Sustainability

15 pages, 1488 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainability Indicators Past and Present: What Next?

by Simon Bell¹ and Stephen Morse^2,*

¹ Bayswater Institute and the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Faculty, Open University, Milton Keynes MK7 6AA, UK

² Centre for Environment and Sustainability, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1688; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051688 - 22 May 2018

Cited by 61 | Viewed by 9506

Abstract

This paper discusses the current state of thought amongst the Sustainability Indicator (SI) community, what has been achieved and where we are succeeding and failing. Recent years have witnessed the rise of “alternative facts” and “fake news” and this paper discusses how SIs [...] Read more.

This paper discusses the current state of thought amongst the Sustainability Indicator (SI) community, what has been achieved and where we are succeeding and failing. Recent years have witnessed the rise of “alternative facts” and “fake news” and this paper discusses how SIs fit into this maelstrom, especially as they are themselves designed to encapsulate complexity into condensed signals and it has long been known that SIs can be selectively used to support polarized sides of a debate. This paper draws from chapters in a new edited volume, the “Routledge Handbook of Sustainability Indicators and Indices”, edited by the authors. The book has 34 chapters written by a total of 59 SI experts from a wide range of backgrounds, and attempts to provide a picture of the past and present, strengths and weaknesses of SI development today. This paper is an “analysis of those analyses”—a mindful reflection on reflection, and an assessment of the malign and benign forces at work in 2018 within the SI arena. Finally, we seek to identify where SIs may be going over the coming, unpredictable years. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Scenarios and Indicators for Sustainable Development–Towards A Critical Assessment of Achievements and Challenges)

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17 pages, 718 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Climate Change Perceptions and Observations of Agricultural Stakeholders in the Northern Great Plains

by Bruna Irene Grimberg^1,*, Selena Ahmed²

, Colter Ellis³, Zachariah Miller⁴ and Fabian Menalled⁵

¹ Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717-3148, USA

² The Food and Health Lab, Sustainable Food Systems Program, Department of Health and Human Development, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717-3540, USA

³ Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717-2380, USA

⁴ Western Agricultural Research Center, Montana State University, Corvalis, MT 59828, USA

⁵ Department of Land Resources and Environmental Sciences, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717-3120, USA

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1687; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051687 - 22 May 2018

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 4994

Abstract

This study explored whether Montana agricultural stakeholders’ perceptions and observations of climate change vary according to four socio-ecological variables: income, political view, agricultural occupation, and production region. A survey including 27 questions was developed into five sections: (1) agricultural background information; (2) perceptions [...] Read more.

This study explored whether Montana agricultural stakeholders’ perceptions and observations of climate change vary according to four socio-ecological variables: income, political view, agricultural occupation, and production region. A survey including 27 questions was developed into five sections: (1) agricultural background information; (2) perceptions about climate change; (3) observed changes in climate-related variables; (4) adaptation practices and strategies; and (5) demographic information. The survey included Likert-scored responses and multiple-choice questions, and was completed by 452 participants, including conventional and organic farmers and ranchers, extension agents, crop consultants, and researchers. The results indicate that while a notable fraction of agricultural stakeholders are alarmed about climate change and optimistic about the human capacity to reduce climate change, the degree of concern and optimism significantly varies depending on the stakeholder’s political views, production region, and agricultural occupation group. We found that observations of changes in climate, perceptions about climate change, and potential risks to agricultural production are driven mainly by political views. Both perceptions and observations drive the choice of adaptation and mitigation practices. It is thus essential to understand farmers’ socio-ecological characteristics when designing agricultural outreach programs in order to reduce barriers for the adoption of climate-resilient agriculture. Full article

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23 pages, 2338 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Decision and Coordination in a Low-Carbon E-Supply Chain Considering the Manufacturer’s Carbon Emission Reduction Behavior

by Qiang Han and Yuyan Wang^*

School of Management Science and Engineering, Shandong University of Finance and Economics, Jinan 250014, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1686; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051686 - 22 May 2018

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 5281

Abstract

At present, online shopping is becoming increasingly popular. In particular, low-carbon products are becoming more favored as consumers’ low-carbon awareness increases. Manufacturers sell their low-carbon products through e-commerce platforms. Thus, the manufacturer and the e-commerce platform form a low-carbon e-supply chain system. The [...] Read more.

At present, online shopping is becoming increasingly popular. In particular, low-carbon products are becoming more favored as consumers’ low-carbon awareness increases. Manufacturers sell their low-carbon products through e-commerce platforms. Thus, the manufacturer and the e-commerce platform form a low-carbon e-supply chain system. The manufacturer makes products with carbon emission reduction efforts, while the e-commerce platform provides a sales service. In this paper, we described models for a decentralized decision mode and a centralized decision mode in the low-carbon e-supply chain, and compare the decision results. Our findings show that the centralized decision mode has a better performance than the decentralized one, the ability of the e-supply chain to respond to consumers’ preference for a low-carbon product has a direct effect on its operation, and the manufacturer’s carbon emission reduction behavior will be a potential source for enterprises to gain more revenue. Further, we designed a coordination contract for them that can be accepted by both sides in the decentralized decision mode. We find that if the e-commerce platform can share the carbon emission reduction costs of the manufacturer, the performance of the e-supply chain will be greatly improved. A practical case study and numerical examples validate our analysis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Supply Chain System Design and Optimization)

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23 pages, 739 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Sustainable Energy Security and an Empirical Analysis of China

by Debin Fang^1,2, Shanshan Shi^1,2 and Qian Yu^3,*

¹ Economics and Management School, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China

² Center for Complexity and Management Research, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China

³ School of Economics, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1685; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051685 - 22 May 2018

Cited by 96 | Viewed by 7726

Abstract

Energy security and sustainability are crucial factors for the development of China. The creation of an evaluation theoretical system of the energy has theoretical and practical significance that is important for ensuring the safe and sustainable development of energy security that matches the [...] Read more.

