Search Results (19,998)

Sea breezes alleviate coastal heat stress via cooling and humidifying. Sendai, Japan, in 2015 had a population of 1.08 million and an area of 786 km². Integrating the WRF model with RayMan, this study employs the PET index to assess spatiotemporal distributions of thermal comfort and heat stress, and their influencing factors, on typical summer sea-breeze days in Sendai, Japan. Results indicate that in the coastal zone, PET was primarily regulated by air temperature (Ta) and relative humidity (RH). In contrast, wind speed was the dominant influence on urban/inland zones, with Ta and RH contributing more during the evening. Sea breezes markedly improved the thermal environment in the coastal zone, suppressing PET increases. PET in urban and inland zones exhibited an initial rise followed by a decline, with the inland zone experiencing sustained extreme heat stress for 3 h. Among regions experiencing extreme heat stress, inland zones showed the highest proportion (17.75%), while coastal zones had the lowest (2.14%). Proportions across the three zones were similar under nighttime conditions with no thermal stress, with the urban zone exhibiting a slightly lower proportion. This study provides a theoretical basis for climate-adaptive urban planning leveraging sea breezes as a resource. Full article

Assessing ecological quality in mining areas is critical for environmental protection and sustainable resource management. However, most previous studies concentrate on large-scale analysis, overlooking fine-scale assessment in mining areas. To address this issue, this study proposed a novel analysis framework for mining areas by integrating high-resolution Landsat data, the Remote Sensing Ecological Index (RSEI), and the Random Forest regression method. Based on the framework, four decades of spatiotemporal dynamics and drivers of ecological quality were revealed in Youjiang River Valley. Results showed that from 1986 to 2024, ecological quality in Youjiang River Valley exhibited a fluctuating upward trend (slope = 0.004/year), with notable improvement concentrated in the most recent decade. Spatially, areas with a significant increasing trend in RSEI (48.71%) were mainly located in natural vegetation regions, whereas areas with a significant decreasing trend (9.11%) were concentrated in impervious surfaces and croplands in northern and central regions. Driver analysis indicates that anthropogenic factors played a crucial role in ecological quality changes. Specifically, land use intensity, precipitation, and sunshine duration were main determinants. These findings offer a comprehensive understanding of ecological quality evolution in subtropical karst mining areas and provide crucial insights for conservation and restoration efforts in Youjiang River Valley. Full article

Plant-based diets are increasingly attracting attention as they play a significant role in human health and environmental sustainability and are believed to be key components of sustainable food systems. In the present study, both pros and cons of the adoption of plant-based diets are analyzed using a bibliometric method integrated with a qualitative examination of the scientific literature. For the bibliometric study, Bibliometrix software was utilized, examining 3245 scientific articles, downloaded from the Scopus database, and printed between the years 1957 and 2025. The analyses were conducted using R software, version 4.4.1, with access to the Bibliometrix package, version 4.1. The results indicate a remarkable rise, in the last two decades, in the scholarly focus on the influence of plant-based diets on the individual’s health condition as well as the environment. Keyword co-occurrence studies and international collaborations demonstrate a dominance of research focus in both the United States and Europe, with significant contributions from the Asia–Pacific region. Furthermore, the current work offers qualitative identification of the benefits of plant diets from various perspectives like nutritional, economic, ecological, and cultural. It also explores the main dissuaders from adhering to these diets, including perceived nutritional hazards, cost perceptions, low availability, and social prohibitions. Findings emphasize that, in spite of all the barriers, plant food-based diets have a wide-ranging ability to provide tangible benefits at both the individual and population levels, and documented in the scientific literature are recommendations of expert-led education programs, economic incentives, and judiciously framed public policies to overcome these barriers and to make this transition possible towards sustainable food choices. Findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the current lines of inquiry and stage the subsequent work on how to motivate sustainability among the general population. Full article

