Sustainability

19 pages, 5273 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Drone Noise Reduction Using Serration–Finlet Blade Design and Its Psychoacoustic and Social Impacts

by Yingyin Shen, Yuanqing Bai, Xiao Liu and Bin Zang

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3451; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083451 (registering DOI) - 12 Apr 2025

Unmanned aerial vehicles, particularly drones, have been increasingly deployed for different tasks in the community. They have become an important part of the economic and social benefits that society is exploiting from modern technology development. However, efforts are still required to further develop [...] Read more.

Unmanned aerial vehicles, particularly drones, have been increasingly deployed for different tasks in the community. They have become an important part of the economic and social benefits that society is exploiting from modern technology development. However, efforts are still required to further develop technologies which can mitigate the negative impacts. Among them, drone noise is considered a major health concern for the community. The present study undertakes an experimental investigation of the effectiveness of blade modifications on drone noise in an aeroacoustic wind tunnel facility. A quadcopter drone is programmed to operate in both hover and forward flights. Three modified blade configurations, including trailing-edge serrations combined serration–finlets, and an unmodified (baseline) blade, are manufactured. The far-field noise signals are recorded by two polar microphone arrays to quantify both the magnitude and directivity. The results show that all modified blades are able to reduce the drone noise at mid-to-high frequencies in both hover and forward flights, and this leads to a noticeable reduction in the overall sound pressure level. More importantly, the combined serration–finlet configuration outperforms all the other blades. Psychoacoustic analysis is also performed using the far-field acoustic time series. Interestingly, only the serration–finlet combination demonstrates a consistent reduction in the psychoacoustic annoyance levels, suggesting that it is important to use metrics from both acoustic and psychoacoustic analysis when developing noise mitigation strategies in the socio-economic context. Full article

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

30 pages, 16268 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Integration of Google Earth Engine and Aggregated Air Quality Index for Monitoring and Mapping the Spatio-Temporal Air Quality to Improve Environmental Sustainability in Arid Regions

by Abdel-rahman A. Mustafa, Mohamed S. Shokr, Talal Alharbi, Elsayed A. Abdelsamie, Abdelbaset S. El-Sorogy and Jose Emilio Meroño de Larriva

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3450; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083450 (registering DOI) - 12 Apr 2025

Abstract

Egypt must present a more thorough and accurate picture of the state of the air, as this can contribute to better environmental and public health results. Hence, the goal of the current study is to map and track the spatiotemporal air quality over [...] Read more.

Egypt must present a more thorough and accurate picture of the state of the air, as this can contribute to better environmental and public health results. Hence, the goal of the current study is to map and track the spatiotemporal air quality over Egypt’s Qena Governorate using remote sensing data. The current investigation is considered a pioneering study and the first attempt to map the air quality index in the studied area. Multisource remote sensing data sets from the Google Earth Engine (GEE) were used to achieve this. The first is Sentinel-5P’s average annual satellite image data, which were gathered for four important pollutants: carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and ozone (O₃) over a six year period from 2019 to 2024. The second is the MODIS aerosol optical density (AOD) product satellite image data from the GEE platform, which calculate the average annual particulate matter (PM_2.5and PM₁₀). All mentioned pollutant images were used to calculate the air quality index (AQI) and aggregated air quality index (AAQI). Lastly, we used Landsat’s average yearly land surface temperature (LST) retrieval (OLI/TIRS). The aggregated air quality index (AAQI) was computed, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (USEPA) air quality index (AQI) was created for each pollutant. According to the data, the AQI for CO, PM_2.5, and PM₁₀ in the research region ranged from hazardous to unhealthy; at the same time, the AQI for NO₂ varied between harmful and unhealthy for sensitive groups, with values ranging from 135 to 165. The annual average of the AQI for SO₂ throughout the studied period ranged from 29 to 339, with the categories ranging from good to hazardous. The constant AQI for ozone in the study area indicates that the ozone doses in Qena are surprisingly stable. Lastly, with a minimum value of 265 and a maximum of 489, the AAQI ranged from very unhealthy to dangerous in the current study. According to the data, the area being studied has poor air quality, which impacts the environment and public health. The results of this study have significant implications for environmental sustainability and human health and could be used in other areas. Full article

18 pages, 455 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Significance of Herbicide–Humin Interactions in Sustainable Agroecosystems

by Maria Jerzykiewicz, Irmina Ćwieląg-Piasecka, Jerzy Weber, Aleksandra Ukalska-Jaruga, Elżbieta Jamroz, Andrzej Kocowicz, Magdalena Debicka, Jakub Bekier, Lilla Mielnik, Romualda Bejger, Magdalena Banach-Szott and Agnieszka Grabusiewicz

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3449; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083449 (registering DOI) - 12 Apr 2025

Abstract

Humin, as the most stable fraction in soil organic matter, determines possibility of sustainable environmental development by influencing, among other things, the binding and migration of different chemicals in soil. The aim of this paper was to determine changes in the properties of [...] Read more.

Humin, as the most stable fraction in soil organic matter, determines possibility of sustainable environmental development by influencing, among other things, the binding and migration of different chemicals in soil. The aim of this paper was to determine changes in the properties of humins after interaction with three selected active substances of herbicides differing in structure and chemical properties (pendimethalin, metazachlor, and flufenacet) and two different commercial products. In accordance with OECD 106 guidelines, humins isolated from eight different soils were saturated with herbicide compounds under study. As humin is a non-hydrolyzable organic carbon fraction, solid state research techniques (elemental analysis, NMR, FTIR, EPR, and UV-Vis) were applied. The results clearly showed that the interaction between humin and herbicides increases the concentration of oxygen-containing groups and the internal oxidation (ω) in humin. For all investigated humins, a reduction in radical concentration was observed. Radicals in humins were not completely quenched; a certain concentration of radicals with unchanged structure always remained in the samples. Other spectroscopic analyses showed no significant changes in the structure of pesticide-saturated and non-saturated humins. This suggests that sorption of the studied compounds occurs on the humins only as a result of the interaction of physical forces on the surface of the studied organic matter fraction. Thus, interaction with the studied herbicides occurs as a surface phenomenon, and the inner core remains protected by the condensed structure and/or strong binding to the clay minerals. Full article

27 pages, 1746 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatiotemporal Evolution Mechanism and Dynamic Simulation of the Urban Resilience System in the Chengdu–Chongqing Economic Circle

by Huiqin Huang and Xia Yang

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3448; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083448 (registering DOI) - 12 Apr 2025

Abstract

The system subject, resilience capacity, and factor endowment are the core elements of resilient city construction. A rational assessment of urban resilience is crucial for transforming the urban governance paradigm. This study develops an analytical framework for resilient city system (RCS) grounded in [...] Read more.

The system subject, resilience capacity, and factor endowment are the core elements of resilient city construction. A rational assessment of urban resilience is crucial for transforming the urban governance paradigm. This study develops an analytical framework for resilient city system (RCS) grounded in the conceptual connotation and constituent elements of urban resilience. Using the strategically significant Chengdu–Chongqing Economic Circle (CCEC) as a case study, an urban resilience (UR) index system was proposed, encompassing economics, society, ecology, infrastructure, and organizational management. A panel dataset of urban resilience indicators was compiled using official data from national and local urban statistical yearbooks spanning 2012 to 2022. By analyzing the spatiotemporal evolution patterns of the CCEC, this study revealed the dominant factors influencing these patterns and dynamically simulated the urban resilience of the CCEC over the next 16 years. The findings indicate the following: (1) During 2012–2022, the urban resilience of the CCEC transitioned from a “single-core” model centered on Chongqing to a “dual-core” model featuring both Chongqing and Chengdu. The overall level of urban resilience in the study area exhibited an upward trend, characterized by a spatially divergent pattern with two prominent wings and a concave center. (2) Economic factors, social factors, and facility factors were identified as the dominant factors affecting urban resilience in the CCEC. (3) Projections for 2025–2035 suggest that the urban resilience level of the CCEC will continue to increase steadily at a moderate pace. These results provide valuable theoretical references for advancing the high-quality development of the CCEC and fostering a development pattern characterized by “two-wing drive and whole-area synergy”. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Geospatial Analytics in Advancing Sustainable, Healthy and Resilient Cities)

19 pages, 3295 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Performance Evaluation of Porous Asphalt Mixture Reinforced with Waste Cellulose Acetate Fibers

by Jing Yan, Xiaobo Du and Hongwei Lin

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3447; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083447 (registering DOI) - 12 Apr 2025

Abstract

Cellulose acetate fiber (CAF), a typical waste product derived from cigarette filters, has attracted growing attention for its potential reuse in asphalt materials. However, its application in porous asphalt (PA) mixtures remains underexplored. This study investigates the effects of CAF on the performance [...] Read more.

Cellulose acetate fiber (CAF), a typical waste product derived from cigarette filters, has attracted growing attention for its potential reuse in asphalt materials. However, its application in porous asphalt (PA) mixtures remains underexplored. This study investigates the effects of CAF on the performance of asphalt binders and PA-13 mixtures through a series of laboratory tests. The results demonstrate that CAF significantly enhances the high-temperature rheological performance of asphalt binders. A 1% CAF content improved the low-temperature rheological performance of asphalt binder, while a higher CAF content resulted in performance degradation. A fatigue life analysis revealed a parabolic relationship with CAF content with the optimal N_f₅₀ observed at a 1% CAF-a 4.3% increase over the original binder. Compared to 3% lignin fiber (LF)-modified binders, 3% CAF-modified binders exhibited reduced temperature sensitivity in high-temperature performance, at least a 4.6% improvement in low-temperature performance and an 8.4% increase in the fatigue life. As for PA-13 mixtures, the incorporation of CAF progressively improved rutting, moisture and stripping resistance with increasing CAF content, achieving the highest dynamic stability, highest tensile strength ratio and lowest mass loss rate at 5% CAF. The low-temperature performance and fatigue life (S = 0.45) of PA-13 mixtures exhibited a parabolic trend, peaking at 3% CAF. Moreover, the 3% CAF-modified PA-13 mixture demonstrated improved low-temperature performance and fatigue resistance, while exhibiting a slight decrease in high-temperature stability, water resistance and resistance to disintegration. Overall, CAF is a viable alternative to LF for improving the durability and service life of asphalt pavements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Engineering and Science)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 2094 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Transitions: Navigating Green Technologies, Clean Energy, Economic Growth, and Human Capital for a Greener Future

by Jianjun Li and Ali Imran

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3446; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083446 (registering DOI) - 12 Apr 2025

Abstract

Sustainable transitions are essential for balancing economic growth with environmental preservation. Ecological sustainability, measured through environmental footprints (ECV), serves as a strategic pathway for mitigating environmental degradation and fostering long-term ecological resilience. This study examines the role of industrialization (IDS), economic growth (EGR), [...] Read more.

Sustainable transitions are essential for balancing economic growth with environmental preservation. Ecological sustainability, measured through environmental footprints (ECV), serves as a strategic pathway for mitigating environmental degradation and fostering long-term ecological resilience. This study examines the role of industrialization (IDS), economic growth (EGR), human capital (HDV), green technologies (GNN), and renewable energy consumption (RNC) in shaping ECV across G5 countries from 2000 to 2022. Employing the cross-sectionally augmented autoregressive distributed lag (CS-ARDL) estimator, alongside the augmented mean group (AMG) and common correlated effects mean group (CCEMG) for robustness, this study unveils a positive association between EGR and ECV, indicating its adverse impact on environmental sustainability. However, IDS, HDV, GNN, and RNC exhibit negative relationships with ECV, suggesting their contributions to improving ecological sustainability. These findings highlight the need for integrated policies that promote sustainable industrial practices, enhance technological advancements, and optimize human capital to counterbalance the environmental pressures of economic growth. Aligning economic expansion with ecological sustainability remains crucial for achieving long-term environmental balance in G5 nations. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 469 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Environmental Regulation, Green Innovation, and Corporate Brand Value

by Yue Li, Chen Zou, Yongchun Huang and Anwei Wan

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3445; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083445 (registering DOI) - 12 Apr 2025

Abstract

Under the background of green development and brand building, this article aims to explore the relationship between environmental regulation on corporate brand value and the mediating effect of green innovation, which can help enterprises build a synergistic mechanism between brand building and green [...] Read more.

Under the background of green development and brand building, this article aims to explore the relationship between environmental regulation on corporate brand value and the mediating effect of green innovation, which can help enterprises build a synergistic mechanism between brand building and green development, and step into a benign track of high-quality development. Based on institutional theory and resource-based theory, this paper takes the 106 listed companies on the 2018–2022 consecutive list of China’s 500 Most Valuable Brands as a sample and constructs a two-way fixed-effects model to test the impact of heterogeneous environmental regulations on green innovation and corporate brand value. The empirical results showed that: (1) Command-based environmental regulation exhibits an inverted U-shaped relationship with brand value, as it compels enterprises to adopt environmental governance in the short term but gradually erodes productive resources and triggers negative environmental and reputational effects over the long term; market-based environmental regulation demonstrates a U-shaped relationship with brand value: while it crowds out production funds and shifts costs to consumers in the short term, the government’s “resource compensation” effects ultimately outweigh “compliance cost” pressures in the long run; (2) green innovation plays a partial mediating role in the impact of command-based environmental regulation on corporate brand value; (3) the impact of environmental regulations on corporate brand value is heterogeneous in terms of the nature of corporate ownership, life cycle, and location. The above findings provide a useful reference for the government to use environmental regulation tools flexibly, optimally adjust the environmental regulatory mechanism, and promote corporate brand building and green development. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 695 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The 30 × 30 Protection Target: Attitudes of Residents from Seven Countries

by James A. Fitzsimons, Kellyn Garrison, Blinne Finnegan and Ian Luby

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3444; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083444 (registering DOI) - 12 Apr 2025

Abstract

In December 2022, 196 countries adopted the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework under the Convention on Biological Diversity. The Global Biodiversity Framework outlines four ambitious global goals and 23 targets for the world to address the loss of biodiversity and the more sustainable use [...] Read more.