Energy security and sustainability are crucial factors for the development of China. The creation of an evaluation theoretical system of the energy has theoretical and practical significance that is important for ensuring the safe and sustainable development of energy security that matches the national development phase and reflects the sustainable development of national energy. Sustainable energy security must not only take into account the security of energy supply–demand in the long-term and short-term, it must also focus on the coordinated development between energy, the environment, and the economy in China. This paper proposes five dimensions of energy security (availability, accessibility, affordability, acceptability, and develop-ability) to construct China’s Sustainable Energy Security (CSES) evaluation index model. Based on the model, an empirical study of China’s energy security is carried out with data from 2005 to 2015, and dynamic changing trends are analyzed accordingly. The results indicate that availability and develop-ability are the most important weights in China’s Sustainable Energy Security index system, where availability shows a general downward trend, and develop-ability presents an inverted U-type trend, with its lowest point in 2011. From 2008 to 2012, China’s sustainable energy security had been at risk. Taking the year 2010 as the demarcation, two phases were obtained: before and after 2010, during which the level of China’s sustainable energy security first dropped, and then rose. However, compared with 2005, CSES level decreased by 28% in 2015 due to the decline of availability and accessibility. During 2005–2015, China’s energy security system had relative high scores in acceptability and develop-ability, while the sustained downward trend of availability is in need of more regulation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Security and Sustainability)

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16 pages, 1125 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Building Ownership, Renovation Investments, and Energy Performance—A Study of Multi-Family Dwellings in Gothenburg

by Mikael Mangold^1,*, Magnus Österbring², Conny Overland³

, Tim Johansson⁴ and Holger Wallbaum²

¹ City Development, Research Institutes of Sweden, 41261 Gothenburg, Sweden

² Architecture and Civil Engineering, Chalmers University of Technology, 41296 Gothenburg, Sweden

³ Department of Business Administration, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden

⁴ Department of Civil, Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, 97187 Luleå, Sweden

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1684; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051684 - 22 May 2018

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 5203

Abstract

The European building stock was renewed at a rapid pace during the period 1950–1975. In many European countries, the building stock from this time needs to be renovated, and there are opportunities to introduce energy efficiency measures in the renovation process. Information availability [...] Read more.

The European building stock was renewed at a rapid pace during the period 1950–1975. In many European countries, the building stock from this time needs to be renovated, and there are opportunities to introduce energy efficiency measures in the renovation process. Information availability and increasingly available analysis tools make it possible to assess the impact of policy and regulation. This article describes methods developed for analyzing investments in renovation and energy performance based on building ownership and inhabitant socio-economic information developed for Swedish authorities, to be used for the Swedish national renovations strategy in 2019. This was done by analyzing measured energy usage and renovation investments made during the last 30 years, coupled with building specific official information of buildings and resident area characteristics, for multi-family dwellings in Gothenburg (N = 6319). The statistical analyses show that more costly renovations lead to decreasing energy usage for heating, but buildings that have been renovated during the last decades have a higher energy usage when accounting for current heating system, ownership, and resident socio-economic background. It is appropriate to include an affordability aspect in larger renovation projects since economically disadvantaged groups are over-represented in buildings with poorer energy performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Built Environment and Urban Growth Management)

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20 pages, 651 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Is Peru Prepared for Large-Scale Sustainable Rural Electrification?

by Sarah Feron^1,2,* and Raúl R. Cordero²

¹ Institute of Sustainability Governance, Leuphana University, 21335 Lüneburg, Germany;

² Department of Physics, Universidad Santiago de Chile, Santiago 9170124, Chile

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1683; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051683 - 22 May 2018

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 7832

Abstract

Peru has historically been among the Latin-American countries with a low rural electrification rate. Aiming to improve this situation, the country conducted several electrification efforts in the last few decades that included off-grid photovoltaic (PV) solutions for remote areas (where the grid expansion [...] Read more.

Peru has historically been among the Latin-American countries with a low rural electrification rate. Aiming to improve this situation, the country conducted several electrification efforts in the last few decades that included off-grid photovoltaic (PV) solutions for remote areas (where the grid expansion was unviable). More recently, the government has also sponsored a ‘massive program’ that aims to deploy a minimum of 150,000 off-grid PV solutions in the upcoming years. In this paper, we assess the sustainability of rural electrification programs in Peru, paying special attention to the ongoing “massive program”. Our assessment considers four dimensions of sustainability (institutional, economic, environmental, and socio-cultural) and is based on an exhaustive qualitative document analysis complemented by semi-structured expert interviews. We found that the lack of strong formal institutions with a flexible and decentralized structure seriously compromises the sustainability of rural electrification efforts in Peru. Staff rotation and overlapping competences have caused disturbing changes and inhibited following a strategic line, while widespread outsourcing combined with weak controls have often affected the reliability of the deployed systems. Although cross subsidies have made off-grid PV systems affordable for users, systems often fell short of energy demand. Notably, we found that Peruvian officials appear to be unaware of the importance of local participation, and there is a significant mistrust between the government and the rural population (especially in areas where mining is extensive). As a consequence, most of the projects are still designed without the participation and engagement of the communities, which has frequently led to project failures, payment defaults, and inhibited seizing opportunities regarding productive uses of off-grid PV systems. We expect that our findings may help Peruvian institutions to address the most severe drawbacks affecting their rural electrification efforts based on off-grid PV systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Social Ecology and Sustainability)

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18 pages, 8398 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Flooding Hazards across Southern China and Prospective Sustainability Measures

by Hai-Min Lyu^1,2, Ye-Shuang Xu^1,2,*

, Wen-Chieh Cheng³

and Arul Arulrajah⁴

¹ State Key Laboratory of Ocean Engineering, School of Naval Architecture, Ocean, and Civil Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China

² Collaborative Innovation Center for Advanced Ship and Deep-Sea Exploration (CISSE), Department of Civil Engineering, School of Naval Architecture, Ocean & Civil Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China

³ Institute of Tunnel and Underground Structure Engineering, Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi’an 710055, China

⁴ Department of Civil and Construction Engineering, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC 3122, Australia

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1682; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051682 - 22 May 2018

Cited by 58 | Viewed by 13695

Abstract

The Yangtze River Basin and Huaihe River Basin in Southern China experienced severe floods 1998 and 2016. The reasons for the flooding hazards include the following two factors: hazardous weather conditions and degradation of the hydrological environment due to anthropogenic activities. This review [...] Read more.

The Yangtze River Basin and Huaihe River Basin in Southern China experienced severe floods 1998 and 2016. The reasons for the flooding hazards include the following two factors: hazardous weather conditions and degradation of the hydrological environment due to anthropogenic activities. This review work investigated the weather conditions based on recorded data, which showed that both 1998 and 2016 were in El Nino periods. Human activities include the degradations of rivers and lakes and the effects caused by the building of the Three Gorges Dam. In addition, the flooding in 2016 had a lower hazard scale than that in 1998 but resulted in larger economic losses than that of 1998. To mitigate urban waterlogging caused by flooding hazards, China proposed a new strategy named Spongy City (SPC) in 2014. SPC promotes sustainable city development so that a city has the resilience to adapt to climate change, to mitigate the impacts of waterlogging caused by extreme rainfall events. The countermeasures used to tackle the SPC construction-related problems, such as local inundation, water resource shortage, storm water usage, and water pollution control, are proposed for city management to improve the environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)

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12 pages, 1109 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Environmental Carrying Capacity with Emergy Perspective of Jeju Island

by Chanhoon Jung¹, Chanwoo Kim¹, Solhee Kim²

and Kyo Suh^1,2,*

¹ Graduate School of International Agricultural Technology, Seoul National University, Pyeongchang 25354, Korea

² Institute of Green Bio Science Technology, Seoul National University, Pyeongchang 25354, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1681; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051681 - 22 May 2018

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 5855

Abstract

Jeju Island experienced an approximately 42% increase in energy consumption from 2006 to 2015 and the demand for energy consumption is expected to continue to increase. Thus, Jeju Island is planning a project entitled “Carbon Free Island by 2030” to promote sustainable development [...] Read more.