Water quality evaluation is a crucial component of water source management and pollution prevention, essential for achieving regional water safety and sustainable development. The spatial distribution and trends of major water pollutants in Wan’an Reservoir were analyzed. Subsequently, a fuzzy membership model was employed to develop a comprehensive water quality evaluation method. This approach assessed spatial variations in water quality across the upper, middle, and lower reaches of the reservoir, identifying key factors influencing water quality. The results indicate that water quality in Wan’an Reservoir, primarily characterized by total nitrogen, was poor. Notably, 50% of the sampling points in the main stream were identified as highly polluted, with the highest exceedance rate observed in the middle reaches of the tributaries. Sampling points classified as Class I were predominantly located in the upper reaches, where water quality benefitted from clean incoming water and minimal disturbance. In contrast, the lower reaches experienced more severe pollution due to the cumulative effects of domestic sewage, industrial wastewater, and agricultural runoff. These findings are crucial for developing effective water environmental protection strategies and promoting the sustainable utilization and protection of water resources. Full article

The registration system reform (RSR) represents a landmark innovation in China’s IPO system, aiming to promote a more transparent, competitive, and sustainable market. Exploiting the staggered implementation of RSR as a quasi-natural experiment, we employ a difference-in-differences (DID) model using a sample of Chinese A-share IPO firms from 2016 to 2022 to investigate its impact on corporate sustainability, as proxied by environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance. Our findings indicate that RSR significantly enhances corporate ESG performance, especially the governance (G) performance. Mechanism analysis suggests that market competition, investor rationality, and sponsor reputation are potential channels through which the reform facilitates corporate sustainability. Furthermore, the above relationship is more pronounced in regions with a higher degree of marketization, among non-state-owned enterprises, and those with weaker profitability. Moreover, the reform not only exhibits long-term effects but also demonstrates positive spillover effects on peer firms originally listed under the approval-based system. Overall, our study extends the understanding of how capital market institutional reforms promote corporate sustainability in the era of the digital economy and provides valuable insights for regulators to standardize and enhance RSR, thereby establishing a resilient and sustainable financial ecosystem. Full article

Against the backdrop of global commitments to sustainable development and carbon neutrality objectives, the agricultural sector faces compelling imperatives to transition toward environmentally sustainable and resource-efficient production systems. Focusing on the critical role of agricultural inputs, this study investigates how China’s Zero Growth Policy for Fertilizer and Pesticide Use (ZGP), implemented in 2015, influences green transformation in the agricultural inputs sector through a quasi-natural experiment framework. Employing a staggered difference-in-differences (DID) design with comprehensive nationwide firm registration data from 2013 to 2020, we provide novel micro-level evidence on environmental regulation’s market-shaping effects. Our findings demonstrate that the ZGP significantly enhances green market selection, stimulating entry of environmentally certified firms, with effect heterogeneity revealing policy impacts are attenuated in manufacturing-intensive regions due to green entry barriers, while being amplified in major grain-producing areas and more market-oriented regions. Mechanism analyses identify three key transmission channels: intensified regulatory oversight, heightened public environmental awareness, and growing market demand for sustainable inputs. Furthermore, the policy has induced structural transformation within the industry, progressively increasing green enterprises’ market share. These results offer valuable insights for designing targeted environmental governance mechanisms to facilitate sustainable transitions in agricultural input markets. Full article

