Search Results (78)

Urban growth often surpasses the actual needs of the population, leading to inefficient land use and long-term environmental challenges. This study provides an integrated perspective on urban landscape transformation by linking socio-demographic dynamics with ecological consequences, notably vegetation loss and increased impervious surfaces. The study area is Năvodari Administrative-Territorial Unit (ATU), a coastal tourist city located along the Black Sea in Romania. By integrating geospatial datasets such as Urban Atlas and Corine Land Cover with population- and construction-related statistics, the analysis reveals a disproportionate increase in urbanized land compared to population growth. Time-series analyses based on the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Normalized Difference Built-up Index (NDBI) from 1990 to 2022 highlight significant ecological degradation, including vegetation loss and increased built-up density. The findings suggest that real estate investment and tourism-driven development play a more substantial role than demographic dynamics in shaping land use change. Understanding urban expansion as a coupled social–ecological process is essential for promoting sustainable planning and enhancing environmental resilience. While this study is focused on the coastal city of Năvodari, its insights are relevant to a broader international context, particularly for rapidly developing tourist destinations facing similar urban and ecological pressures. The findings support efforts toward more inclusive, balanced, and environmentally responsible urban development, aligning with the core principles of Sustainable Development Goal 11, particularly Target 11.3, which emphasizes sustainable urbanization and efficient land use. Full article

This paper introduces a novel multi-objective optimization framework for sustainable portfolio rebalancing under uncertainty. The model simultaneously targets return maximization, downside risk control, and liquidity preservation, addressing the complex trade-offs faced by investors in volatile markets. Unlike traditional static approaches, the framework allows for dynamic asset reallocation and explicitly incorporates nonlinear transaction costs, offering a more realistic representation of trading frictions. Key financial parameters—including expected returns, volatility, and liquidity—are modeled using interval arithmetic, enabling a flexible, distribution-free depiction of uncertainty. Risk is measured through semi-absolute deviation, providing a more intuitive and robust assessment of downside exposure compared to classical variance. A core innovation lies in the behavioral modeling of investor preferences, operationalized through three strategic configurations, pessimistic, optimistic, and mixed, implemented via convex combinations of interval bounds. The framework is empirically validated using a diversified cryptocurrency portfolio consisting of Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and Binance Coin, observed over a six-month period. The simulation results confirm the model’s adaptability to shifting market conditions and investor sentiment, consistently generating stable and diversified allocations. Beyond its technical rigor, the proposed framework aligns with sustainability principles by enhancing portfolio resilience, minimizing systemic concentration risks, and supporting long-term decision-making in uncertain financial environments. Its integrated design makes it particularly suitable for modern asset management contexts that require flexibility, robustness, and alignment with responsible investment practices. Full article

Strengthening producer groups, the rural community, and agri-food chains are important actions to help solve the problem of food poverty, improve the living conditions of producers and promote sustainable development in rural México. It is necessary to seek new ways to improve decision-making by producer groups and establish some principles to strengthen the different links in agri-food chains. The objective of this study was to analyze the integration of the Principles for Responsible Investment in Agriculture (PRIA) in the corn agri-food chain in order to assess its strengthening. A study was carried out in three cases based on the application of the “Working With People” (WWP) model as well as interviews with key actors. It was found that cooperating groups with a higher degree of application of the WWP model and PRIAs have a higher degree of stability and sustainable development and strengthen the integration and cooperation of local action groups. These groups have the technical component better organize the agri-food processes and better incorporate the PRIAs and improve their economic, social, and environmental development compared to other groups that do it in a traditional way. Full article

