Search Results (1,416)

The construction sector significantly contributes to global environmental degradation through intensive resource extraction, high energy consumption, and substantial waste generation. Addressing this unsustainable trajectory requires integrated approaches that simultaneously improve operational efficiency and material circularity. Lean Construction (LC) and Circular Economy (CE) offer complementary frameworks for enhancing process performance and reducing environmental impacts. However, their combined implementation remains underdeveloped and fragmented. This study conducts a systematic literature review (SLR) of 18 peer-reviewed articles published between 2010 and 2025, selected using PRISMA 2020 guidelines and sourced from Scopus and Web of Science databases. A mixed-method approach combines bibliometric mapping and qualitative content analysis to investigate how LC and CE are jointly operationalized in construction contexts. The findings reveal that LC improves cost, time, and workflow reliability, while CE enables reuse, modularity, and lifecycle extension. Integration is further supported by digital tools—such as Building Information Modelling (BIM), Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA), and digital twins—which enhance traceability and flow optimization. Nonetheless, persistent barriers—including supply chain fragmentation, lack of standards, and regulatory gaps—continue to constrain widespread adoption. This review identifies six strategic enablers for LC-CE integration: crossdisciplinary competencies, collaborative governance, interoperable digital systems, standardized indicators, incentive-based regulation, and pilot demonstrator projects. By consolidating fragmented evidence, the study provides a structured research agenda and practical insights to guide the transition toward more circular, efficient, and sustainable construction practices. Full article

The subject of this research is the original project concept of the life-centered city, which focuses on the planning and design of sustainable solutions for urban landscape transformation. This concept prioritizes the well-being and needs of all life on Earth, including not only humans but also animals and their natural habitats. The aim of this article is to propose ways to implement the life-centered city concept into the strategic development policies of cities and identify sustainable urban landscape solutions that foster the creation of interspecies spaces. The research employs a comparative analysis of selected European cities, neighborhoods, and urban microspaces that are progressively adapting to climate change, addressing the needs of various users, and prioritizing the development of interspecies spaces. A detailed study focuses on the Polish city of Gliwice, which serves as a pilot example of applying the life-centered city model to local landscapes. Our findings suggest that the life-centered city concept, when effectively integrated into city development strategies and implemented within the urban fabric, can act as a proactive tool for transforming urban landscapes to better accommodate both people and nature. It supports the creation of a sustainable built environment that is inclusive, resilient, and adaptable to change. Full article

Precision irrigation plays a crucial role in managing crop production in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner. This study builds on the results of the GreenWaterDrone project, aiming to estimate, in real time, the actual water requirements of crop fields using the crop water stress index, integrating infrared canopy temperature, air temperature, relative humidity, and thermal and near-infrared imagery. To achieve this, a state-of-the-art aerial micrometeorological station (AMMS), equipped with an infrared thermal sensor, temperature–humidity sensor, and advanced multispectral and thermal cameras is mounted on an unmanned aerial system (UAS), thus minimizing crop field intervention and permanently installed equipment maintenance. Additionally, data from satellite systems and ground micrometeorological stations (GMMS) are integrated to enhance and upscale system results from the local field to the regional level. The research was conducted over two years of pilot testing in the municipality of Trifilia (Peloponnese, Greece) on pilot potato and watermelon crops, which are primary cultivations in the region. Results revealed that empirical irrigation applied to the rhizosphere significantly exceeded crop water needs, with over-irrigation exceeding by 390% the maximum requirement in the case of potato. Furthermore, correlations between high-resolution remote and proximal sensors were strong, while associations with coarser Landsat 8 satellite data, to upscale the local pilot field experimental results, were moderate. By applying a comprehensive model for upscaling pilot field results, to the overall Trifilia region, project findings proved adequate for supporting sustainable irrigation planning through simulation scenarios. The results of this study, in the context of the overall services introduced by the project, provide valuable insights for farmers, agricultural scientists, and local/regional authorities and stakeholders, facilitating improved regional water management and sustainable agricultural policies. Full article

This study examines the added value of territorial cooperation within the LEADER approach, a key pillar of the EU’s rural development policy. Both interterritorial and transnational cooperation projects empower Local Action Groups (LAGs) to tackle common challenges through innovative and community-driven strategies. Drawing on over 3000 projects since 1994, LEADER cooperation has proven its ability to deliver tangible results—such as joint publications, pilot projects, and shared digital platforms—alongside intangible benefits like knowledge exchange, improved governance, and stronger social capital. By facilitating experiential learning and inter-organizational collaboration, cooperation enables stakeholders to work across territorial boundaries and build networks that respond to both national and transnational development issues. The interaction among diverse actors often fosters innovative responses to local and regional problems. Using a mixed-methods approach, including case studies of Italian LAGs, this research analyses the dynamics, challenges, and impacts of cooperation, with a focus on learning processes, capacity building, and long-term sustainability. Therefore, this study focuses not only on project outcomes but also on the processes and learning dynamics that generate added value through cooperation. The findings highlight how territorial cooperation promotes inclusivity, fosters cross-border dialogue, and supports the development of context-specific solutions, ultimately enhancing rural resilience and innovation. In conclusion, LEADER cooperation contributes to a more effective, participatory, and sustainable model of rural development, offering valuable insights for the broader EU cohesion policy. Full article