In the context of global climate change and growing food security challenges, this study provides a comprehensive analysis of the yields of three staple crops (wheat, corn and rice) in the Yellow River Basin of China, employing multiple quantitative analysis methods including the Mann–Kendall trend test, center of gravity transfer model and hotspot analysis. Our research integrates yield data covering these three crops from 72 prefecture-level cities across the Yellow River Basin, during 2000 to 2023, to systematically examine the temporal variation, spatial variation and spatial agglomeration characteristics of the yields. The study uses GeoDetector to explore the impacts of natural and socioeconomic factors on changes in crop yields from both single-factor and interactive-factor perspectives. While traditional statistical methods often struggle to simultaneously handle complex causal relationships among multiple factors, particularly in effectively distinguishing between direct and indirect influence paths or accounting for the transmission effects of factors through mediating variables, this study adopts Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to identify which factors directly affect crop yields and which exert indirect effects through other factors. This approach enables us to elucidate the path relationships and underlying mechanisms governing crop yields, thereby revealing the direct and indirect influences among multiple factors. This study conducted an analysis using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), classifying the intensity of influence based on the absolute value of the impact factor (with >0.3 defined as “strong”, 0.1–0.3 as “moderate” and <0.1 as “weak”), and distinguishing the nature of influence by the positive or negative value (positive values indicate promotion, negative values indicate inhibition). The results show that among natural factors, temperature has a moderate promoting effect on wheat (0.21) and a moderate inhibiting effect on corn (−0.25); precipitation has a moderate inhibiting effect on wheat (−0.28) and a moderate promoting effect on rice (0.17); DEM has a strong inhibiting effect on wheat (−0.33) and corn (−0.58), and a strong promoting effect on rice (0.38); slope has a moderate inhibiting effect on wheat (−0.15) and a moderate promoting effect on corn (0.15). Among socioeconomic factors, GDP has a weak promoting effect on wheat (0.01) and a moderate inhibiting effect on rice (−0.20), while the impact of population is relatively small. In terms of indirect effects, slope indirectly inhibits wheat (−0.051, weak) and promotes corn (0.149, moderate) through its influence on temperature; DEM indirectly promotes rice (0.236, moderate) through its influence on GDP and precipitation. In terms of interaction effects, the synergy between precipitation and temperature has the highest explanatory power for wheat and rice, while the synergy between DEM and precipitation has the strongest explanatory power for corn. The study further analyzes the mechanisms of direct and indirect interactions among various factors and finds that there are significant temporal and spatial differences in crop yields in the Yellow River Basin, with natural factors playing a leading role and socioeconomic factors showing dynamic regulatory effects. These findings provide valuable insights for sustainable agricultural development and food security policy-making in the region. Full article

Despite global initiatives to combat Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, such activities continue unabated. As a response, states are encouraged to join the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations Port State Measures Agreement (PSMA) as a countermeasure. Despite these efforts, it is suspected that many IUU fishing activities involve non-party or unknown vessels that evade international sanctions. This study aims to propose technical and institutional improvement measures in light of these challenges. First, using available IUU vessel lists, we conducted independent-sample comparisons and paired-sample comparisons to analyze the characteristics of IUU vessels. As key solutions, we propose the formation of a global collaborative body to facilitate an integrated information chain, the implementation of advanced technologies for systematic operations, strategies to encourage PSMA accession by non-parties, market investigations, and enhanced national inspection and organizational capabilities. Furthermore, this study seeks to strengthen global deterrence of IUU fishing activities by proposing a phased international cooperation framework to enhance the feasibility of integrating the PSMA, Global Record (GR), Global Information Exchange System (GIES), and Regional Fisheries Management Organization (RFMO) systems. These strategies are expected to contribute positively to the transparent governance, sustainable management of fishery resources, and safety officers and vessels. Full article

The construction of prefabricated concrete houses in Ecuador poses significant challenges in terms of environmental and social sustainability, amid growing housing demand and the urgent need to mitigate adverse impacts associated with the construction processes and materials. In particular, the lack of a comprehensive assessment of these impacts limits the development of effective strategies to improve the sustainability of the sector. In addition, in rural areas, the design of flexible and adapted solutions is required, as evidenced by recent studies in the Andean area. This study conducts a comprehensive assessment of the impacts and sustainability indicators for prefabricated concrete houses, employing international certification systems such as LEED, BREEAM, and VERDE, to validate various relevant environmental and social indicators. The methodology used is the Hierarchical Analytical Process (AHP), which facilitates the prioritization of impacts through paired comparisons, establishing priorities for decision-making. Hydrological, soil, faunal, floral, and socioeconomic aspects are evaluated in a regional context. The results reveal that the most critical environmental impacts in Ecuador are climate change (28.77%), water depletion (13.73%) and loss of human health (19.17%), generation of non-hazardous waste 8.40%, changes in biodiversity 5%, extraction of mineral resources 12.07%, financial risks 5.33%, loss of aquatic life 4.67%, and loss of fertility 3%, as derived from hierarchical and standardization matrices. Despite being grounded in a literature review and being constrained due to the scarcity of previous projects in the country, this research provides a useful framework for the environmental evaluation and planning of prefabricated housing. To conclude, this study enhances existing methodologies of environmental assessment techniques and practices in the construction of precast concrete and promotes the development of sustainable and socially responsible housing in Ecuador. Full article