Water security is a basic requirement of a region’s residents and also an important point of discussion worldwide. The middle route of the south-to-north water diversion project (MR-SNWDP) represents the most extensive inter-basin water allocation scheme globally. It is the major water resource for the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region, and its security is of great significance. In this study, 28 indicators including society, nature, and economy were selected from the water sources of the MR-SNWDP from 2000 to 2017. According to the Drivers-Pressures-States-Impact-Response (DPSIR) framework principle, the entropy weight method was used for weight calculation, and the comprehensive evaluation method was used for evaluating the water security of the water sources of the MR-SNWDP. This study showed that the total loss of nonpoint source pollution (NPSP) in the water source showed a trend of slow growth, except in 2007. Over the past 18 years, the proportion of pollution from three NPSP sources, livestock, and poultry (LP) breeding industry, planting industry, and living sources, were 44.56%, 40.33%, and 15.11%, respectively. The main driving force of water security in all the areas of the water source was the total net income per capita of farmers. The main pressure was the amount of LP breeding and the amount of fertilizer application. The largest impact indicators were NPSP gray water footprint and soil erosion area, and water conservancy investment was the most effective response measure. Overall, the state of the water source safety was relatively stable, showing an overall upward trend, and it had remained at Grade III except for in 2005, 2006, and 2011. The state of water safety in all areas except Shiyan City was relatively stable, where the state of water safety had fluctuated greatly. Based on the assessment findings, implications for policy and decision-making suggestions for sustainable management of the water sources of the MR-SNWDP resources are put forward. Agricultural cultivation in water source areas should reduce the application of chemical fertilizers and accelerate the promotion of agricultural intensification. Water source areas should minimize retail livestock and poultry farming and promote ecological agriculture. The government should increase investment in water conservancy and return farmland to forests and grasslands, and at the same time strengthen the education of farmers’ awareness of environmental protection. The evaluation system of this study combined indicators such as the impact of agricultural nonpoint source pollution on water bodies, which is innovative and provides a reference for the water safety evaluation system. Full article

Sustainable innovation management (SIM) is increasingly recognized as a pivotal framework for addressing the dual challenges of economic growth and environmental responsibility. In response to escalating global pressures, this review explores how SIM can drive sustainable development by balancing profitability with ecological stewardship. Drawing on recent academic and industry sources, the paper examines the intersection of circular economy principles, emerging technologies, and policy frameworks in shaping sustainable innovation strategies. The review is structured around three key pillars: the integration of technologies, such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Internet of things in sustainable operations; the influence of regulatory drivers, including carbon pricing and environmental, social, and governance standards; and empirical case studies that highlight both challenges and success factors in SIM adoption. By synthesizing real-world applications across sectors and geographies, this study provides qualitative insights and quantitative indicators (e.g., CO₂ reduction, return on investment, material reuse rates) to inform practical strategies for business leaders and policymakers. Addressing gaps such as the lack of global harmonization in sustainability metrics and the under-representation of developing economies, this review contributes to a more inclusive and actionable understanding of SIM. This paper concludes by offering future research directions and policy recommendations aimed at accelerating the transition toward sustainable and circular business models. Full article

Food production faces significant economic, social, and environmental challenges. The Principles for Responsible Investment in Agriculture (CFS-RAI), aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), provide a framework for implementing actions and investments in sustainable food production. Farmers are the primary investors in their agricultural activities, playing a fundamental role in the sustainability of rural territories. This study aims to analyze the rural development innovation system implemented by the Fundación Casa Campesina Cayambe and its alignment with the CFS-RAI principles and SDG. Focusing on 129 women producing healthy food within the Kayambi people and adopting a mixed-methods approach, including participant observation, interviews, and focus groups, the research examines the integration of public institutions, academia, and civil society in promoting sustainable rural development. The findings indicate that key innovation processes include a participatory, community-based, and gender-sensitive microcredit system implemented by the Foundation. Additionally, the technical and scientific support provided by the Universidad Politécnica Salesiana enhances investment capacity and knowledge acquisition, strengthening both individual and collective capacities for food production and commercialization. The study concludes that a decentralized and coordinated cooperation system, involving multiple territorial stakeholders, fosters the economic autonomy of female producers while adhering to the principles of CFS-RAI and the SDG. Full article

