Search Results (143)

Grounded in the existing literature on administrative burden and using a qualitative and community-engaged research approach, the research examined the administrative burden experienced in accessing disability, retirement, and survivor benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA). The research team held in person and virtual focus groups and interviews with 40 adults with disabilities, older adults, and family members of people with disabilities who resided in rural areas of the U.S. State of New Hampshire in 2024. The qualitative analysis revealed that rural residents, regardless of type of SSA benefit receipt, were experiencing high levels of administrative burden in their interactions with the SSA and preferred to turn to in-person assistance at local SSA field offices (rather than phone, mail, or web-based service options) to address these concerns. Overall, people living in rural counties that do not have local SSA field offices voiced a distinct disadvantage in terms of knowing where to turn with questions about their benefits. A lack of ready and reliable access to information and advice led to endangering their own economic stability and to increased calls and visits to the SSA. Persons with stronger social networks were better able to overcome these barriers to services. Full article

Retreading is a cornerstone in the remanufacturing process of tires, facilitating the extraction of maximum kilometers (Km) from a tire carcass. Tire remanufacturing plays a crucial role in conserving raw materials, reducing environmental impacts, and lowering the overall operating costs. This study employs predictive modeling techniques to forecast tire performance and optimize resource allocation, departing from traditional approaches, for a bus transport system in India. Machine learning models, including linear regression, ensemble boosted trees, and neural network models, were used. Two scenarios were devised: Scenario I addressed premature failures and optimizing performance to reduce tire procurement and Scenario II used targeted interventions, such as eliminating new tire condemnations and optimizing retread (RT) strategies, and could potentially salvage 169 tires from premature retirement. The results achieved R² values of 0.44, 0.51, and 0.45 and improved values for the test datasets of 0.46, 0.52 and 0.44. By leveraging these models, decision-makers can substantially improve tire mileage, reduce premature condemnations, increase tire production, and drive cost savings in fleet operations. Notably, this approach contributes to enhanced operational efficiency and promotes sustainability by cutting costs by 15–25%, improving tire mileage by 20–30%, and reducing environmental impacts by up to 25%. These results demonstrate the broader implications of predictive modelling as a decision-support tool, highlighting its capacity to drive economic and environmental benefits across industrial logistics and sustainable development. Full article

Many decommissioned wind turbines (WTs) present significant recycling management challenges. Improper disposal wastes resources and generates additional carbon emissions, which contradicts the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study constructs a sine cosine algorithm (SCA)–ITransformer–BiLSTM deep learning prediction model, integrated with dynamic material flow analysis (DMFA) and a multi-dimensional Energy–Economy–Environment–Society (3E1S) sustainability assessment framework. This hybrid approach systematically reveals the spatiotemporal evolution patterns and circular economy value of WTs in China by synthesizing multi-source heterogeneous data encompassing policy dynamics, technological advancements, and regional resource endowments. Results demonstrate that China will enter a sustained wave of WT retirements post-2030, with an annual decommissioned capacity exceeding 15 GW. By 2050, new installations and retirements will reach a dynamic equilibrium. North and Northwest China are emerging as core retirement zones, accounting for approximately 50% of the national total. Inner Mongolia and Xinjiang face maximum recycling pressures. The recycling of decommissioned WTs could yield approximately CNY 198.5 billion in direct economic benefits and reduce CO₂ equivalent emissions by 4.78 to 8.14 billion tons. The 3E1S framework fills critical gaps in quantifying the comprehensive benefits of equipment retirement, offering a theoretically grounded and practically actionable paradigm for the global wind industry’s circular transition. Full article

The built environment has been widely recognized as a critical determinant of physical activity among older adults. However, urban–rural disparities and the non-linear effects of environmental features remain underexplored. Using interpretable machine learning (random forest model) on nationwide representative data from 2526 older adults in the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) database, this study identified both common and distinct risk factors for insufficient moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) across diverse urban and rural contexts. The results revealed a location-based gradient in physical activity insufficiency: rural areas < suburban areas < central urban areas. Rural older adults faced greater constraints from safety concerns and transportation accessibility limitations. In comparison, urban older adults would benefit from targeted improvements in built environment quality, particularly elevator accessibility and diverse public activity spaces. Furthermore, non-linear relationships were observed between built environment features and physical activity, elucidating the “density paradox”: while moderate urban compactness promoted active behaviors, excessive density (>24,000 persons/km²), perceived overcrowding, and over-proximity to specific facilities (<1 km) were linked to reduced MVPA. These findings underscore the necessity for differentiated policy interventions in urban and rural settings to address the distinct environmental needs of older adults. Meanwhile, in urban planning, it is crucial that we balance spatial compactness and functional diversity within optimal thresholds for creating sustainable and inclusive built environments. Although a compact design may enhance mobility, equal attention must be paid to preventing spatial disorder from over-densification. Full article