The environmental impact of first-generation biodiesel production, particularly deforestation and soil degradation caused by palm and soybean cultivation, has raised concerns about sustainability. In contrast, second-generation biodiesel utilizes waste as feedstock, offering a more sustainable alternative. Used cooking oil (UCO), a significant waste stream, represents a viable feedstock for biodiesel production, reducing pollution and mitigating economic, environmental, and social challenges. While Europe has demonstrated successful UCO waste management strategies, many regions lack efficient systems, leading to improper disposal that causes water eutrophication, soil degradation, and increased wastewater treatment costs. This study develops a comprehensive strategy for UCO management to optimize its energy potential in biodiesel production, using Barranquilla, Colombia, as a case study. Transesterification, identified as the most efficient conversion method, achieves conversion rates of up to 90%. A pilot project in the Barranquilla area estimates that 963,070.95 kg of UCO is generated annually, with the potential to produce 902,108.56 kg of biodiesel. These findings contribute to the advancement of circular economy principles, offering an adaptable framework for sustainable biofuel production in other regions. Full article

This study introduces Edible Streets as a distinct and scalable model of community-led urban food growing, specifically investigating the drivers and barriers to the initiative. Unlike traditional urban food-growing initiatives, Edible Streets explores the integration of edible plants into street verges and footpaths with direct community involvement of the people who live/work in a street. This study contributes new knowledge by evaluating Edible Streets through the COM-B model of behavioural change, through policy and governance in addition to behaviour change, and by developing practical frameworks to facilitate its implementation. Focusing on Oxford, the research engaged residents through 17 in-person interviews and 18 online surveys, alongside a stakeholder workshop with 21 policymakers, community leaders, and NGO representatives. Findings revealed strong motivation for Edible Streets, driven by values of sustainability, community resilience, and improved well-being. However, capability barriers, including knowledge gaps in gardening, land-use policies, and food preservation, as well as opportunity constraints related to land access, water availability, and environmental challenges, hindered participation. To address these, a How-to Guide was developed, and a pilot Edible Street project was launched. Future steps include establishing a licensing application model to facilitate urban food growing and conducting a Post-Use Evaluation and Impact Study. Nationally, this model could support Right to Grow policies, while globally, it aligns with climate resilience and food security goals. Locally grown food enhances biodiversity, reduces carbon footprints, and strengthens social cohesion. By tackling key barriers and scaling solutions, this study provides actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners to create resilient, equitable urban food systems. Full article

Purpose: This pilot study aimed to evaluate how deviations in X-ray tube head angulation and digital sensor alignment affect the radiographic measurement of the profile angle in CAD-CAM abutments. Materials and Methods: A mandibular model was used with five implant positions (central, buccal, and lingual offsets). Custom CAD-CAM abutments were designed with identical bucco-lingual direction contours and varying mesio-distal asymmetry for the corresponding implant positions. Periapical radiographs were acquired under controlled conditions by systematically varying vertical tube angulation, horizontal tube angulation, and horizontal sensor rotation from 0° to 20° in 5° increments for each parameter. Profile angles, interthread distances, and proximal overlaps were measured and compared with baseline STL data. Results: Profile angle measurements were significantly affected by both X-ray tube and sensor deviations. Horizontal tube angulation produced the greatest profile angle distortion, particularly in buccally positioned implants. Vertical x-ray tube angulations beyond 15° led to progressive underestimation of profile angles, while horizontal tube head rotation introduced asymmetric mesial–distal variation. Sensor rotation also caused marked interthread elongation, in some cases exceeding 100%, despite vertical projection being maintained. Profile angle deviations greater than 5° occurred in multiple conditions. Conclusions: X-ray tube angulation and sensor alignment influence the reliability of profile angle measurements. Radiographs with > 10% interthread elongation or crown overlap may be inaccurate and warrant re-acquisition. Special attention is needed when imaging buccally positioned implants. Full article