Jeju Island experienced an approximately 42% increase in energy consumption from 2006 to 2015 and the demand for energy consumption is expected to continue to increase. Thus, Jeju Island is planning a project entitled “Carbon Free Island by 2030” to promote sustainable development and is required to estimate the environmental carrying capacity for future energy demand changes. The purpose of this study was to calculate the emergy inherent in Jeju Island’s energy, materials, and information in 2015 using the emergy analysis method and local characteristics. In addition, this study aimed to estimate the emergy indices to evaluate the environmental carrying capacity for sustainable development in 2005, 2015, and 2030 considering the future energy demand. This study’s outputs provide the environmental carrying capacity with emergy indices, such as the percent renewable (%Renew), emergy yield ratio (EYR), environmental loading ratio (ELR), sustainability index (SI), and carrying capacity of the population (CCP) for social and economic activities on Jeju Island, which are expected to be saturated. These findings show regions with heavy tourism require development strategies, including the concept of environmental carrying capacity. Full article

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23 pages, 2835 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Validating the City Region Food System Approach: Enacting Inclusive, Transformational City Region Food Systems

by Alison Blay-Palmer^1,*, Guido Santini², Marielle Dubbeling³, Henk Renting⁴, Makiko Taguchi²

and Thierry Giordano²

¹ Department of Geography and Environmental Studies, Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, ON N2L 3C5, Canada

² United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, 00153 Rome, Italy

³ RUAF Foundation, 3830 AK Leusden, The Netherlands

⁴ Urban Food Systems, AERES University of Applied Sciences, Almere, Stadhuisstraat 18 1315 HC Almere, The Netherlands

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1680; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051680 - 22 May 2018

Cited by 179 | Viewed by 20606

Abstract

This paper offers a critical assessment of the value and utility of the evolving City Region Food Systems (CRFS) approach to improve our insights into flows of resources—food, waste, people, and knowledge—from rural to peri-urban to urban and back again, and the policies [...] Read more.

This paper offers a critical assessment of the value and utility of the evolving City Region Food Systems (CRFS) approach to improve our insights into flows of resources—food, waste, people, and knowledge—from rural to peri-urban to urban and back again, and the policies and process needed to enable sustainability. This paper reflects on (1) CRFS merits compared to other approaches; (2) the operational potential of applying the CRFS approach to existing projects through case analysis; (3) how to make the CRFS approach more robust and ways to further operationalize the approach; and (4) the potential for the CRFS approach to address complex challenges including integrated governance, territorial development, metabolic flows, and climate change. The paper begins with the rationale for CRFS as both a conceptual framework and an integrative operational approach, as it helps to build increasingly coherent transformational food systems. CRFS is differentiated from existing approaches to understand the context and gaps in theory and practice. We then explore the strength of CRFS through the conceptual building blocks of ‘food systems’ and ‘city-regions’ as appropriate, or not, to address pressing complex challenges. As both a multi-stakeholder, sustainability-building approach and process, CRFS provides a collective voice for food actors across scales and could provide coherence across jurisdictions, policies, and scales, including the Milan Urban Food Policy Pact, the Sustainable Development Goals, the Habitat III New Urban Agenda, and the Conference of the Parties (COP) 21. CRFS responds directly to calls in the literature to provide a conceptual and practical framing for policy through wide engagement across sectors that enables the co-construction of a relevant policy frame that can be enacted through sufficiently integrated policies and programs that achieve increasingly sustainable food systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessing the Sustainability of Urban Agriculture: Methodological Advances and Case Studies)

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21 pages, 6729 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Balancing Urban Biodiversity Needs and Resident Preferences for Vacant Lot Management

by Christine C. Rega-Brodsky^1,*

, Charles H. Nilon² and Paige S. Warren³

¹ Department of Biology, Pittsburg State University, 1701 S. Broadway, Pittsburg, KS 66762, USA

² School of Natural Resources, University of Missouri, 302 Anheuser-Busch Natural Resources Building, Columbia, MO 65211, USA

³ Department of Environmental Conservation, University of Massachusetts, 160 Holdsworth Way, Amherst, MA 01003, USA

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1679; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051679 - 22 May 2018

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 8521

Abstract

Urban vacant lots are often a contentious feature in cities, seen as overgrown, messy eyesores that plague neighborhoods. We propose a shift in this perception to locations of urban potential, because vacant lots may serve as informal greenspaces that maximize urban biodiversity while [...] Read more.

Urban vacant lots are often a contentious feature in cities, seen as overgrown, messy eyesores that plague neighborhoods. We propose a shift in this perception to locations of urban potential, because vacant lots may serve as informal greenspaces that maximize urban biodiversity while satisfying residents’ preferences for their design and use. Our goal was to assess what kind of vacant lots are ecologically valuable by assessing their biotic contents and residents’ preferences within a variety of settings. We surveyed 150 vacant lots throughout Baltimore, Maryland for their plant and bird communities, classified the lot’s setting within the urban matrix, and surveyed residents. Remnant vacant lots had greater vegetative structure and bird species richness as compared to other lot origins, while vacant lot settings had limited effects on their contents. Residents preferred well-maintained lots with more trees and less artificial cover, support of which may increase local biodiversity in vacant lots. Collectively, we propose that vacant lots with a mixture of remnant and planted vegetation can act as sustainable urban greenspaces with the potential for some locations to enhance urban tree cover and bird habitat, while balancing the needs and preferences of city residents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustaining the Shrinking City: Concepts, Dynamics and Management)

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23 pages, 48390 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Multi-Temporal Analyses of Land Surface Temperature Using Landsat-8 Data and Open Source Software: The Case Study of Modena, Italy

by Tommaso Barbieri^*

, Francesca Despini and Sergio Teggi

Department of Engineering “Enzo Ferrari”, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Vivarelli 10, 41125 Modena, Italy

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1678; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051678 - 22 May 2018

Cited by 41 | Viewed by 8656

Abstract

The Urban Heat Island (UHI) phenomenon, namely urban areas where the atmospheric temperature is significantly higher than in the surrounding rural areas, is currently a very well-known topic both in the scientific community and in public debates. Growing urbanization is one of the [...] Read more.

The Urban Heat Island (UHI) phenomenon, namely urban areas where the atmospheric temperature is significantly higher than in the surrounding rural areas, is currently a very well-known topic both in the scientific community and in public debates. Growing urbanization is one of the anthropic causes of UHI. The UHI phenomenon has a negative impact on the life quality of the local population (thermal discomfort, summer thermal shock, etc.), thus investigations and analyses on this topic are really useful and important for correct and sustainable urban planning; this study is included in this context. A multi-temporal analysis was performed in the municipality of Modena (Italy) to identify and estimate the Surface Urban Heat Island (SUHI, strictly correlated to the UHI phenomenon) from 2014 to 2017. For this purpose, Landsat-8 satellite images were processed with Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS) to obtain the Land Surface Temperature (LST) and the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI). For every pixel, LST and NDVI values of three regions of interest (ROI, i.e., Countryside, Suburbs, and City Center) were extracted and their correlations were investigated. A maximum variation of 6.4 °C in the LST values between City Center and Countryside was highlighted, confirming the presence of the SUHI phenomenon even in a medium-sized municipality like Modena. The implemented procedure demonstrates that satellite data are suitable for SUHI identification and estimation, therefore it could be a useful tool for public administration for urban planning policies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Remote Sensing: Sustainability of Earth’s Environment, Resources and Ecology)

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17 pages, 265 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Analysis of CO₂ Emissions from International Transport and the Driving Forces of Emissions Change

by Young Yoon, Minyoung Yang and Jinsoo Kim^*

Department of Earth Resources and Environmental Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1677; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051677 - 22 May 2018

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 4387

Abstract

As a consequence of globalization, increased international transport generates many pollutants. Pollution generation from other industries related to international transport also cannot be ignored. This paper thus aims to investigate the carbon emissions from international transport. We analyzed embodied carbon emissions of international [...] Read more.

As a consequence of globalization, increased international transport generates many pollutants. Pollution generation from other industries related to international transport also cannot be ignored. This paper thus aims to investigate the carbon emissions from international transport. We analyzed embodied carbon emissions of international transport using multi-region input output analysis, and identified the factors underlying changes in emissions using structural decomposition analysis. China was the world’s largest CO₂-emitting country in international transport in terms of both production- and consumption-based standards. However, consumption-based emissions in that country were much lower than production-based emissions, while in the United States, with second largest emissions, the situation was the opposite. Major emission changes were contingent on demands for international transportation and emission efficiency. In the case of the European Union (EU), consumption-based emissions were higher, but CO₂ emissions decreased gradually due to increased emission efficiency. The different information is provided by each standard, and reduction targets can change according to the standards employed. While discussions on emissions standards are still in progress, the results of this study suggest that CO₂ emissions from international transport, and according to different emissions standards, should receive careful attention in energy policy design, in order to limit CO₂ emissions globally. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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17 pages, 4201 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence Factors and Regression Model of Urban Housing Prices Based on Internet Open Access Data

by Hao Wu¹

, Hongzan Jiao¹, Yang Yu^2,*

, Zhigang Li², Zhenghong Peng¹, Lingbo Liu²

and Zheng Zeng³

¹ Department of Graphics and Digital Technology, School of Urban Design, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China

² Department of Urban Planning, School of Urban Design, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China

³ Department of School of Arts & Communication, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan 430074, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1676; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051676 - 22 May 2018

Cited by 43 | Viewed by 7567

Abstract

With the commercialization of housing and the deepening of urbanization in China, housing prices are having increasing influence on the land market, and thus indirectly affecting urban development. As various spatial features of an urban housing property directly affect its price, the study [...] Read more.

With the commercialization of housing and the deepening of urbanization in China, housing prices are having increasing influence on the land market, and thus indirectly affecting urban development. As various spatial features of an urban housing property directly affect its price, the study of this connection has significance for urban planning. The present study uses mainly open internet data of housing prices, supplemented by other data sources, to identify the spatial features of housing prices and the influence factors in a case study city, Wuhan. Methods employed in the study include the hedonic linear regression model, the geographically weighted regression (GWR) model and the artificial neural network (ANN) model, etc. Progress is made in the following two aspects: first, when calculating the influence factors, hierarchical values for accessibility variables of certain public facilities are used instead of simple Euclidean distance and the results shows a better model fit; second, the ANN model shows the best fit in the study, and while the three models all show respective strengths, the combined use of all models offers the possibility of a more comprehensive analysis of the influence factors of housing prices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Urban and Rural Development)

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22 pages, 279 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Corporate Social Responsibility, Internal Controls, and Stock Price Crash Risk: The Chinese Stock Market

by Dong Yang Hao^1,*, Guo You Qi² and Jing Wang^3,*

¹ Faculty of Economics and Management, East China Normal University, 500 Dong Chuan Road, Shanghai 200241, China

² School of Business, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Mei Long Road, Shanghai 200237, China

³ School of Economics and Management, Shanghai Maritime University, 1550 Lin Gang Revenue, Shanghai 201306, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1675; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051675 - 22 May 2018

Cited by 47 | Viewed by 9347

Abstract

As the core of sustainable development strategy, corporate social responsibility (CSR) is a concept that influences business missions, management, operations, finance, and marketing. Studies of the economic consequences of CSR have focused on the theoretical and practical arenas. However, few studies have examined [...] Read more.

As the core of sustainable development strategy, corporate social responsibility (CSR) is a concept that influences business missions, management, operations, finance, and marketing. Studies of the economic consequences of CSR have focused on the theoretical and practical arenas. However, few studies have examined the impact of CSR on the market price fluctuations of company shares. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of CSR on stock price crash risk and its relationship with the role of internal controls in China. After empirical analysis, we found a significantly negative association between CSR and stock price crash risk. Furthermore, we determined that internal controls play a significant and partially mediating role between CSR and stock price crash risk. Internal controls have become an important system for Chinese companies to improve their social responsibility and reduce their operating risk, especially the risk of a stock price crash. We also found that internal controls had a significant and partial moderating effect on the relationship between CSR and stock price crash risk. In certain environments with higher levels of internal controls, CSR prominently reduced the risk of stock price crash. In theory, our study adds to the growing literature about CSR, expands the scope of CSR research, elaborates upon relevant CSR economic consequences, and complements the literature about the determinants of stock price crash risk. In practice, our conclusions provide a reference for Chinese managers, investors, and the related government departments to evaluate the effects of CSR and internal controls, and provides regulators with a method to help control abnormal fluctuations in the stock market. More importantly, the results of this study have reference value for scholars and practitioners in developing countries like China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in Developing Countries: Current Trends and Development)

15 pages, 11595 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Tool for Sourcing Sustainable Building Renovation: The Energy Efficiency Maturity Matrix

by Christian Stenqvist, Susanne Balslev Nielsen^*

and Per-Otto Bengtsson

Division of Environmental and Energy Systems Studies, Lund University, SE-221 00 Lund, Sweden

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1674; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051674 - 22 May 2018

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4758

Abstract

The success of sustainable building renovation is inevitably dependent on the capabilities of the involved stakeholders throughout the entire project. Therefore, any building client with intentions of sustainable building renovations must reflect on sourcing the adequate capabilities for a sustainable renovation project. The [...] Read more.