Coastal erosion and shoreline change represent major challenges for the sustainable management of coastal environments, with implications for infrastructure, ecosystems, biodiversity, and the socio-economic well-being of coastal communities. This study investigates the shoreline evolution of 79 Mediterranean microtidal beaches located along the southern coast of Sardinia Island (Italy), using the Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS). Shorelines were manually digitised from high-resolution aerial orthophotos made available through the WMS service of the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, covering the period 1954–2022. Shoreline changes were assessed through five statistical indicators: Shoreline Change Envelope (SCE), Net Shoreline Movement (NSM), End Point Rate (EPR), Weighted Linear Regression (WLR), and Linear Regression Rate (LRR). The results highlight marked spatial and temporal variability in shoreline retreat and accretion, revealing patterns that link shoreline dynamics to the degree of anthropisation or naturalness of each beach. In fact, coastal areas characterised by local anthropogenic factors showed higher rates of shoreline retreat and/or accretion, while natural beaches showed greater stability and resilience in the long term. The outcomes of this analysis provide valuable insights into local coastal dynamics and represent a critical knowledge base for developing targeted adaptation strategies, supporting spatial planning, and reducing coastal risks under future climate change scenarios. Full article

This study aims to assess the role of headwater systems (HS) in enhancing ecological connectivity and supporting Green Infrastructure in the Centre Region of Portugal. Specifically, it identifies restoration opportunity areas within HS by analysing land-use changes over the past 70 years, modelling land-use scenarios to promote ecological resilience, and evaluating connectivity between HS and Natura 2000 sites. The methodology integrates spatial analysis of historical land-use data with connectivity modelling using least-cost path approaches. Results show substantial transformation in HS areas, notably the expansion of eucalyptus plantations and a decline in agricultural land. Approximately 58% of the HS are identified as requiring restoration, including areas within the Natura 2000 network. The connectivity assessment reveals that HS can function as effective ecological corridors, contributing to improved water regulation, soil conservation, gene flow, and wildfire mitigation. A total of 61 potential ecological linkages between Natura 2000 sites were identified. These findings highlight the strategic importance of integrating HS into regional and national Green Infrastructure planning and supporting the implementation of the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030. The study recommends prioritising headwater restoration through multi-scale planning approaches and active involvement of local stakeholders to ensure sustainable land-use management. Full article

Rapid, accurate, and sustainable methods for assessing soil properties are essential for environmental management. This study proposes a green analytical approach for the direct determination of soil texture and organic matter using benchtop (1250–2500 nm) and portable (900–1700 nm) near-infrared (NIR) spectrophotometers combined with multivariate calibration. Partial least squares (PLS1 and PLS2) regression models were developed using regional calibration samples and applied to additional samples from the same area. Both individual (PLS1) and simultaneous (PLS2) predictions of clay, sand, silt, and organic matter contents were evaluated. Synergy interval PLS (siPLS) algorithms were used to optimize variable selection. For clay, RMSEP was 2.1% (benchtop) and 2.0% (portable), with RPD values around 2.0. Simultaneous prediction of sand content yielded better results (RPD = 1.3 benchtop; 0.8 portable). Silt prediction showed low accuracy (RPD < 1.0). Organic matter was best predicted by siPLS1 using the benchtop device (RPD = 1.5), followed by portable PLS2 (RPD = 1.2). Benchtop and portable NIR approaches proved satisfactory for direct determination of soil properties. PLS1 models offered greater specificity, while siPLS enhanced accuracy through variable selection. PLS2 models enabled efficient simultaneous predictions. Both devices meet white analytical chemistry principles, aligning performance with sustainability, thus demonstrating that accurate and environmentally responsible soil analysis can be achieved without compromising analytical efficiency. Full article

This study develops a four-dimensional value-assessment framework encompassing economic, innovation, social, and cultural dimensions to evaluate the multidimensional performance of family firms in China. Drawing on the entropy weighting method, we construct a composite value index for 251 A-share listed family firms from 2014 to 2023 and apply spatial statistical techniques—including Dagum Gini coefficients, Theil indices, and coefficients of variation—to examine temporal evolution and regional disparities. We further estimate explanatory panel models with firm and year fixed effects (Hausman test favoring FE) to identify the firm-level determinants of composite value. Leverage exhibits a significantly negative association with value, while firm size and innovation capacity are positively related; no significant moderating effect of technology-intensive industry is found. A robustness check using equal weights (0.25 for each dimension) yields an almost perfect correlation (0.9999) with the entropy-weighted index, confirming that the dominance of the innovation dimension in the weighting scheme does not materially affect the overall conclusions. The results highlight the importance of integrating multidimensional value perspectives into both academic research and policy design to promote balanced, inclusive, and sustainable development trajectories for family enterprises. Full article

Soil degradation poses a significant threat to the sustainability of agroecosystems, particularly in mountainous regions where environmental conditions are highly variable and management practices are often suboptimal. In this context, soil quality assessment emerges as a key tool for guiding sustainable land use and informing decision-making processes. This study aimed to develop and spatially evaluate a Soil Quality Index (SQI) tailored to the northeast sector of Jangas district, Ancash, Peru. A total of 24 soil indicators were initially considered and reduced using Spearman’s correlations to avoid multicollinearity. Depending on the weighting strategy applied, the final SQI configurations incorporated between 14 and 15 indicators. Two weighting strategies—Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Expert Opinion (EO)—were combined with linear and non-linear (sigmoidal) scoring functions, resulting in four distinct SQI configurations. The spatial performance of each index was tested using Geographically Weighted Regression Kriging (GWRK), incorporating covariates like NDMI, elevation, slope, and aspect. The SQI constructed using PCA combined with non-linear scoring achieved the highest performance, effectively minimizing skewness and while achieving the highest predictive accuracy under GWRK. By contrast, although the EO-based index with linear scoring demonstrated similar statistical robustness, it failed to achieve comparable effectiveness in terms of spatial predictive accuracy. The SQIs generated offer a practical framework for local institutions to identify and prioritize areas requiring intervention. Through the interpretation of complex soil data into accessible, spatially explicit maps, these indices facilitate the targeted application of inputs—such as organic amendments in low-SQI zones—and support the implementation of improved management practices, including crop rotation and soil conservation, without necessitating advanced technical expertise. Full article

Prior economic research emphasized land, labor and physical capital as the primary drivers of growth, but contemporary work highlights the pivotal role of human capital. Investments in education, health and governance are now regarded as central to sustainable development; yet important questions remain regarding their effectiveness and context-specific impact. This study investigates how human capital investment influences labor force participation and income growth within the ASEAN nine economies for the period from 2000 to 2022 which provides a rich example of contrast in economic and governance outcomes within a single geographic region. Impacted units of measurement of labor force participation and income growth are evaluated using the Bayesian Additive Regression Trees model to select the most important variables, the Bayesian Dynamic Nonlinear Multivariate panel model to estimate regional effects, and the Time-varying Seemingly Unrelated Regression Equations model to evaluate country-specific dynamics, which considers not just the influence of investments in health and education but also the context of rule, law, and governance. The findings indicate that human capital investments exhibit heterogenous effects across economic tiers and the need for strategies and future study of preconditions to improve returns particularly in low-tier economies. Accordingly, mid-tier, emerging economies exhibit the greatest benefit from human capital investments while top-tier exhibit the probable impact of the law of diminishing returns as their human capital development is already well underway. Despite the limited scope, this study still has the potential to draw constructive theoretical and practical implications. Full article