In December 2022, 196 countries adopted the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework under the Convention on Biological Diversity. The Global Biodiversity Framework outlines four ambitious global goals and 23 targets for the world to address the loss of biodiversity and the more sustainable use of natural resources. One of those targets—Target 3—commits to achieving the protection of at least 30% of terrestrial and inland water areas and of marine and coastal areas by 2030 (the “30 × 30 protection target”). This is one of the largest conservation commitments that countries around the world have made. Prior to the signing of the Global Biodiversity Framework, a survey of residents in seven countries (Australia, Barbados, Colombia, Germany, Kenya, Mongolia, and the USA) was conducted to understand their level of awareness and gauge their support for the 30 × 30 protection target. In the seven countries surveyed in late 2022, a strong majority of respondents in each country rated the target favorably and were likely to support their government making commitments on it. This survey is the only multi-country pre-Global Biodiversity Framework survey and provides a useful baseline to track changes in opinion on 30 × 30 over time. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Vegetation Management: Forestry, Agriculture and Protected Areas)

25 pages, 2652 KiB

Open AccessReview

Seasonal Dynamics of Nitrogen and Phosphorus in Wetland Plants: Implications for Efficient Eutrophication Control

by Keyang Wu, Lin Chen, Qian Wang, Yuanyuan Li, Yu Zheng, Qihao Ma, Haiyang Li, Yu Zhang and Fengmin Li

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3443; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083443 (registering DOI) - 12 Apr 2025

Abstract

Eutrophication challenges aquatic ecosystems, with wetland plants serving as sustainable sources of in situ remediation for nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) removal. The limited understanding of seasonal nutrient dynamics hinders sustainable management development. This review classifies wetland plants by growth patterns: spring–summer growth [...] Read more.

Eutrophication challenges aquatic ecosystems, with wetland plants serving as sustainable sources of in situ remediation for nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) removal. The limited understanding of seasonal nutrient dynamics hinders sustainable management development. This review classifies wetland plants by growth patterns: spring–summer growth plants (SSPs), spring–summer–autumn growth plants (SSAPs), and all-year-round growth plants (APs). SSPs exhibit peak N/P in spring–summer, SSAPs sustain high levels in autumn, while APs maintain stable contents through cold-tolerant sustainability. Perennials achieve sustainable cycling by seasonally storing N/P in tissues and redistributing them in spring. We propose the following sustainable harvesting protocols: harvest SSPs pre-September, SSAPs by November, and retain APs over winter. Height-controlled harvesting during growth peaks enhances removal while preserving regeneration. Strategic combinations of SSPs, SSAPs, and APs ensure sustainable, efficient nutrient removal across hydrological/climatic conditions, supporting wetland conservation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Water Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 627 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Circular Economy in Chinese Heritage Conservation: Upcycling Waste Materials for Sustainable Restoration and Cultural Narrative Revitalization

by Wei Cao, Yaqi Zhang and Jian Liu

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3442; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083442 (registering DOI) - 12 Apr 2025

Abstract

Material depletion, environmental degradation, and cultural revitalization pose significant challenges to heritage conservation in China. Within the context of heritage restoration, the principles of the circular economy (CE)—including R1 (Reduce), R2 (Reuse), and R3 (Recycle)—can provide a structured framework for sustainable interventions. By [...] Read more.

Material depletion, environmental degradation, and cultural revitalization pose significant challenges to heritage conservation in China. Within the context of heritage restoration, the principles of the circular economy (CE)—including R1 (Reduce), R2 (Reuse), and R3 (Recycle)—can provide a structured framework for sustainable interventions. By prioritizing resource efficiency, minimizing waste generation, and repurposing materials, CE strategies support the preservation of cultural heritage while mitigating environmental impact. This study explores the role of waste material upcycling in sustainable heritage conservation (SHC) in tandem with the revitalization of cultural narratives. This study examines the core factors affecting sustainable restoration practice through the lens of the circular economy theory and sustainable heritage conservation theory. The research design adopts mixed methods whereby quantitative web surveys are conducted among practitioners of conservation and complemented with qualitative case studies from CE-based intervention restoration projects in China. The study identifies five independent variables—upcycling of waste materials, resource efficiency, stakeholder engagement, economic viability, and cultural narrative revitalization—with sustainability-driven innovation acting as a mediating factor. Preliminary findings indicate that upcycling enhances material longevity and minimizes restoration expenses while promoting social acceptance of circular practices through stakeholder engagement. Revitalizing cultural narratives enhances historical continuity while preserving intangible heritage. The results indicate that CE-based interventions positively influenced SHC, with sustainability-driven innovation as a mediator. With this, it was concluded that introducing circular economy principles in heritage conservation would promote environmental sustainability, economic viability, and culture-building resilience. Policy recommendations include incentivizing upcycling technologies, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, and embedding CE principles in national heritage policies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cultural Heritage Conservation and Sustainable Development)

19 pages, 2788 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cycling as Critical Infrastructure for Green Start-Ups: A Multilevel Analysis in Germany

by Blom Meijering

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3441; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083441 (registering DOI) - 12 Apr 2025

Abstract

Despite physical infrastructure being known as a critical enabler of entrepreneurship, cycling infrastructure and its role in entrepreneurship remain largely unexplored. However, a well-established cycling infrastructure can support green start-up activity by facilitating connectivity and the exchange of knowledge and ideas without the [...] Read more.

Despite physical infrastructure being known as a critical enabler of entrepreneurship, cycling infrastructure and its role in entrepreneurship remain largely unexplored. However, a well-established cycling infrastructure can support green start-up activity by facilitating connectivity and the exchange of knowledge and ideas without the reliance on carbon-intensive transport, which aligns with their environmental goals. This article studies the relationship between cycling infrastructure and green start-up activity at the regional (NUTS-3) level in Germany and whether this relationship is amplified by the wider entrepreneurial ecosystem (EE). This study is virtually the first to examine how a well-established cycling infrastructure is conducive to start-up activity. With firm-level data from the IAB/ZEW Start-up Panel, multilevel regression models are used to account for differences in green start-up activity across urban, intermediate, and rural regions. The findings show a strong significant and positive relationship between cycling infrastructure and green start-up activity at the regional level, even after including various controls. However, this relationship is not amplified by the wider ecosystem. In the transition towards a Green Economy, policymakers should invest in cycling infrastructure because of its supportive role towards green start-ups. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 2519 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing Soil Organic Carbon in Semi-Arid Agricultural Soils Using UAVs and Machine Learning: A Pathway to Sustainable Water and Soil Resource Management

by Imad El-Jamaoui, María José Delgado-Iniesta, Maria José Martínez Sánchez, Carmen Pérez Sirvent and Salvadora Martínez López

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3440; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083440 (registering DOI) - 12 Apr 2025

Abstract

The global effort to combat climate change highlights the critical role of storing organic carbon in soil to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Traditional methods of mapping soil organic carbon (SOC) have been labour-intensive and costly, relying on extensive laboratory analyses. Recent advancements in [...] Read more.