The energy sector uses artificial intelligence (AI) as a crucial instrument to achieve environmental sustainability targets by improving resource efficiency and decreasing emissions while minimizing waste production. This paper establishes an industry-specific executive playbook that guides energy sector leaders by implementing AI technologies for sustainability management with approaches suitable for industrial needs. The playbook provides an industry-specific framework along with strategies and AI-based solutions to help organizations overcome their sustainability challenges. Predictive analytics combined with smart grid management implemented through AI applications produced 15% less energy waste and reduced carbon emissions by 20% according to industry pilot project data. AI has proven its transformative capabilities by optimizing energy consumption while detecting inefficiencies to create both operational improvements and cost savings. The real-time monitoring capabilities of AI systems help companies meet strict environmental regulations and international climate goals by optimizing resource use and waste reduction, supporting circular economy practices for sustainable operations and enduring profitability. Leaders can establish impactful technology-based sustainability initiatives through the playbook which addresses the energy sector requirements for corporate goals and regulatory standards. Full article

Evaluating the implant site immediately after implant removal is crucial for assessing its condition and ensuring morphological stability. Immediate reconstruction at the time of implant removal has been proposed as a strategy to preserve alveolar ridge width. This study aims to evaluate whether immediate alveolar bone reconstruction at the time of implant removal provides comparable or superior dimensional stability of the alveolar ridge compared to staged reconstruction approaches. The null hypothesis of this study is that there is no significant difference in alveolar bone dimensions between immediate and staged reconstructions following implant removal. This retrospective study included seven participants, consisting of six males and one female. The participants were categorized into three groups based on the treatment approach following implant removal. In Group 1, no bone grafting was performed after implant removal. In Group 2, bone grafting was conducted following implant removal, with an adequate healing period before implant placement. In Group 3, bone grafting was performed simultaneously with implant removal. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging was conducted before implant removal (T0), after implant removal or bone grafting (T1), and after implant placement (T2). All removed implants were successfully replaced with new ones, regardless of bone grafting. In terms of alveolar ridge width at 1 mm below the crest, Group 1 exhibited the greatest reduction (ΔT1 − T0 = −5.1 ± 3.7 mm), while Group 2 showed a mild increase (+1.1 ± 2.6 mm), and Group 3 had a moderate decrease (−1.3 ± 1.0 mm). This suggests that delayed bone grafting can better preserve or enhance bone volume during healing. A reduction in buccal ridge height between T1 and T0 (ΔT1 − T0) was observed, particularly in Group 1. In contrast, an increase in buccal ridge height was most pronounced in Group 2. Although immediate reconstruction (Group 3) did not result in statistically significant gains, it achieved successful implant placement without complications and reduced the total treatment duration, which might be beneficial from a clinical efficiency and patient satisfaction standpoint. Therefore, staged bone grafting (Group 2) appears to offer greater dimensional stability, particularly in maintaining ridge height, whereas immediate reconstruction (Group 3) remains a clinically viable alternative for stable healing in select cases, especially when shorter treatment timelines are prioritized. Full article

This article presents an empirical evaluation of the technical and economic performance of a building-integrated photovoltaic (PV) system implemented at the Faculty of Architecture and Urbanism of the University of Cuenca, Ecuador. This study explores both stages of deployment, beginning with a 7.7 kWp pilot system and later scaling to a full 75.6 kWp configuration. This hourly monitoring of power exchanges with utility was conducted over several months using high-resolution instrumentation and cloud-based analytics platforms. A detailed comparison between projected energy output, recorded production, and real energy consumption was carried out, revealing how seasonal variability, cloud cover, and academic schedules influence system behavior. The findings also include a comparison between billed and actual electricity prices, as well as an analysis of the system’s payback period under different cost scenarios, including state-subsidized and real-cost frameworks. The results confirm that energy exports are frequent during weekends and that daily generation often exceeds on-site demand on non-working days. Although the university benefits from low electricity tariffs, the system demonstrates financial feasibility when broader public cost structures are considered. This study highlights operational outcomes under real-use conditions and provides insights for scaling distributed generation in institutional settings, with particular relevance for Andean urban contexts with similar solar profiles and tariff structures. Full article

This article describes a pilot project studying the potential benefits of using virtual reality (VR) in design reviews of cruise ship interiors. The research was conducted as part of a 2020–2022 research project targeting at sustainable shipbuilding methods. It was directly connected to an ongoing cruise ship building project, executed in cooperation with four companies constructing interiors. The goal was to use VR reviews instead of, or in addition to, constructing physical mock-up sections of the ship interiors, with expected improvements in sustainability and stakeholder communication. A number of virtual 3D models were created, imported into a virtual reality environment, and presented to customers. Experiences were collected through interviews and surveys from both the construction companies and customers. The results indicate that VR can be an efficient tool for design reviews. The designs can often be evaluated better in VR than using traditional methods. Material savings are possible by using virtual mock-ups instead of physical ones. However, it was also discovered that the visual rendering capabilities of the used software environment do not provide the realism that would be desired in some reviews. To overcome this limitation, more resources would be needed in preparing the models for VR reviews. Full article

Background/Objectives: In Germany, the provision of healthcare for post-COVID patients primarily lies with general practitioners (GPs), who often lack the necessary knowledge and skills. As part of the PostCovidCare pilot study (PCC), case management software incorporating a symptom diary was introduced and piloted in n = 10 GP practices with n = 33 included patients involved (September 2022–March 2023). This study aimed to explore patients’ experiences. Methods: Semi-structured telephone interviews were transcribed and analyzed using qualitative content analysis. A total of n = 10 patient interviews were conducted (July–September 2023). Results: Patients’ experiences were heterogeneous. The service was largely structured, involving an extensive initial assessment, follow-up appointments, questionnaires, and support from medical assistants, but technical problems with the symptom diary occurred. The GP consultation played a prominent role. Positive aspects included being actively asked about their symptoms, being given a lot of time, initiating diagnostic and therapeutic measures, and having a closer relationship with their GP. Negative aspects included the time taken, resulting exhaustion, duplication of efforts, and insufficient involvement in the consultation process. Conclusions: The pilot study conducted at an early stage of the post-COVID era demonstrated the basic feasibility of case management in primary care from patients’ perspectives. In addition, for future projects, it is important to integrate patients into the design from the outset, adapt the software to users’ needs, and consider care providers’ perspectives. Full article

This paper presents the design, development, and pilot deployment of Vitalia, an AR-gamified application targeting the formation of healthy habits in primary education children. Developed within the EU DUSE project, Vitalia integrates physical activity, nutritional education, and immersive storytelling into a gamified framework to promote sustained behavioral change. Grounded in evidence-based behavior change models and co-designed with health, nutrition, and physical activity experts, the system envisions high daily engagement rates and measurable knowledge improvements. The concept positions Vitalia as a scalable model for child-centric, ethically responsible digital health interventions, with the potential to be integrated into school curricula and public health strategies. Full article

Dynamic Line Rating (DLR) technology is presented as a key solution to optimize the transmission capacity of power lines without the need to make investments in new infrastructure. Unlike traditional methods based on static estimates, DLR allows the thermal capacity of conductors to be evaluated in real time, considering the environmental and operational conditions. This article presents a state-of-the-art analysis of this technology, including a review of the main solutions currently available on the market. Likewise, the influence of variables such as ambient temperature, wind speed and direction or solar radiation in the determination of dynamic load capacity is discussed. It also reviews various pilot and commercial projects implemented internationally, evaluating their results and lessons learned. Finally, the main technological, regulatory, and operational challenges faced by the mass adoption of DLR are identified, including aspects such as the prediction of the dynamic capacity value, combination with other flexibility options, or integration with network management systems. This review is intended to serve as a basis for future developments and research in the field. Full article

Wildfires are becoming an increasingly severe threat to European forests, driven by climate change, land use changes, and socio-economic factors. Integrated solutions for wildfire prevention, early detection, emergency management, and ecological restoration are urgently needed to enhance forest resilience. The Horizon 2020 SILVANUS project developed a comprehensive multi-sectoral platform combining technological innovation, stakeholder engagement, and sustainable forest management strategies. This report analyses the Slovak Republic’s participation in SILVANUS, applying a seven-criterion fit–gap framework (governance, legal, interoperability, staff capacity, ecological suitability, financial feasibility, and stakeholder acceptance) to evaluate the platform’s alignment with national conditions. Notable contributions include stakeholder-supported functional requirements for wildfire prevention, climate-sensitive forest models for long-term adaptation planning, IoT- and UAV-based early fire detection technologies, and decision support systems (DSS) for emergency response and forest-restoration activities. The Slovak pilot sites, particularly in the Podpoľanie region, served as important testbeds for the validation of these tools under real-world conditions. All SILVANUS modules scored ≥12/14 in the fit–gap assessment; early deployment reduced high-risk fuel polygons by 23%, increased stand-level structural diversity by 12%, and raised the national Sustainable Forest Management index by four points. Integrating SILVANUS outcomes into national forestry practices would enable better wildfire risk assessment, improved resilience planning, and more effective public engagement in wildfire management. Opportunities for adoption include capacity-building initiatives, technological deployments in fire-prone areas, and the incorporation of DSS outputs into strategic forest planning. Potential challenges, such as technological investment costs, inter-agency coordination, and public acceptance, are also discussed. Overall, the Slovak Republic’s engagement with SILVANUS demonstrates the value of participatory, technology-driven approaches to sustainable wildfire management and offers a replicable model for other European regions facing similar challenges. Full article