As electric vehicle (EV) adoption continues to surge globally, the question of what to do with retired EV batteries looms large. While these batteries may no longer meet the rigorous demands of automotive use, they often retain a significant portion of their capacity and functionality. This has led to growing interest in exploring second-life applications for retired EV batteries, ranging from stationary energy storage to grid stabilization and beyond. However, numerous challenges must be addressed to unlock the full potential of this emerging sector. This paper delves into the key challenges and prospects associated with the second life of retired EV batteries. It examines technical hurdles, such as battery degradation, safety concerns, and the development of efficient repurposing methods, along with regulatory and economic barriers, including standards for battery reuse, recycling infrastructure, and market dynamics. Additionally, it highlights the potential environmental benefits, including reduced carbon emissions and resource conservation. In conclusion, the second life of retired EV batteries presents both challenges and opportunities. Addressing technical, regulatory, and economic barriers will be essential for realizing the full potential of this growing sector. However, with continued innovation and collaboration across industries, the future looks bright for leveraging retired EV batteries to create a more sustainable energy ecosystem. Full article

This study evaluates the environmental impacts of end-of-life vehicle (ELV) management in Romania using a life-cycle assessment (LCA). It focuses on the current scenario of ELV waste generation and models current ELV practices like reuse, recycling, energy recovery, and final disposal with the goal of understanding the environmental impacts and benefits of the ELV recycling system and the trade-offs needed to improve its environmental performance. The investigation is based on a statistical analysis of retired cars in 2020 and Eurostat data on ELV waste composition. The results indicate that current practices meet the 85% recovery target, with recycling being the dominant method. The environmental analysis shows that recycling provides the greatest net environmental benefits, while landfilling has negative impacts, especially in climate change and marine eco-toxicity categories. An optimized scenario, which minimizes landfilling and increases recycling, leads to significant improvements in air- and resource-related categories and shows that improving the ELV waste management practices for better dismantling, separation, and recycling is crucial for enhancing the ELV management performance. Full article

The augmentation of clean energy usage is necessary to achieve Australia’s net zero emission target. New South Wales has proposed renewable energy zones (REZs) to align with this target and aims to retire coal-based energy production plants. Site selection criteria for REZs are more focused on technical and economic benefits rather than social and environmental considerations. This study aims to create a comprehensive suitability of optimal locations for renewable energy production that will minimize social disruption and maximize production rates, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 7. To approach this gap, this study adopted a GIS-based multi-criteria evaluation method to combine understated variables such as agriculture and farmland, Aboriginal heritage, and natural conservation. Literature reviews have helped to weigh criteria based on their priority to social, economic, and environmental benefits, supporting both government targets and community concerns. This research explores the use of flexible criteria weighing in the context of a collaborative geo-design framework. This evidenced-based approach aims to assist planners in advocating for current legislation and developing strategies for coordination among private and government agencies, environmental groups, and stakeholders to minimize land-use conflicts. This study found that conducting land suitability analysis using a geo-design framework offers a collaborative strategy that can assist in mapping areas of significance for preserving community and environmental integrity. Such a collaborative approach can improve stakeholder participation in the decision-making process, with a particular focus on reaching net-zero emissions. Full article

