Search Results (172)

With the continuous increase in the number of university students and the improvement of living standards, energy waste in universities has become a significant challenge, hindering progress toward Carbon Peaking and Carbon Neutrality (CPCN) goals. As universities serve as the final educational stage before students enter society, effectively integrating disciplinary research with energy-saving education has become a crucial topic in today’s world. The evolutionary game analysis reveals that three key factors—the severity of resource waste, the reputational benefits from sustainable education, and the enhancement of students’ self-quality—significantly drive the game equilibrium toward a positive outcome. Conversely, university indifference to energy-saving education and high behavioral constraint costs for students lead the equilibrium toward a negative state. Based on this, this paper puts forward corresponding suggestions to promote the sustainable development of universities and help realize the CPCN goals. These suggestions are aimed at enhancing the importance of energy-saving education in universities, optimizing energy-saving management strategies and encouraging students to actively participate in energy-saving behavior, to provide practical reference for universities to promote social sustainable development. Full article

Fuel cell trucks are a promising solution to reduce the disproportionately high greenhouse gas emissions of heavy-duty long-haul transportation. However, unlike conventional diesel vehicles, they lack combustion engine waste heat for cabin heating. As a result, electric heaters are often employed, which increase auxiliary energy consumption and reduce driving range. To address this challenge, advanced control strategies are needed to improve heating efficiency while maintaining passenger comfort. This study proposes and validates a methodology for implementing Model Predictive Control (MPC) in the cabin heating system of a fuel cell truck. Vehicle experiments were conducted to characterize dynamic heating behavior, passenger comfort indices, and to provide validation data for the mathematical models. Based on these models, an MPC strategy was developed in a Model-in-the-Loop simulation environment. The proposed approach achieves energy savings of up to 8.1% compared with conventional control using purely electric heating, and up to 21.7% when cabin heating is coupled with the medium-temperature cooling circuit. At the same time, passenger comfort is maintained within the desired range (PMV within ±0.5 under typical winter conditions). The results demonstrate the potential of MPC to enhance the energy efficiency of fuel cell trucks. The methodology presented provides a validated foundation for the further development of predictive thermal management strategies in heavy-duty zero-emission vehicles. Full article

This review examines the transformative impact of innovative artificial intelligence (AI) methods on energy productivity, industrial transformation, and digitalization in the context of energy economics, energy efficiency, and sustainability. AI-based tools are revolutionizing energy systems by optimizing production, reducing waste, and enabling predictive maintenance in industrial processes. Integrating AI increases operational efficiency across various sectors, significantly contributing to energy savings and cost reductions. Using deep learning (DL), machine learning (ML), and generative AI (genAI), companies can model complex energy consumption patterns and identify efficiency gaps in real time. Furthermore, AI supports the renewable energy transition by improving grid management, forecasting, and smart distribution. The review highlights how AI-assisted digitalization fosters smart production, resource allocation, and decarbonization strategies. Economic analyses indicate that AI implementation correlates with improved energy intensity indicators and long-term sustainability benefits. However, challenges such as data privacy, algorithm transparency, and infrastructure investment remain key barriers. This article synthesizes current literature and case studies to provide a comprehensive understanding of AI’s evolving role in transforming energy-intensive industries. These findings highlight AI’s crucial contribution to sustainable economic development through improved energy efficiency and digital innovation. Full article

An integrated approach to waste management is based on efficient and safe methods for waste prevention, recycling, and safe waste treatment. In accordance with these principles, in this study, non-hazardous aluminosilicate waste (dust and sand) was used in the solidification/stabilization (S/S) treatment of hazardous waste (coating, emulsion, and sludge) from the automotive industry. Also, the oily component of the waste was valorized and investigated for energy recovery through co-incineration. The two S/S processes were proposed and their sustainability was assessed by utilizing all types of waste generated in the same plant, obtaining stabilized material suitable for safe disposal and oil phases for further valorization, and by techno-economic analysis. The efficiency of the S/S processes was evaluated by measuring unconfined compressive strength, hydraulic conductivity, density, and the EN 12457-4 standard leaching test of S/S products, along with XRD, SEM-EDS, and TG-DTG analyses. The possibility of using the oil phase was assessed based on its calorific value. The techno-economic assessment compared the investments, operating costs, and potential savings of both treatment scenarios. The results show that an integrated approach enables safe waste immobilization and resource recovery, contributing to environmental protection and economic benefits. Full article

Mattresses represent one of the most widespread and problematic bulky waste streams worldwide, due to their unavoidable daily use, their high presence in municipal solid waste flows, and the complexity of their end-of-life management. Their heterogeneous composition—combining polyurethane foams, textiles, metal springs, and adhesives—makes separation and recovery difficult, leading many discarded mattresses to end up in landfills or incinerators, with associated greenhouse gas emissions and the loss of valuable secondary resources. Within this context, recycling emerges as a priority alternative under the circular economy framework, enabling material recovery and reducing reliance on traditional disposal methods. Among current options, mechanical recycling is especially promising, as it provides energy savings and lower emissions compared to thermal treatments. However, its large-scale implementation requires improvements in product design, collection logistics, and regulatory frameworks to address existing challenges. This article provides a critical review of the current state of mattress recycling and valorization, examining technological advances, environmental impacts, and systemic barriers. It also highlights successful initiatives in the hospitality and healthcare sectors, which illustrate the potential of circular strategies to transform bulky waste management and promote sustainable material flows. Full article

In the context of increasing water scarcity, improving industrial water efficiency and resource management has become an urgent need, particularly in water-intensive sectors such as the cement industry. Based on the Water Life Cycle Assessment (WLCA) framework, in this study, a comprehensive assessment of water use, consumption, reuse, and wastewater discharge during cement production was conducted, and paths were proposed for improving water efficiency. Unlike traditional water footprint assessments, which primarily focus on measuring water consumption, the WLCA integrates a holistic analysis of the operational status of water systems. The research results show that for cement production in the Yellow River Basin, the waste heat power generation system accounts for the highest proportion of water consumption (65%), with its circulating cooling unit functioning as the core water-related subsystem. A large quantity of daily circulating cooling wastewater can be reused in production after treatment. Significant differences exist in unit product water consumption among enterprise types: clinker and cement production enterprises (0.18–0.30 m³/t) have higher water consumption than cement grinding stations (0.02–0.05 m³/t), and some enterprises hold considerable water-saving potential. Wastewater recovery and treatment technologies can markedly reduce water wastage. Meanwhile, waste heat recovery technologies improve energy utilization efficiency and indirectly lower water cooling demand. Additionally, waste co-processing technologies reduce virtual water consumption by replacing part of the coal used in cement production. This research provides practical technical solutions for water conservation and resource optimization in the cement industry, facilitating improvements in water efficiency management. Full article

Despite growing interest in AI-driven Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems, existing approaches often rely on static control strategies or offline simulations that fail to adapt to real-time environmental changes, especially in high-risk healthcare settings. There remains a critical gap in integrating dynamic, physics-informed control with human-centric design to simultaneously address infection control, energy efficiency, and occupant comfort in hospital environments. This study presents an AI-driven ventilation system integrating BIM, adaptive control, and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to optimize hospital environments dynamically. The framework features (1) HVAC control using real-time sensor datasets; (2) CFD-validated architectural interventions (1.8 m partitions and the pressure range at a return vent); and (3) patient flow prediction for spatial efficiency. The system reduces airborne pathogen exposure by 61.96% (159 s vs. 418 s residence time) and achieves 51.85% energy savings (0.19 m/s airflow) while maintaining thermal comfort. Key innovations include adaptive energy management, pandemic-resilient design, and human-centric spatial planning. This work establishes a scalable model for sustainable hospitals that manages infection risk, energy use, and occupant comfort. Future directions include waste heat recovery and lifecycle analysis to further enhance dynamic system performance. Full article