The global effort to combat climate change highlights the critical role of storing organic carbon in soil to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Traditional methods of mapping soil organic carbon (SOC) have been labour-intensive and costly, relying on extensive laboratory analyses. Recent advancements in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) offer a promising alternative for efficiently and affordably mapping SOC at the field level. This study focused on developing a method to accurately predict topsoil SOC at high resolution using spectral data from low-altitude UAV multispectral imagery, complemented by laboratory data from the Nogalte farm in Murcia, Spain, as part of the LIFE AMDRYC4 project. To attain this objective, Python version 3.10 was used to implement several machine learning techniques, including partial least squares (PLS) regression, random forest (RF), and support vector machine (SVM). Among these, the random forest algorithm demonstrated superior performance, achieving an R² value of 0.92, RMSE of 0.22, MAE of 0.19, MSE of 0.05, and EVE of 0.71 in estimating SOC. The results of the RF model were then visualised spatially using GIS and compared with simple spatial interpolations of soil analyses. The findings suggest that a multispectral sensor UAV-based modelling and mapping of SOC can provide valuable insights for farmers, offering a practical means to monitor SOC levels and enhance precision agriculture systems. This innovative approach reduces the time and cost associated with traditional SOC mapping methods and supports sustainable agricultural practices by enabling more precise management of soil resources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metropolitan Adaptation Strategies and Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Systems Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

37 pages, 839 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Advanced Oxidation Process in the Sustainable Treatment of Refractory Wastewater: A Systematic Literature Review

by Jorge Alejandro Silva

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3439; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083439 (registering DOI) - 12 Apr 2025

Abstract

More than 4 billion people yearly suffer from global water scarcity amid climate change, rapid population growth, and growing industrial activity. Due to the high concentrations of recalcitrant organic compounds, refractory wastewater is highly resistant to conventional biological treatment and represents a critical [...] Read more.

More than 4 billion people yearly suffer from global water scarcity amid climate change, rapid population growth, and growing industrial activity. Due to the high concentrations of recalcitrant organic compounds, refractory wastewater is highly resistant to conventional biological treatment and represents a critical obstacle for water reuse and sustainable water management. A systematic literature review of 35 peer-reviewed articles published from 2010 to 2025 is provided to evaluate the utilization and sustainability potential of advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) for treating recalcitrant wastewater. Using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) framework, the review assesses numerous AOPs, such as ozonation, UV/H₂O₂, Fenton reactions, and photocatalysis, while also evaluating their performance, efficiency, and integration ability. The results show that AOPs demonstrate pollutant removal rates often greater than 96%, reduce sludge formation, and improve effluent biodegradability. They can be applied at different treatment stages, combined with any renewable energy systems, and therefore can scale and be sustained, thereby aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goal 6. AOPs provide a technically feasible and eco-friendly solution for higher quality wastewater treatment. In the face of increasing pressure on global water resources, and the urgent need for sustainable water resource management, this study offers valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners aiming to adopt resilient and circular strategies for water. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Sustainable Water and Wastewater Treatment: Emerging Technologies and Solutions)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

11 pages, 476 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Studies on Grass Germination and Growth on Post-Flotation Sediments

by Grzegorz Żurek and Danuta Martyniak

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3438; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083438 (registering DOI) - 12 Apr 2025

Abstract

The sediments remaining after copper flotation (here referred to as to flotation tailings) are generally characterized by nutrient deficiency and heavy metal enrichment, presenting significant obstacles to vegetation establishment and the development of sustainable ecosystems. This research aimed to evaluate the germination and [...] Read more.

The sediments remaining after copper flotation (here referred to as to flotation tailings) are generally characterized by nutrient deficiency and heavy metal enrichment, presenting significant obstacles to vegetation establishment and the development of sustainable ecosystems. This research aimed to evaluate the germination and growth performance of eight grass species on these tailings compared to reference conditions. Seed germination was assessed across flotation tailings, sand, and controlled laboratory environments. Initial establishment success was determined by measuring seedling height and root length three weeks after sowing in a glasshouse pot experiment. The findings revealed that Bromus inermis, Bromus catharticus, and Elytrigia elongata were capable of germinating and growing successfully in the challenging substrate, indicating their potential role in sustainable land management. Despite demonstrating excellent germination and seedling growth under test conditions, Bromus tectorum was deemed unsuitable due to its potential for invasive behavior, which could threaten the sustainability of revegetation efforts. Furthermore, species commonly employed for the revegetation of difficult terrains, including Festuca arundinacea, Festuca rubra, and Lolium perenne, proved entirely ineffective for the sustainable treatment of these flotation tailings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geological Environment Monitoring and Early Warning Systems)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

39 pages, 1092 KiB

Open AccessReview

On the Interplay Between Behavior Dynamics, Environmental Impacts, and Fairness in the Digitalized Circular Economy with Associated Business Models and Supply Chain Management

by Shai Fernández, Ulf Bodin and Kåre Synnes

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3437; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083437 (registering DOI) - 12 Apr 2025

Abstract

In contemporary research, the digital transformation of industries and societies has increased the importance of interdisciplinary exploration, particularly when addressing the complex challenges faced by modern organizations and social systems. From the perspective of digitalization, this literature review examines the intricate interactions between [...] Read more.

In contemporary research, the digital transformation of industries and societies has increased the importance of interdisciplinary exploration, particularly when addressing the complex challenges faced by modern organizations and social systems. From the perspective of digitalization, this literature review examines the intricate interactions between three key research domains: behavior dynamics, environmental impact, and fairness. By reviewing a wide range of studies and methodologies, it reveals new insights, challenges, and opportunities that arise at the intersection and through the interdependencies of these areas within digital ecosystems. Through a structured approach covering preliminary background, state-of-the-art methods, and comprehensive analysis, this document seeks to reveal the synergies and divergences among these domains. Special emphasis is placed on their implications in the digitalization of modern circular economy, business models, and supply chain management contexts where these domains converge in meaningful ways. Additionally, through an extensive review of the existing literature, this document highlights the current state of research and identifies notable gaps. These include issues such as ensuring fairness in digitalized sustainable strategies, understanding the role of digital behavior dynamics in promoting environmental management, and managing environmental impacts in new digitally driven business models. By weaving together these diverse elements, this work offers a novel perspective, emphasizing the importance of collaborative and integrative research in shaping a sustainable and equitable digital future. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 2521 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multi-Scale Temporal Integration for Enhanced Greenhouse Gas Forecasting: Advancing Climate Sustainability

by Haozhe Wang, Yuqi Mei, Jingxuan Ren, Xiaoxu Zhu and Zhong Qian

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3436; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083436 (registering DOI) - 12 Apr 2025

Viewed by 35

Abstract

Greenhouse gases (GHGs) significantly shape global climate systems by driving temperature rises, disrupting weather patterns, and intensifying environmental imbalances, with direct consequences for human life, including rising sea levels, extreme weather, and threats to food security. Accurate forecasting of GHG concentrations is crucial [...] Read more.

