Sustainable Energy: Efficient Technological Solutions Combining Environmental, Economic, Political and Social Aspects

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Clean Technologies cleantechnol	4.0	6.1	2019	30 Days	CHF 1600
Energies energies	3.0	6.2	2008	17.5 Days	CHF 2600
Environments environments	3.5	5.7	2014	25.7 Days	CHF 1800
Processes processes	2.8	5.1	2013	14.4 Days	CHF 2400
Sustainability sustainability	3.3	6.8	2009	20 Days	CHF 2400

17 pages, 7770 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Using DPF to Control Particulate Matter Emissions from Ships to Ensure the Sustainable Development of the Shipping Industry

by Jinxi Zhou, Junling Zhang, Guoxian Jiang and Kai Xie

Sustainability 2024, 16(15), 6642; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16156642 - 3 Aug 2024

Viewed by 608

Abstract

PM (particulate matter) emissions from ships are the main sources of marine atmosphere pollution. Controlling the emissions of particulate matter from ships is related to the sustainable development of the shipping industry. To reduce PM emissions from marine four-stroke diesel engines, DPFs are [...] Read more.

PM (particulate matter) emissions from ships are the main sources of marine atmosphere pollution. Controlling the emissions of particulate matter from ships is related to the sustainable development of the shipping industry. To reduce PM emissions from marine four-stroke diesel engines, DPFs are effective. Our results show that DPF had more than 90% capturing efficiency for both the number and mass emissions of PM, and the capturing efficiency for the accumulation mode was higher than that of the nuclear mode. DPF can also significantly reduce the chemical components of PM in marine diesel exhaust gas. The removal efficiencies for OC and EC were 89.7–91.6% and 84.8–92.8%, respectively, with each particle size range showing over 80% efficiency. SO₄²⁻ was the ion with the highest content, followed by NH₄⁺, NO₃⁻, Na⁺, NO₂⁻, and Cl⁻, with their reduced proportions remaining consistent with the removal efficiency of particulate matter. DPF can also effectively reduce PAH content and toxicity. The use of DPF can greatly improve the impact of ship emissions on the marine atmospheric environment. The appropriate DPF with the best performance can be selected according to the exhaust parameters and particle size distributions with different characteristics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Energy: Efficient Technological Solutions Combining Environmental, Economic, Political and Social Aspects)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 2223 KiB

Open AccessReview

Assessment of Solid Waste Management and Decarbonization Strategies

by Ping Fa Chiang, Tengling Zhang, Mugabekazi Joie Claire, Ndungutse Jean Maurice, Jabran Ahmed and Abdulmoseen Segun Giwa

Processes 2024, 12(7), 1473; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12071473 - 14 Jul 2024

Viewed by 901

Abstract

Global population growth, industrialization, and urbanization have led to a dramatic increase in solid waste (SW) generation, which is considered a main environmental pollutant via greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and soil and groundwater contamination. This creates serious problems for the region and the [...] Read more.

Global population growth, industrialization, and urbanization have led to a dramatic increase in solid waste (SW) generation, which is considered a main environmental pollutant via greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and soil and groundwater contamination. This creates serious problems for the region and the world at large. Currently, about 2 billion tons of SW are generated globally every year, of which 67% is processed by various treatment technologies, while 33% is freely released into the environment. Therefore, there is an urgent need to significantly reduce GHG emissions from global SW production for the maximization of climate benefits and to halt the continued rise in temperature. Fortunately, this can be attained with the use of existing SW processing methods and improved performance. Through a comprehensive literature review, this research evaluates the effectiveness of various SW approaches, including source reduction, recycling, and energy recovery. Additionally, this study examines the potential of emerging technologies and their integration and innovative solutions to enhance solid waste management (SWM) systems and promote decarbonization. The findings highlight the significant environmental and economic benefits of implementing integrated SWM strategies that prioritize waste prevention, material recovery, and energy generation from waste. Furthermore, this study emphasizes the importance of stakeholder engagement, policy interventions, and public awareness campaigns in fostering sustainable waste management practices. By adopting a holistic approach that considers the entire waste management lifecycle, this review provides valuable insights and recommendations for policymakers, waste management authorities, and communities to achieve sustainable waste management and contribute to global decarbonization efforts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Energy: Efficient Technological Solutions Combining Environmental, Economic, Political and Social Aspects)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 2296 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Decision-Making Approach to Design a Sustainable Photovoltaic Closed-Loop Supply Chain Considering Market Share for Electric Vehicle Energy

by Hadi Shenabi and Rashed Sahraeian

Sustainability 2024, 16(13), 5763; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16135763 - 5 Jul 2024

Viewed by 695

Abstract

This study aims to develop a model for the closed-loop supply chain of photovoltaic (PV) systems. The primary objective addresses strategic and tactical decision-making using a two-stage approach. To pinpoint suitable locations for solar power plants, the PROMETHEE II method is utilized, which [...] Read more.

