Sustainability

24 pages, 954 KB

Open AccessArticle

Who Can Persist in Innovation? The Impact of Transition Finance on Corporate Green Value from the Perspective of Firm Lifecycle

by Li Zhu, Wenqi Jiang and Yuqi Liu

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5124; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105124 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2026

Abstract

Transition finance has emerged as a critical instrument for facilitating brown firms’ sustainable transformation, yet its heterogeneous effects across different stages of corporate development remain underexplored. This study develops a novel green value metric using a regression coefficient weighting approach and employs a [...] Read more.

Transition finance has emerged as a critical instrument for facilitating brown firms’ sustainable transformation, yet its heterogeneous effects across different stages of corporate development remain underexplored. This study develops a novel green value metric using a regression coefficient weighting approach and employs a difference-in-differences (DID) model to investigate how transition finance influences corporate green value through innovation persistency, based on a sample of Chinese listed brown firms from 2011 to 2022. The empirical results show that transition finance is significantly associated with an enhancement in corporate green value. Specifically, brown firms receiving transition finance exhibit a 61.6% higher green value than non-recipient firms. This effect is most pronounced during the maturity stage, where the additional green value premium for mature-stage firms is approximately 15.3% higher than for decline-stage firms. Mechanism analysis reveals that innovation persistency serves as the fundamental channel; mature-stage firms exhibit superior capacity to sustain consistent R&D investments and translate these persistent efforts into market-recognized green value premiums. These findings provide actionable insights for policymakers: transition finance frameworks should incorporate lifecycle-sensitive mechanisms rather than applying uniform standards, and incentive structures should prioritize sustained innovation commitment over one-off technological upgrades to maximize long-term sustainability outcomes. Full article

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17 pages, 1272 KB

Open AccessArticle

High-Performance, Formaldehyde-Free Particleboard for Sustainable Housing: Process Optimization of Halloysite Nanotube-Reinforced Isocyanate Adhesives

by Wenrui Ma, Feifei Song, Wenjie Zhang, Dan Fang, Wenzhao Wang and Jijuan Zhang

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5123; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105123 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2026

Abstract

This study aims to develop a high-performance, formaldehyde-free particleboard for sustainable housing using halloysite nanotube (HNT)-reinforced isocyanate adhesive. HNTs were incorporated into the isocyanate matrix via magnetic stirring followed by mechanical mixing, with loading levels systematically optimized from 0 to 3.0 wt%. Particleboard [...] Read more.

This study aims to develop a high-performance, formaldehyde-free particleboard for sustainable housing using halloysite nanotube (HNT)-reinforced isocyanate adhesive. HNTs were incorporated into the isocyanate matrix via magnetic stirring followed by mechanical mixing, with loading levels systematically optimized from 0 to 3.0 wt%. Particleboard panels were fabricated and tested according to standard procedures. The optimal HNT loading was found to be 1.5 wt%. Compared with panels bonded with unmodified adhesive, those fabricated with the optimized HNT-reinforced adhesive exhibited significantly enhanced performance: surface bonding strength increased by 71.79% (to 2.01 MPa), internal bonding strength by 54.35% (to 0.71 MPa), modulus of rupture by 107.53% (to 19.3 MPa), modulus of elasticity by 59.95% (to 3191 MPa), and the 2 h water absorption thickness swelling rate decreased by 95.83% (to 0.1%). These results demonstrate that the optimized dispersion process and HNT loading are critical for achieving superior adhesive performance, providing a viable pathway toward high-performance, formaldehyde-free particleboard for sustainable housing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Homes of Tomorrow: Innovations in Materials and Design)

19 pages, 563 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Moderating Role of Collaboration on Innovation and Eco-Innovation Obstacles: Evidence from Latin American Firms

by Rodrigo Ortiz-Henriquez, Grace Tamayo-Galarza, Katherine Mansilla-Obando and Iván Rueda-Fierro

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5122; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105122 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2026

Abstract

The climate emergency in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) has transformed sustainability from an aspirational goal into a strategic imperative, particularly in the context of decoupling economic growth from natural capital depletion. This research analyzes eco-innovation within the frameworks of the National [...] Read more.

The climate emergency in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) has transformed sustainability from an aspirational goal into a strategic imperative, particularly in the context of decoupling economic growth from natural capital depletion. This research analyzes eco-innovation within the frameworks of the National Innovation System (NIS), open innovation, and absorptive capacity, with the objective of examining the moderating role of collaboration in overcoming financial, knowledge, and market-related obstacles to innovative behavior. Employing a quantitative methodology using firm-level microdata from the Latin American Harmonized Innovation Surveys (LAIS) between 2007 and 2017, this study focuses on eco-innovative outcomes specifically linked to reductions in energy and material consumption. By estimating models that assess the role of technical cooperation and public policy support, this study seeks to determine whether collaborative strategies operate as an effective buffer against uncertainty and the limitations of local innovation systems. Expanding the scope of previous analyses centered on a single country, this work provides a regional perspective that underscores institutional and sectoral disparities in emerging contexts. Ultimately, this research examines how integrating an environmental purpose into corporate strategy and strengthening absorptive capacity enable LAC firms to transform ecological pressures into sustainable competitive advantages, mitigating the barriers that traditionally hinder technological progress in the region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Organizational Adaptation: Nurturing Ecosystems for Innovation and Resilience)

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28 pages, 497 KB

Open AccessArticle

Tourism Arrivals and Environmental Intensity: Evidence from Symmetric and Asymmetric Panel ARDL Models

by Ateeq Ullah, Supanika Leurcharusmee and Woraphon Yamaka

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5121; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105121 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2026

Abstract

Achieving sustainable development requires decoupling economic growth from environmental degradation. In this context, this study examines the effects of tourism arrivals on CO₂ intensity and energy intensity, two key indicators of environmental sustainability aligned with SDGs 7 and 13. Panel autoregressive distributed [...] Read more.

Achieving sustainable development requires decoupling economic growth from environmental degradation. In this context, this study examines the effects of tourism arrivals on CO₂ intensity and energy intensity, two key indicators of environmental sustainability aligned with SDGs 7 and 13. Panel autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) and nonlinear ARDL models are employed using a balanced panel of 54 countries over the period 1996–2023. In addition, Wald tests for long-run asymmetry, dynamic multiplier analysis, and Dumitrescu–Hurlin causality tests are applied. The results confirm the existence of stable long-run relationships between tourism arrivals and both CO₂ intensity and energy intensity. In the symmetric framework, tourism growth is associated with significant long-run reductions in CO₂ and energy intensity, while short-run effects are negative and significant only for CO₂ intensity. In the asymmetric framework, positive tourism shocks generate stronger and more persistent reductions in both intensity measures, whereas negative shocks lead to weaker environmental efficiency gains. Moreover, the Wald test shows the existence of long-run asymmetry between positive and negative tourism shocks. In addition, the dynamic multiplier analysis confirms that environmental intensity adjusts gradually over time following tourism shocks. Finally, Dumitrescu–Hurlin causality tests indicate bidirectional Granger causality relationships between tourism arrivals and environmental intensity indicators. The findings are robust to dynamic endogeneity, the COVID-19 shock, and country heterogeneity. Overall, the findings indicate that tourism arrivals contribute to lowering long-term environmental intensity, consistent with relative decoupling and the goals of sustainable tourism development. Full article

24 pages, 621 KB

Open AccessArticle

Bridging Experiential Disjunction: Heritage Reconstruction, Visitor Engagement, and Sustainable Tourism in Chinese Classical Gardens

by Yimeng Shi and Xiangyang Bian

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5120; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105120 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2026

Abstract

Although heritage reconstruction can effectively restore physical form, the regeneration of living cultural experience remains theoretically underexplored in heritage tourism scholarship. This study introduces the concept of post-reconstruction experiential disjunction (PRED)—the structural misalignment among reconstructed material form, historically embedded cultural scripts, and the [...] Read more.

Although heritage reconstruction can effectively restore physical form, the regeneration of living cultural experience remains theoretically underexplored in heritage tourism scholarship. This study introduces the concept of post-reconstruction experiential disjunction (PRED)—the structural misalignment among reconstructed material form, historically embedded cultural scripts, and the embodied practices of contemporary visitors—and develops the Material–Script–Practice (MSP) framework around it. Taking Yuyuan Garden (愚园) in Nanjing as an empirical case, a mixed-methods design combines online discourse analysis, field observation, and a questionnaire survey (N = 300). Findings reveal that Cultural Script most strongly predicts disjunction mitigation—a four-item scale capturing visitors’ holistic sense of experiential connectivity (α = 0.832), followed by Material Form; Embodied Practice contributes comparatively little. Photographers show significantly lower mitigation levels than other groups, owing to structural conflicts between professional visual practice and the cultural logic of classical garden space. The MSP framework reveals a weighted hierarchy among its three dimensions: a finding that extends and empirically specifies the theoretical insights of Lefebvre’s spatial triad and Edensor’s heritage performance theory, neither of which typically foregrounds differential explanatory weight among their constituent elements. When cultural scripts offer accessible meaning pathways for visitors of diverse backgrounds, heritage spaces can move beyond formal reconstruction toward experiential reconstitution, sustaining the conditions for long-term heritage preservation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Directions for Cultural and Heritage Sustainability in Hospitality and Tourism)

25 pages, 685 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing Learning Principles in Agricultural Extension Practice for Sustainable Communication of Extension Recommendations: Evidence from Egypt

by Salah S. Abd El-Ghani, Mohamed Abd Alwahab Albaz, Zain ELabedin Farrag Saad Ismail and Tamer Gamal Ibrahim Mansour

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5119; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105119 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2026

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the level of awareness and application of learning principles among agricultural extension service providers when communicating extension recommendations to farmers. It also sought to determine the major constraints that may hinder the effective application of these principles in [...] Read more.

This study aimed to identify the level of awareness and application of learning principles among agricultural extension service providers when communicating extension recommendations to farmers. It also sought to determine the major constraints that may hinder the effective application of these principles in extension practice. The study adopted a descriptive analytical approach. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire designed to achieve the objectives of the research. The study was conducted on all agricultural extension service providers in Kafr El-Sheikh Governorate, totaling 55 respondents. The study focused on nine learning principles relevant to extension education: motivation, clarity of objectives, self-activity, transfer of learning, learner individuality, readiness, reinforcement, modification or relearning, and repetition. The findings revealed variation in the levels of knowledge and application of these principles among the respondents. The results indicated that 65.4% of the respondents had a moderate level of knowledge of the motivation principle, while 67.2% applied it at a moderate level. In contrast, 81.8% of the respondents had a low level of knowledge of the principle of clarity of objectives, and 85.4% applied it at a low level. The results also revealed several constraints that limit the effective application of learning principles in extension work, most notably the limited effectiveness of communication with farmers and the need to strengthen the educational competencies of extension service providers. Accordingly, the study recommends developing the instructional capacities of extension service providers through specialized training programs on learning principles and extension education methods in order to improve the effectiveness of communicating agricultural recommendations and enhance the adoption of agricultural innovations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adoption of New Technologies and Practices for Sustainable and Smart Agriculture: 2nd Edition)

25 pages, 730 KB

Open AccessArticle

Understanding Intentions Behind ESG Investments: Testing the Theory of Planned Behavior with Italian Investors

by Giulia Sesini, Maria Rosa Miccoli, Cinzia Castiglioni, Paola Iannello, Matteo Robba and Edoardo Lozza

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5118; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105118 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2026

Abstract

Sustainable (ESG) investments have gained significant interest, prompting renewed attention to retail investors’ decision-making processes. ESG investing is motivated by both financial concerns and psychological factors. However, despite growing interest, the motivational underpinnings of sustainable asset allocation remain underexplored. This study bridges economic [...] Read more.

Sustainable (ESG) investments have gained significant interest, prompting renewed attention to retail investors’ decision-making processes. ESG investing is motivated by both financial concerns and psychological factors. However, despite growing interest, the motivational underpinnings of sustainable asset allocation remain underexplored. This study bridges economic psychology and sustainable finance to examine drivers of ESG investment intentions and choices in the Italian market. Drawing on the Theory of Planned Behavior, it explores how attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, and trust shape ESG investing intentions and choices. Results show that each factor significantly influences investing intentions when considered independently. In particular, the affective dimension of attitudes emerges as especially relevant. These findings challenge traditional views of financial rationality in ESG contexts, suggesting that the motivations of sustainability-oriented investors may differ meaningfully from those of traditional investors. Practical implications are that ESG communication should appeal to emotional and ethical dimensions of decisions, while educational initiatives should enhance investors’ ability to critically assess ESG-related information. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Psychology of Sustainability and Sustainable Development)

29 pages, 1359 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring ‘(Non-)Discrimination’ in Charging Infrastructure Sharing

by Annika Weber, Alexandra Appel and Zeno Pfeiffer

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5117; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105117 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2026

Abstract

In the context of charging infrastructure for electric vehicles, “non-discriminatory access” is a fundamental principle that ensures equal and fair access to public charging facilities for users, electricity suppliers, and service providers. The overarching goals of non-discriminatory access are to promote competition in [...] Read more.

In the context of charging infrastructure for electric vehicles, “non-discriminatory access” is a fundamental principle that ensures equal and fair access to public charging facilities for users, electricity suppliers, and service providers. The overarching goals of non-discriminatory access are to promote competition in the electric mobility market, improve user-friendliness and acceptance of electric vehicles, and serve as a key enabler for the successful transition to electric mobility. Emerging digital and technological innovations, including smart load management and interoperable billing platforms, are reshaping charging practices. In this context, inter-organisational EVCI sharing is gaining relevance as a means to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and mitigate disparities in infrastructure availability. While numerous actor-specific challenges and opportunities are examined within the framework of the FAMOUS project, this article develops a matrix based on qualitative interviews, a requirements analysis, and a semi-systematic literature review of the term “non-discrimination”. The matrix is applied in two contexts: first, to public EVCI sharing in Germany and, second, to inter-organisational EVCI sharing within the FAMOUS project. In doing so, the matrix is tested, showing potential areas of discrimination. As such, the paper contributes to the still under-researched field of just mobility transitions and the expansion of charging infrastructure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)

29 pages, 4359 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing Circularity Readiness in Data-Scarce Contexts: A Regional Framework for Environmental Resource Sectors in Vietnam

by Xuan-Nam Bui, Manoj Khandelwal, Nga Nguyen, Diep Anh Vu, Anh Hoa Nguyen and Thi Minh Hoa Le

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5116; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105116 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2026

Abstract

Transitioning to a circular economy (CE) is now a strategic priority for countries to decouple economic growth from environmental degradation. However, in developing contexts, the readiness of environmental resource sectors to adopt CE principles is unknown due to a lack of data and [...] Read more.

Transitioning to a circular economy (CE) is now a strategic priority for countries to decouple economic growth from environmental degradation. However, in developing contexts, the readiness of environmental resource sectors to adopt CE principles is unknown due to a lack of data and uneven institutional capacity. This study presents the first regional baseline assessment of circularity readiness in Vietnam’s environmental resource sectors, focusing on land, mining, water and waste. A five-dimensional readiness framework (policy, resource management, innovation, business, awareness) was developed and applied across Vietnam’s six ecological–economic regions. A Delphi process with 12 experts was conducted in three rounds to capture and refine expert judgments, supplemented by triangulated proxy indicators (e.g., plastic recycling rates, wastewater treatment coverage). Readiness scores were aggregated at dimension and regional levels and analyzed using radar charts, heatmaps and hierarchical clustering. Results showed significant regional disparities. The Southeast (SE) and Red River Delta (RRD) have high readiness due to clearer policy frameworks, stronger institutions and more dynamic business ecosystems. The Northern Midlands and Mountains (NMM) and Central Highlands (CH) have low readiness due to infrastructural gaps, weak innovation and limited public engagement. The Mekong Delta (MD) and North Central Coast (NCC) have medium readiness, reflecting partial progress but uneven implementation. The study made three contributions: (1) a new context-specific framework for CE readiness in environmental resource sectors; (2) the value of expert-based, proxy-informed methods in data-scarce contexts; and (3) a policy roadmap for different regional readiness levels. Findings suggest that the CE should be integrated into resource planning, regional observatories should be established and CE-related research and development (R&D) should receive investment. Future research should move towards standardized quantitative indicators and predictive models to track how readiness changes under policy interventions. Full article

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

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33 pages, 9011 KB

Open AccessReview

The Sustainability of Biomass Systems in Ghana: A Review of Resources, Governance, and Circular Bioeconomy Opportunities

by Zipporah Asiedu, Alberto Bezama, Nana Y. Asiedu and Michael Nelles

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5115; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105115 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2026

Abstract

The transition toward a sustainable bioeconomy is increasingly recognised as a key pathway for resource efficiency and climate resilience in emerging economies. However, system-level analyses integrating biomass flows, governance structures, and actor dynamics remain limited, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. This study develops a [...] Read more.

The transition toward a sustainable bioeconomy is increasingly recognised as a key pathway for resource efficiency and climate resilience in emerging economies. However, system-level analyses integrating biomass flows, governance structures, and actor dynamics remain limited, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. This study develops a systems-oriented analytical framework combining material flow assessment, stakeholder mapping, governance assessment, and innovation systems analysis to evaluate the structure, performance, and circularity of biomass systems in Ghana. The analysis focuses on six major biomass sectors: cocoa, cassava, maize, plantain, oil palm, and shea. The results show that Ghana generates substantial biomass resources, yet significant inefficiencies persist, with major residue streams such as cocoa pod husks (~9 million tonnes (Mt) annually) and cassava peels (2.6–3.8 million tonnes annually) remaining largely underutilised. Across sectors, residue utilisation rates remain low, while biomass leakage is driven by fragmented governance, weak coordination among actors, spatially dispersed production systems, and limited processing and technological capacity. Compared with more integrated biomass-based economies, Ghana remains at an early stage of circular transition, despite considerable potential for value addition and resource recovery. The study contributes a transferable systems-based analytical framework for diagnosing circularity gaps and system inefficiencies in data-constrained bioeconomy contexts. Strengthening institutional coordination, decentralised processing infrastructure, and innovation systems is identified as critical for advancing a more circular and inclusive bioeconomy in Ghana. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Sustainability of Biomass and Bioenergy in a Future Bioeconomy)

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37 pages, 20591 KB

Open AccessArticle

Application of Acoustic Tomography in Urban Tree Risk Assessment: A Case Study from Jarocin (Poland)

by Wojciech Durlak and Margot Dudkiewicz-Pietrzyk

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5114; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105114 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2026

Abstract

Urban trees constitute a key component of sustainable urban green infrastructure, providing ecosystem services related to climate regulation, biodiversity conservation, and human well-being. At the same time, mature and veteran trees in public spaces are frequently perceived as a safety risk due to [...] Read more.

Urban trees constitute a key component of sustainable urban green infrastructure, providing ecosystem services related to climate regulation, biodiversity conservation, and human well-being. At the same time, mature and veteran trees in public spaces are frequently perceived as a safety risk due to visible structural defects, often resulting in precautionary removal decisions based solely on visual assessment. This study evaluates the applicability of acoustic tomography as a non-invasive diagnostic tool supporting sustainable urban tree management using the city of Jarocin (western Poland) as a case study. Following preliminary Visual Tree Assessment (VTA), 20 mature urban trees were identified, of which six representative specimens were subjected to detailed analysis using the PiCUS Sonic Tomograph 3. The internal condition of tree trunks, sound wave propagation velocity, residual wall thickness (t/R ratio), and structural stability were analysed in relation to species characteristics and site conditions. The results demonstrated considerable variation in the internal condition of the analysed trees and revealed that visible external defects did not necessarily correspond to a critical reduction in mechanical stability. Five out of six examined trees met or approached the accepted safety threshold (t/R ≥ 0.30), supporting their retention rather than removal. In several cases, acoustic tomography identified substantially larger zones of structurally sound wood than suggested by visual inspection alone. The findings confirm that integrating acoustic tomography into urban tree risk assessment can improve decision-making accuracy, reduce unnecessary tree removal, and support biodiversity-oriented and climate-adaptive urban green space management. The proposed approach may serve as a transferable framework for sustainable management of mature urban trees in medium-sized cities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Evaluation of Landscape Ecology and Urban Ecosystems)

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21 pages, 772 KB

Open AccessArticle

Government Barriers to Implementing Beyond GDP Measures and Practical Strategies to Address Them

by Tania Smith Taylor, Sabine O’Hara and Yolandra Plummer

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5113; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105113 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2026

Abstract

Over the past 50 years, researchers have produced a considerable body of work substantiating that gross domestic product (GDP) is not a measure of social welfare. In response, numerous measures, collectively known as Beyond GDP (BGDP) measures, have been developed to provide a [...] Read more.

Over the past 50 years, researchers have produced a considerable body of work substantiating that gross domestic product (GDP) is not a measure of social welfare. In response, numerous measures, collectively known as Beyond GDP (BGDP) measures, have been developed to provide a more balanced assessment of the social, environmental, and economic impacts of economic activity on current and future generations. BGDP measures have gained the attention not only of academics, but also of government practitioners concerned with prevailing measures of national and regional progress that overrepresent narrow economic objectives and underrepresent sustainability objectives. Despite this widespread support for alternatives, few governments have made significant progress in implementing BGDP measures to inform public policy. Viewed through an operational lens, this study examines strategies used by two governments that have progressed in implementing BGDP measures. We analyze their strategies against five practical considerations: (1) alignment with mission, (2) fiscal and resources constraints, (3) communication and public messaging challenges, (4) challenges with political and public commitment, and (5) gaps in internal agency knowledge and training. These five considerations were identified as the five most prominent barriers to implementing BGDP measure based on a systematic review of the BGDP literature published over the past 50 years. We conclude that these two governments implemented actions that addressed key elements of these five barriers and succeeded in adopting BGDP measures. We conclude that others could emulate these successes to advance the broader adoption of BGDP measures. Full article

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20 pages, 434 KB

Open AccessArticle

Measuring Social Attachment to Urban Greening: Validation of the Urban Green Attachment Scale for Project-Level Sustainability Evaluation

by Jiri Remr

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5112; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105112 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Although urban greening interventions are increasingly implemented to improve livability, environmental quality, and adaptation capacity in cities, their evaluation still predominantly relies on physical outputs rather than validated, resident-centered outcomes. This study examined whether the five-item attachment dimension of the Urban Green [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Although urban greening interventions are increasingly implemented to improve livability, environmental quality, and adaptation capacity in cities, their evaluation still predominantly relies on physical outputs rather than validated, resident-centered outcomes. This study examined whether the five-item attachment dimension of the Urban Green Attachment Scale (UGAS) can reliably indicate the social integration of newly introduced greenery in an SDG 11-oriented evaluation context. The present adaptation of the UGAS captures the perceived importance of the planting, its contribution to well-being, anticipated loss, willingness to protect it, and aesthetic appreciation. Methods: Data were collected through two independent face-to-face surveys conducted among residents of the same housing estate shortly after a greening intervention in May 2025 (n = 150) and September 2025 (n = 191). The first sample was used for exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and the second for confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Reliability was assessed using Cronbach’s α and McDonald’s ω; inter-item associations were estimated using Kendall’s tau-b; and construct validity was examined through known-groups comparisons with theoretically relevant appraisals and stewardship-related indicators. Results: The adapted UGAS demonstrated high internal consistency, low floor and ceiling effects, and moderate to strong inter-item associations. Exploratory factor analysis supported a unidimensional solution with high loadings and 65.7% explained variance, and confirmatory factor analysis corroborated this structure after minor, theory-guided localized refinements. Higher UGAS scores were consistently observed among residents who reported stronger calming and home-related effects, perceived healthier local conditions, expressed willingness to help care for the plants, and demonstrated a readiness to cooperate in improving the area. Conclusions: The results support the five-item UGAS attachment score as a compact, psychometrically adequate measure of residents’ attachment to newly planted urban greenery. Rather than replacing official SDG indicators, the UGAS can complement them at the project level by determining if urban greening becomes socially meaningful and accepted and if it supports stewardship. In this sense, UGAS offers municipalities a practical tool for linking physical greening outputs with resident-centered outcomes relevant to inclusive public spaces, participatory urban development, and the long-term social durability of urban greening interventions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Measuring What Matters: Outcomes of Smart-City Innovation for Sustainability)

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19 pages, 2469 KB

Open AccessArticle

Synthesis, Characterization and Optimization of MgNiFe-CO₃ Layered Double Hydroxide Material for Textile Dye Removal

by Hajar El Haddaj, Salma El Meziani, Wafaa Boumya, Zohra Farid, Ahmed Errami, Abdelhafid Essadki, Noureddine Barka and Alaâeddine Elhalil

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5111; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105111 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2026

Abstract

The uncontrolled discharge of synthetic azo dyes such as methyl orange (MO) into water bodies has become a major environmental concern because of their strong chemical stability, limited biodegradability, and harmful effects on aquatic ecosystems. In this study, MgNiFe layered double hydroxides (LDHs) [...] Read more.

The uncontrolled discharge of synthetic azo dyes such as methyl orange (MO) into water bodies has become a major environmental concern because of their strong chemical stability, limited biodegradability, and harmful effects on aquatic ecosystems. In this study, MgNiFe layered double hydroxides (LDHs) were synthesized through a co-precipitation route using a molar ratio of (Mg + Ni)/Fe equal to 3, and their adsorption ability toward MO in aqueous media was investigated. The prepared materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM–EDX), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES). The characterization results revealed the successful formation of a hydrotalcite-like layered structure with good crystallinity, a relatively uniform distribution of metallic species, and the incorporation of carbonate anions within the interlayer galleries. In addition, the adsorption performance was evaluated by studying the effects of several operational factors, namely adsorbent dosage, initial pH, and contact time. To better understand the interaction between these parameters and identify the optimum operating conditions, a Box–Behnken response surface design was applied. The results indicate solution pH is the most influential parameter in the adsorption process. Under optimized conditions, a maximum removal efficiency of 86.86% was obtained, corresponding to an adsorption capacity of approximately ~86.86 mg·g⁻¹ (based on 100 mL solution volume). The enhanced adsorption performance may be attributed to the combined effect of the multivalent metal cations (Mg²⁺, Ni²⁺, and Fe³⁺), likely increases the surface positive charge density of the LDH and promotes interactions with anionic dye molecules. These interactions are suggested to involve electrostatic attraction and possible surface adsorption processes. However, in the absence of post-adsorption characterization, the exact adsorption mechanism remains hypothetical. Overall, the results demonstrate the promising potential of MgNiFe LDHs as efficient adsorbent materials for the treatment of dye-contaminated wastewater. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Water Futures: Integrated Approaches for Water and Wastewater Treatment and Reuse)

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22 pages, 5963 KB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of the Global Tungsten Supply Chain Trade Network: Does Sino–US Trade Friction Affect Supply Chain Resilience?

by Haiyan Qiang and Yongli Zhang

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5110; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105110 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2026

Abstract

Tungsten is a critical strategic resource whose supply chain has become increasingly exposed to external trade shocks, raising concerns about its resilience and sustainability. However, existing studies mainly focus on single products and lack a systematic analysis of multi-stage supply chain networks under [...] Read more.

Tungsten is a critical strategic resource whose supply chain has become increasingly exposed to external trade shocks, raising concerns about its resilience and sustainability. However, existing studies mainly focus on single products and lack a systematic analysis of multi-stage supply chain networks under trade shocks. Using trade data for 66 countries from 2012 to 2023 obtained from the UN Comtrade database, this study constructs a multi-stage trade network of the global tungsten supply chain, covering upstream, midstream, and downstream segments, and combines complex network analysis with a difference-in-differences (DID) approach to examine whether and how Sino–US trade friction affects supply chain resilience. The results show that the trade network exhibits significant structural heterogeneity across segments, with downstream networks being more complex and interconnected; trade friction has no significant effect on upstream and midstream segments but has a significant positive effect on downstream network centrality, indicating stronger adaptability and structural resilience in downstream segments; the results further suggest that the observed downstream adjustment is mainly associated with changes in China’s network position, while the impact on the United States remains statistically insignificant. This study contributes to the literature by integrating network analysis with causal inference in a supply chain framework and provides new evidence on the heterogeneous effects of trade shocks across different stages of strategic resource supply chains under geopolitical risks. Full article

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29 pages, 29695 KB

Open AccessArticle

Residential Tourism, Real Estate Urbanization, and Socio-Ecological Fragility: Rethinking Resilience in Isla Cortés, México

by Pascual García-Macías and Michelle Leyva-Iturrios

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5109; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105109 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2026

Abstract

This study critically examines residential tourism in Isla Cortés within the context of the real estate boom and the growing sustainability challenges facing coastal regions. Driven by global mobility, investment flows, and lifestyle migration, residential tourism is reshaping coastlines through intensive urban expansion. [...] Read more.

This study critically examines residential tourism in Isla Cortés within the context of the real estate boom and the growing sustainability challenges facing coastal regions. Driven by global mobility, investment flows, and lifestyle migration, residential tourism is reshaping coastlines through intensive urban expansion. The analysis highlights the socio-environmental consequences of this model, including habitat fragmentation, mangrove loss, increasing pressure on water resources, and the gradual privatization of coastal areas. Using a qualitative research design that combines literature review, comparative case analysis, and territorial assessment, the study identifies structural similarities between Isla Cortés and other coastal tourism enclaves while emphasizing locally specific processes shaped by Mexico’s political economy and regulatory context. Findings suggest the structurally unsustainable character of this development pathway. Although residential tourism has stimulated short-term economic growth, it has also intensified socio-spatial segregation, commodified coastal commons, and generated long-term ecological and social vulnerabilities. The study challenges dominant narratives that portray residential tourism as inherently sustainable and instead draws on ecological reflexivity and socio-ecological systems perspectives to outline alternative planning pathways. It underscores the need for stronger regulatory frameworks, nature-based solutions, participatory governance, and regenerative planning strategies capable of aligning economic activity with ecological integrity and social inclusion in coastal territories. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Resilient and Regenerative Tourism: Beyond Sustainability)

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21 pages, 13335 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing Sustainable Autonomous Driving Performance by Real-World Multi-Dimensional Conflict Hotspot Analysis

by Hoyoon Lee, Cheol Oh and Jeonghoon Jee

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5108; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105108 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2026

Abstract

Autonomous driving technology is widely recognized as a key solution for enhancing future road safety by preventing traffic accidents caused by human error. However, the widespread adoption of autonomous vehicles (AVs) has not yet been achieved, and traffic accidents involving autonomous vehicles in [...] Read more.

Autonomous driving technology is widely recognized as a key solution for enhancing future road safety by preventing traffic accidents caused by human error. However, the widespread adoption of autonomous vehicles (AVs) has not yet been achieved, and traffic accidents involving autonomous vehicles in mixed traffic conditions continue to be reported. This study analyzed conflict events using real-world autonomous driving data and identified AV conflict hotspots. A two-dimensional Time to Collision was employed as a surrogate safety indicator to comprehensively capture various types of conflicts in urban interrupted traffic flow. Analysis of approximately 1000 h of driving data revealed 958,011 conflict events, which were distributed along major AV trajectories. The Network Kernel Density Estimation was applied to identify AV conflict hotspots based on conflict events. The optimal hotspot identification model was determined by evaluating various parameter combinations using the Predictive Accuracy Index validated against real-world accident data. Several hotspots were identified on arterial roads with signalized intersections, nearby bus stops, and frequent access points to roadside facilities such as restaurants, stores, gas stations, and residential complexes. Differences in hotspot patterns by conflict type reveal distinct risk characteristics across road sections, emphasizing the necessity of customized safety countermeasures for each conflict type. The findings of this study are expected to accelerate the deployment and wider adoption of autonomous driving technology, promoting the sustainable operation of AVs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Accident Prevention and Risk Management for Safe and Sustainable Transportation)

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27 pages, 1977 KB

Open AccessArticle

How Does Whole Agricultural Industry Chain Development Impact Farmers’ Income? Evidence from China

by Qijun Liu, Qi Liu, Zhaonan Li and Yukun Yang

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5107; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105107 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2026

Abstract

In developing countries, promoting sustainable income growth for farmers is a major priority. This study constructs an evaluation index system for the whole agricultural industry chain from the perspective of synergy among the innovation chain, supply chain, value chain, and capital chain. It [...] Read more.

In developing countries, promoting sustainable income growth for farmers is a major priority. This study constructs an evaluation index system for the whole agricultural industry chain from the perspective of synergy among the innovation chain, supply chain, value chain, and capital chain. It also empirically tests the enabling mechanisms and spatial effects of the whole agricultural industry chain on farmers’ income. The entropy value method was used to measure the development level of the whole agricultural industry chain. Two-way fixed effects, mediation effects, and spatial Durbin models were applied to investigate the impacts, mechanisms, and spatial characteristics of the whole agricultural industry chain on farmers’ income. The whole agricultural industry chain significantly promotes farmers’ income growth, with the expansion of the non-agricultural employment scale and the improvement of urbanization levels serving as the main pathways through which the whole agricultural industry chain drives increases in farmers’ income. The heterogeneity analysis reveals that the innovation chain and capital chain contribute the most prominent marginal effects; the effect intensity of the whole agricultural industry chain on farmers’ income presents a spatial gradient pattern of “Central > Western > Eastern”; and its income-increasing effect is more noticeable for middle- and low-income farmers, demonstrating significant pro-poor characteristics. Further analysis indicates that the whole agricultural industry chain exerts a significant positive spatial spillover effect on farmers’ income. Therefore, it is essential to optimize the layout of the whole agricultural industry chain, smooth the transmission channels of non-agricultural employment and urbanization, and enhance the benefit linkage mechanism targeting middle- and low-income farmers. Full article

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24 pages, 8668 KB

Open AccessArticle

Virtual Reality as a Participatory Tool in Architecture and Urban Design: A Case Study of Souq Al Muharraq

by Mashael Hisham AlDoy and Osama Omar

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5106; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105106 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2026

Abstract

Heritage-led urban redevelopment is increasingly adopted to advance cultural continuity and social vitality; however, its long-term sustainability is often compromised due to the absence of user-oriented assessment methods. Conventional Post-Occupancy Evaluation (POE) approaches are limited in their ability to capture experiential, social, and [...] Read more.

Heritage-led urban redevelopment is increasingly adopted to advance cultural continuity and social vitality; however, its long-term sustainability is often compromised due to the absence of user-oriented assessment methods. Conventional Post-Occupancy Evaluation (POE) approaches are limited in their ability to capture experiential, social, and participatory dimensions of architectural and urban spaces. This study examines the potential of Virtual Reality (VR) as a participatory POE tool for sustainable heritage redevelopment through the case study of Souq Al Muharraq in Bahrain. A convergent mixed-method approach is employed, integrating immersive VR 360-degree walkthroughs, structured questionnaires, qualitative semi-structured interviews, and expert evaluation. The findings reveal significant discrepancies between design intentions and lived experience, specifically in thermal comfort, circulation, social usability, and informal spatial practices. The study demonstrates that VR supports a user-centered and experiential approach aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 9, 11, and 16. It further proposes a sustainable and cost-efficient framework for architecture and urban projects’ evaluation by enabling early and post-user-centered evaluation of projects to reduce costly revisions and the creation of inclusive, adaptive, and resilient architecture and urban spaces. Full article

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27 pages, 15471 KB

Open AccessArticle

Offline Technology for Rural AI Literacy: Steps Towards a Holistic Educational Solution

by Cristhian A. Aguilera, Angela Castro, Eliana Scheihing, Jhonny Medina Paredes and Cristhian Aguilera

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5105; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105105 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2026

Abstract

AI literacy is a fundamental competency for preventing social exclusion, yet its integration into rural education is hindered by a double divide: the reliance of current tools on unavailable connectivity and their mismatch with the heterogeneous realities of rural classrooms, including multigrade settings. [...] Read more.

AI literacy is a fundamental competency for preventing social exclusion, yet its integration into rural education is hindered by a double divide: the reliance of current tools on unavailable connectivity and their mismatch with the heterogeneous realities of rural classrooms, including multigrade settings. This study evaluates a purpose-built offline mobile application through participatory workshops with 96 rural teachers in Los Lagos, Chile, using the System Usability Scale (SUS) and inductive thematic analysis. The application achieved acceptable usability (SUS = 76.1, SD = 16.3), with teachers perceiving it as responsive to classroom heterogeneity (92.0%,

n = 81

of 88) and as promoting AI concept understanding (95.6%,

n = 65

of 68). Qualitative analysis revealed a substantial digital gap: teachers identified hardware scarcity and deficiencies, unstable infrastructure, and the absence of specialized training as primary barriers. These findings suggest that while the application addresses immediate connectivity and pedagogical constraints, sustainable AI literacy in rural schools requires a holistic strategy combining purpose-built tools with infrastructure investment and teacher training. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Digital Education: Innovations in Teaching and Learning)

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24 pages, 2192 KB

Open AccessArticle

Understanding Digital Sustainability Discourse in Zero-Waste Hotels: Evidence from Social Media Analytics

by Mehmet Kayakuş, Pınar Çelik and Nisa Eksili

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5104; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105104 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2026

Abstract

Growing environmental pressures have increased interest in zero-waste practices within the hospitality industry, while digital platforms have become key spaces where such practices are interpreted and debated. However, limited research has examined how zero-waste hospitality is represented in digital public discourse. This study [...] Read more.

Growing environmental pressures have increased interest in zero-waste practices within the hospitality industry, while digital platforms have become key spaces where such practices are interpreted and debated. However, limited research has examined how zero-waste hospitality is represented in digital public discourse. This study addresses this gap by analyzing 10,944 posts from X (Twitter) collected globally in English using an integrated approach combining text mining, sentiment analysis, and topic modeling implemented in Python (v3.14.5). The findings indicate that online discussions are predominantly neutral and positive, suggesting a normalization of zero-waste practices, while critical narratives point to concerns about greenwashing, pricing, and implementation consistency. Topic modeling further shows that zero-waste hotels are framed within broader themes, such as circular economy and carbon reduction, rather than solely operational practices. Building on these insights, the study proposes a three-layer conceptualization of digital sustainability discourse—informational, normative, and critical dimensions. By offering a conceptual perspective grounded in large-scale user-generated data, the study contributes to sustainable tourism literature and advances our understanding of how sustainability practices are socially constructed in digital contexts. Full article

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23 pages, 520 KB

Open AccessArticle

From Sustainable Leadership to Sustainable Performance: A Moderated–Mediation Model of Organizational Commitment and Knowledge Sharing

by Okan Yaşar, Volkan Ergül, Lutfi Surucu, Mustafa Bekmezci and Bulent Cetinkaya

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5103; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105103 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2026

Abstract

Increasing stakeholder pressures and environmental uncertainty require organizations to move beyond short-term financial outcomes and pursue sustainable performance. Despite the growing interest in sustainable leadership, the mechanisms and conditions under which this leadership approach is associated with sustainable performance have not yet been [...] Read more.

Increasing stakeholder pressures and environmental uncertainty require organizations to move beyond short-term financial outcomes and pursue sustainable performance. Despite the growing interest in sustainable leadership, the mechanisms and conditions under which this leadership approach is associated with sustainable performance have not yet been sufficiently clarified. This study examines the relationships between sustainable leadership and sustainable performance within a framework that incorporates the mediating role of organizational commitment and the moderating role of intra-organizational knowledge sharing. The research model was tested using data obtained from 399 employees working in SMEs operating in Türkiye through a convenience sampling approach, and the hypotheses were examined using PROCESS Macro Model 14 with a bootstrapping procedure (5000 resamples). The findings indicate that sustainable leadership is positively associated with sustainable performance and organizational commitment. Furthermore, organizational commitment is positively associated with sustainable performance and partially mediates the relationship between sustainable leadership and performance. In addition, intra-organizational knowledge sharing strengthens this indirect relationship, such that higher levels of knowledge sharing are associated with a stronger indirect effect. These findings suggest that sustainable performance is not solely a direct outcome of leadership behaviors but is associated with the interaction between employees’ relational bonds with the organization and knowledge-based processes. By integrating the natural resource-based view, social exchange theory, and the knowledge-based view, the study offers a conditional process perspective that is consistent with the observed relationships and contributes to the literature by providing a more integrated and contextually grounded understanding. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Leadership and Strategic Management in SMEs)

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17 pages, 277 KB

Open AccessArticle

Research on the Impact of Rural Digital Economy on Agricultural Total Factor Productivity: A Dual Perspective of Human Capital and Scale Operations

by Zehao Zhu, Guangzhou Cheng and Famin Yi

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5102; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105102 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2026

Abstract

The advancement of the rural digital economy (RDE) has created new opportunities to alleviate resource and environmental constraints in agriculture and to accelerate the green transformation of agricultural production. However, the existing literature provides limited analysis of the underlying mechanisms and insufficient identification [...] Read more.

The advancement of the rural digital economy (RDE) has created new opportunities to alleviate resource and environmental constraints in agriculture and to accelerate the green transformation of agricultural production. However, the existing literature provides limited analysis of the underlying mechanisms and insufficient identification of the multidimensional pathways through which the RDE promotes agricultural green total factor productivity (AGTFP). Using provincial panel data from 2013 to 2022, this study measures the level of the RDE with the entropy method and calculates AGTFP using the SBM-GML model. It further employs a two-way fixed effects model, a mediation model, and a threshold model to examine the specific mechanisms through which the RDE affects AGTFP. The results show that a 1% increase in the RDE is associated with a 3.7% increase in AGTFP, with significant positive effects on its decomposed indices. These findings remain robust after a series of robustness and endogeneity tests. Further analysis indicates that the RDE enhances AGTFP through improvements in rural human capital and agricultural-scale operations, with a significant threshold effect demonstrating increasing marginal returns beyond the threshold. The mediating effects are more pronounced in major grain-producing regions. Policy implications emphasize integrating the RDE with green agricultural production, promoting digital talent development and moderate-scale operations, and reducing regional disparities. These findings provide empirical evidence for fully leveraging the dividends of the RDE and advancing agricultural modernization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Agricultural Economy: Challenges and Opportunities—2nd Edition)

15 pages, 1182 KB

Open AccessArticle

Classification of Water Pipe Damage Types Using Random Forest

by Małgorzata Kutyłowska and Wojciech Cieżak

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5101; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105101 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2026

Abstract

This study presents the results of a classification of the types of water supply pipe failures using a random forest model consisting of 72 trees. The modeling was done in Statistica software. The classification accuracy was compared with earlier results obtained from single-classification-tree [...] Read more.

This study presents the results of a classification of the types of water supply pipe failures using a random forest model consisting of 72 trees. The modeling was done in Statistica software. The classification accuracy was compared with earlier results obtained from single-classification-tree models. The qualitative-dependent variable was the type of failure (corrosion, crack, sealing). The predictors included quantitative variables (diameter, year of construction) as well as qualitative variables (pipe type and material). The choice of 72 trees was made based on an analysis of the misclassification rate (31%) during the training stage. Increasing the number of trees forming the forest did not produce more accurate classification results: for the test set, the accuracy was 82%, 72%, and 37% for corrosion, crack, and sealing failures, respectively. The trees forming the random forest differed in their structure both in terms of the number of split and terminal nodes, as well as in the depth and number of levels of individual trees. The overall classification accuracy for the test set was nearly 66%, which is a better result than in the earlier analyses based on single trees. The proposed approach also aligns with the currently promoted concept of the sustainable operation of critical infrastructure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Water Supply and Drainage Systems: Design, Modeling, and Reliability)

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34 pages, 2372 KB

Open AccessArticle

Empowering Local Frugal Edge AI Innovation Based on Participatory Citizen Science in Developing Countries

by Joao Pita Costa, Thomas Basikolo, Marco Zennaro and John Shawe-Taylor

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5100; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105100 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2026

Abstract

With the 2030 deadline for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) approaching, there is a growing global urgency to identify innovative, scalable, and inclusive AI-based or AI-enabled solutions capable of accelerating progress across sectors. Yet the benefits of AI remain unevenly distributed, [...] Read more.

With the 2030 deadline for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) approaching, there is a growing global urgency to identify innovative, scalable, and inclusive AI-based or AI-enabled solutions capable of accelerating progress across sectors. Yet the benefits of AI remain unevenly distributed, particularly in low-resource settings where limited infrastructure, cost barriers, and unequal access to skills constrain adoption. This paper explores how Tiny Machine Learning (TinyML)—a low-power, low-cost edge AI paradigm—offers a concrete technological pathway aligned with the principles of Frugal AI, providing accessible, energy-efficient, and context-adapted tools for sustainable development. We evaluate how participatory citizen science, when combined with TinyML, enables communities to co-create AI applications that address locally defined challenges in environmental monitoring, agriculture, and public health. Drawing on early outcomes from workshops, collaborative projects, and innovation competitions, the paper examines how TinyML-enabled participatory approaches cultivate technical skills, stimulate grassroots entrepreneurship, and generate prototypes suited to low-resource environments. Using a qualitative multiple-case study of 50 participatory TinyML initiatives across 22 countries, we analyse how frugal edge-AI practices support skills formation, prototype development, and early entrepreneurial engagement. The analysis identifies the pedagogical, technical, and institutional frameworks that support successful participatory AI initiatives, emphasizing open educational resources, cross-sector partnerships, and community-driven problem formulation. We introduce the Frugal Edge AI Lean Canvas to help innovators identify novelty, ethical implications, and measurable impact. TinyML-based participatory innovation offers a promising route for accelerating SDG progress by expanding who can create, deploy, and benefit from AI. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Entrepreneurship and Local Economic Resilience: Academia’s Critical Role in Education, Research, and Community Engagement)

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17 pages, 549 KB

Open AccessArticle

Communal Goat Farmers’ Perception of Water Scarcity and Factors Influencing This Challenge in the Eastern Cape, South Africa

by Ramoello Mnyobisi, Oluwakamisi Festus Akinmoladun and Ziyanda Mpetile

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5099; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105099 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2026

Abstract

Water scarcity is a major constraint to agricultural productivity in arid and semi-arid regions, yet its implications for communal goat production systems remain insufficiently documented. This study assessed communal goat farmers’ perceptions of water scarcity and identified factors influencing this challenge in the [...] Read more.

Water scarcity is a major constraint to agricultural productivity in arid and semi-arid regions, yet its implications for communal goat production systems remain insufficiently documented. This study assessed communal goat farmers’ perceptions of water scarcity and identified factors influencing this challenge in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. A structured questionnaire was administered to 218 smallholder goat farmers, and data were analysed using SPSS (v29). A ranking index was employed to prioritise production constraints, goat functions, and water sources. Additionally, water samples from dams, streams, and rainwater were analysed for key physicochemical parameters. Results showed that theft (index = 0.233) was the most important production constraint, followed by parasites/diseases (0.219), predators (0.211), and water scarcity (0.187), which consistently ranked fourth across seasons. Despite this ranking, farmers perceived water scarcity to have substantial impacts on production, including increased disease prevalence (46.3% severe), mortality (45.0% severe), reduced weight at maturity (61.9% severe), increased trekking distance to water sources (59.2% severe), and reduced feed quality (54.6% severe). Farmers generally perceived water as clean and non-saline; however, laboratory analysis revealed poor quality, with pH values ranging from 9.14 to 10.72 and turbidity exceeding recommended thresholds (<5 NTU) in most dam and stream samples. Water accessibility was limited, with goats travelling an average of 5.85 km to dams and 7.71 km to streams. Key drivers of water scarcity included reduced rainfall (50.9%), lack of government intervention (49.1%), and drying of dams (40.4%). The study highlights a critical mismatch between perceived and actual water quality and demonstrates the multidimensional impacts of water scarcity on goat health, productivity, and welfare. Future research requires longitudinal studies linking water quality to goat health outcomes, intervention research on farmer education, low-cost water-treatment technologies, governance studies of water infrastructure, and economic analyses quantifying productivity losses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Agriculture)

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20 pages, 571 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Collective Practices for Sustainable Water Management: A Systematic Review of Community-Based Practices

by Yeismy Amanda Castiblanco Venegas, Carlos Andrés Rincón-Arias, Martha Yadira Murcia and Daniel Ricardo Delgado

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5098; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105098 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2026

Abstract

Global water scarcity constitutes a critical sustainability challenge, particularly in agricultural and rural contexts exposed to climate variability. Beyond technical and infrastructural solutions, collective and community-based water management practices have gained increasing relevance as sustainable alternatives grounded in local and ancestral knowledge. This [...] Read more.

Global water scarcity constitutes a critical sustainability challenge, particularly in agricultural and rural contexts exposed to climate variability. Beyond technical and infrastructural solutions, collective and community-based water management practices have gained increasing relevance as sustainable alternatives grounded in local and ancestral knowledge. This study presents a systematic qualitative review of collective practices for alternative water management implemented worldwide between 2018 and 2023, following the PRISMA methodology, and based on a screening of the Scopus database, 31 peer-reviewed studies were selected and analysed through thematic synthesis. The systematic review identified five interconnected dimensions: (1) water management and governance, (2) conservation and storage, (3) hydrological restoration, (4) efficient water use, and (5) recognition of local knowledge. The results show that collective water management practices contribute to water security, ecological resilience, and adaptive capacity in rural territories, particularly when aligned with local socio-environmental conditions. The study highlights the importance of integrating scientific and community-based knowledge to advance context-specific and sustainable water management strategies, contributing to ongoing debates on sustainability, rural development, and adaptive water governance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Water Management)

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17 pages, 8787 KB

Open AccessArticle

Water Use Efficiency and Carbon Trade-Offs of Gravity and Pump Irrigation in Rice Cultivation

by Chaitat Bokird, Jutithep Vongphet, Sasiwimol Khawkomol, Ketvara Sittichok, Chaiyapong Thepprasit, Bancha Kwanyuen, Bittawat Wichaidist, Chaisri Suksaroj and Songsak Puttrawutichai

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5097; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105097 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2026

Abstract

As climate change worsens, irrigation modernization has become critical for better water distribution and maintaining rice production in the face of increasing water constraints. However, there remains a gap in quantification regarding the environmental trade-offs between pump-managed and gravity-based irrigation systems, especially in [...] Read more.

As climate change worsens, irrigation modernization has become critical for better water distribution and maintaining rice production in the face of increasing water constraints. However, there remains a gap in quantification regarding the environmental trade-offs between pump-managed and gravity-based irrigation systems, especially in integrated assessments that relate economic performance, carbon emissions, and water use. This study used an integrated framework of water productivity (WP), consumptive water footprint (WF), carbon footprint, and eco-efficiency to compare gravity-based and pump-managed systems in the Don Chedi Operation and Maintenance Project, Thailand, from 2021 to 2023. The results showed no significant differences in WP and WF between systems. WP averaged 0.39 kg m⁻³ during the wet seasons and 0.54 kg m⁻³ during the dry seasons, while the WF averaged 2517 m³ t⁻¹ and 1854 m³ t⁻¹, respectively. These findings indicate that pump-managed irrigation enhanced operational flexibility and yield stability but did not substantially improve water use efficiency. However, compared with the gravity-based system, the pump-managed system produced much greater carbon emissions, with total carbon footprints ranging from 1.252 to 1.333 tCO₂eq t⁻¹, or five times higher in the irrigation process. Eco-efficiency metrics rose by up to 8.11% despite this environmental burden, indicating enhanced economic resilience amid fluctuating water conditions. These results show a recurring trade-off between low-carbon agricultural development and irrigation modernization. The study therefore emphasizes the importance of integrating renewable energy and low-carbon technologies into pump-based irrigation systems to support climate-resilient and sustainable agricultural transitions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Agriculture)

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28 pages, 2107 KB

Open AccessArticle

Plastic Damage Analysis and Structural Optimisation of Reinforced-Steel Fibre Concrete Lining for Underground Gas Storage Caverns

by Shuai Zhang, Fuchun Li, Yiyun Zhu, Zhe Li, Rong Yang, Yang Shao and Bingyi Wang

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5096; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105096 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2026

Abstract

Underground Compressed Air Energy Storage (CAES) is a promising large-scale energy storage technology, yet its long-term operational safety is constrained by progressive tensile damage accumulation in lining structures under cyclic thermo-mechanical loading. Conventional steel-lined caverns are costly, while ordinary reinforced concrete linings require [...] Read more.

Underground Compressed Air Energy Storage (CAES) is a promising large-scale energy storage technology, yet its long-term operational safety is constrained by progressive tensile damage accumulation in lining structures under cyclic thermo-mechanical loading. Conventional steel-lined caverns are costly, while ordinary reinforced concrete linings require excessive reinforcement due to their limited tensile capacity, compromising the economic viability of CAES. This study proposes a Reinforced-Steel Fibre Concrete (R-SFC) lining as the structural load-bearing layer of CAES caverns, in which the steel fibres provide tensile and crack-propagation resistance and the rebars contribute supplementary tensile capacity. A 2D coupled thermo-mechanical damage-plasticity finite element model was developed in COMSOL Multiphysics and verified using published in situ monitoring data from operating CAES caverns. Parametric analyses of the steel fibre volume fraction, lining thickness, rebar diameter, and cavern diameter were then performed. The results show that the R-SFC lining significantly improves crack propagation resistance, reducing the maximum tensile damage by 41.3% relative to conventional reinforced concrete while lowering steel consumption. Within the lining–rock system, the concrete lining and the surrounding rock jointly resist the radial compressive load, while the steel fibres and rebars bear the hoop tensile stress. A thickness-to-diameter ratio of 1/8 to 1/5 is identified as the recommended geometric design range to balance lining damage against surrounding rock loading. Finally, an MOPSO algorithm coupled with a PSO-BP surrogate model is employed to balance lining tensile damage against cavern dimensions, yielding optimised parameter combinations particularly suitable for cavern diameters around 4 m. The study findings may provide a new lining solution and design reference for cost-effective and high-reliability underground gas storage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)

25 pages, 455 KB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Fiscal Support Policies for Village-Level Collective Economies in Frontier Regions

by Liyuan Zhao, Weitao Hu, Zuoji Dong and Jincheng Zhang

Sustainability 2026, 18(10), 5095; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18105095 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2026

Abstract

This study evaluates the efficiency of fiscal support policies for village-level collective economies in S Province, a frontier region of China, over the analytical period of 2018–2023, which includes the policy implementation years (2019–2022) plus one pre-policy and one post-policy year. Integrating theories [...] Read more.

This study evaluates the efficiency of fiscal support policies for village-level collective economies in S Province, a frontier region of China, over the analytical period of 2018–2023, which includes the policy implementation years (2019–2022) plus one pre-policy and one post-policy year. Integrating theories of collaborative governance, resource alertness, and inclusive rural development, we construct an efficiency measurement framework to assess policy performance across 13 regions. Static efficiency is measured using DEA-BCC and super-efficiency SE-DEA models, while dynamic total factor productivity (TFP) is analyzed via the DEA–Malmquist index. The entropy-weighted method is employed to ensure robust indicator weighting. The findings reveal the following: (1) The average super-efficiency is 0.855, indicating relatively high expenditure efficiency but significant regional disparities and room for improvement. (2) The TFP declined by an average of 9.7% over the analytical period (2018–2023), primarily due to technological regression, despite stable technical efficiency. Based on the TFP performance, regions are categorized into high-, middle-, and low-efficiency tiers. Accordingly, we propose policy recommendations including efficiency-driven funding allocation, long-term support mechanisms combining technological innovation and management empowerment, regionally differentiated strategies, and strengthened multi-stakeholder collaboration. This study provides empirical evidence for optimizing fiscal policies to promote the sustainable development of rural collective economies and advance inclusive rural development in frontier regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Rural Policy, Governance and Sustainable Rural Development)

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