Indonesia’s commitment to the early retirement of coal-fired power plants (CFPPs) underscores the urgent need to transition to renewable energy due to coal’s significant contribution to environmental degradation and rising CO₂ emissions. Despite this urgency, several challenges impede the widespread adoption of renewable energy, including disparities in energy access, inadequate policy implementation, unreliable government financing mechanisms, and lack of education and awareness, especially due to the current incorporation of hydrogen and nuclear energy. To overcome these barriers, a robust policy framework is essential, complemented by progressive policy enactment. This study examines Indonesia’s evolving energy landscape, highlighting key challenges and opportunities for the implementation of renewable energy. The findings emphasize that a comprehensive and integrated roadmap is critical to unlocking Indonesia’s renewable energy potential. The roadmap includes strengthening governance, fostering public–private collaborations, and securing diverse financing channels, while offering targeted incentives, such as tax breaks and financial benefits. Furthermore, conducting pre-feasibility studies and regional assessments for emerging energy sources, like hydrogen and nuclear power, is crucial to accurately evaluate potential risks and opportunities. By addressing gaps in regulatory framework and enforcing effective policy measures, Indonesia can facilitate public–private partnerships, promote technology transfer, and develop skilled workforce as an effort to transition into a sustainable and diversified energy future. Full article

The construction industry is currently facing several challenges, such as increased complexity, rapid technological development, and early retirements of experts. The involvement of knowledgeable contractors during early design will provide significant benefits, resulting in good-quality design and enhanced construction performance, particularly in specialized areas like electrical disciplines. In this study, the authors conducted a survey with 82 industry experts to identify the benefits, barriers, and key selection criteria of Early Electrical Contractor Involvement (EECI) in construction projects. The survey results indicate that the benefits of EECI outweigh the barriers. Cost savings emerged as the most significant benefit of EECI for most participants, while the requirement for a high level of cooperation and transparency was identified as the most challenging barrier. This study also revealed the discrepancies in the assessment of benefits and barriers of EECI based on the participant’s role. Additionally, collaboration and teamwork were identified as essential factors for the successful implementation of EECI. However, companies remain reluctant to change contracting methods, as they tend to adhere to familiar practices despite the potential advantages of EECI. This study validates the importance and effectiveness of EECI with regard to construction projects and contributes to the existing body of knowledge in early contractor involvement, electrical subcontracting, and design quality improvement. Furthermore, the outcome of this study provides industry practitioners with a better understanding of EECI and can also be used for education purposes. Full article

As pension benefits from statutory public schemes become less generous, and many countries face pension-savings crises, the willingness to participate in supplementary retirement saving instruments becomes crucial for sustainable financial well-being. The main objective of this article is to present how trust and financial literacy influence the choice of sustainable auto-enrolment pension scheme as a private and supplementary pension savings. The study highlighted factors influencing participation in auto-enrollment and private supplementary pension savings. The study focuses mainly on financial literacy and trust. We used the CAWI method with 857 interviews in Poland—the first country in Central and Eastern Europe to introduce an auto-enrolment pension system. Our study uses multivariable data-mining tools, and several regression models were applied. We used Logistic Regression (LR), Multivariate Linear Regression (MLR), and Factor Analysis of Mixed Data (FAMD) to support the LR analysis. We propose four regression models. Our findings present that: 1. The lower the consumer’s knowledge level, the more their decisions are based on trust. 2. Trust in the state, rather than trust in financial institutions, plays a crucial role for people with low financial literacy, which is a critical factor in choosing the auto-enrolment option for pension savings. 3. Men had higher odds of auto-enrolment pension saving than women. 4. Employees of economic universities and academics had higher odds of participating in capital pension plans than those of general universities and non-academics. Our findings can signal to governments and policymakers about factors influencing the choice of auto-enrolment supplementary retirement savings. These findings strengthen the role of sustainable economic education. Full article

Voluntary carbon markets (VCMs) are gaining momentum as a strategy for climate change mitigation through forest carbon offset (FCO) projects in the United States (US). Despite this, few studies have examined the carbon storage performance and co-benefits associated with FCO projects, including afforestation/reforestation (A/R) and avoided conversion (AC). This study examines the current status of all existing A/R, AC, and avoided grassland conversion (AGC) projects registered within the VCM in the US. Using data from public carbon offset registries, we focus our analysis on the geographical and ownership distributions, project size, issued and retired credits, and co-benefits generated by these project types. Results showed a significant concentration of FCO projects in southern and western states, with 168,253 acres in Arkansas, 71,105 acres in Montana, and 42,857 acres in Colorado. Regarding project ownership, approximately 60% of all projects were owned by private companies and individuals or families. Analysis of offset credits by vintage period revealed that A/R projects generate a higher volume of both issued and retired credits compared to AC and AGC projects. Additionally, content analysis indicated that A/R projects provide a greater number of environmental and socioeconomic co-benefits than their AC and AGC counterparts. The findings from this study can improve our understanding of markets for forest-based ecosystem services and provide valuable insights for program administrators and policymakers to inform the decisions surrounding climate investments. Full article