This study addresses the vast amount of information held by the banking sector, especially regarding opportunities in tourism development, production, and large residential projects. With advancements in information technology and databases, data mining has become essential for banks to optimally utilize available data. From January 2023 to July 2024, data from the Egyptian Arab Land Bank (EALB) were analyzed using data mining techniques, including rough set theory and the Weka version 3.0 program. The aim was to identify potential units for targeted marketing, improve customer satisfaction, and contribute to sustainable development goals. By integrating sustainability principles into financing approaches, this research promotes green banking, encouraging environmentally friendly and socially responsible investments. A survey of EALB customers assessed their interest in purchasing homes under the real estate financing program. The results were analyzed with GraphPad Prism version 9.0, with 95% confidence intervals and an R-squared value close to 1, and we identified 13 units (43% of the total units) as having the highest marketing potential. This study highlights data mining’s role in enhancing marketing for the EALB’s residential projects. Combining sustainable financing with data insights promotes green banking, aligning with customer preferences and boosting satisfaction and profitability. Full article

This study examines the relationship between Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) disclosures and perceived financial performance within the context of Islamic finance, with a focus on Maqasid al-Shariah—the overarching goals of Islamic law. Using a quantitative approach, the study surveyed 350 stakeholders in Saudi Arabia’s Islamic finance sector, including corporate managers, investment professionals, and financial analysts, over a six-month period (May to October 2024). The findings indicate that stakeholders perceive a positive relationship between ESG disclosures and financial performance, particularly when companies align their ESG practices with Islamic finance principles. However, the study does not measure actual financial performance; rather, it assesses stakeholders’ perceptions of ESG’s influence on corporate governance, risk management, and investment attractiveness. Results suggest that companies integrating ESG principles with Maqasid al-Shariah foster greater stakeholder trust, enhance corporate responsibility, and promote long-term sustainability. However, variations in trust and investment decisions exist based on industry type, ESG disclosure levels, and demographic factors such as experience and familiarity with ESG practices. The study provides novel insights into how Islamic finance principles shape ESG disclosure practices, offering practical recommendations for improving corporate governance and sustainability. By emphasizing transparency, ethical investment, and regulatory alignment, these findings contribute to ongoing discussions on sustainable finance and the role of ESG in shaping Islamic financial institutions. Full article

The Principles for Responsible Investment in Agriculture and Food Systems (CFS-RAI) are suitable standards for contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the area of sound consumption and sustainable food. In this context, food banks have demonstrated their significant role in supporting vulnerable groups and reducing food waste through the implementation of various projects and activities. This study identifies and classifies the good practices of 54 food banks that comprise the Spanish Federation of Food Banks (FESBAL). The methodology applied was based on the Working with People model, integrating a social and collaborative learning process based on the accumulated experience of food banks over 35 years. The analysis was carried out based on four dimensions of sustainability, namely social, economic, environmental, and governance, in alignment with the CFS-RAI Principles. The results obtained show the good practices of food banks, highlighting their positive effects on the dimensions of sustainability, consistent with the CFS-RAI Principles, and the SDGs, evidencing improved food security and a holistic contribution to sustainable development. Full article

The current research work emphasizes the urgent need for a paradigm shift in Mediterranean tourism, advocating for the adoption of a comprehensive framework centered on sustainability in Tunisia. The establishment of an Inter-Ministerial Task Force is proposed to facilitate collaboration across governmental sectors, thereby enhancing governance and addressing the complexities of waste management within the tourism industry. Results reveal significant waste management inefficiencies and underscore the potential of integrated approaches that can lead to substantial environmental improvements. By fostering inter-ministerial collaboration, a strategic roadmap is provided that promotes effective resource recovery and sustainable waste management practices. Furthermore, the integration of the informal sector, exemplified by local recyclers, into formal waste management systems is anticipated to enhance social equity and bolster environmental stewardship. A comprehensive SWOT analysis identifies Tunisia’s intrinsic strengths, including its rich cultural heritage and significant eco-tourism potential, while simultaneously exposing shortcomings such as fragmented governance structures and insufficient infrastructure. It is posited that the creation of a centralized coordination body, coupled with the enhancement of public–private partnerships, could catalyze innovation in sustainable tourism practices, leading to increased investment opportunities and the successful implementation of circular economy principles. Drawing inspiration from Spain’s successful circular economy model, actionable recommendations for policymakers are offered, including the introduction of eco-certification programs aimed at incentivizing environmentally responsible practices within the tourism sector. Ultimately, the proposed framework aspires to position Tunisia as a regional leader in sustainable tourism, delivering long-term benefits to local communities through enhanced environmental protection and economic resilience. Full article