The success of sustainable building renovation is inevitably dependent on the capabilities of the involved stakeholders throughout the entire project. Therefore, any building client with intentions of sustainable building renovations must reflect on sourcing the adequate capabilities for a sustainable renovation project. The question in focus is: how to facilitate a sourcing strategy for energy-efficient sustainable building renovation and maintenance. This study on energy efficiency implementations shows that even in developed countries like Sweden, where energy efficiency is regulated by the EU, national legislation and other public policies, the municipal facilities management organizations need process guidance to navigate in decisions regarding in-house capabilities and collaboration with external service providers. A dialogue tool for the sourcing process, the energy efficiency maturity matrix, is developed to support future sourcing processes for energy-efficient buildings as a prominent part of the broader field of sustainable building renovation and maintenance. The future will show when building clients to a larger extent will embrace sourcing strategies instead of mainly focusing on specific technical improvements. The new International standards for facilities management (ISO18480 series) might support this change process, as it includes a sourcing approach, from a strategic level to an operational level, to add more value and to optimize costs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Building Renovation)

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14 pages, 534 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dependence on Supplier, Supplier Trust and Green Supplier Integration: The Moderating Role of Contract Management Difficulty

by Xuesong Zhao¹, Jieyi Pan¹ and Yongtao Song^2,*

¹ School of Management, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an 710072, China

² Institute of Management Science and Engineering, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1673; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051673 - 22 May 2018

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4507

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the impacts of dependence on supplier and supplier trust on green supplier integration, and the moderating role of contract management difficulty. In this study, we develop a dependence-trust-integration model based on resource dependence theory, social capital theory and [...] Read more.

This study aims to investigate the impacts of dependence on supplier and supplier trust on green supplier integration, and the moderating role of contract management difficulty. In this study, we develop a dependence-trust-integration model based on resource dependence theory, social capital theory and transaction cost theory. We examine the hypothesized relationships using hierarchical regression analyses based on data collected from 187 Chinese firms. Our findings suggest that dependence on supplier has positive impacts on green supplier integration and supplier trust. Supplier trust partially mediates the relationship between dependence on supplier and green supplier integration. In addition, contract management difficulty negatively moderates the relationship between supplier trust and green supplier integration. This research contributes to the literature by offering empirical evidence concerning the indirect relationship between dependence on supplier and green supplier integration via supplier trust, and the trust-integration link depends on the level of contract management difficulty. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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12 pages, 364 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Gaining Flexibility and Innovation through Offshore Outsourcing

by Michela Pellicelli

Department of Economics and Management, University of Pavia, Pavia 27100, Italy

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1672; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051672 - 22 May 2018

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 12366

Abstract

Recently, offshore outsourcing has become extremely important for companies that compete worldwide. In many industries, only companies that manage to be competitive globally can aspire to attain sustainable competitive advantages. Therefore, offshore outsourcing has become essential for many companies and recently has become [...] Read more.

Recently, offshore outsourcing has become extremely important for companies that compete worldwide. In many industries, only companies that manage to be competitive globally can aspire to attain sustainable competitive advantages. Therefore, offshore outsourcing has become essential for many companies and recently has become more and more a vital part of the long-term strategies of the leading firms. The rapidly shifting conditions in the marketplace is forcing management to constantly review and defend its core competencies. Management is now confronted with a higher level of complexity and disruptions brought about in particular by the new waves of globalization and the irresistible march of technological changes. For these reasons, offshore outsourcing is transforming the functions of the traditional firms into a network of competencies. The tendency to offshore most of the productive and economic activities and processes can lead companies to transform themselves into virtual organizations, where all the functions could be outsourced through the formation of flexible networks and agile organizational structures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue How does Outsourcing Affect the Economy and its Sustainability?)

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17 pages, 4349 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Lighting Design for Energy Sustainability, Information, and Perception. A Museum Environment as a Case Study

by Carla Balocco^*

and Giulia Volante

Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Florence, Via Santa Marta 3, 50139 Firenze, Italy

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1671; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051671 - 21 May 2018

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 8200

Abstract

The aim of our research is to investigate the physical connection between light, perception, and information by means of an integrated methodological approach. The proposed method was used for sustainable lighting design aiming at light efficacy and quality, visual perception, communication, and energy [...] Read more.

The aim of our research is to investigate the physical connection between light, perception, and information by means of an integrated methodological approach. The proposed method was used for sustainable lighting design aiming at light efficacy and quality, visual perception, communication, and energy saving. Three types of synergic measurement were carried out: photometric, colourimetric, and perception measurements. Starting from the results and the post-processing of photometric and colourimetric measurements on different light sources and fresco surfaces, by applying the eye-tracking technique for eye movement analysis of a people sample, entropy calculations were carried out. The results of observer perception and preferences, patterns of their visual scanning due to different LED (Light Emitting Diode) sources, were quantified by means of Shannon entropy calculation and, consequently, the information content of images that each light source can transmit. A new lighting proposal, based on the use of LED sources characterized by a spectral emission of light in strong compliance with surface colour and relevant transmission image content information was suggested and checked by transient simulations. Our proposal was based on sustainability because this concept is linked to developing perception and visual wellbeing, information, light communication, and lower energy consumption for maintenance, but especially for preventive conservation and the protection of works of art by means quality of light. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Lighting and Energy Saving)

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17 pages, 676 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Corporate Sustainability in the Process of Employee Recruitment through Social Networks in Conditions of Slovak Small and Medium Enterprises

by Milota Vetráková¹, Miloš Hitka²

, Marek Potkány², Silvia Lorincová^2,* and Lukáš Smerek¹

¹ Faculty of Economics, Matej Bel University in Banská Bystrica, Tajovského 10, Banská Bystrica 97590, Slovakia

² Faculty of Wood Sciences and Technology, Technical University in Zvolen, T. G. Masaryka 24, Zvolen 96053, Slovakia

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1670; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051670 - 21 May 2018

Cited by 40 | Viewed by 9810

Abstract

Recruitment strategy and policy are significantly affected by both the internal conditions of the enterprise and the external environment. It is important to anticipate and react to changes in the labor market in a timely manner, to eliminate potential threats and take advantage [...] Read more.