The end-of-life (EoL) management of solar panel waste has emerged as an important issue related to first-generation solar panels in South Korea, which have already entered their retirement stage. In this study, the sustainability impacts of three scenarios for recycling EoL solar panels, namely mechanical recycling (MR), chemical recycling (CR), and thermal recycling (TR), were investigated, and their environmental and economic benefits were evaluated using the life cycle sustainability assessment (LCSA) method, with landfilling as the reference scenario. The results obtained showed a high global warming potential (GWP) as well as acidification for MR owing to the additional burden of transportation and industrial processes associated with MR. For CR, the use of chemicals and subsequent landfilling resulted in approximately 4.7 times higher terrestrial eco-toxicity than was observed for the landfilling scenario. Further, the GWP of TR was approximately 1.5 times higher than that of CR owing to its high energy consumption. However, its environmental burden was generally lower than that of MR and CR. The results of this study, which capture the current situation of EoL PV panels in South Korea, can be employed to facilitate the establishment of regulations that ensure sustainable management in this regard. Full article

As a key component of transportation decarbonization, the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is rapidly increasing. However, EV batteries are typically retired once their state of health drops to around 80%, usually after 10 to 20 years of use. Despite this decline, retired EV batteries still retain 70–80% of their original capacity. Reusing these retired batteries as second-life batteries (SLBs) for battery energy storage systems can offer significant economic and environmental benefits. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the technical challenges and solutions, economic feasibility, environmental impacts, and case studies of existing projects. It also explores the current battery recycling process. The article concludes with an overview of the feasibility assessment, future development trends, market potential, and policy recommendations for the battery energy storage market. Full article

In recent years, the rapid growth in electric vehicle ownership has resulted in a significant number of decommissioned traction batteries that will require recycling in the future. As consumer expectations for electric vehicle range continue to rise, the turnover of traction batteries has accelerated substantially. Consequently, there is an urgent need for electric vehicle manufacturers to establish an efficient, recyclable supply chain for the return of end-of-life (EOL) electric vehicle (EV) traction batteries. In this paper, we investigate the closed-loop recycling supply chain for retired power batteries in electric vehicle manufacturers, taking into account blockchain technology and the high range preferences in the electric vehicle market, which are influenced by varying demand for different levels of electric vehicle capacitance. Blockchain, as a distributed and decentralized technology, offers features such as consensus mechanisms, traceability, and security, which have been effectively applied across various fields. In this study, we construct four models involving EV battery manufacturers, EV retailers, and battery comprehensive utilization (BCU) enterprises participating in the recycling process. Through the analysis of a Stackelberg response model, we find that (1) single-channel recycling is less efficient than dual-channel recycling models, a difference driven by the diversity of recycling channels and the variability in recycling markets; (2) Recycling models incorporating blockchain technology demonstrate superior performance compared to those that do not utilize blockchain technology, particularly when the intensity of recycling competition is below 0.76; (3) Traction batteries integrated with blockchain technology exhibit higher recycling rates when the optimization index is below 0.96. Electric vehicle battery manufacturers must evaluate the benefits and costs of adopting blockchain technology; (4) With lower recycling incentive levels and EV range preferences, the single-channel recycling model yields better returns than the other three recycling models. EV manufacturers can enhance overall battery supply chain revenues by establishing varying incentive levels based on market demand for different capacitance levels. Full article

Around three million pensioners receive the Indonesian civil service pension benefit. This benefit is the main source of income for the majority of civil service pensioners. This paper examines the adequacy of this pension benefit from the perspective of pensioners in Kapuas Regency. Through qualitative research, fifteen semi-structured interviews were conducted to investigate the role of pension benefits in maintaining the interviewees’ lifestyles and standards of living. All the interviewees perceived that the pension benefit could cover their basic needs, but for most of them, it only covered 25% of their total expenditures. Despite this, the replacement rate of the take-home pay from the pension benefit is still acceptable based on the ILO standard. While some can adjust to life with basic needs, others choose to find another source of income after retirement. Therefore, although the amount is still higher than the poverty line and the minimum wage, the findings suggest the retirement rate is considered meager. Full article