Driven by the principles of green consumption and social responsibility, more companies are making strategic green investments by adopting blockchain technology to achieve sustainable development goals. However, in the real market, upstream manufacturers often tend to be overconfident. This can have a significant impact on decision-making processes and even influence other members within the sustainable supply chain. This paper investigates the influence of blockchain technology on investment decisions in sustainable supply chains for a manufacturer exhibiting overconfidence. We construct a supply chain with an overconfident manufacturer and a rational retailer and discuss the performance of supply chains by comparing two scenarios: without blockchain and with blockchain. First, we find that overconfident manufacturer can only benefit from blockchain adoption if the actual operating cost is below this threshold. Then, the maximum adoption cost acceptable to manufacturer increases with the carbon tax rate and the consumers’ green sensitivity coefficient. Furthermore, with blockchain, manufacturer is likely to make more profit as the level of overconfidence increases compared to the case without blockchain. We also found that the retailer benefits from adopting blockchain technology only when the manufacturer’s overconfidence is at a low level. Otherwise, only when the blockchain operating cost is less than a certain threshold can the retailer increase their revenue. Finally, we find that when the level of overconfidence increases, blockchain adoption can boost consumer surplus and social welfare. Full article

With the extensive integration of renewable energy into the power grid, pumped storage power plants have become an essential component in the development of modern power systems due to their rapid response capabilities, advanced technology, and other beneficial features. However, high construction costs and irrational capital expenditure and construction schedules have constrained the robust and sustainable growth of pumped storage plants. Therefore, this paper proposes a pumped storage plant construction timing optimization method considering capital expenditure capacity feedback. Initially, an analysis is conducted on the factors that influence the capital expenditure costs of pumped storage power plants throughout their lifecycle. Next, the value of investing in pumped storage plants is assessed across three different aspects: economics, environment, and reliability. Finally, according to the principle of dynamic planning combined with the actual needs and capital expenditure potential of pumped storage plants, the sum of the capital expenditure effectiveness values in each stage is used as the indicator function of each stage to construct the pumped storage plants project capital expenditure timing optimization model, and a simulation analysis is carried out with Province Z as an example to verify the validity and applicability of the proposed model. The findings indicate that the suggested model is effective in balancing the implementation time of individual projects to achieve the maximum cumulative capital expenditure performance over the entire planning period. Full article

The role and responsibility of universities in supporting student mental health has been the subject of high-profile legal debate. Drawing on a thematic analysis of twelve semi-structured focus groups conducted during the Student Minds UK University Mental Health Charter consultations, this paper elucidates the experiences, perceptions, and practices of 75 staff working within student services to support student mental health, with the aim of clarifying the implications for role responsibilities within a whole university approach. Participants described being ‘stretched at both ends’ in response to a significant and ongoing increase both in overall demand and complexity of presentation, further compounded by capacity challenges in public mental health services. Despite the care and commitment of staff, these conditions compromise the effectiveness, safety, and accessibility of university services. As a result, students increasingly present with mental health challenges in academic settings, multiplying risk for themselves, their peers, academic staff, and their universities, whilst negatively impacting the learning process. Thus, precisely as sectoral debate around UK universities’ legal duty of care intensifies, the role and responsibility of university services and academic staff in relation to other institutional and external stakeholders is becoming increasingly indeterminate. Taken together, the findings demonstrate the imperative of clearer conceptualisation and investment in student services alongside closer working relationships with academic staff to ensure student success and safety, and to meet the principles of good practice in the University Mental Health Charter, as advocated by UK government. Full article

Traditional technical analysis methods face limitations in accurately predicting trends in today’s complex financial markets. Meanwhile, existing AI-driven approaches, while powerful in processing large datasets, often lack interpretability due to their black-box nature. This paper presents ElliottAgents, a multi-agent system that combines the Elliott wave principle with LLMs, showcasing the application of deep reinforcement learning (DRL) and natural language processing (NLP) in financial analysis. By integrating retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) and deep reinforcement learning (DRL), the system processes vast amounts of market data to identify Elliott wave patterns and generate actionable insights. The system employs a coordinated team of specialized agents, each responsible for specific aspects of analysis, from pattern recognition to investment strategy formulation. We tested ElliottAgents on both stock and cryptocurrency markets, evaluating its effectiveness in pattern identification and trend prediction across different time scales. Our experimental results demonstrate improvements in prediction accuracy when combining classical technical analysis with AI-driven approaches, particularly when enhanced by DRL-based backtesting process. This research contributes to the advancement of financial technology by introducing a scalable, interpretable framework that enhances market analysis capabilities, offering a promising new methodology for both practitioners and researchers. Full article

The semiconductor industry is a pivotal hub in the global information sector, in which superpowers compete for technological dominance. As a strategic, leading, and foundational sector, it is vital for advancing China’s manufacturing ambitions through new waves of transformation and upgrades. Therefore, of particular concern is the crisis surrounding China’s semiconductor supply chain insecurity and the intensifying U.S. sanctions on China’s high-tech companies. As such, in this study, we utilize data from China’s semiconductor enterprises, investments, and related statistics from 2002 to 2020; industrial agglomeration indicators; and a social network analysis to examine the spatiotemporal pattern, industrial agglomeration, and investment networks of six key value chain segments: wafer materials, packaging materials, semiconductor equipment, integrated circuit (IC) design, manufacturing, and testing/packaging. The research focuses on how these sectors can contribute to sustainable growth and economic responsibility within China’s semiconductor industry. Accordingly, the core questions explored were as follows: what are the provincial-level spatial production dynamics and evolutionary characteristics within China’s semiconductor industry, and how do the inter-provincial investment patterns manifest? The findings reveal the following: (1) The findings reveal a strong concentration of firms in the Eastern Coastal region, particularly in Jiangsu, Shanghai, Zhejiang, and Guangdong. Additionally, IC design exhibits the highest clustering, and other segments such as wafer materials, manufacturing, and packaging/testing are relatively concentrated, whereas equipment distribution is more dispersed. (2) The industry expanded steadily from 2002 to 2013, with a rapid expansion from 2014 to 2020, particularly in Guangdong. (3) Investment patterns are characterized by local and regional focus, strongly influenced by geographical proximity. This study aims to reveal the geographic concentration patterns of China’s semiconductor industry and to explore its investment networks. The findings are intended to provide theoretical support for optimizing sustainable industrial layouts, promoting sustainable industrial practices, and guiding policy formulation. Furthermore, in the broader context of de-globalization, this study offers insights and recommendations for strengthening industrial autonomy and sustainability in response to external challenges, thereby contributing to the sustainable development of a more robust domestic semiconductor supply chain. These insights are particularly significant in safeguarding China’s technological independence and future economic stability amid global tensions. Furthermore, by integrating sustainability into its semiconductor industry, China can create a more resilient, self-sufficient, and environmentally responsible industrial sector, capable of meeting both domestic and global demands. As China continues to expand its semiconductor industry, incorporating sustainable development principles will be essential for long-term success. The sustainable practices not only ensures compliance with environmental regulations but also enhances industrial competitiveness, promotes green techniques and contributes to broader societal goals. This aligns with China’s broader ambitions for sustainable development and positions the country as a key player in the global green technology revolution. Full article