Recruitment strategy and policy are significantly affected by both the internal conditions of the enterprise and the external environment. It is important to anticipate and react to changes in the labor market in a timely manner, to eliminate potential threats and take advantage of opportunities to continuous staffing of current and future needs of the enterprise. The role of managers in deciding on possible techniques for recruiting employees is to respect the principles of sustainability both economically and socially. Due to the use of information technology, this trend is easier to apply in practice, as enterprises can present themselves and get information about potential job seekers. The success of the recruitment process is increasing if public awareness about the employer is positive. Designing the survey methodology was based on the axiom that traditional ways of recruiting employees are being replaced by techniques using the Internet and social networks. The aim of the paper is to present the views of domestic and foreign experts on the recruitment of employees using social networks. We compare the theoretical knowledge with the results of social networking research in SMEs in Slovakia and especially their use in the process of recruiting employees. A total of 324 enterprises with domestic and foreign capital share participated in the sociological questionnaire. The results have shown that enterprises with foreign capital share are more progressive in using the Internet to offer jobs and in gaining information on jobseekers through social networks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in E-Business)

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18 pages, 3009 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Conflict over Mining in Rural China: A Comprehensive Survey of Intentions and Strategies for Environmental Activism

by Xiuyun Yang¹ and Peter Ho^2,3,*

¹ Faculty of Technology, Policy and Management, Delft University, P.O. Box 5015, 2600 GA Delft, The Netherlands

² School of Social Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China

³ Department of International Development, London School of Economics, Houghton Street, London WC2A 2AE, UK

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1669; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051669 - 21 May 2018

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 7123

Abstract

Mining causes severe adverse effects such as pollution and forced resettlement. Accordingly, it has prompted conflicts that are also evident in China. Our study assesses whether and how rural residents’ engage in environmental activism (EA) against mining. This is achieved by constructing a [...] Read more.

Mining causes severe adverse effects such as pollution and forced resettlement. Accordingly, it has prompted conflicts that are also evident in China. Our study assesses whether and how rural residents’ engage in environmental activism (EA) against mining. This is achieved by constructing a model of EA strategies, coupled to variables that examine respondents’ intentions. The model uses data from a survey (n = 352) covering 37 villages spread over 5 provinces and 1 provincial-level municipality. The model is based on a refinement of the theory of planned behavior (TPB). Various findings are reported: (1) a majority of respondents (77%) believes that pollution in the mining areas is serious; (2) there is pessimism about the effects of EA with 41% believing it does not improve the environment, and less than one-fifth feeling the government supports EA, contradictorily; (3) well over half has engaged in one or more forms of EA, while (4) dominant EA strategies consist of complaining to local government or village authorities (both over 40%), or open protest (opted for by over 17%); (5) economic dependency and gender affect the intention for EA, as those employed in mining and women are less inclined to participate. Whereas studies pointed to “inclined abstainers” or the “silent majority”, this study ascertains that—with regard to mining—rural residents are not silent. We posit that a threshold of environmental endurance might have been reached. In this context, policymakers need to tackle the adverse effects of mining, as it is likely to generate more violent confrontations that ultimately pose risks to political credibility and social stability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Institutions and Policies for Rural Land Conversion in the Quest for Sustainability)

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14 pages, 458 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Firm Characteristics, Uncertainty and Research and Development (R&D) Investment: The Role of Size and Innovation Capacity

by Sungmoon Jung¹ and Gihyun Kwak^2,*

¹ Busan Institute of S&T Evaluation and Planning, 79, Centum jungang-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan 48058, Korea

² High-Potential Enterprises Research Institute, 4F, 279, Dongmak-ro, Mapo-Gu, Seoul 04151, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1668; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051668 - 21 May 2018

Cited by 42 | Viewed by 6375

Abstract

This paper examines the investment behavior of research and development (R&D) under uncertainty. We assume that there is a heterogeneous effect of uncertainty on R&D investment depending on characteristics of a firm. According to the results, the size and the innovation capacity of [...] Read more.

This paper examines the investment behavior of research and development (R&D) under uncertainty. We assume that there is a heterogeneous effect of uncertainty on R&D investment depending on characteristics of a firm. According to the results, the size and the innovation capacity of a firm are found to positively moderate the negative relationship between uncertainty and R&D investment. When the entire sample is divided into large and small-and-medium enterprises and high innovation capacity and low innovation capacity, it is found that the innovation capacity of a firm is a more crucial factor in positively moderating the negative relationship between R&D investment and uncertainty than the size of a firm. These findings provide policy implications, particularly for small-and-medium enterprises (SMEs), to promote R&D activities. Full article

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17 pages, 3159 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Empirical Study on Optimal Strategies of Industry-University-Institute Green Innovation with Subsidy

by Wenqing Wu^1,2, Kexin Yu¹, Saixiang Ma¹, Chien-Chi Chu^3,*

, Shijie Li^4,*, Chengcheng Ma^5,* and Sang-Bing Tsai^6,7,*

¹ College of Management and Economics, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China

² Research Center for National Intellectual Property Strategy Implementation (TJU), Tianjin 300072, China

³ Department of Finance, Business School of Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China

⁴ School of Business Administration, Guangdong University of Finance and Economics, Guangzhou 510320, China

⁵ Business School, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China

⁶ Zhongshan Institute, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Zhongshan 528400, China

⁷ Research Center for Environment and Sustainable Development of China Civil Aviation, Civil Aviation University of China, Tianjin 300300, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1667; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051667 - 21 May 2018

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4271

Abstract

With the increasing awareness of environmental protection and the complexity and rapid change of technological innovation, more and more enterprises seek to develop and research (R&D) institutions to cooperate with green innovation. In order to promote the cooperation efficiency of green innovation, this [...] Read more.

With the increasing awareness of environmental protection and the complexity and rapid change of technological innovation, more and more enterprises seek to develop and research (R&D) institutions to cooperate with green innovation. In order to promote the cooperation efficiency of green innovation, this paper develops a multi-stage game model to analyze the optimal strategies of the enterprise, the university and the policy-maker with consumer learning and government subsidy. Then the paper compares the difference of optimal subsidy between the single-stage green innovation cooperation and the multi-stage green innovation cooperation. The research shows that consumers’ initial learning factors and green innovation cooperation cycle have a significant impact on the optimal input level of the enterprise and the university and also have a significant impact on the optimal subsidy of the government. The specific government subsidy and subsidy ratio depend on the comprehensive role of consumer learning factors and the green innovation cooperation cycle. In the end, we propose that the government should subsidize the university at times when the initial consumer learning factor is low; the government subsidy should be properly lagged when the initial consumer learning factor is high. Full article

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25 pages, 1968 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Empirical Study on Annual Energy-Saving Performance of Energy Performance Contracting in China

by Hongquan Ruan^1,2,*, Xin Gao^1,2 and Chaoxuan Mao³

¹ School of Economics and Management, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China

² Institute for Urban Risk Management, Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, China

³ School of Statistics and Mathematics, Shanghai Lixin University of Accounting and Finance, Shanghai 201209, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1666; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051666 - 21 May 2018

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 4124

Abstract

A lack of trust in Energy Service Company (ESCo) is the most critical factor affecting the development of Energy Performance Contracting (EPC) in China, compared with other constraints. One cannot easily estimate the energy-saving performance of an EPC project. Under that condition, lack [...] Read more.