Food safety management has evolved with the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) system serving as a global benchmark. However, conventional HACCP does not explicitly address environmental sustainability, leading to challenges such as excessive water use, chemical discharge, and energy inefficiency. Green HACCP extends traditional HACCP by integrating Environmental Respect Practices (ERPs) to fill this critical gap between food safety and sustainability. This study is presented as a conceptual paper based on a structured literature review combined with illustrative industry applications. It analyzes the principles, implementation challenges, and economic viability of Green HACCP, contrasting it with conventional systems. Evidence from recent reports and industry examples shows measurable benefits: water consumption reductions of 20–25%, energy savings of 10–15%, and improved compliance readiness through digital monitoring technologies. It explores how digital technologies—IoT for real-time monitoring, AI for predictive optimization, and blockchain for traceability—enhance efficiency and sustainability. By aligning HACCP with sustainability goals and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this paper provides academic contributions including a clarified conceptual framework, quantified advantages, and policy recommendations to support the integration of Green HACCP into global food safety systems. Industry applications from dairy, seafood, and bakery sectors illustrate practical benefits, including waste reduction and improved compliance. This study concludes with policy recommendations to integrate Green HACCP into global food safety frameworks, supporting broader sustainability goals. Overall, Green HACCP demonstrates a cost-effective, scalable, and environmentally responsible model for future food production. Full article

Background/Objectives: While dentistry plays a critical role in promoting oral health, it also contributes significantly to environmental degradation through high energy consumption, water usage, and reliance on disposable, non-recyclable materials. Periodontology, in particular, involves resource-intensive procedures such as full-mouth disinfection, frequent surgical interventions, and aerosol-generating instrumentation. The aim of the present narrative review is to synthesize current knowledge and delineate feasible, evidence-informed strategies to operationalize sustainability across the full spectrum of periodontal treatment settings. Methods: The electronic search of the present narrative review was performed across PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, BioMed Central, Scopus, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library databases. Results: The review identified actionable sustainability strategies across pre-workplace (e.g., eco-conscious procurement and transport reduction), workplace (e.g., energy- and water-saving technologies, digital workflows, and pollution control), and waste management (e.g., reuse protocols, recycling, and sustainable material selection). Particular emphasis was placed on the role of dental education, life cycle assessments, and digital innovations. Conclusions: The transition toward sustainable periodontology requires the adoption of evidence-based practices and leveraging digital innovation to reduce the environmental impact while maintaining high standards of care. Full article

This study assesses energy management practices in the automotive sector of Poland’s Silesian Voivodeship, a highly industrialized region. Using structured interviews with 40 manufacturing firms, it examines the adoption of energy monitoring, submetering, Energy Performance Indicators (EnPIs), audits, and energy efficiency investments. The research addresses the problem of persistent energy waste and the difficulties many firms face in integrating ISO 50001-aligned energy management into daily operations, where declared policies often outpace actual practices. Results show that 92.5% of firms monitor total energy consumption, but only 40% implement submetering, and 45% use EnPIs. Half have conducted energy audits, and 85% report taking energy-saving actions such as lighting upgrades, equipment modernization, and thermal improvements. However, no companies reported measurable energy or cost savings, and few track investment outcomes quantitatively. While energy awareness is widespread, many practices appear to be implemented in a tactical manner, potentially lacking strategic integration or consistent performance tracking. Larger firms are more likely to use audits and EnPIs, while smaller firms face barriers such as limited resources or technical expertise. The findings highlight a need for formalized EMS adoption, standardized energy governance, and greater use of performance-based tools such as EnPIs. By exploring EMS-aligned behavior without referencing management systems directly, the study provides a unique lens on the operational maturity of industrial firms. Full article

Recently, solar energy technologies are a cornerstone of the global effort to transition towards cleaner and more sustainable energy systems. However, in many rural areas of developing countries, unreliable electricity severely impacts healthcare delivery, resulting in reduced medical efficiency and increased risks to patient safety. This review explores the transformative potential of solar energy as a sustainable solution for powering healthcare facilities, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, and improving health outcomes. Consequently, energy harvesting is a vital renewable energy source that captures abundant solar and thermal energy, which can sustain medical centers by ensuring the continuous operation of life-saving equipment, lighting, vaccine refrigeration, sanitation, and waste management. Beyond healthcare, it reduces greenhouse gas emissions, lowers operational costs, and enhances community resilience. To address this issue, the paper reviews critical solar energy technologies, energy storage systems, challenges of energy access, and successful solar energy implementations in rural healthcare systems, providing strategic recommendations to overcome adoption challenges. To fulfill the aims of this study, a focused literature review was conducted, covering publications from 2005 to 2025 in the Scopus, ScienceDirect, MDPI, and Google Scholar databases. With targeted investments, policy support, and community engagement, solar energy can significantly improve healthcare access in underserved regions and contribute to sustainable development. 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

The rapid growth of the global population and associated increases in resource consumption have accelerated environmental degradation, making sustainable design and construction processes increasingly essential. The construction sector holds significant potential for reducing environmental impacts, especially through sustainability-focused certification systems such as LEED. This study evaluates the projected energy efficiency and sustainability performance of the Surgical Sciences Building at Istanbul University’s Çapa Campus, which was designed with the goal of achieving LEED Gold certification. The assessment is based on design-phase data and conducted prior to construction. Energy performance analyses were carried out using DesignBuilder software, supported by the LEED Assessment Report and Energy Audit Report. According to simulation results, approximately 30% savings in energy consumption and water usage are expected. In addition, the process-oriented LEED approach is expected to result in a total CO₂ emission savings of approximately 570 tonnes, while renewable energy systems are expected to meet approximately 13% of the building’s primary energy demand and reduce CO₂ emissions by approximately 151 tonnes per year. Waste management strategies developed for both the construction and operational phases are aligned with LEED criteria and aim to achieve up to 80% recycling rates. The findings demonstrate that LEED certification, when employed as a process-oriented design and decision-making tool rather than a result-oriented label, can enable sustainable strategies to be integrated from the earliest stages of project development. Particularly for complex healthcare buildings, embedding LEED principles into the design process has strong potential to enhance environmental performance. Although based on a single case study, this research provides valuable insight into the broader applicability of LEED in diverse building types and geographic contexts. Full article

The integration of renewable energy sources, battery energy storage, and electric vehicles into industrial systems unlocks new opportunities for reducing emissions and improving sustainability. However, the coordination and management of these new technologies also pose new challenges due to complex interactions. This paper proposes a methodology for designing a holistic energy management system, based on advanced digital twins and optimization techniques, to minimize the cost of supplying industry loads and electric vehicles using local renewable energy sources, second-life battery energy storage systems, and grid power. The digital twins represent and forecast the principal energy assets, providing variables necessary for optimizers, such as photovoltaic generation, the state of charge and state of health of electric vehicles and stationary batteries, and industry power demand. Furthermore, a two-layer optimization framework based on mixed-integer linear programming is proposed. The optimization aims to minimize the cost of purchased energy from the grid, local second-life battery operation, and electric vehicle fleet charging. The paper details the mathematical fundamentals behind digital twins and optimizers. Finally, a real-world case study is used to demonstrate the operation of the proposed approach within the context of the waste collection and management industry. The study confirms the effectiveness of digital twins for forecasting and performance analysis in complex energy systems. Furthermore, the optimization strategies reduce the operational costs by 1.3%, compared to the actual industry procedure, resulting in daily savings of EUR 24.2 through the efficient scheduling of electric vehicle fleet charging. Full article

The decommissioning of offshore oil rigs presents complex environmental challenges and opportunities, particularly in the context of energy transition goals and marine ecosystem protection. This study applies a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) approach to evaluate the energy and environmental impacts associated with two different decommissioning approaches: full removal and partial removal. The analysis considers greenhouse gas emissions, energy consumption, material recovery, and long-term waste management. The study demonstrates important energy savings through the recovery and recycling of steel, which offsets energy-intensive operations such as cutting and marine transport. In addition, the analysis underscores the potential of integrating decommissioned infrastructure into offshore renewable energy systems, highlighting synergies with circular economy principles and the decarbonization of offshore operations. The findings highlight the importance of site-specific assessments and integrated policy frameworks to guide environmentally sound decommissioning decisions in offshore energy infrastructure. The analysis shows that full removal results in 14,300 kg CO₂ eq emissions during cutting and transport, compared to 3090 kg CO₂ eq for partial removal. Meanwhile, steel recycling generates environmental benefits of −3.80 × 10⁶ kg CO₂ eq for full removal and −1.17 × 10⁶ kg CO₂ eq for partial removal. Full article