This study aims to develop a model for the closed-loop supply chain of photovoltaic (PV) systems. The primary objective addresses strategic and tactical decision-making using a two-stage approach. To pinpoint suitable locations for solar power plants, the PROMETHEE II method is utilized, which is a component of multi-attribute decision making (MADM) approaches. Next, a multi-objective modeling of the closed-loop PV supply chain is conducted. This model aims to minimize total supply chain costs, reduce environmental impacts, mitigate adverse social effects, maximize the on-time delivery (OTD) of manufactured products, and maximize market share. Additionally, a robust fuzzy mathematical model is introduced to examine the model’s sustainability under various uncertainties. An evaluation of the effectiveness and utility of this model is conducted in Tehran city. Furthermore, a comprehensive analysis of various supply chain costs indicates that production centers have the highest costs, while separation centers have the lowest costs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Energy: Efficient Technological Solutions Combining Environmental, Economic, Political and Social Aspects)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 6595 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of HVAC Performance and Savings in Office Buildings Using Data-Driven Method

by Anatolijs Borodinecs, Arturs Palcikovskis, Andris Krumins, Deniss Zajecs and Kristina Lebedeva

Clean Technol. 2024, 6(2), 802-813; https://doi.org/10.3390/cleantechnol6020041 - 14 Jun 2024

Viewed by 680

Abstract

Enhancing energy efficiency within the building sector is imperative to curbing energy losses, given that this sector alone contributes to over 34% of global energy consumption. Employing a building management system, along with its regular updates, presents a strategic avenue to decrease energy [...] Read more.

Enhancing energy efficiency within the building sector is imperative to curbing energy losses, given that this sector alone contributes to over 34% of global energy consumption. Employing a building management system, along with its regular updates, presents a strategic avenue to decrease energy usage, enhance building energy efficiency, and more. Tailored control strategies, aligned with the unique characteristics and usage patterns of each building, are essential for achieving energy savings. This article presents an evaluation of HVAC system efficiency in office buildings, utilizing a data-driven approach coupled with simulations conducted in building performance simulation software. The research explores the control strategy of an office building equipped with a constant air volume HVAC system, featuring a regularly controlled air handling unit. The objective is to boost energy efficiency while striking a balance between occupant comfort and energy consumption. The findings indicate that by analyzing measured data and adjusting the configurable parameters, the energy consumption of buildings can be significantly reduced. The close monitoring of indoor parameters by building operators and making corresponding adjustments to the HVAC system can yield energy savings of up to 16%. Leveraging these insights, this paper suggests integrating data-driven and dynamic simulation methods into building management system models to optimize HVAC systems, enhance energy efficiency, and advance ambitious carbon neutrality objectives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Energy: Efficient Technological Solutions Combining Environmental, Economic, Political and Social Aspects)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 2743 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Potential for Electrification of the Food Industry and Its Implications for Environmental Sustainability

by Yoann Jovet, Alexis Laurent, Frédéric Lefevre and Marc Clausse

Energies 2024, 17(11), 2602; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17112602 - 28 May 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 604

Abstract

Most studies on industrial heat decarbonization by electrification focus on energy and greenhouse gas emissions. However, there are additional potential environmental impacts to be considered to make a fair comparison. The aim of the proposed work is therefore to highlight the benefits and [...] Read more.

Most studies on industrial heat decarbonization by electrification focus on energy and greenhouse gas emissions. However, there are additional potential environmental impacts to be considered to make a fair comparison. The aim of the proposed work is therefore to highlight the benefits and drawbacks of switching to electricity, using life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology to explore more environmental issues. In addition, in order to evaluate the environmental sustainability of this transformation, the LCA results are compared with sustainability thresholds defined with two different methods, on a global scale using the “sustainable levels” concept. The first method is based on the current environmental impacts of industrial processes, while the second considers the economic added value. Industrial heat production levels for the Danish and French food industries are used as case studies. The results show a large number of environmental trade-offs associated with electrification, some of which are leading to unsustainable levels. Sustainability thresholds based on economic added value ensure a fairer distribution between sectors, in particular by preventing the most virtuous sectors and processes from being penalized. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Energy: Efficient Technological Solutions Combining Environmental, Economic, Political and Social Aspects)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 3807 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Empowering Sustainability: Understanding Determinants of Consumer Investment in Microgrid Technology in the UAE

by Hussain Abdalla Sajwani, Bassel Soudan and Abdul Ghani Olabi

Energies 2024, 17(9), 2201; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17092201 - 3 May 2024

Viewed by 696

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the determinants that influence the consumers’ disposition to invest in microgrid technology in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This research offers valuable insights for policymakers on investors’ motivations to develop strategies to foster microgrid technology adoption through end-user [...] Read more.

This study aims to analyze the determinants that influence the consumers’ disposition to invest in microgrid technology in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This research offers valuable insights for policymakers on investors’ motivations to develop strategies to foster microgrid technology adoption through end-user investments leading to a reduction in microgrid high capital cost. The study employed descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression analyses to analyze the responses of a sample of property owners to a quantitative survey. The study examines such variables as strategic alignment, profitability, digitization, renewable energy utilization, CO₂ emission reduction, and disaster recovery readiness. The data collected reveal a moderate level of understanding and cost-awareness of microgrid technology among the respondents, with a mean of 2.46 out of 5. Notably, the data highlight the significant influence of strategic alignment with the UAE’s national energy goals on the respondents’ inclination to invest in microgrids, with a strong positive correlation of 0.942 at the 0.01 level (two-tailed). By comparison, profitability and disaster recovery have a comparatively weaker correlation. Furthermore, based on the data collected during this study, it has been determined that there is a strong value added by the microgrid initiatives considering the UAE’s strategic direction and the positive influence of reduced CO₂. The regression models used were highly significant at F = 85.690. There is an acceptable level of multicollinearity with VIF values ranging from 1.087 to 2.155. UAE Strategy has low collinearity. UAE Strategy emerges as the only significant predictor of willingness to invest (p < 0.001) in the stepwise regression analysis. The analysis shows that villa and townhouse owners are willing to invest in community microgrid given that it is aligned with UAE strategy and leads to CO₂ emissions reduction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Energy: Efficient Technological Solutions Combining Environmental, Economic, Political and Social Aspects)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 10890 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Use of Digital Tools (Wikihouse System) in Multi-Local Social Housing

by Doris Esenarro, Emerson Porras, Hardy Ventura, Julio Figueroa, Vanessa Raymundo and Lorena Castañeda

Sustainability 2024, 16(8), 3231; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16083231 - 12 Apr 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1532

Abstract

The primary objective of this study is to formulate a comprehensive digital and physical model, at a scaled level, for a social housing unit utilizing the open-source Wikihouse system. The construction industry is currently grappling with the dual challenges of a real estate [...] Read more.

The primary objective of this study is to formulate a comprehensive digital and physical model, at a scaled level, for a social housing unit utilizing the open-source Wikihouse system. The construction industry is currently grappling with the dual challenges of a real estate crisis and climate change. In response to this scenario, the integration of industrialized methods in construction processes is advocated to enhance the overall quality of the end product, streamline construction timelines, and curtail production costs. The algorithm developed for this purpose leverages Rhino and Grasshopper programs, thereby optimizing material efficiency when compared to traditional individual pieces. Noteworthy among the features of the Wikihouse system is its remarkable versatility, allowing implementation in diverse locations. This flexibility stems from its efficient assembly characteristics, which liberate it from the constraints of rigid modular structures, contributing significantly to architectural design flexibility. The paramount finding of this research is the demonstrated efficiency of the proposed system, requiring 44% less time compared to conventional construction practices and exhibiting a commendable 29% reduction in costs. These outcomes position the Wikihouse-based approach as an appealing and competitive alternative within the real estate sector. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Energy: Efficient Technological Solutions Combining Environmental, Economic, Political and Social Aspects)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 663 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of the Dynamic Evolution Game of Government, Enterprise and the Public to Control Industrial Pollution

by Na Yu and Meilin Lu

Sustainability 2024, 16(7), 2760; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16072760 - 27 Mar 2024

Viewed by 963

Abstract

This paper proposes a two-party evolutionary game model of government and enterprise to solve the dilemma of industrial pollution control and explore the mode of government and enterprise collaborative governance. The local equilibrium points of the game model in four cases are calculated [...] Read more.

This paper proposes a two-party evolutionary game model of government and enterprise to solve the dilemma of industrial pollution control and explore the mode of government and enterprise collaborative governance. The local equilibrium points of the game model in four cases are calculated and analyzed, and the results show that government power alone cannot help enterprises achieve an ideal level of pollution reduction, and it is necessary to introduce public power for supervision. Based on the above, a tripartite evolutionary game model comprising the government, the public, and the enterprise is proposed. When the costs and benefits of the tripartite game players meet certain conditions, the system will evolve to a state of equilibrium (0,1,1). Following the current situation of economic development in China, the parameters of the two-party and tripartite evolutionary game are assigned, and the operating path and system’s evolution trajectory of the two-party and tripartite industrial pollution control are simulated by Matlab R2016a software. It is indicated that whether the government participates in supervision or not, an enterprise will actively control pollution under strong public supervision, which can provide feasible suggestions for the selection of industrial pollution control policies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Energy: Efficient Technological Solutions Combining Environmental, Economic, Political and Social Aspects)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 1380 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ranking of Independent Small-Scale Electricity Generation Systems

by Janis Kramens, Megija Valtere, Guntars Krigers, Vladimirs Kirsanovs and Dagnija Blumberga

Clean Technol. 2024, 6(1), 140-151; https://doi.org/10.3390/cleantechnol6010009 - 2 Feb 2024

Viewed by 2031

Abstract

The EU’s energy targets are to achieve at least 32% renewables in the energy mix by 2030. Part of the solution is strengthening consumer rights by empowering individuals to generate their own electricity. The aim of this study was to identify the most [...] Read more.

The EU’s energy targets are to achieve at least 32% renewables in the energy mix by 2030. Part of the solution is strengthening consumer rights by empowering individuals to generate their own electricity. The aim of this study was to identify the most suitable energy system for electricity generation of up to 50 kW in the EU residential sector. Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis was used to compare four systems: proton exchange membrane fuel cell with photovoltaic panels, photovoltaic panels, biomass-powered Stirling engine, and solar-powered Stirling engine. Based on the results, the most beneficial system for household electricity generation is the biomass-fueled Stirling engine system due to its affordability, reliability, and low environmental impact. Governments and businesses can use these findings to improve information for the residential sector and enable the transition to renewable energy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Energy: Efficient Technological Solutions Combining Environmental, Economic, Political and Social Aspects)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 2186 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Propensity to Adopt Electric Vehicles in the United Arab Emirates: An Analysis of Economic and Geographic Factors

by Robert Michael Bridi, Marwa Ben Jabra, Naeema Al Hosani and Ahmed Hassan Almurshidi

Sustainability 2024, 16(2), 770; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16020770 - 16 Jan 2024

Viewed by 3992

Abstract

In 2022, the increased utilization of electric vehicles (EVs) curtailed global carbon dioxide emissions by 13 gigatons. While EV ownership has been on the rise in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), accounting for approximately 1.3% of passenger car vehicles in 2022, it has [...] Read more.

In 2022, the increased utilization of electric vehicles (EVs) curtailed global carbon dioxide emissions by 13 gigatons. While EV ownership has been on the rise in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), accounting for approximately 1.3% of passenger car vehicles in 2022, it has not yet attained a level of economic feasibility compared to petroleum vehicles. The authors examined consumers’ opinions in the UAE toward adopting EVs for light-duty transport from the economic and geographic perspectives. The main research question was the following: to what extent do economic and geographic factors affect consumers’ opinions toward adopting EVs in the UAE? The objectives were to determine if a relationship exists between economic factors, such as saving money on petroleum, the cost of car maintenance, the cost of purchase, and income level, and geographic factors, including 14 cities across the seven Emirates that affect consumers’ opinions toward adopting EVs. We designed a survey that was distributed to a sample of 5459 respondents to examine this relationship. Descriptive and inferential statistics as well as PyData analytical techniques complemented by the application of data visualization tools such as Seaborn, Plotly, and Matplotlib were employed to examine the dataset. The findings demonstrated that respondents across all income levels have a positive outlook regarding the appeal of EVs for saving money on petroleum, while their interest in saving money on car maintenance and the initial cost of purchase became more pronounced in the higher income levels. Moreover, there were variations in preferences in highly populated Emirates (e.g., Dubai and Abu Dhabi) compared to Emirates with lower populations (e.g., Ras Al Khaimah and Umm al Quwain), confirming that much more emphasis is required to promote EVs in rural areas. When comparing multiple income groups to determine the impact of different factors, the ANOVA confirmed the prevailing patterns evident in the associations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Energy: Efficient Technological Solutions Combining Environmental, Economic, Political and Social Aspects)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 3319 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Paving Paths to 2050: Mapping the Mexican Power Sector’s Potential to Build Sustainable Futures

by Manuel Martínez, Juan Carlos Castro, Carlos David Leal-Fulgencio, Santiago Álvarez-Herrero and Karla Graciela Cedano-Villavicencio

Sustainability 2024, 16(1), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16010068 - 20 Dec 2023

Viewed by 1317

Abstract

A prospective analysis of the Mexican power system has been carried out, and the possibilities for complying with the National Determined Contribution (NDC) commitments adopted in the Paris Agreement in the National Climate Change Strategy of the General Law for Climate Change are [...] Read more.

A prospective analysis of the Mexican power system has been carried out, and the possibilities for complying with the National Determined Contribution (NDC) commitments adopted in the Paris Agreement in the National Climate Change Strategy of the General Law for Climate Change are presented. A hybrid approach was used, inspired by Foresight Frameworks on one side, and using an accounting and scenario-based modeling platform called Low Emissions Analysis Platform (LEAP) with economic optimization on the other, to analyze four possible scenarios to 2050: Trend, also known as Business As Usual (BAU), which only looks at the growth rate of the gross domestic product (GDP) and population, along with the country’s proven potential for renewable resources under the policy framework before 2015; Market, which considers the trend of installation of renewable technologies and the policies of the past administration; Sovereignty, which does the same as the previous scenario but for the policies of the current Mexican government; and Sustainable, which together with GDP and population growth takes into account the possible potential of national renewable resources and characteristics that the country should have to foster this. The research question was: Is there a long-term energy policy for the Mexican power sector to accomplish its NDCs? The study concluded that the best scenario is Sustainable, showing that the possible potential of the country’s renewable resources has the capacity to meet the Mexican commitments adopted in the Paris Agreement if, on one side, techno-economic renewable technologies and electricity storage systems are used, and on the other, if the country’s strategic areas evolve into a more holistically sustainable future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Energy: Efficient Technological Solutions Combining Environmental, Economic, Political and Social Aspects)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 2266 KiB

Open AccessReview

Considering Socio-Technical Parameters in Energy System Models—The Current Status and Next Steps

by Theresa Liegl, Simon Schramm, Philipp Kuhn and Thomas Hamacher

Energies 2023, 16(20), 7020; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16207020 - 10 Oct 2023

Viewed by 1343

Abstract

The energy transition is a complex development towards a climate-neutral, economic, safe, and fair energy system. Therefore, numerical energy system models, among others, can make a significant contribution by simulating, optimizing and thus demonstrating possible transition pathways. Representative models and forecasting tools are [...] Read more.

The energy transition is a complex development towards a climate-neutral, economic, safe, and fair energy system. Therefore, numerical energy system models, among others, can make a significant contribution by simulating, optimizing and thus demonstrating possible transition pathways. Representative models and forecasting tools are needed to illustrate the next necessary steps and measures for the various target groups. In the literature, such energy system models have been studied and evaluated many times. This paper presents the approaches of previous reviews and analyses of how technical, economic, and social aspects of energy system models have been investigated so far. It is shown that especially recent studies already address this topic, but still receive insufficient recognition. Besides the general structural features, the technical modeling details were evaluated in the previous literature. Thereby, a part of the examined general reviews assesses the representation of consumer behavior in the models as a representative for social system aspects. Only a minor amount of the energy system models analyzed there per se represent consumer behavior. Furthermore, this article identifies possible linking strategies of social science parameters and energy system models from the literature based on their opportunities and challenges. This analysis forms a basis on which the already established majority of techno-economic energy system models can be extended in order to provide a more holistic view of the energy system. To do so, further research and development to improve future interdisciplinary processes are required. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Energy: Efficient Technological Solutions Combining Environmental, Economic, Political and Social Aspects)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Topic Menu

Topic Editors

Sustainable Energy: Efficient Technological Solutions Combining Environmental, Economic, Political and Social Aspects

Topic Information

Keywords

Participating Journals

Published Papers (12 papers)

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI

Topic Menu

Topic Editors

Sustainable Energy: Efficient Technological Solutions Combining Environmental, Economic, Political and Social Aspects

Topic Information

Keywords

Participating Journals

Related Topic

Published Papers (12 papers)

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI