoon, with the poorest environmental quality, significantly affected by high chlorophyll a and ammonia in the water. In contrast, C. fluminea was widely distributed and more abundant in the basin but restricted to less degraded sites, suggesting a lower tolerance to environmental pollution. Multivariate analyses indicated significant differences in environmental conditions and species–environment correlation. The non-native species spread and poor environmental quality threaten native bivalves in the Guandu River basin, leading them to a local extinction risk. Results highlight the need for effective management and conservation actions to protect biodiversity in tropical river basins. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 2813 KiB  
Article
Trends in Liver Cirrhosis and Diabetes-Related Mortality Among Adults in the United States: A CDC WONDER Database Analysis (1999–2020)
by Manahil Irfan, Rameesha Ahmad, Mariam Arshad Ahmed, Ayan Mohammed Khan, Zoya Aamir, Rayaan Imran and Raheel Ahmed
Life 2025, 15(6), 852; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15060852 - 25 May 2025
Viewed by 1357
Abstract
Background: The burden of liver cirrhosis correlated with diabetes mellitus (DM) poses a significant public health challenge in the United States. Both conditions independently contribute to high morbidity and mortality rates. While extensive individual analyses have been conducted, US trends in comorbid liver [...] Read more.
Background: The burden of liver cirrhosis correlated with diabetes mellitus (DM) poses a significant public health challenge in the United States. Both conditions independently contribute to high morbidity and mortality rates. While extensive individual analyses have been conducted, US trends in comorbid liver cirrhosis-DM-related mortality remain unexplored. This study seeks to investigate mortality trends associated with the simultaneous occurrence of liver cirrhosis and DM among U.S. adults over the period from 1999 to 2020. Methods: We conducted a descriptive analysis using publicly available mortality data from the CDC Wide-Ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research (WONDER) database. Age-adjusted mortality rates (AAMRs) per 100,000 individuals were calculated using the 2000 U.S. standard population. Trends were stratified by year, age, sex, race/ethnicity, urbanization, region, and state. Joinpoint regression analysis was employed to determine annual percentage changes (APCs) and assess statistical significance (p < 0.05). Results: A total of 90,418 deaths were recorded among adults with both cirrhosis and DM between 1999 and 2020. The overall AAMR increased from 1.02/100,000 in 1999 to 1.78/100,000 in 2020, reflecting a significant upward trend in mortality. The highest mortality rates were observed in non-metropolitan regions, in the South, and among males, older adults (65+), and NH American Indian or Alaska Native and Hispanic populations. All demographic groups exhibited a pronounced mortality surge between 2018 and 2020. A state-level analysis revealed notable disparities, with Oklahoma and Texas presenting the highest AAMRs. Conclusions: Liver cirrhosis and diabetes-related mortality have been steadily increasing over the past two decades, with notable disparities in demographics and regions. These findings underscore the urgent necessity for targeted prevention, early intervention, and policy-level strategies specifically designed for high-risk populations to reduce future mortality rates in the US and ultimately, globally. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Epidemiology)
Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 3896 KiB  
Article
Disparities in Fine Particulate Matter Air Pollution Exposures at the US–Mexico Border: The Intersection of Race/Ethnicity and Older Age
by Timothy W. Collins, Colby M. Child, Sara E. Grineski and Mathilda Scott
Atmosphere 2025, 16(5), 610; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos16050610 - 17 May 2025
Viewed by 623
Abstract
Environmental justice research in the United States (US) documents greater air pollution exposures for Hispanic/Latino vs. non-Hispanic White groups. EJ research has not focused on the intersection of race/ethnicity and older age nor short-term fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exposures. We address [...] Read more.
Environmental justice research in the United States (US) documents greater air pollution exposures for Hispanic/Latino vs. non-Hispanic White groups. EJ research has not focused on the intersection of race/ethnicity and older age nor short-term fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exposures. We address these knowledge gaps by studying US metropolitan area census tracts within 100 km of the US–Mexico border, a region with serious air quality issues. We use US Census American Community Survey data to construct sociodemographic variables and Environmental Protection Agency Downscaler data to construct long-term and short-term measures of PM2.5 exposure. Using multivariable generalized estimating equations, we test for differences in PM2.5 exposures between census tracts with higher vs. lower proportions of older Hispanic/Latino residents and older non-Hispanic White residents. The results indicate that as the proportion of the Hispanic/Latino population ≥ 65 years of age increases, long-term and short-term PM2.5 exposures significantly increase. In contrast, as the proportion of the non-Hispanic White population ≥ 65 years of age increases, changes in long-term and short-term PM2.5 exposures are statistically non-significant. These findings illuminate how race/ethnicity and older age intersect in shaping PM2.5 exposure disparities and may inform efforts to mitigate air pollution exposures for overburdened people along the US–Mexico border. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Air Quality)
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 951 KiB  
Article
The Governance of Smart Regions in Peripheral Areas: Exploring the Case of a Tourism-Dependent Region
by Hugo Pinto, Bernardo Valente and Jennifer Elston
Urban Sci. 2025, 9(5), 143; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci9050143 - 25 Apr 2025
Viewed by 509
Abstract
This article examines the dynamics of governance, stakeholder collaboration, and resource allocation in developing smart regions within peripheral territories. Using the Algarve (Portugal) as a case study—a region characterized by its peripheral status and reliance on tourism—this research explores efforts to integrate technological [...] Read more.
This article examines the dynamics of governance, stakeholder collaboration, and resource allocation in developing smart regions within peripheral territories. Using the Algarve (Portugal) as a case study—a region characterized by its peripheral status and reliance on tourism—this research explores efforts to integrate technological innovations and promote economic diversification. Data were collected from document research, stakeholder surveys, and interviews, indicating challenges including fragmented governance structures, resource constraints, and limited citizen engagement in innovation ecosystems. Drawing on comparative insights from other peripheral and more advanced smart region initiatives, this study highlights the critical role of public-private partnerships, active citizen participation, and context-specific governance strategies in achieving sustainable growth. While best practices provide valuable experiences, this study emphasizes the need for tailored solutions suited to each regional socioeconomic context. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

29 pages, 2971 KiB  
Article
Machine Learning in Mode Choice Prediction as Part of MPOs’ Regional Travel Demand Models: Is It Time for Change?
by Hannaneh Abdollahzadeh Kalantari, Sadegh Sabouri, Simon Brewer, Reid Ewing and Guang Tian
Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3580; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083580 - 16 Apr 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 757
Abstract
This study aims to improve the predictive accuracy of metropolitan planning organizations’ (MPOs’) travel demand models (TDM) by unraveling the factors influencing transportation mode choices. By exploring the interplay between trip characteristics, socioeconomics, built environment features, and regional conditions, we aim to address [...] Read more.
This study aims to improve the predictive accuracy of metropolitan planning organizations’ (MPOs’) travel demand models (TDM) by unraveling the factors influencing transportation mode choices. By exploring the interplay between trip characteristics, socioeconomics, built environment features, and regional conditions, we aim to address existing gaps in MPOs’ TDMs which revolve around the need to also integrate non-motorized modes and a more comprehensive array of features. Additionally, our objective is to develop a more robust predictive model compared to the current nested logit (NL) and multinomial logit (MNL) models commonly employed by MPOs. We apply a one-vs-rest random forest (RF) model to predict mode choices (Home-based-Work, Home-Based-Other, and non-home-based) for over 800,000 trips by 80,000 households across 29 US regions. Validation results demonstrate the RF model’s superior performance compared to conventional NL/MNL models. Key findings highlight that increased travel time and distance are associated with more auto trips, while household vehicle ownership significantly affects car and transit choices. Built environment features, such as activity density, transit density, and intersection density, also play crucial roles in mode preferences. This study offers a more robust predictive framework that can be directly applied in MPO TDMs, contributing to more accurate and inclusive transportation planning. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)
Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 287 KiB  
Article
Breastfeeding Duration, Diet, and Sports Engagement in Immigrant Children: A Quantitative Study in the Lisbon Region, Portugal
by Zélia Muggli, Regina Loesch, Iolanda Alves, Iliete Ramos and Maria Rosario O. Martins
Nutrients 2025, 17(8), 1350; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17081350 - 15 Apr 2025
Viewed by 765
Abstract
Background: Being breastfed, following a healthy diet and staying active during childhood shape health trajectories across the life course, promoting long-term well-being. Despite the growing immigrant child population in Portugal, evidence on these behaviours, particularly among preschool-aged children, remains limited. In this context, [...] Read more.
Background: Being breastfed, following a healthy diet and staying active during childhood shape health trajectories across the life course, promoting long-term well-being. Despite the growing immigrant child population in Portugal, evidence on these behaviours, particularly among preschool-aged children, remains limited. In this context, this study examines the associations between migrant status and breastfeeding patterns, fruit and vegetable consumption, and participation in sports among children living in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area. Methods: A cross-sectional study nested within a cross-sequential cohort was carried out in the Lisbon region between May 2022 and April 2024. Approximately 760 children (49.4% immigrants) born in 2018 and 2020 were enrolled in the study. Data were collected through a face-to-face interview with parents, using a structured questionnaire with information on socioeconomic variables, migration history, breastfeeding habits, and children’s diet (fruit and vegetable consumption) and physical activity. We used parametric and non-parametric tests to compare migrant and non-migrant children. To quantify factors associated with the main outcomes, we estimated a logistic regression model and calculated crude and adjusted odds ratios and their respective 95%CI. Results: Immigrant children were disproportionately represented in socioeconomically disadvantaged families. Breastfeeding initiation rates were higher among immigrant mothers (96.3% vs. 87.6%, p < 0.001). Additionally, immigrant mothers had a longer median duration of any breastfeeding (14 vs. 8 months, p < 0.001) and of exclusive breastfeeding (6 vs. 4 months, p < 0.001). Immigrant children had significantly lower odds of consuming three or more portions of fruit (aOR = 0.700; 95%CI: 0.511–0.959; p = 0.027) and two or more portions of vegetables per day (aOR = 0.489; 95%CI: 0.350–0.684; p < 0.001) compared with non-immigrant children. They were also twice as likely to not engage in sports (aOR = 2.185; 95%CI: 1.512–3.158; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Breastfeeding was better implemented in immigrant children. The findings highlight the need to address social determinants of health and the challenges faced by immigrant families in promoting a balanced diet and sports participation for their children. Multisectoral, culturally appropriate interventions that sustain and promote good breastfeeding practices, improve access to healthy food, and encourage sports are crucial to reducing health inequalities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Insecurity, Nutritional Status, and Human Health)
22 pages, 4257 KiB  
Article
Impacts of Low-Carbon Policies on Air Quality in China’s Metropolitan Areas: Evidence from a Difference-in-Differences Study
by Xuejiao Niu and Ying Liu
Atmosphere 2025, 16(3), 339; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos16030339 - 17 Mar 2025
Viewed by 548
Abstract
Climate change and air pollution are intrinsically interconnected as carbon dioxide and air pollutants are co-emitted during fossil fuel combustion. Low-carbon policies, aimed at mitigating carbon emissions, are also anticipated to yield co-benefits for air quality; however, the extent to which regional low-carbon [...] Read more.
Climate change and air pollution are intrinsically interconnected as carbon dioxide and air pollutants are co-emitted during fossil fuel combustion. Low-carbon policies, aimed at mitigating carbon emissions, are also anticipated to yield co-benefits for air quality; however, the extent to which regional low-carbon policies can effectively achieve significant reductions in air pollutant levels remains uncertain. In China, the implementation of the low-carbon city pilot (LCCP) policy has reduced carbon emissions, but further research is needed to examine its effectiveness regarding achieving air quality co-benefits. Adopting a difference-in-differences model with a 19-year national database of air quality, this study examines whether the LCCP policy improves air quality in China’s metropolitan areas and explores how these policy initiatives address their air pollution challenges. The results indicate that, following the implementation of the LCCP policy, the mean, maximum, and standard deviation of the AQI in pilot cities decreased significantly by 9.3%, 20.8%, and 19.8%, respectively, compared to non-pilot cities. These results suggest that the LCCP policy significantly improves air quality and provide evidence that this improvement is facilitated by advancements in green technology, industrial restructuring, and the optimization of urban planning and landscape design. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Air Quality in Metropolitan Areas and Megacities (Second Edition))
Show Figures

Figure 1

32 pages, 11531 KiB  
Article
Development of Sustainable Artificial Lightweight Aggregates with Binary Mixtures of Waste Rich in Aluminosilicate and Carbonate in Kaolinitic Clay
by José Anselmo da Silva Neto, Marcos Alyssandro Soares dos Anjos, Ricardo Peixoto Suassuna Dutra, Maelson Mendonça de Souza and Cinthia Maia Pederneiras
Sustainability 2025, 17(5), 2017; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17052017 - 26 Feb 2025
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 587
Abstract
In Brazil, artificial lightweight aggregates (LWAs) are predominantly produced in the Southeast Region using clay as the primary raw material. However, clay extraction has significant environmental impacts and limits access to LWAs in the North and Northeast regions, resulting in high costs and [...] Read more.
In Brazil, artificial lightweight aggregates (LWAs) are predominantly produced in the Southeast Region using clay as the primary raw material. However, clay extraction has significant environmental impacts and limits access to LWAs in the North and Northeast regions, resulting in high costs and hindering sustainable construction solutions. This study addresses these challenges by developing sustainable LWAs in the Northeast Region using raw materials from the metropolitan area of João Pessoa, Paraíba, namely chamotte (CHT), which is rich in aluminosilicates, and eucalyptus firewood ash (EFA), which is rich in carbonates, combined with kaolinitic clay (KC). Sixty-four binary mixtures were produced, demonstrating diverse properties in density, water absorption, and compressive strength. EFA-rich mixtures achieved the highest expansion (80%) and lowest density (1.20 g/cm3), while CHT-rich mixtures provided superior strength (>10 MPa) and deformation (>20 GPa). These properties highlight their suitability for diverse applications, from structural uses to landscaping, enhanced by distinct color variations. Statistical optimization identified the residue content and sintering temperature as key factors, confirming the technical viability of incorporating up to 80% industrial waste into sustainable LWA production. Therefore, the results confirm the technical feasibility of producing LWAs using CHT and EFA in the metropolitan region of João Pessoa/Paraíba, achieving properties comparable to commercial LWAs. By incorporating up to 80% industrial waste, this study reduces dependence on non-renewable resources, decreases CO2 emissions and transportation costs, and promotes sustainable practices. The findings offer a scalable, eco-friendly solution to resource-limited regions’ material scarcity. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

26 pages, 2496 KiB  
Article
Estimation of Gridded Population with Spatial Downscaling in South Korea
by Sungdon Kim, Youngmi Lee and Haejune Oh
Sustainability 2025, 17(4), 1511; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17041511 - 12 Feb 2025
Viewed by 2030
Abstract
South Korea faces serious challenges regarding population imbalance and sustainability due to low birth rates and the aging population. This study utilizes future population projection scenarios provided by Statistics Korea to estimate population distributions at both regional and grid levels. The analysis applies [...] Read more.
South Korea faces serious challenges regarding population imbalance and sustainability due to low birth rates and the aging population. This study utilizes future population projection scenarios provided by Statistics Korea to estimate population distributions at both regional and grid levels. The analysis applies an urban growth model for administrative divisions and a modified gravity model for grid-level estimations. The modified gravity model enhances the prediction accuracy by effectively accounting for multi-centered urban structures and excluding non-residential areas such as mountains, rivers, and parks. Additionally, a novel spatial weight matrix considering train station connectivity is introduced. The results show that incorporating public transportation infrastructure around cities slows the rate of population decline, highlighting its mitigating effects on regional extinction. The study predicts that over 30 cities will face depopulation risks by 2072, while population concentration in the Seoul metropolitan area will persist. The grid-level analysis reveals detailed patterns of population imbalance within regions, particularly identifying uninhabited areas and their spatial distribution. These findings carry significant implications for infrastructure planning and regional development. By employing innovative modeling approaches and high-resolution projections, this study provides policymakers with valuable insights into South Korea’s demographic challenges and potential advances in sustainable urban and regional development. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 269 KiB  
Article
What Tackles Vehicle GHG Emissions in California: Regional Plan Adoption or Local Leadership?
by Ahoura Zandiatashbar, Serena Alexander and Branka Tatarevic
Sustainability 2025, 17(3), 1213; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17031213 - 3 Feb 2025
Viewed by 1330
Abstract
The California Senate Bill No. 375 (SB 375) serves as a model policy for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by integrating transportation and land-use planning through regional and local policies. The 18 California Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) are tasked with developing Sustainable Communities [...] Read more.
The California Senate Bill No. 375 (SB 375) serves as a model policy for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by integrating transportation and land-use planning through regional and local policies. The 18 California Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) are tasked with developing Sustainable Communities Strategies (SCS) to guide emissions reductions, often implemented locally through Climate Action Plans (CAPs). However, CAPs are voluntary, and misalignment with SCS objectives can undermine their effectiveness. This study examined 25 California cities using content analysis and regression modeling to explore whether independent local actions, supported by community engagement, activist strategies, and leadership, are more effective than regional alignment in reducing vehicle trips. The findings show that while aligning regional and local plans is important for equity and resource distribution, local activist leadership in addressing specific issues, such as parking and public education, achieves significant reductions in vehicle trips. These efforts lead to a 20% increase in non-auto commuting, even without a mandated regional alignment. Additionally, regional strategies such as climate-friendly infrastructure and mass transit are crucial for addressing resource disparities between lower-income communities with limited volunteer capacity and wealthier communities that benefit from robust regional plans and strong local leadership. This study provides critical evidence of the effectiveness of regional and local approaches, emphasizing the need for a balanced, multi-scalar framework to enhance transportation emission reductions and climate resilience. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Urban and Rural Development)
18 pages, 4648 KiB  
Article
Agricultural Land Suitability Analysis for Land Use Planning: The Case of the Madrid Region
by Nerea Morán-Alonso, Andrés Viedma-Guiard, Marian Simón-Rojo and Rafael Córdoba-Hernández
Land 2025, 14(1), 134; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14010134 - 10 Jan 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1919
Abstract
Agricultural land is a key resource for territorial resilience. In the European context, fertile soils are under pressure not only from urbanisation processes, abandonment and the establishment of non-agricultural uses but also from agriculture that is not well adapted to territorial resources. In [...] Read more.
Agricultural land is a key resource for territorial resilience. In the European context, fertile soils are under pressure not only from urbanisation processes, abandonment and the establishment of non-agricultural uses but also from agriculture that is not well adapted to territorial resources. In order to inform urban planning, a methodology is proposed and applied to the Madrid region to analyse the suitability of agricultural land uses with respect to agrological quality. The majority of agricultural uses in the region are well adapted to the agroecological quality of the land; larger areas of over-exploited land are located along some of the region’s rivers and in the Campiña, while under-utilised land is mainly found in the south-west and in the metropolitan comarcas. This methodology is based on official and open-access information, so it can be easily replicated and used to inform land planning. We propose three strategies depending on the suitability of land use: the introduction of crops in priority areas for horticulture or arable crops, agricultural protection areas and ecological regeneration areas. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agricultural Land Management towards a Net-Zero Pathway)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Back to TopTop