A lack of trust in Energy Service Company (ESCo) is the most critical factor affecting the development of Energy Performance Contracting (EPC) in China, compared with other constraints. One cannot easily estimate the energy-saving performance of an EPC project. Under that condition, lack of trust may cause the Energy-Consuming Unit (ECU) to suspect the energy-saving performance promised by the ESCo, thus leaving potentially profitable projects without necessary funding. Currently, specific studies taking an across-projects viewpoint on annual energy-saving performance of EPC projects in multiple subsectors, objectively and quantitatively, are lacking. This paper studies the regression relationships of annual energy-saving quantity in terms of revamping cost and the regression relationships of annual cost saving in terms of revamping cost. The regression results show that there are statistically significant correlations in the above relationships in the nine subsectors investigated. This is significant for ESCos and ECUs, because knowledge on energy-saving performance could contribute to EPC investment decisions and trust relationships between ESCos and ECUs. Then, a multiple linear regression model of revamping cost is set up to analyze its influencing factors. The model indicates that the subsector the sample belongs to, financing, registered capital of the ESCo, and contract period have significant effects on revamping cost. Thus, policy implications regarding innovation of EE promotion technology, clarifying ESCos’ exit mechanism, innovation of financing mechanism, and improving the market credit environment for promoting investment in EPC projects, are provided. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)

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17 pages, 841 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Technological Configuration Capability, Strategic Flexibility, and Organizational Performance in Chinese High-Tech Organizations

by Jin Li¹, Lulu Zhou², Xufan Zhang^3,*, Zhihong Chen⁴ and Feng Tian⁵

¹ School of Business, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China

² School of Economics and Management, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China

³ Ginling College, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210097, China

⁴ Institute for International Students, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China

⁵ Business and Law, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW 2308, Australia

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1665; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051665 - 21 May 2018

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 6074

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the moderating effect of corporate technology configuration capability on the relationship between strategic flexibility and organizational performance throughout the different stages of the technological life cycle. By empirically examining 439 Chinese high-tech organizations, we found [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the moderating effect of corporate technology configuration capability on the relationship between strategic flexibility and organizational performance throughout the different stages of the technological life cycle. By empirically examining 439 Chinese high-tech organizations, we found that technological configuration capability enhances the effect of strategic flexibility on organizational performance in a complex dynamic environment. However, different impacts were observed on the different stages of the technological life cycle. In addition, we explored the strategic flexibility during the different stages of the technological life cycle based on our empirical study. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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20 pages, 1680 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Designing Business Solutions for Plastic Waste Management to Enhance Circular Transitions in Kenya

by Balint Horvath¹, Edmund Mallinguh²

and Csaba Fogarassy^1,*

¹ Climate Change Economics Research Centre, Szent István University, Páter Károly 1, 2100 Godollo, Hungary

² Doctoral School of Management and Business Administration, Szent István University, Páter Károly 1, 2100 Godollo, Hungary

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1664; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051664 - 21 May 2018

Cited by 59 | Viewed by 19911

Abstract

Least-developed countries face many challenges regarding their plastic waste management systems. In 2017, Kenya imposed a selective ban targeting manufacturers and consumers of plastic carrier bags. However, this selectivity does not avoid the continuous use of other plastic products. The present paper states [...] Read more.

Least-developed countries face many challenges regarding their plastic waste management systems. In 2017, Kenya imposed a selective ban targeting manufacturers and consumers of plastic carrier bags. However, this selectivity does not avoid the continuous use of other plastic products. The present paper states that circular priorities, which have been defined to advanced economies, would not be entirely valid for the rest of the world. While high-income countries face only the impacts of their own consumption, developing nations must endure the externalities of these developed economies. Thus, the focus of the least developed part of the world must not be on reducing its relatively normal (or even low) consumption, but to manage its surplus material flow. According to the employed circular evaluation methodology (CEV—Circular Economic Value), the circularity level in Kenya’s plastic material flow stands on a rather low stage with 32.72%. This result outlines the linear deficiencies of the plastic waste management system and urges the prevention of further material leakage (such as energy use). Through the Business Model Canvas (BMC) approach this study offers a holistic business solution which can improve the system’s sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Circular Economy—Sustainable Energy and Waste Policies)

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22 pages, 1057 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Environmental Behavior of Secondary Education Students: A Case Study at Central Greece

by Stamatios Ntanos^1,*

, Grigorios L. Kyriakopoulos²

, Garyfallos Arabatzis¹, Vasilios Palios³ and Miltiadis Chalikias⁴

¹ Department of Forestry and Management of the Environment and Natural Resources, School of Agricultural and Forestry Sciences, Democritus University of Thrace, 68200 Orestiada, Greece

² School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, 15780 Zografou, Greece

³ Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences, Open University of Cyprus, 12794, 2252 Latsia, Cyprus

⁴ Department of Tourism Management, School of Business, Economics and Social Sciences, University of West Attica, 12244 Aigaleo, Greece

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1663; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051663 - 21 May 2018

Cited by 46 | Viewed by 8833

Abstract

During the last three decades, human behavior has been becoming energy alarming towards environmental sustainability. One of the most influential initiatives towards environmental protection and increased environmental consciousness is the solidification of primary and secondary environmental education. The purpose of this paper is [...] Read more.

During the last three decades, human behavior has been becoming energy alarming towards environmental sustainability. One of the most influential initiatives towards environmental protection and increased environmental consciousness is the solidification of primary and secondary environmental education. The purpose of this paper is to investigate different environmental profiles amongst secondary education students, in light of a multi-parametric analysis that involved the contributive role of school and family towards environmental awareness and participation. By reviewing relevant studies, the benefits offered by environmental education are presented. Accordingly, a questionnaire survey was deployed using a sample of 270 secondary education students, from schools situated in the prefecture of Larissa, central Greece. The statistical methods included factor analysis and cluster analysis. Particularly, four groups of different environmental characteristics are identified and interviewed. Results suggest that most students are environmental affectionate, although there is a need for more solidified environmental education and motivation from out-of-school societal opportunities, such as in the contexts of family and public socialization. The deployed research method and analysis can be proven supportive in adopting and scheduling school environmental programs after an initial identification of the various environmental attitudes among the student population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development of Electrical Energy Storage Technologies in Energy Production)

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16 pages, 4728 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Developing a Model to Assess the Potential Impact of TUM Hydropower Turbines on Small River Ecology

by Weiwei Yao^1,2

, Yuansheng Chen^1,*, Guoan Yu^1,2, Mingzhong Xiao³, Xiaoyi Ma^4,5 and Fakai Lei⁶

¹ Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, China Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China

² Department of Civil, Geo and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Arcisstrasse 21, 80333 Munich, Germany

³ State Key Laboratory of Hydrology-Water Resources and Hydraulic Engineering, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China

⁴ College of Water Resources and Architectural Engineering, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China

⁵ Key Laboratory of Agricultural Soil and Water Engineering in Arid Regions of Ministry of Education, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China

⁶ Powerchina Guiyang Engineering Corporation Limited, Guizhou 550081, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1662; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051662 - 21 May 2018

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4108

Abstract

Small hydropower is a renewable energy technology that is used for electricity generation worldwide, but still has potential for further development. However, during the installation of small hydropower, the ecological impacts of the power plants need to be thoroughly investigated. In addressing the [...] Read more.

Small hydropower is a renewable energy technology that is used for electricity generation worldwide, but still has potential for further development. However, during the installation of small hydropower, the ecological impacts of the power plants need to be thoroughly investigated. In addressing the challenges of energy production and minimizing the environmental impacts of small hydropower installation and operation, this study has applied an ecohydraulic model to investigate river hydrodynamics, hydromorphology, habitat, and the population impacts of small hydropower, and presented the Mum River as a case study. Two scenarios were implemented in this research to simulate the hydrodynamic, sedimentation, habitat, and population status in order to assess the potential effects caused by the TUM plant. At the Mum River, two scenarios were proposed: the TUM plant was not considered in scenario S1, but was considered in scenario S2. The model results for scenario S2 indicated that the habitat was suitable for fish species living in the Mum River, with fish population numbers between 4.6 × 10³ and 6.6 × 10³. The S2 results indicated that the impacts of the TUM plant were negligible when compared with S1. Although the impact of the TUM plant on the Mum River is relatively large when the discharge is high (19 m³/s), calculations based on stable flow shows that the TUM plant could function well on the river ecosystem when the discharge is low or at normal rates. Therefore, this study shows that the TUM plant would be a good option to meet the needs of energy generation whilst having a minimal impact on river habitats and changes in fish species population in similar small rivers and streams. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)

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27 pages, 754 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Automation on Employment: Just the Usual Structural Change?

by Ben Vermeulen^1,*, Jan Kesselhut¹, Andreas Pyka¹ and Pier Paolo Saviotti²

¹ Institute of Economics, University of Hohenheim, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany

² Faculty of Geosciences, University of Utrecht, 3500 Utrecht, The Netherlands

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1661; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051661 - 21 May 2018

Cited by 97 | Viewed by 59111

Abstract

We study the projected impact of automation on employment in the forthcoming decade, both at the macro-level and in actual (types of) sectors. Hereto, we unite an evolutionary economic model of multisectoral structural change with labor economic theory. We thus get a comprehensive [...] Read more.

We study the projected impact of automation on employment in the forthcoming decade, both at the macro-level and in actual (types of) sectors. Hereto, we unite an evolutionary economic model of multisectoral structural change with labor economic theory. We thus get a comprehensive framework of how displacement of labor in sectors of application is compensated by intra- and intersectoral countervailing effects and notably mopped up by newly created, labor-intensive sectors. We use several reputable datasets with expert projections on employment in occupations affected by automation (and notably by the introduction of robotics and AI) to pinpoint which and how sectors and occupations face employment shifts. This reveals how potential job loss due to automation in “applying” sectors is counterbalanced by job creation in “making” sectors as well in complementary and quaternary, spillover sectors. Finally, we study several macro-level scenarios on employment and find that mankind is facing “the usual structural change” rather than the “end of work”. We provide recommendations on policy instruments that enhance the dynamic efficiency of structural change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of Technological Change on Employment, Skills and Earnings)

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20 pages, 1621 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimisation of Multipurpose Reservoir Operation by Coupling Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) and Genetic Algorithm for Optimal Operating Policy (Case Study: Ganga River Basin)

by Jatin Anand^*

, Ashvani Kumar Gosain and Rakesh Khosa

Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi 110016, India

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1660; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051660 - 21 May 2018

Cited by 40 | Viewed by 6217

Abstract

Reservoirs are recognized as one of the most efficient infrastructure components in integrated water resources management. At present, with the ongoing advancement of social economy and requirement of water, the water resources shortage problem has worsened, and the operation of reservoirs, in terms [...] Read more.

Reservoirs are recognized as one of the most efficient infrastructure components in integrated water resources management. At present, with the ongoing advancement of social economy and requirement of water, the water resources shortage problem has worsened, and the operation of reservoirs, in terms of consumption of flood water, has become significantly important. To achieve optimal reservoirs operating policies, a considerable amount of optimization and simulation models have been introduced in the course of recent years. Subsequently, the assessment and estimation that is associated with the operation of reservoir stays conventional. In the present study, the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) models and a Genetic Algorithm model has been employed to two reservoirs in Ganga River basin, India in order to obtain the optimal reservoir operational policies. The objective function has been added to reduce the yearly sum of squared deviation from preferred storage capacity and required release for the irrigation purpose. The rule curves that were estimated via random search have been discovered to be consistent with that of demand requests. Thus, in the present case study, on the basis of the generated result, it has been concluded that GA-derived optimal reservoir operation rules are competitive and promising, and can be efficiently used for the derivation of operation of the reservoir. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers on Sustainable Water Resources Management from the 2017 and 2018 International SWAT (Soil and Water Assessment Tool) Conference)

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17 pages, 2169 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Simulation of Rainwater Harvesting Design and Demand-Side Controls for Large Hospitals

by Lawrence V. Fulton

Department of Health Administration, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX 78666, USA

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1659; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051659 - 21 May 2018

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 6559

Abstract

Inpatient health buildings in the United States are the most intensive users of water among large commercial buildings. Large facilities (greater than 1 million square feet) consume an average of 90 million gallons per building per year. The distribution and treatment of water [...] Read more.

Inpatient health buildings in the United States are the most intensive users of water among large commercial buildings. Large facilities (greater than 1 million square feet) consume an average of 90 million gallons per building per year. The distribution and treatment of water imposes a significant electrical power demand, which may be the single largest energy requirement for various states. Supply and demand-side solutions are needed, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions where water is scarce. This study uses continuous simulations based on 71 years of historical data to estimate how rainwater harvesting systems and demand-side interventions (e.g., low-flow devices, xeriscaping) would offset the demand for externally-provided water sources in a semi-arid region. Simulations from time series models are used to generate alternative rainfall models to account for potential non-stationarity and volatility. Results demonstrate that hospital external water consumption might be reduced by approximately 25% using conservative assumptions and depending on the design of experiment parameters associated with rainfall capture area, building size, holding tank specifications, and conservation efforts. Full article

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