Greenhouse gases (GHGs) significantly shape global climate systems by driving temperature rises, disrupting weather patterns, and intensifying environmental imbalances, with direct consequences for human life, including rising sea levels, extreme weather, and threats to food security. Accurate forecasting of GHG concentrations is crucial for crafting effective climate policies, curbing carbon emissions, and fostering sustainable development. However, current models often struggle to capture multi-scale temporal patterns and demand substantial computational resources, limiting their practicality. This study presents MST-GHF (Multi-Scale Temporal Greenhouse Gas Forecasting), an innovative framework that integrates daily and monthly CO₂ data through a multi-encoder architecture to address these challenges. It leverages an Input Attention encoder to manage short-term daily fluctuations, an Autoformer encoder to capture long-term monthly trends, and a Temporal Attention mechanism to ensure stability across scales. Evaluated on a fifty-year NOAA dataset from Mauna Loa, Barrow, American Samoa, and Antarctica, MST-GHF surpasses 14 baseline models, achieving a Test_R² of 0.9627 and a Test_MAPE of 1.47%, with notable stability in long-term forecasting. By providing precise GHG predictions, MST-GHF empowers policymakers with reliable data for crafting targeted climate policies and conducting scenario simulations enabling proactive adjustments to emission reduction strategies and enhancing sustainability by aligning interventions with long-term environmental goals. Its optimized computational efficiency, reducing resource demands compared to Transformer-based models, further strengthens sustainability in climate modeling, making it deployable in resource-limited settings. Ultimately, MST-GHF serves as a robust tool to mitigate GHG impacts on climate and human life, advancing sustainability across environmental and societal domains. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Air Pollution Control and Sustainable Development)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

30 pages, 1362 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Maximum Residue Limits and Agricultural Trade: Evidence from China

by Siqi Zhang

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3435; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083435 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2025

Viewed by 61

Abstract

In recent years, maximum residue limit (MRL) standards regulated by governments have become increasingly stringent. MRL standards aim to protect human health and environmental sustainability by setting maximum allowable residue concentrations for chemical substances in imported products. In November 2020, the European Union [...] Read more.

In recent years, maximum residue limit (MRL) standards regulated by governments have become increasingly stringent. MRL standards aim to protect human health and environmental sustainability by setting maximum allowable residue concentrations for chemical substances in imported products. In November 2020, the European Union published EU Regulation 2020/1085, imposing stricter MRL standards on imported agricultural products. As standard-setting leaders implement more restrictive MRLs and export-oriented countries adjust their chemical practices to align with these standards, it is essential to examine the emerging trade patterns associated with MRLs and exports. This paper investigates the impact of maximum residue limits (MRLs) on China’s agricultural exports, using disaggregated product-level data (HS eight-digit) for 237 products across 43 importing countries from 2006 to 2021. The results show that a 10% more stringent MRL at the mean in the previous year leads to a 6.6% decrease in the current-year export values of China’s agricultural products. Stricter MRLs for insecticides significantly reduce China’s agricultural exports, while MRLs for fungicides and herbicides have no significant effect. Additionally, I analyze the top 10 most frequently notified chemical substances in goods from China, as reported by the European Commission’s Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) over 2020–2024. More stringent MRLs for Chlorpyrifos, Diafenthiuron, and Carbendazim significantly impede China’s agricultural exports to the European Union. Conversely, China’s agricultural exports to USMCA, ASEAN, and BRI member countries are sensitive to more restrictive MRLs for Diafenthiuron, while benefiting from tougher MRLs for Tolfenpyrad, Dinotefuran, and Imidacloprid. The impacts of MRLs on the extensive and intensive margins of exports suggest that more restrictive MRLs do not significantly affect the probability of exporting, but they reduce export values conditional on the export decisions. The findings suggest that tightening MRL standards by importing countries do not necessarily impede agricultural trade; in some cases, they facilitate China’s agricultural exports to these markets. This study provides policymakers with a comprehensive analysis to formulate strategies for enhancing agricultural exports and highlights the role of food safety standards in sustainable development. Full article

29 pages, 690 KiB

Open AccessReview

Organic Acids in Food Preservation: Exploring Synergies, Molecular Insights, and Sustainable Applications

by Kavita Bhavin Sorathiya, Adma Melo, Maria Conceição Hogg and Manuela Pintado

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3434; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083434 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2025

Viewed by 66

Abstract

Food safety is a critical global health concern, as the consumption of unsafe food can lead to various acute and chronic diseases. While various preservation methods are employed to prevent food spoilage, it remains a significant issue for the food industry, resulting not [...] Read more.

Food safety is a critical global health concern, as the consumption of unsafe food can lead to various acute and chronic diseases. While various preservation methods are employed to prevent food spoilage, it remains a significant issue for the food industry, resulting not only in food waste but also significant economic losses for manufacturers and consumers alike. Furthermore, there is growing consumer concern regarding food quality and safety, leading to the rejection of chemical additives due to their associated health risks. Organic acids, naturally occurring compounds of plants and animals, and produced by various beneficial microorganisms, play an important role in enhancing food flavor, preserving nutritional quality, and extending the shelf life of food products. Recognized for their antimicrobial potential, organic acids are commonly utilized as food preservatives, thus contributing to food safety. This review focuses on organic acids as natural preservatives within the food industry. It delves into their chemical structures, mode of action in cells, the types commonly used in preservation along with their general properties, and their antimicrobial activity against bacteria, yeasts, and fungi. These insights are drawn from the published literature, providing comprehensive understanding of the role organic acids play in ensuring food safety and maintaining food quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Food Preservation)

22 pages, 3354 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Research on High Spatiotemporal Resolution of XCO₂ in Sichuan Province Based on Stacking Ensemble Learning

by Zhaofei Li, Na Zhao, Han Zhang, Yang Wei, Yumin Chen and Run Ma

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3433; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083433 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2025

Viewed by 48

Abstract

Global warming caused by the increase in the atmospheric CO₂ content has become a focal environmental issue of common concern to the international community. As a key resource support for achieving the “dual carbon” goals in Western China, Sichuan Province requires a [...] Read more.

Global warming caused by the increase in the atmospheric CO₂ content has become a focal environmental issue of common concern to the international community. As a key resource support for achieving the “dual carbon” goals in Western China, Sichuan Province requires a deep analysis of its carbon sources, carbon sinks, and its characteristics in terms of atmospheric environmental capacity, which is of great significance for formulating effective regional sustainable development strategies and responding to global climate change. In view of the unique geographical and climatic conditions in Sichuan Province and the current situation of a low and uneven distribution of atmospheric environmental capacity, this paper uses three forms of multi-source satellite data, OCO-2, OCO-3, and GOSAT, combined with other auxiliary data, to generate a daily XCO₂ concentration dataset with a spatial resolution of a 1km grid in Sichuan Province from 2015 to 2022. Based on the Optuna optimization method with 10-fold cross-validation, the optimal hyperparameter configuration of the four base learners of Stacking, random forest, gradient boosting decision tree, extreme gradient boosting, and the K nearest neighbor algorithm is searched for; finally, the logistic regression algorithm is used as the second-layer meta-learner to effectively improve the prediction accuracy and generalization ability of the Stacking ensemble learning model. According to the comparison of the performance of each model by cross-validation and TCCON site verification, the Stacking model significantly improved in accuracy, with an R², RMSE, and MAE of 0.983, 0.87 ppm and 0.19 ppm, respectively, which is better than those of traditional models such as RF, KNN, XGBoost, and GBRT. The accuracy verification of the atmospheric XCO₂ data estimated by the model based on the observation data of the two TCCON stations in Xianghe and Hefei showed that the correlation coefficients were 0.96 and 0.98, and the MAEs were 0.657 ppm and 0.639 ppm, respectively, further verifying the high accuracy and reliability of the model. At the same time, the fusion of multi-source satellite data significantly improved the spatial coverage of XCO₂ concentration data in Sichuan Province, effectively filling the gap in single satellite observation data. Based on the reconstructed XCO₂ dataset of Sichuan Province, the study revealed that there are significant regional and seasonal differences in the XCO₂ concentrations in the region, showing seasonal variation characteristics of being higher in spring and winter and lower in summer and autumn; in terms of the spatial distribution, the overall spatial distribution characteristics are high in the east and low in the west. This study helps to deepen our understanding of the carbon cycle and climate change, and can provide a scientific basis and risk assessment methods for policy formulation, effect evaluation, and international cooperation. Full article

26 pages, 279 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Aligning National Protected Areas with Global Norms: A Four-Step Analysis of Türkiye’s Conservation Laws

by Arife Eymen Karabulut and Özlem Özçevik

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3432; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083432 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2025

Viewed by 107

Abstract

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) conducts critical international studies and offers recommendations on the sustainable conservation, use, and management of protected areas worldwide by setting targets within the framework of the Nature 2030 goals and the Green List standards. These [...] Read more.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) conducts critical international studies and offers recommendations on the sustainable conservation, use, and management of protected areas worldwide by setting targets within the framework of the Nature 2030 goals and the Green List standards. These initiatives are essential for protecting designated areas and encouraging their use through nature-based and community-based solutions. The success of implementing these solutions depends on the effectiveness of the local legal regulations that are currently in place. This article argues that developing a common language and norms between global and national conservation frameworks, along with the efficiency of the national legal framework, plays a crucial role in facilitating the goals of the protection, use, and management of global protected areas. This study evaluates how the reflections and presence of IUCN’s globally significant targets are addressed within Türkiye’s national legal framework and policy level. The article evaluates global and national legal texts in Türkiye for social, environmental, and economic sustainability, comparing them with the Nature 2030 and Green List standards through methodologies such as word matching, comparison, and compatibility analysis. For the development of laws and policies that align with Türkiye’s global goals for the protection, use, and governance of protected areas regarding language and normative standards unity, the article highlights the importance of nature- and community-based national policy norms in achieving global protected area targets. The article’s results highlight the absence of community-based norms such as participation, governance, transparency, and equality, despite international consensus on norms like planning, area management, and the rule of law for the effective management of protected areas in Türkiye. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Innovative and Critical Issues in Natural Resource Management and Exploitation)

19 pages, 3902 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Integrating the Cross-Border Industrial Chain: An Exploring of Key Configuration of Agricultural Investment in Lancang-Mekong River Region

by Lu Feng, Wei Yang, Yan Jin, Yan Zhang and Bo Li

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3431; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083431 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2025

Viewed by 53

Abstract

The demand for agriculture finance and investment for sustainable agriculture development has long been a concern for many years. However, the insufficient integration of the agricultural technology innovation chain and technology transfer impedes the enhancement of collaborative innovation capability in evolving total factor [...] Read more.

The demand for agriculture finance and investment for sustainable agriculture development has long been a concern for many years. However, the insufficient integration of the agricultural technology innovation chain and technology transfer impedes the enhancement of collaborative innovation capability in evolving total factor productivity. This paper utilizes Chinese agricultural companies’ investment in the Lancang-Mekong River region as an example to scrutinize key configuration factors fostering the integration of technical collaboration within agricultural industry chains. The results indicated that Chinese agricultural companies can be classified into two categories based on their approach to technical collaboration. The first category is strength-oriented, and companies in this category have the capability to transform technological investments, yielding relatively high returns. They also have optimistic expectations regarding favorable policies in the host country. This category accounts for about one-third of the companies studied. The second category is potential-oriented, in which firms possess the potential for technological investment transformation, with lower investment returns. They require effective contextual management and tax incentives from the host country to thrive. The impact of foreign direct investment decision-making diminishes, introducing new imperatives for the current host country’s market environment and the management of FDI enterprises in the host country. This study makes contributions to advance the exploration of technology’s impact on agricultural companies’ cross-border investment, stipulating new requirements for the transformative development of regional foreign direct investment, particularly for private enterprises. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

26 pages, 1656 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Life Cycle-Based Product Sustainability Assessment Employing Quality and Cost

by Dominika Siwiec and Andrzej Pacana

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3430; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083430 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2025

Viewed by 32

Abstract

Current issues in sustainable development concern research on comprehensiveness, coherence and practicality. Therefore, the objective was to develop and test a novelty approach to product sustainability assessment based on life cycle, quality, and costs. This approach extends the iterative design thinking process (DT), [...] Read more.

Current issues in sustainable development concern research on comprehensiveness, coherence and practicality. Therefore, the objective was to develop and test a novelty approach to product sustainability assessment based on life cycle, quality, and costs. This approach extends the iterative design thinking process (DT), including overcoming the limitations of existing LCSA methods. We present a systematic process for obtaining and processing customer requirements with a survey and Pareto–Lorenz analysis. Then, using an algorithm developed in Matlab R2021a program, we generated product prototypes considering the key criteria presented in various dimensions of current and modified states. Next, we propose the modeling of prospective LCA for all prototypes in the OpenLCA program with Ecoinvent database. Finally, we aggregated the results considering the cost of prototypes in environmental–cost analysis to determine the direction of product sustainability. We tested this approach in detail with the example of vacuum cleaners for domestic and commercial use. After a literature review and survey research in customers, we developed 54 prototypes, where the modified key quality criteria were as follows: vacuum in the suction pipe, engine power, operating range, and length of the power cable. Using this approach, it was possible to select six prototypes that best meet customer requirements, are environmentally friendly, and cost-effective. Finally, we discuss contributions to DT and LCSA methodologies, and propose future directions for development within the application of artificial intelligence (AI). This approach can be a practical application in SMEs already in the early stages of product development (conceptualization), where access to detailed data is limited. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Applications of Cleaner Production in Sustainable Industrial Ecology)

21 pages, 272 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bridging the Literature Gap on eProcurement Systems: Insights from Saudi Arabia’s Sustainable Development Transition

by Basel Sultan, Ibrahim Alhammad, AlAnoud AlOthman and Ghayda AlSehli

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3429; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083429 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2025

Viewed by 85

Abstract

This paper highlights the transition from traditional procurement systems to the newly introduced eProcurement system in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the differences and improvements and their implications for sustainable development. The new system aims to enhance transparency, clarify purchasing methodologies, and build trust with [...] Read more.

This paper highlights the transition from traditional procurement systems to the newly introduced eProcurement system in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the differences and improvements and their implications for sustainable development. The new system aims to enhance transparency, clarify purchasing methodologies, and build trust with the government through effective governance of government purchases and tender management. Guided by Royal Decree, this system aligns with the eProcurement Program to transition into digital processes for proficient bids and government purchases, contributing to more efficient and sustainable procurement practices. While some public agencies have attempted to adopt the new model contract for executing construction projects, it has faced challenges due to its lack of alignment with the best practices and sustainability considerations. The authors argue that many large projects remain exempt from this system, which poses obstacles to achieving the goals of sustainable economic development. The objective of this paper is to explore the newly revised Saudi procurement contracts in comparison with traditional public works contracts, with a focus on how they address socio-economic and environmental sustainability. The research provides an overview of various aspects related to public works contracts (PWCs) in Saudi Arabia, including framework agreements, online reverse auctions, industry localization, knowledge transfer, traditional lump sum contracts, two-phase tenders, and construction project competitions, analyzing their alignment with sustainable development goals. There is limited literature on recent models introduced by the Saudi government, but there are extensive resources on general contract law principles and international public policy. This foundation helps with understanding the legal aspects of public works contracts in Saudi Arabia, their alignment with international standards, and their implications for fostering sustainable development. By examining the literature, researchers can gain insights into the legal and policy framework governing public works contracts in Saudi Arabia and their role in promoting sustainability. The importance of this research lies in its comparative analysis, offering valuable insights into the evolution of procurement practices in Saudi Arabia and their contribution to sustainable socio-economic growth. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Economy and Sustainable Development)

32 pages, 2376 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of the Life Cycle and Circular Economy Strategies for Batteries Adopted by the Main Electric Vehicle Manufacturers

by Rodrigo Sampaio Cintra, Lucas Veiga Avila, Marceli Adriane Schvartz, Walter Leal Filho, Rosley Anholon, Gustavo Hermínio Salati Marcondes de Moraes, Julio Cezar Mairesse Siluk, Gustavo da Silva Lisboa and Nisrin Naiel Dib Khaled

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3428; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083428 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2025

Viewed by 45

Abstract

In response to escalating environmental concerns and the imperative for a transition to a more sustainable economy, the European Union enacted a new regulation on the electric battery market in July 2023. This regulation integrates the principles of the circular economy, as outlined [...] Read more.

In response to escalating environmental concerns and the imperative for a transition to a more sustainable economy, the European Union enacted a new regulation on the electric battery market in July 2023. This regulation integrates the principles of the circular economy, as outlined in the European Green Deal, addressing all phases of the battery life cycle, including the mining of raw materials, product design, production processes, reuse, and recycling. In light of this development, the principal manufacturers of electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) have undertaken various circular economy (CE) and life cycle (LC) strategies. Their objective is to align their operations with these new regulatory requirements and enhance their sustainability credentials. The global automotive industry, encompassing thousands of entities with an annual turnover exceeding USD 3 trillion, is a significant economic sector. Within this industry, it is estimated that more than 50 manufacturers are involved in the production of EVs, ranging from established automakers to emerging startups. This study applies content analysis to obtain qualitative and quantitative information from data disclosed by companies and organizations, with a specific focus on entities that currently feature EVs or HEVs. The methodology involves examining publicly available reports and corporate disclosures to assess industry trends and regulatory compliance. For this purpose, the analysis selected the 10 largest EV manufacturers in the world, based on sales reports provided by the manufacturers themselves and their respective market shares, as reported by automotive news portals and blogs. The evaluation of their actions was derived from the annual sustainability reports of these companies, with the aim of identifying the practices already implemented and their anticipated contributions to extending battery life and minimizing environmental impact. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Explore Sustainable Development in Multiple Dimensions for Human Well-Being)

15 pages, 409 KiB

Open AccessReview

University’s Contribution to Society: Benchmarking of Social Innovation

by Ester Planells-Aleixandre, Adela García-Aracil and Rosa Isusi-Fagoaga

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3427; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083427 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2025

Viewed by 31

Abstract

Social innovation is crucial to tackling the challenges faced by contemporary societies. Universities are rich in resources that, through their active involvement in social innovation, can solve social problems. However, the ambiguity of the term social innovation is a concern and has implications [...] Read more.

Social innovation is crucial to tackling the challenges faced by contemporary societies. Universities are rich in resources that, through their active involvement in social innovation, can solve social problems. However, the ambiguity of the term social innovation is a concern and has implications for academic social innovation initiatives. A deeper understanding of the role of universities in society is needed, particularly in leveraging social innovation to address unmet social needs. This paper combines conceptual and empirical literature to explore how universities are evolving in their approach to managing social innovation. While there is a wide variety of initiatives and approaches that explore the challenges of universities in promoting social innovation in their communities, the broader capacity of the universities’ engagement in social responsibility and sustainable development is also presented. This paper highlights that the notion of a world-class university is outdated; what is needed is (i) the alignment of social innovation with universities’ core teaching and research activities to increase legitimation and recognition of social innovation practices; (ii) the idea of a sustainable management system promoting dynamic coordination of social and private interests, positioning engagement centrally; and (iii) the idea of a culture that is tolerant of error and manages it in a way that incentivizes academic involvement in social innovation activities. This paper also emphasizes the relevance of introducing incentives for university staff involvement in problem-solving activities and in delivering social services via service-learning. Full article

22 pages, 725 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Strategies to Redress the Resilience of Residential Buildings Following Climatic Impacts: Perspectives from the UK Construction Industry

by Ehis Lawrence Onus, Ezekiel Chinyio, Emmanuel Itodo Daniel and Michael Gerges

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3426; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083426 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2025

Viewed by 34

Abstract

Housing environments are designed to provide comfort and protection but climate change has compromised the resilience of residential buildings. This study examines the impacts of climate change on UK residential buildings, identifying key vulnerabilities and adaptation strategies. A qualitative approach was used, involving [...] Read more.

Housing environments are designed to provide comfort and protection but climate change has compromised the resilience of residential buildings. This study examines the impacts of climate change on UK residential buildings, identifying key vulnerabilities and adaptation strategies. A qualitative approach was used, involving ten semi-structured interviews with experts. A thematic analysis of the interview transcripts using NVivo (V.14) software revealed connections between climate change drivers and building factors such as location, age, orientation, typology, and material integrity. Adverse effects on buildings and occupants include structural degradation, increased energy demands, and indoor discomfort. This study underscores the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration among housing owners, community members, construction professionals, and policymakers to enhance the resilience of buildings. Construction professionals are seen as key players in the implementation of mitigation and adaptation measures. This study emphasises the need for proactive adaptation measures, informed policy interventions, and improved construction practices to safeguard housing against climate change. It contributes to understanding the effects of climate change on UK residential buildings and offers strategic insights for improving their resilience. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Green Building)

36 pages, 1673 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Two-Stage Optimization on Vessel Routing and Hybrid Energy Output for Marine Debris Collection

by Li Chen, Gang Duan, Jie Cao and Jinhua Wang

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3425; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083425 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2025

Viewed by 31

Abstract

The harm of marine debris (MD) to the environment and human beings has been paid more and more attention. At present, the most effective way to collect macro-MD floating on the sea is to send vessels. We employ vessels equipped with a hybrid [...] Read more.

The harm of marine debris (MD) to the environment and human beings has been paid more and more attention. At present, the most effective way to collect macro-MD floating on the sea is to send vessels. We employ vessels equipped with a hybrid energy system (HES) composed of photovoltaic (PV), battery and diesel to carry out MD cleanup. We propose a two-stage optimization approach for vessel routing and energy management strategy. In the first stage, the vessel routing problem with a drifting time window is modeled to minimize the vessel travel time considering continuous speed. The drifting time window means that multiple time windows are set on the MD trajectory, which is used to depict its dynamic nature. An adaptive large neighborhood search algorithm considering an elitist strategy coupled with speed optimization is designed to solve this problem. In the second stage, a mixed integer linear programming model for energy management strategy is established to minimize the total cost, including the power generation cost of diesel and PV, the battery charge, and discharge and carbon tax costs. The model takes the power load balance, the power limit of each part of the hybrid energy system and the battery charge and discharge state as constraints. The correctness of the proposed models and the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm are verified by a numerical example. The results not only show the advantages of hybrid energy vessels in energy saving and emission reduction but also show that the drifting time window can provide a rich and effective route selection solution. Some suggestions for rational utilization of hybrid energy vessels with long and short trips are put forward. Full article

18 pages, 5737 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Geothermal Genesis Mechanism of the Yinchuan Basin Based on Thermal Parameter Inversion

by Baizhou An, Lige Bai, Jianwei Zhao and Zhaofa Zeng

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3424; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083424 - 11 Apr 2025

Viewed by 51

Abstract

The Yinchuan Basin harbors significant geothermal resource potential and could be a clean energy source critical for transitioning to a low-carbon economy. However, the current research primarily focuses on the exploration and development of geothermal water in the sedimentary basins, with limited studies [...] Read more.

The Yinchuan Basin harbors significant geothermal resource potential and could be a clean energy source critical for transitioning to a low-carbon economy. However, the current research primarily focuses on the exploration and development of geothermal water in the sedimentary basins, with limited studies on the deep geothermal formation mechanisms and regional geothermal types. Although geophysical methods provide insights into the types and formation mechanisms of deep geothermal resources in the basin, there is still a lack of a connection between quantitative understanding and direct evidence. A series of algorithms based on thermal parameter characteristics can directly extract underground thermal features from raw geophysical signal data, offering a powerful tool for characterizing the structure and aggregation patterns of deep thermal sources. Therefore, this study employed a Bayesian thermal parameter inversion method based on interface information to obtain the spatial distribution of thermal conductivity, surface heat flow, and mantle heat parameters in the Ningxia Basin study area. Additionally, correlation analysis and global sensitivity analysis were conducted to further interpret the predicted results. A comprehensive analysis of the geophysical inversion results showed that the deep thermal anomalies in the basin are primarily controlled by fault activities and the lithospheres’ thermal structure, while shallow high-heat flow anomalies are closely related to convective circulation within faults and heat transfer from deep thermal sources. The established geothermal genesis mechanism and model of the Yinchuan Basin provide crucial support for sustainable regional geothermal development planning and the utilization of deep geothermal resources, contributing to energy security and emission reduction goals. Full article

38 pages, 818 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Climate Risk on Insurers’ Sustainable Operational Efficiency: Empirical Evidence from China

by Ziheng Xu, Houqing Fang and Weidong Wang

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3423; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083423 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2025

Viewed by 110

Abstract

The operational efficiency of insurance companies is crucial for their long-term stability and sustainable development. Climate risk has emerged as a significant factor affecting insurers’ operational performance in the context of global climate change and sustainable development goals. Although prior research provides a [...] Read more.

The operational efficiency of insurance companies is crucial for their long-term stability and sustainable development. Climate risk has emerged as a significant factor affecting insurers’ operational performance in the context of global climate change and sustainable development goals. Although prior research provides a solid foundation, further exploration is needed to clarify how climate risk influences insurers’ efficiency and underlying mechanisms. This paper uses panel data from 248 Chinese insurance companies spanning 2011 to 2021 to construct a climate risk indicator and systematically examines the potential pathways through which this indicator influences operational efficiency. Precisely, absolute temperature deviation measures physical climate risk, and an entropy-weighted method captures climate transition risk; the DEA model evaluates operating efficiency. A fixed-effects model reveals that physical climate risk may adversely affect operational efficiency, while climate transition risk demonstrates a U-shaped relationship with efficiency. Mechanism analysis shows that physical climate risk increases exposure to natural disaster losses, whereas transition risk may encourage green insurance development. Heterogeneity emerges across insurer types and between coastal and non-coastal regions, with resilient infrastructure mitigating the adverse effects of physical risks and insurance technology driving gradual transformation to offset initial transition risks. Overall, this study expands the perspective on how climate risk shapes the insurance industry’s sustainable development, offering theoretical and practical insights for policymakers to optimize risk management and promote green finance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Corporate Sustainability and ESG: Strategies, Tools, Good Practices and Challenges)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

32 pages, 26154 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Revealing Black Stains on the Surface of Stone Artifacts from Material Properties to Environmental Sustainability: The Case of Xianling Tomb, China

by Yu Yi, Chengaonan Wang, Kai Li, Xianshi Jia, Cong Wang and Yansong Wang

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3422; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083422 - 11 Apr 2025

Viewed by 86

Abstract

Around the world, a large number of stone artifacts have been exposed to air for long periods of time, showing multiple types of deterioration that have attracted widespread attention. Among them, there is an often overlooked deterioration of stone artifacts, i.e., black stains [...] Read more.

Around the world, a large number of stone artifacts have been exposed to air for long periods of time, showing multiple types of deterioration that have attracted widespread attention. Among them, there is an often overlooked deterioration of stone artifacts, i.e., black stains on the surface of the calcareous stone, which are tightly bonded to the substrate as a result of the long-term deposition of air pollution. However, due to the current lack of a clear understanding of the black stains, people often tend to use the wrong cleaning and conservation methods, which is not conducive to sustainable conservation. Therefore, there is an urgent need to comprehensively recognize the black stains in terms of material properties and environmental sustainability to guide scientific sustainable conservation methods. To this end, in this paper, we take the black stains observed on marble buildings in the Xianling Tomb, China, as an example, and for the first time, we aim to create a comprehensive understanding of black deposition from the aspects of material properties and environmental characteristics. Multi-analytical approaches, including polarized light microscopy, X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (SEM-EDS), were employed to discern the differences between the substrate and black stains. The results revealed that the formation of black stains was attributed to prolonged exposure to various air pollutants (PM, SO₂, NO₂, CO, and O₃). Subsequently, observational data from 2015 to 2023 were utilized to investigate the temporal evolution of local air pollutants and their coupled resonances. Multi-scale variations (annual, seasonal, monthly, weekly, and daily) of pollutant concentration sequences were identified, which helps us to have a clearer perception and to proactively control air pollutants in the region from different cycles. In addition, wavelet coherence (WTC) demonstrated significant time-scale dependency in correlation with air pollutants, which provides effective data support for the coordinated control of air pollutants. This study reveals the mechanism of black stain deterioration on stone artifact surfaces, provides data support for the control and prediction of air pollutants oriented to the sustainable conservation of stone artifacts, and provides a novel and comprehensive approach to the scientific knowledge and sustainable conservation of stone artifacts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Building Materials and Environmental Sustainability: Materials, Air Quality, Wall Building, and Biophilic Solutions)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Sustainability, Volume 17, Issue 8 (April-2 2025) – 172 articles

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI