Sustainability

13 pages, 228 KB

Open AccessArticle

How the Transformation of Digital–Carbon Integration Is Empowering Sustainable Development: Theoretical Logic and Practical Pathways

by Yu Cao, Xinyao Li, Hao Zhang, Mingyang Zhai, Haidong Wu, Chang Su and Rui Qi

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3159; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063159 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 482

Abstract

The paper proposes a groundbreaking strategy for merging corporate digitalization and low-carbon transition (digital–carbon integration) for Chinese companies, using data from A-share listed companies in China from 2013 to 2022. The deep integration of the digital transformation and green low-carbon development has emerged [...] Read more.

The paper proposes a groundbreaking strategy for merging corporate digitalization and low-carbon transition (digital–carbon integration) for Chinese companies, using data from A-share listed companies in China from 2013 to 2022. The deep integration of the digital transformation and green low-carbon development has emerged as a crucial route by which to enhance sustainable development and attain high-quality development, due to the quick iterations of digital technology and the growing severity of global climate challenges. The study uses a dual fixed effects model for regression analysis and gathers 24,074 sample observations. The findings show the following: (1) The level of digital–carbon integration has been gradually increasing, which has had a major positive impact on sustainable development. Several robustness tests confirm the validity of this conclusion. (2) Mechanism analysis shows that, by encouraging green technology innovation and increasing operational management efficiency, digital–carbon integration can improve sustainable development. (3) According to heterogeneity analysis, non-state-owned businesses and high-technology corporations are more affected by digital–carbon integration on sustainable development. This study gives a path reference for improving sustainable development and attaining high-quality growth, in addition to offering a theoretical foundation for advancing digital–carbon integration in Chinese businesses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analysis of Energy Systems from the Perspective of Sustainability)

20 pages, 2099 KB

Open AccessArticle

An Empirical Study on the Coupling of Wetland Ecotourism and Resource–Environmental Carrying Capacity in Dongting Lake Wetland

by Meixuan Chen, Jiacheng Wang, Xiaohua Fu, Yingchun Fang, Hui Wang, Haiyin Xu, Peirui Zhao, Jiahao Luo, Yi Wu and Jian Zhu

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3158; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063158 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 341

Abstract

This study explores the coupling relationship between wetland ecotourism and resource–environmental carrying capacity in the Dongting Lake region. By constructing a comprehensive index system and utilizing a coupling coordination degree model, we analyzed the temporal and spatial evolution characteristics across 24 districts and [...] Read more.

This study explores the coupling relationship between wetland ecotourism and resource–environmental carrying capacity in the Dongting Lake region. By constructing a comprehensive index system and utilizing a coupling coordination degree model, we analyzed the temporal and spatial evolution characteristics across 24 districts and counties from 2014 to 2022. The results indicate the following: (1) The quality of both ecotourism and environmental carrying capacity has steadily improved, though significant regional disparities remain. (2) The coupling coordination degree exhibits a “high in the center, low in the periphery” spatial pattern, showing a positive correlation between ecotourism levels and environmental capacity. (3) The region comprises three development types: balanced coordination, well-matched, and lagging. These findings provide a scientific basis for optimizing ecotourism pathways and achieving high-quality regional sustainable development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nature-Based Solutions for Landscape Sustainability Challenges)

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21 pages, 785 KB

Open AccessArticle

Diversification and Revealed Competitiveness in Frozen and Non-Frozen Crab Exports: An Economic-Trade Sustainability Assessment of Canada, China, and Vietnam

by Jose Carlos Montes Ninaquispe, Luisa Angelica Orejuela Guerrero, Eleodora del Pilar Orejuela Guerrero, Carlos José Sandoval Reyes, Marcos Marcelo Flores Castillo, Christian David Corrales Otazú, Sarita Jessica Apaza Miranda, Gustavo Adolfo Ugarriza Gross, Jose Alfredo Castañeda Nassi, Francisco Elias Rodriguez Novoa and Marco Agustín Arbulú Ballesteros

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3157; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063157 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 415

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the economic-trade sustainability of crab exports from Canada, Vietnam and China by contrasting frozen (HS 030614) and non-frozen (HS 030633) segments in terms of destination diversification and revealed competitiveness. In this study, economic-trade sustainability is interpreted as the [...] Read more.

This study aimed to assess the economic-trade sustainability of crab exports from Canada, Vietnam and China by contrasting frozen (HS 030614) and non-frozen (HS 030633) segments in terms of destination diversification and revealed competitiveness. In this study, economic-trade sustainability is interpreted as the structural coherence between destination diversification, revealed competitiveness, and the trade conditions that support export continuity in perishable products. A quantitative, descriptive within-country design was implemented using ITC Trade Map secondary data for 2020–2024. Destination concentration was measured with the Herfindahl–Hirschman Index (HHI), competitiveness with symmetric revealed comparative advantage (SRCA), structural orientation with a Relative Specialization Index (RSI), and an integrated positioning matrix combined mean HHI and SRCA with export-weighted centering and confidence intervals. The results indicated persistently high concentration in Canada across both segments, with frozen exports locked into a United States corridor and non-frozen exports becoming increasingly China-dependent. China exhibited moderate concentration and a more regionally dispersed portfolio, alongside stable competitive advantages in several Asian markets, while showing selective disadvantages in some Western destinations. Vietnam displayed the highest structural vulnerability, particularly in the non-frozen segment, with extremely high HHI, abrupt destination shifts and competitiveness confined to a narrow corridor. Overall, preservation-form segmentation shaped distinct risk architectures, and sustainability depended on the joint configuration of diversification and competitive strength. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Business Management: Innovative Strategies for the Future of the Global Economy)

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39 pages, 1550 KB

Open AccessArticle

Rule-Based Expert System for Resource Planning in Liquid Transportation

by Zeynep Haber, Huseyin Hakli, Harun Uguz and Serkan Gerz

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3156; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063156 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 295

Abstract

The dispatch planning process plays a central role in liquid transportation, where the accurate selection of trailers, ISO tanks, vehicles, and drivers determines the effectiveness, safety, and cost structure of operations. Each resource has its own technical, regulatory, and operational characteristics, and these [...] Read more.

The dispatch planning process plays a central role in liquid transportation, where the accurate selection of trailers, ISO tanks, vehicles, and drivers determines the effectiveness, safety, and cost structure of operations. Each resource has its own technical, regulatory, and operational characteristics, and these characteristics must align with product specifications, transportation routes, loading and delivery conditions, and the current state of the fleet. The breadth of these parameters makes resource selection a highly complex task for planners, especially in environments where rapid decision-making is needed to address changing demands. This study presents a rule-based expert system designed to capture the decision-making logic of experienced professionals and apply it consistently during dispatch planning. The system incorporates 28 decision rules formulated from the collective knowledge of experts working in liquid logistics operations, including planners, industrial engineers, and senior managers. These rules enable the system to evaluate multiple resource combinations and recommend the most suitable allocation for each order. The expert system was evaluated using real operational data obtained from a leading logistics company in Turkey. Comparative results indicate that the system provides more cost-effective, efficient, and balanced dispatch plans than manual planning conducted by an experienced human planner. The system not only improves resource utilization but also reduces planning errors and variations arising from human judgment. Overall, the findings demonstrate that a rule-based expert system can serve as a reliable and scalable decision-support tool for complex dispatch planning problems in liquid transportation, offering consistent performance across different operational scenarios. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Innovation in Logistics and Supply Chain Management, 3rd Edition)

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32 pages, 1815 KB

Open AccessArticle

Decision and Coordination in a Competitive Green Supply Chain with Diverse R&D Leadership

by Yaoyao Cai and Xin Li

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3155; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063155 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 254

Abstract

Against the growing global focus on green development, government subsidies are widely recognized as a crucial policy tool to promote firms’ green transformation. In competitive markets, green investment decisions are jointly shaped by supply chain power structures, and different research and development (R&D) [...] Read more.

Against the growing global focus on green development, government subsidies are widely recognized as a crucial policy tool to promote firms’ green transformation. In competitive markets, green investment decisions are jointly shaped by supply chain power structures, and different research and development (R&D) leadership can yield distinct policy outcomes. This study develops a Bertrand competition model of a green supply chain with one manufacturer and two competing retailers, comparing two structures: manufacturer-led R&D (SM) and retailer-led R&D (SR). We examine how these policies affect pricing decisions, product greenness, and revenues. Under the retailer-led R&D, a green cost-sharing ratio is introduced to capture the interaction between internal coordination and government support. The results show that subsidy effects depend on consumer green awareness. When green awareness is low, subsidies mainly raise prices through cost pass-through. When green awareness is high, subsidies can lower prices by stimulating demand. In addition, the interaction between subsidy intensity and cost sharing leads to non-monotonic changes in retailers’ revenues. By comparing different market structures and parameter settings, we identify the conditions under which SM or SR dominates in terms of prices, product greenness, and revenues, providing guidance for more flexible green subsidy design. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Supply Chain Management and the Circular Economy in the Digital Revolution)

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49 pages, 1215 KB

Open AccessArticle

Forging a Symbiosis Framework: An Interdisciplinary Blueprint for Scaling Nature-Based Solutions

by Yee Keong Choy and Ayumi Onuma

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3154; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063154 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 389

Abstract

Despite unprecedented political endorsement, nature-based solutions (NbS) consistently fail to achieve the systemic transformation required for climate and biodiversity crises. This implementation deadlock stems from a profound triple strategic gap: a translational evidence gap between fragmented science and actionable design, a strategic design [...] Read more.

Despite unprecedented political endorsement, nature-based solutions (NbS) consistently fail to achieve the systemic transformation required for climate and biodiversity crises. This implementation deadlock stems from a profound triple strategic gap: a translational evidence gap between fragmented science and actionable design, a strategic design gap in misaligned institutions, and a fundamental theoretical integration gap disconnecting ecological principles from socio-economic solutions. This study forges and validates the symbiosis framework—an interdisciplinary blueprint designed to bridge this triple gap. Employing design science research, we: (1) synthesize ecological theory with institutional economics to distill three core design principles—functional reciprocity, nested modular network architecture, and strategic leverage and foundational support; (2) translate these into a conceptual model and strategic implementation blueprint; and (3) validate the framework through comparative analysis of global NbS case studies. The resulting framework provides a novel translational logic, moving beyond critique to offer a prescriptive design tool. It enables practitioners to diagnose systemic failures and design interventions that emulate ecological intelligence while applying institutional design principles: cultivating reciprocal partnerships, structuring resilient networks through polycentric governance, and strategically targeting catalytic leverage points and foundational assets. We conclude that scaling NbS requires a paradigm shift from managing isolated symptoms to architecting symbiotic systems. The symbiosis framework provides the essential interdisciplinary blueprint for this shift. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Green Infrastructure for Heat Mitigation and Social Equity: Global Perspectives and Challenges)

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28 pages, 838 KB

Open AccessReview

Smart Technologies for Water Resources Management (WRM) in Semi-Arid Latin America: A Narrative Review and Adoption Agenda

by Eduardo Alonso Sánchez Ruiz, Lázaro V. Cremades and Stephanie Villanueva Benites

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3153; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063153 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 334

Abstract

Semi-arid territories in Latin America face chronic water stress; limited observability and fragmented institutions constrain effective water resources management (WRM). This narrative review synthesizes peer-reviewed evidence (2020–2026) on smart technologies that strengthen basin- and utility-level WRM, using Peru (Piura-like coastal semi-arid contexts) as [...] Read more.

Semi-arid territories in Latin America face chronic water stress; limited observability and fragmented institutions constrain effective water resources management (WRM). This narrative review synthesizes peer-reviewed evidence (2020–2026) on smart technologies that strengthen basin- and utility-level WRM, using Peru (Piura-like coastal semi-arid contexts) as an anchor and Latin America as a comparative lens. We used a structured, traceable database-based workflow and synthesized studies reporting measurable outcomes across five application categories: drought/flood early warning, hydrometeorological forecasting, water quality surveillance, non-revenue water (NRW)/leakage, and allocation and compliance. Findings were organized into an application-oriented taxonomy spanning remote sensing (RS) and GIS, Internet of Things (IoT)/telemetry, analytics/AI-enabled decision support, and hybrid approaches. Evidence most consistently reports operational gains (coverage, timeliness, predictive performance), while governance outcomes are less frequently measured and appear contingent on interoperability, digital capacity, and sustainable operations and maintenance (O&M) conditions. We conclude with a territorial adoption agenda specifying minimum enabling conditions and a phased pathway from pilots to scalable, eco-efficient smart WRM in Peru and comparable semi-arid settings across Latin America. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart Technologies Toward Sustainable Eco-Friendly Industry)

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28 pages, 1905 KB

Open AccessArticle

Twin Transition and Women’s Empowerment in the EU: Is There a Synergy Effect?

by Fatma Unlu and Emrah Kocak

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3152; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063152 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 258

Abstract

This study examines the effects of the digital economy, the circular economy and their integration, referred to as the twin transition, on women’s human capital, employment, and participation in decision-making in EU-27 countries over the period 2012–2020, using a fixed effects model, the [...] Read more.

This study examines the effects of the digital economy, the circular economy and their integration, referred to as the twin transition, on women’s human capital, employment, and participation in decision-making in EU-27 countries over the period 2012–2020, using a fixed effects model, the generalized method of moments, and panel quantile regressions. The findings indicate that the digital economy significantly enhances women’s human capital, particularly in the lower and middle quantiles, while the circular economy shows limited effects across quantiles and is mainly significant in the dynamic generalized method of moments specification. The twin transition produces the strongest and most consistent improvements in human capital, benefiting countries with initially lower levels the most. Regarding employment, both digital and circular economies have generally positive effects on women, whereas the twin transition demonstrates strong, stable, and significant impacts across almost all quantiles, highlighting the synergy of combining both transformations. In terms of decision-making participation, the individual effects of the digital and circular economies are weaker and less consistent, with notable positive impacts mostly in mid- to upper quantiles and in higher-performing countries. The twin transition, however, shows clear positive and statistically significant effects in the mid- to upper quantiles. Digitalization and circular economy efforts each help women’s employment and skills, but together as a twin transition they have a stronger, more inclusive impact on women’s human capital, labor outcomes, and leadership participation. These findings highlight that policy strategies supporting the twin transition should consider different levels of women’s empowerment across countries. In contexts with lower empowerment levels, policies that expand women’s access to education and digital skills can strengthen human capital accumulation. At middle and higher levels, promoting women’s participation in green and digital sectors and supporting inclusive leadership opportunities may further enhance employment and decision-making participation. Full article

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25 pages, 5279 KB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Biogas-to-Syngas Catalytic Dry Reforming of Methane (DRM) Using a Novel Fleece Reactor

by Feihong Chu, Yitong Jiang, Zehao Li, Jan Baeyens and Huili Zhang

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3151; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063151 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 284

Abstract

Driven by the growing global energy demand and the pursuit of carbon utilization goals, dry reforming of methane (DRM) has attracted considerable attention for its ability to convert CO₂ and CH₄ into syngas. Biogas, an eco-friendly product of processes such as [...] Read more.

Driven by the growing global energy demand and the pursuit of carbon utilization goals, dry reforming of methane (DRM) has attracted considerable attention for its ability to convert CO₂ and CH₄ into syngas. Biogas, an eco-friendly product of processes such as anaerobic digestion, is primarily composed of CO₂ and CH₄ and ideally meets the feedstock requirements for DRM. In practice, biogas is generated via anaerobic digestion of livestock manure and other organic waste, providing a stable and sustainable source for the DRM reaction and thus enabling waste valorization. Supported Ni⁰ catalysts have become a research focus in this field due to their high catalytic activity and moderate cost. Conventional particulate Ni⁰ catalysts, however, are prone to carbon coking in fixed-bed applications and are difficult to effectively recover and regenerate after the reaction; thus, they are often being discarded, leading to resource waste and environmental burden. To address these issues, this study has designed a novel metal-sintered fleece catalyst support and developed a corresponding reactor. The effects of the catalyst preparation method, activation conditions, and the support structure on DRM performance have been systematically investigated. The spent Ni-based catalyst could be regenerated via calcination to restore catalytic activity and enable multiple cycles of use, significantly extending the catalyst’s lifespan and offering both economic and environmental benefits. Experimental results have demonstrated that the reactor achieved a conversion rate exceeding 80% with near-complete product selectivity. Full article

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22 pages, 2170 KB

Open AccessArticle

Techno-Economic and Environmental Assessment of a Hybrid Supercritical Coal—Photovoltaic Power Plant

by Anna Hnydiuk-Stefan and Carlos Vargas-Salgado

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3150; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063150 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 266

Abstract

Many countries rely on coal for energy security during renewable transitions. This study conducts a technical, economic, and environmental analysis of hybridizing a supercritical coal-fired power unit with photovoltaics (PV) to create a sustainable hybrid system at a plant in Silesian Voivodeship, Poland. [...] Read more.

Many countries rely on coal for energy security during renewable transitions. This study conducts a technical, economic, and environmental analysis of hybridizing a supercritical coal-fired power unit with photovoltaics (PV) to create a sustainable hybrid system at a plant in Silesian Voivodeship, Poland. The goal is to assess costs and optimal operating conditions for a coal–PV hybrid under varying scenarios, using a decision-support model that integrates fuel prices, CO₂ emission charges (EUA), and technical parameters. Two main scenarios are modeled. In auxiliary-only PV (112 MW system), real-time power supplies pumps and fans, cutting coal consumption without storage; LCOE decreases with annual hours (2800–7000), outperforming conventional coal across EUA prices (20–50 EUR/t). In PV surplus export, excess generation (1300 h/year) is grid-fed for revenue, amplifying LCOE reductions—hybrid superiority emerges above 34 EUR/t EUA, per equivalence thresholds. Results show coal electricity exceeds low-emission costs above 34 EUR/t CO₂, with maximum disparity at 50 EUR/Mg. The hybrid leverages existing infrastructure, mitigates solar intermittency via auxiliary supply, ensures baseload continuity, boosts flexibility, and prolongs asset life—reducing >123,000 EUA/year at 145,000 MWh PV output. This sustainable hybrid promotes energy transition, reduces fossil fuel dependence, and aligns with global sustainability goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)

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24 pages, 757 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Financial Literacy on Social Entrepreneurship Tendencies Among University Students: Evidence from Turkey

by Semra Tetik, Bülent Akkaya, Yeşim Kaya and Anna Bagieńska

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3149; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063149 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 302

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between university students’ financial literacy and their social entrepreneurship tendencies, using a convenience sample of 245 students from a single public university in Turkey. Two previously validated scales were employed, and reliability analyses indicated high internal consistency (α [...] Read more.

This study examines the relationship between university students’ financial literacy and their social entrepreneurship tendencies, using a convenience sample of 245 students from a single public university in Turkey. Two previously validated scales were employed, and reliability analyses indicated high internal consistency (α = 0.828–0.936). Regression analyses indicate that financial literacy partially and statistically significantly explains social entrepreneurship tendencies, although the effect size is modest (R² = 0.016), suggesting that additional individual, social, and contextual factors likely play a larger role. Sub-dimension analyses indicate that financial literacy is significantly associated with Financial Return, Sustainability, and Social Networks (p < 0.05; p < 0.01), while associations with Social Vision and Innovation were not statistically significant, reflecting its partial contribution to social entrepreneurship tendencies. Demographic comparisons indicate significant differences based on gender, academic level, academic achievement, parental education, and the presence of an entrepreneur in the family (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that financial literacy can support socially responsible entrepreneurial tendencies, while acknowledging that the observed effects are modest and the sample is limited to a single university. The study emphasizes the importance of integrating financial literacy and entrepreneurship education into higher education curricula, while clearly acknowledging the study’s methodological limitations and the small magnitude of observed effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Transition and Technology for Sustainable Management)

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18 pages, 1110 KB

Open AccessArticle

Drivers’ Perceptions of Vertical Traffic Signs and Their Implications for Road Safety: Evidence from a Field Survey

by Tahsin Durmus and Emine Coruh

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3148; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063148 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 244

Abstract

Accurate perception and interpretation of the road environment are essential for safe driving. Vertical traffic signs play a key role in communicating warnings, regulations, and guidance to road users, thereby supporting safe and efficient traffic flow. However, their effectiveness depends not only on [...] Read more.

Accurate perception and interpretation of the road environment are essential for safe driving. Vertical traffic signs play a key role in communicating warnings, regulations, and guidance to road users, thereby supporting safe and efficient traffic flow. However, their effectiveness depends not only on proper design and placement but also on how accurately and promptly they are perceived by drivers, which may be influenced by factors such as attention, cognitive workload, physical and mental condition, and fatigue. This study evaluates the contribution of selected vertical traffic signs to driving safety along a designated roadway section in Şanlıurfa, Türkiye. Face-to-face surveys were conducted with 480 active road users. Drivers’ knowledge, compliance behavior, safe route preferences, perceived visibility, and the effects of missing or inadequate signage were analyzed. The results indicate that driving exposure, education level, and experience significantly influence knowledge and perception of traffic signs, while compliance shows limited variation. These findings suggest that knowledge alone does not necessarily translate into behavioral compliance and underscore the importance of considering both driver-related factors and infrastructure characteristics in traffic safety strategies. The study provides practical insights for improving the visibility, placement, and overall effectiveness of vertical traffic signs in rapidly developing urban environments. Full article

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19 pages, 14173 KB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Valorization of Soybean Husk via Green Extraction Technologies: Bioactive Compound Recovery and Formulation of Fiber-Enriched Scones

by Maximiliano Kniazev, Cecilia Dauber, Melissa Romero, Victoria Olt, Carol González, Agustina Sansone, Inés Franchi, Camila Bernaola, Agustina Larrea, Bruno Irigaray and Ignacio Vieitez

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3147; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063147 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 243

Abstract

Soybean husk (SH), a major processing by-product, is a rich source of fiber and antioxidants. This study characterized SH and optimized bioactive compound recovery using green technologies: ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) and pressurized liquid extraction (PLE). Raw SH contained high fiber (67.98%) and moderate [...] Read more.

Soybean husk (SH), a major processing by-product, is a rich source of fiber and antioxidants. This study characterized SH and optimized bioactive compound recovery using green technologies: ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) and pressurized liquid extraction (PLE). Raw SH contained high fiber (67.98%) and moderate protein (10.56%). Experimental designs evaluated temperature, power, and solvent composition (EtOH/H₂O). In UAE, yield increased with longer time and 50% ethanol. However, PLE significantly outperformed UAE; optimal conditions (140 °C, 50% EtOH) yielded 19.97% extract, with 17.1 mg GAE/g total phenolics and 167.6 µmol TE/g antioxidant capacity. Isoflavone profiling identified daidzin, genistin, and their malonyl/acetyl derivatives as predominant. The optimal extract and raw SH were incorporated into scone formulations to evaluate functional potential. Results showed that scones containing extract (alone or with SH) exhibited significantly higher phenolic content and antioxidant activity (≈36 µmol Trolox/g) than controls. SH addition increased dietary fiber, qualifying the product as a “source of fiber” under current regulations. This research demonstrates that SH valorization through PLE enhances the nutritional and functional quality of bakery products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Extraction Processes from Natural Sources and Agricultural By-Products to Achieve New Foods Development: Sustainability Opportunities and Sensory Challenges)

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11 pages, 465 KB

Open AccessReview

Cognitive Intelligence as a Core Competency for Hospitality Managers: A Conceptual Approach

by Charalampos Giousmpasoglou

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3146; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063146 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 419

Abstract

The hospitality industry is characterised by high levels of complexity, uncertainty, and interpersonal intensity. While emotional intelligence (EI) has dominated both academic and practitioner debates on effective hospitality leadership, considerably less attention has been paid to cognitive intelligence (CI) as a foundational managerial [...] Read more.

The hospitality industry is characterised by high levels of complexity, uncertainty, and interpersonal intensity. While emotional intelligence (EI) has dominated both academic and practitioner debates on effective hospitality leadership, considerably less attention has been paid to cognitive intelligence (CI) as a foundational managerial competency. Drawing on interdisciplinary research from management, psychology, and hospitality studies, this paper argues that cognitive intelligence constitutes a critical yet under-theorised capability for innovation management and organisational performance in hospitality contexts. Building on established distinctions between cognitive and emotional intelligence, and synthesising evidence from hospitality and general management research, this paper develops a conceptual framework positioning CI as a core meta-competency that enables sensemaking, judgement, problem-solving, and adaptive decision-making in complex service environments. This conceptual paper contributes to the literature on innovation and hospitality management by reframing managerial intelligence as a performance-enabling capability that underpins learning, adaptability, and long-term organisational effectiveness in hospitality organisations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovation Management and Organizational Performance for Sustainable Future—2nd Edition)

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20 pages, 4562 KB

Open AccessArticle

GIS-Based Personalized Tourism Recommendation Using Association Rule Mining to Support Sustainable Tourism

by Supattra Puttinaovarat, Supaporn Chai-Arayalert and Wanida Saetang

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3145; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063145 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 290

Abstract

The increasing availability of tourism information on digital platforms has improved tourists’ access to destination-related data. However, existing tourism information systems often lack effective integration between user preference information and geospatial data, limiting their ability to provide personalized and context-aware recommendations. This study [...] Read more.

The increasing availability of tourism information on digital platforms has improved tourists’ access to destination-related data. However, existing tourism information systems often lack effective integration between user preference information and geospatial data, limiting their ability to provide personalized and context-aware recommendations. This study proposes a personalized tourism recommendation system by integrating Geographic Information System (GIS) technology with association rule mining to analyze relationships between user preferences and spatial characteristics of tourist destinations. The proposed system provides map-based visualization, calculates distances between users and destinations, and generates personalized recommendations based on both user interests and spatial proximity. The implementation results demonstrate that the system can generate location-aware and personalized tourism recommendations, supporting users in identifying suitable destinations within their surrounding geographic context. The integration of geospatial processing with association rule mining improves recommendation relevance by incorporating both preference patterns and spatial proximity. Furthermore, the proposed framework has the potential to support more balanced spatial distribution of tourism activities by recommending geographically appropriate destinations rather than concentrating suggestions on highly popular locations. These findings highlight the value of combining geospatial technologies with data mining techniques to support tourism recommendation systems and spatially informed tourism planning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Tourism, Culture, and Heritage)

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20 pages, 16996 KB

Open AccessArticle

Preliminary Pluvial Flood Hazard Assessment for Underground Access Stairs in Barcelona Metropolitan Area Metro Stations

by Àlex de la Cruz-Coronas, Carlos H. Aparicio Uribe, Jackson Téllez-Alvarez, Eduardo Martínez-Gomariz, Joan Granés-Puig and Beniamino Russo

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3144; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063144 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 256

Abstract

Urban underground infrastructures are highly vulnerable to intense rainfall events, particularly access stairs, where preferential runoff paths and the most probable evacuation routes can conflict. This study presents a pluvial flood hazard assessment for underground access stairs in the Barcelona Metropolitan Area Metro [...] Read more.

Urban underground infrastructures are highly vulnerable to intense rainfall events, particularly access stairs, where preferential runoff paths and the most probable evacuation routes can conflict. This study presents a pluvial flood hazard assessment for underground access stairs in the Barcelona Metropolitan Area Metro network. It integrates the EU ICARIA project modeling framework and the hazard assessment criteria based on hydraulic parameters identified by the Spanish national research project FAVOUR. Both current and future climate change rainfall scenarios are considered. The results showed that out of 415 underground access points, 27 face a high risk of floods, while 35 more have potentially high-risk conditions. These figures could rise to 38 (40% increase) and 47 (74% increase) respectively by the end of the century since climate change is projected to increase rainfall intensity and frequency. By quantifying hazard levels across the network, this study allows the identification of points of the infrastructure where hazard conditions can be more critical. Furthermore, the results presented could potentially support targeted adaptation strategies such as entrance retrofitting, improved drainage design, and emergency planning to develop resilient and sustainable cities. The proposed methodology demonstrates how ICARIA’s modeling framework can effectively evaluate and anticipate flood hazards in complex urban environments at the asset level. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Improving Climate Resilience of Critical Asset: Asset-Level Modelling to Achieve A Better Understanding of Climate-Related Impacts)

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17 pages, 302 KB

Open AccessArticle

Degree of Breed Purity and Farm Sustainability: Effects on the Quality of Iberian Pork

by Marta Rodríguez-Fernández, Ana M. Vivar-Quintana, Carolina Reyes-Palomo, Santos Sanz-Fernández, Vicente Rodríguez-Estévez and Isabel Revilla

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3143; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063143 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 250

Abstract

The sustainability of livestock farming is becoming a key consideration in the European pork industry, particularly regarding the balance between intensive and extensive farming practices. This study focuses on the Iberian pig breed, assessing the pure breed and the Iberian × Duroc crossbreed [...] Read more.

The sustainability of livestock farming is becoming a key consideration in the European pork industry, particularly regarding the balance between intensive and extensive farming practices. This study focuses on the Iberian pig breed, assessing the pure breed and the Iberian × Duroc crossbreed and three production systems: intensive indoor fattening, outdoor intensive fattening, and free-range fattening, with an emphasis on their impact on both sustainability and pork quality. The quick-scan sustainability assessment tool developed within the H2020 project mEATquality was used to evaluate the environmental, social, and economic performance of each system. The results revealed that the free-range system performed best in environmental and economic sustainability, while the intensive indoor system showed higher economic stability. Significant differences in meat quality were observed based on the production system, including pH, fat and protein content, colour, texture, and fatty acid profiles. Notably, the free-range system produced pork with higher levels of MUFA and omega-3 fatty acids while intensive indoor showed a more favourable texture, while the intensive systems were associated with paler meat and higher SFA content. Indeed, the results highlighted a significant interaction between the production system × breed, indicating that the 100% Iberian is better adapted to the extensive systems. This study highlights the importance of integrating sustainability assessments with meat quality parameters to identify production methods that are both environmentally responsible and capable of meeting the consumer demand for high-quality pork. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Animal Husbandry and the Production of Animal-Derived Food: Current Status and Challenges for the Coming Decades)

36 pages, 1193 KB

Open AccessArticle

Integrating Brand Equity and Expectation-Confirmation Theory to Explain Sustainable Online Repurchase Intention and Digital Business Sustainability in Saudi Arabia’s E-Commerce Market

by Essa Mubrik N. Almutairi, Aliyu Alhaji Abubakar and Yaser Hasan Al-Mamary

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3142; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063142 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 295

Abstract

This study examines the intercorrelations that exist between brand equity, expectation confirmation, and sustainable repurchase intentions within Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning e-commerce sector, emphasizing its cultural and digital transformation context aligned with Vision 2030. The main objectives are to identify how brand perceptions influence [...] Read more.

This study examines the intercorrelations that exist between brand equity, expectation confirmation, and sustainable repurchase intentions within Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning e-commerce sector, emphasizing its cultural and digital transformation context aligned with Vision 2030. The main objectives are to identify how brand perceptions influence customer satisfaction, and to explore the applicability of integrated theoretical frameworks, namely Brand Equity Theory and Expectation-Confirmation Theory in explaining sustainable consumer behavior in an emerging market. Utilizing a quantitative research approach, data was collected through an online self-reported questionnaire distributed via social media platforms targeted at active e-commerce consumers in the Hail region. Convenience sampling combined with snowballing yielded a sample size of 361 respondents, ensuring broader demographic representation. Data analysis was conducted using structural equation modeling with partial least squares (SEM-PLS), a technique suited for theory exploration and handling complex variable relationships. The findings demonstrate that brand awareness and brand image significantly positively influence customer satisfaction, which in turn positively impacts repurchase intentions in e-commerce platforms. Similarly, expectations and perceived performance also have significant positive effects on satisfaction, which in turn positively impacts repurchase intentions in e-commerce platforms. All hypotheses were supported, with significant relationships observed between the variables, with the model demonstrating robust validity and fit, evidenced by acceptable SRMR, d_ULS, and d_G values. The study’s originality lies in its culturally contextualized application of these theories to a less studied yet vital emerging market, providing novel insights into how cultural nuances influence digital consumer loyalty. These outcomes contribute to both academic theory and practical strategies for e-commerce firms aiming to build sustainable, trust-based relationships within culturally diverse digital environments, offering a valuable blueprint for similar markets undergoing digital transformation. Full article

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30 pages, 1488 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing Circular Economy and Sustainability Business Strategies in Fast Fashion: A Fuzzy Cognitive Maps Approach

by Federica De Leo, Valerio Elia, Maria Grazia Gnoni and Fabiana Tornese

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3141; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063141 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 314

Abstract

The fashion industry is one of the most resource-intensive sectors, generating major environmental impacts such as greenhouse gas emissions, excessive water and land use, and pollution from waste and microplastics. Fast fashion intensifies these issues through overproduction and overconsumption. However, growing consumer awareness [...] Read more.

The fashion industry is one of the most resource-intensive sectors, generating major environmental impacts such as greenhouse gas emissions, excessive water and land use, and pollution from waste and microplastics. Fast fashion intensifies these issues through overproduction and overconsumption. However, growing consumer awareness and regulatory pressure are pushing brands to adopt Circular Economy (CE) and sustainability strategies, including resale platforms, recycling programs, and sustainability frameworks. Despite these efforts, their real effectiveness remains uncertain. This study investigates which CE and sustainability strategies are most common among fast fashion companies and how they can mitigate key environmental impacts. Using a Fuzzy Cognitive Maps (FCM) model, the research quantitatively evaluates the effects of various circular and sustainable strategies across the supply chain. Ten key strategies were identified, revealing that isolated actions are often ineffective. Instead, an integrated, systemic approach combining multiple initiatives is essential to achieve meaningful sustainability improvements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Circular Economy and Competitiveness in the Era of Global Sustainability Transitions)

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42 pages, 916 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Sustainable AI-Enabled UAV Healthcare Logistics: Environmental, Social, and Governance Implications from a PRISMA-ScR Review

by Patricia Acosta-Vargas, Gloria Acosta-Vargas, Mateo Herrera-Avila, Belén Salvador-Acosta, Juan Pablo Pérez-Vargas, Eduardo A. Donadi and Luis Salvador-Ullauri

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3140; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063140 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 363

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are rapidly emerging as transformative technologies for sustainable healthcare logistics, particularly in remote and infrastructure-constrained regions. Despite growing implementation, the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) implications of these systems remain insufficiently synthesized in the literature. This [...] Read more.

Artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are rapidly emerging as transformative technologies for sustainable healthcare logistics, particularly in remote and infrastructure-constrained regions. Despite growing implementation, the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) implications of these systems remain insufficiently synthesized in the literature. This study conducts a PRISMA-ScR-guided Systematic Review of 37 peer-reviewed studies selected from 333 records across six major scientific databases (2015–2026). The analysis reveals a sharp acceleration of research after 2021, with over 80% of publications produced between 2021 and 2024, indicating increasing global interest in AI-supported autonomous medical logistics. Evidence demonstrates that AI-enabled drones can substantially reduce delivery times; expand access to blood, vaccines, and essential medicines; and enhance emergency response capacity in rural and disaster-affected environments. From a sustainability perspective, AI-driven route optimization and autonomous navigation may reduce transport-related emissions, supporting climate-responsive healthcare supply chains. However, large-scale deployment remains constrained by regulatory fragmentation, cybersecurity risks, operational limitations, and challenges with social acceptance. This review proposes an ESG-oriented framework linking technological innovation, ethical governance, and equitable healthcare access while identifying key research gaps in lifecycle sustainability assessment, cost-effectiveness modeling, and real-world implementation aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovating for the SDGs: Scientific and Technological Pathways to Sustainable Development)

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11 pages, 698 KB

Open AccessArticle

Community-Driven ESG Governance and Climate-Resilient Livelihoods in Ghana: Evidence from Participatory Action Research

by Esi Abbam Elliot, Nana Opare-Djan and Mustapha Iddrisu

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3139; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063139 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 252

Abstract

Illegal artisanal and small-scale mining (galamsey) and climate stress jointly degrade ecosystems and livelihoods in Ghana. This paper demonstrates how community-driven governance can realign incentives toward environmental stewardship and inclusive livelihoods. Using an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design—quantitative difference-in-differences followed by qualitative case analysis [...] Read more.

Illegal artisanal and small-scale mining (galamsey) and climate stress jointly degrade ecosystems and livelihoods in Ghana. This paper demonstrates how community-driven governance can realign incentives toward environmental stewardship and inclusive livelihoods. Using an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design—quantitative difference-in-differences followed by qualitative case analysis and Participatory Action Research—we evaluate a structured program combining vocational training, financial literacy, environmental stewardship, and governance alignment. We operationalize Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) outcomes via transparent composite indices and triangulate survey, administrative, and focus group evidence. The study identifies conditions under which alternative livelihoods reduce participation in illegal mining, strengthen women’s economic agency, and improve adoption of climate-smart practices. Implications include practical guidance for program design (community delivery, matched incentives, oversight), policy (local climate finance and accountability mechanisms), and research (scalable indicators and rigorous impact evaluation in resource-dependent communities). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Business Practices and Global Innovation Management in Emerging Markets)

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47 pages, 417 KB

Open AccessArticle

Environmental Commitments in M&A Announcements and Market Performance: Evidence from China

by Zhuoxuan Yang and Pengcheng Ma

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3138; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063138 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 220

Abstract

Environmental commitments disclosed in merger and acquisition (M&A) announcements have become an important channel through which firms signal their green governance intentions. However, systematic empirical evidence remains limited regarding whether and how capital markets respond to such commitments. Using a sample of M&A [...] Read more.

Environmental commitments disclosed in merger and acquisition (M&A) announcements have become an important channel through which firms signal their green governance intentions. However, systematic empirical evidence remains limited regarding whether and how capital markets respond to such commitments. Using a sample of M&A events involving Chinese A-share listed firms from 2010 to 2023, this study develops a multidimensional framework to measure environmental commitment quality and examines its association with market performance while exploring potential channels through which capital markets respond to such disclosures. The results show that: (1) high-quality environmental commitments are associated with significant short-term and long-term abnormal returns, suggesting that investors respond positively to such disclosures. (2) Increased public attention and enhanced green innovation emerge as key channels linking environmental commitments to market performance. (3) More importantly, firms issuing high-quality commitments subsequently exhibit improvements in long-term financial, environmental, market, investment, and governance performance, suggesting that these commitments may function as credible signals rather than mere “greenwashing” rhetoric. (4) These observed patterns are structurally heterogeneous and more pronounced in firms with abundant resource endowments and stronger executive environmental awareness. Overall, this study provides new evidence on how event-driven environmental disclosures are associated with firms’ resource acquisition processes and offers insights for policies aimed at improving disclosure regulation and guiding capital toward green transformation. Full article

25 pages, 1325 KB

Open AccessArticle

From Scale to Technology: Pathways to Decarbonization in China’s Photovoltaic Manufacturing Sector

by Bujie Li and Shuxian Zheng

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3137; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063137 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 292

Abstract

While critical to the global energy transition, China’s photovoltaic (PV) sector exemplifies the ‘green paradox’ of clean energy supply chains, where the rapid expansion of solar infrastructure generates significant upstream carbon emissions. This study provides a long-term (2000–2022) empirical examination of this tension, [...] Read more.

While critical to the global energy transition, China’s photovoltaic (PV) sector exemplifies the ‘green paradox’ of clean energy supply chains, where the rapid expansion of solar infrastructure generates significant upstream carbon emissions. This study provides a long-term (2000–2022) empirical examination of this tension, investigating the decoupling relationship between industrial growth and embodied carbon emissions. Employing a multi-regional input–output model, we quantify the evolving carbon footprint of China’s PV manufacturing. We then apply the Tapio decoupling framework—which measures whether emissions grow slower than, or decline relative to, economic output—and structural decomposition analysis to identify the key drivers of emission changes over two decades. Finally, we project future decarbonization pathways (2023–2030) under four policy scenarios using Monte Carlo simulations. Our findings reveal a fundamental transition: since 2015, technological progress has become the dominant force for emission reductions, contributing 78% to cumulative reductions and marking a shift from a ‘scale-driven’ to a ‘technology-driven’ growth model. However, rising global demand continues to push total emissions upward, resulting in ‘weak decoupling’ (emissions grow, but slower than output) rather than the ‘strong decoupling’ (absolute emissions decline) required for carbon neutrality. Scenario analysis indicates that strong decoupling is achievable by 2030 under ambitious policy and technology scenarios, with the Technological Breakthrough scenario projecting a 39% emission reduction alongside 103% output growth. Nevertheless, even under optimistic assumptions, approximately 29,000 tons of residual emissions remain due to the inherent energy intensity of upstream processes like polysilicon production. These findings support the development of differentiated policies that balance industrial competitiveness with carbon neutrality goals, highlighting that China’s PV sector—while enabling global decarbonization—must itself undergo a deep decarbonization transition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Achieving Carbon Neutrality: Recent Progress of Sustainable Energy Economics, Energy Policy and Energy Transition, 2nd Edition)

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30 pages, 4192 KB

Open AccessArticle

Spatio-Temporal Evolution of NPP, Vegetation Characteristics, and Multi-Model, Multi-Scenario Predictions in the Shaanxi Section of the Qinling Mountains, China

by Zhe Li, Xia Li, Guozhuang Zhang and Leyi Zhang

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3136; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063136 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 286

Abstract

The Shaanxi section of the Qinling Mountains serves as a critical ecological transition zone and security barrier between northern and southern China. Monitoring the dynamics of its vegetation Net Primary Productivity (NPP) is essential for understanding regional carbon cycling and informing ecological management [...] Read more.

The Shaanxi section of the Qinling Mountains serves as a critical ecological transition zone and security barrier between northern and southern China. Monitoring the dynamics of its vegetation Net Primary Productivity (NPP) is essential for understanding regional carbon cycling and informing ecological management strategies. This study integrates three complementary analytical frameworks: the Mann–Kendall test combined with the Theil–Sen slope for linear trend extrapolation (MK-Theil-Sen), mechanistic simulation (CASA model), and machine learning (random forest). First, we analyzed the spatiotemporal evolution of NPP from 2000 to 2023. Then, based on three CMIP6 scenarios (SSP119, SSP245, SSP585), we projected NPP changes for 2030–2050 and compared results across different models and scenarios. The key findings are as follows: ① From 2000 to 2023, NPP in the Shaanxi section of the Qinling Mountains exhibited a fluctuating upward trend with a cumulative increase of 16.7%. Spatially, it showed a pattern of “higher in the south, lower in the north; higher in the west, lower in the east”. ② Multiple models predict continued NPP growth, though the magnitude remains uncertain. Mechanistic models, incorporating climate stress factors, yield relatively conservative projections. ③ Emission scenarios significantly influence future trends, with low-emission pathways (SSP119) favoring NPP enhancement and extended growing seasons. ④ Different vegetation types exhibit varying responses to scenario changes: broadleaf forests show the highest sensitivity, while grasslands and meadows demonstrate strong climate stability across models, with cultivated vegetation exhibiting intermediate sensitivity. This study provides comprehensive scientific references for regional ecological security assessment and adaptive management through historical analysis and multi-model, multi-scenario projections of NPP in the Shaanxi section of the Qinling Mountains. Full article

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17 pages, 256 KB

Open AccessArticle

An Evaluation of the Implementation Effect and Enhancement Countermeasures of Rural Living Environment Improvements: Taking Environmental Demonstration Villages in Shaanxi Province as an Example

by Jingyao Wu, Xiyou Hu, Zhang Yuan, Qiao Liu and Chenxi Li

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3135; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063135 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 219

Abstract

Improving the living environment in rural areas is an important task and a key breakthrough point in implementing the rural revitalization strategy. It not only directly affects the vital interests and health protection of farmers, but is also an important measure to promote [...] Read more.

Improving the living environment in rural areas is an important task and a key breakthrough point in implementing the rural revitalization strategy. It not only directly affects the vital interests and health protection of farmers, but is also an important measure to promote ecological civilization construction and achieve the development goal of a beautiful China. Taking environmental demonstration villages in Shaanxi Province as the research object, questionnaire data were obtained through field research and face-to-face interviews. This study constructs an evaluation index system covering five dimensions: village appearance, domestic sewage treatment, rural toilet renovation, domestic waste treatment, and construction and management mechanism. The entropy method is used to determine indicator weights, and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation is applied to measure the implementation effect. The research results indicate that the overall effect is between “average” and “good” (score 3.924), with domestic sewage treatment scoring highest and construction and management mechanism lowest. The study identifies key problems such as low farmer participation, insufficient funding sources, inadequate infrastructure maintenance, and weak environmental awareness. Based on these findings, countermeasures are proposed: enhancing farmers’ environmental awareness and participation; diversifying capital investment; improving infrastructure and establishing long-term management mechanisms; cultivating social capital; and strengthening the leading role of the government. This study provides empirical evidence and policy recommendations for improving rural environmental governance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Landscape Architecture, Urban Design, and Interdisciplinary Urbanism)

31 pages, 546 KB

Open AccessArticle

External Terms of Trade and Structural Sustainability in Services Sector: Evidence from Peru

by Antonio Rafael Rodríguez Abraham, Guillermo Paris Arias Pereyra, Carlos Enrique Mendoza Ocaña, Hugo Daniel García Juárez and Ingrid Estefani Sánchez García

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3134; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063134 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 233

Abstract

This study examines the long-run relationship between the external terms of trade (TOTs) and real GDP of the services sector in a small open economy, focusing on the Peruvian economy. Although the services sector concentrates the largest share of employment and urban income, [...] Read more.

This study examines the long-run relationship between the external terms of trade (TOTs) and real GDP of the services sector in a small open economy, focusing on the Peruvian economy. Although the services sector concentrates the largest share of employment and urban income, its exposure to persistent external price cycles remains relatively understudied in sector-specific empirical research. Building on the notion that TOTs operate as an external anchor shaping macroeconomic conditions beyond export activities, this paper evaluates whether sustained external shocks are structurally linked to services-sector performance. The analysis employs a Johansen cointegration framework and a bivariate Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) using quarterly data for the period 1996–2024. This approach allows for distinguishing long-run equilibrium relationships from short-run adjustments without imposing strong causal assumptions. The results indicate the presence of a stable long-run relationship between the TOTs and services-sector GDP, with adjustment dynamics consistent with a gradual absorption of external shocks. From a sustainability perspective, the findings suggest that the expansion of the services sector is not independent from external trade conditions, highlighting the relevance of structural resilience under recurrent international price volatility. This study contributes to the literature by providing sector-level empirical evidence for a resource-dependent economy and offers a replicable analytical framework for examining structural sustainability in other small open economies with similar productive characteristics. Full article

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22 pages, 716 KB

Open AccessArticle

Bridging the AI Skills Gap for Sustainable Education: A Structural Model of In-Service Teachers’ Learning Intentions and Behaviors

by Inmaculada Caruana, Raquel Gilar-Corbi and Manuel Palomar

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3133; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063133 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 314

Abstract

As artificial intelligence (AI) drives significant challenges in education, understanding and addressing the training needs of in-service teachers has become a critical issue for ensuring a responsible and long-term technological transition. Framed within Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) and the principles of [...] Read more.

As artificial intelligence (AI) drives significant challenges in education, understanding and addressing the training needs of in-service teachers has become a critical issue for ensuring a responsible and long-term technological transition. Framed within Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) and the principles of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), teacher preparation in AI is increasingly recognized as a key mechanism for promoting ethical, equitable, and inclusive educational transformation. This study explores the influence of several key variables on intention and learning behaviors in relation to AI among a sample of 704 Spanish in-service teachers (71% women) from all compulsory educational levels. Using a validated questionnaire, this study assessed teachers’ anxiety towards AI, basic AI knowledge, personal relevance of AI, AI for social good, perceived self-efficacy, social pressure, and perceived usefulness of AI. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to analyze the direct and indirect relationships among these variables. The results indicate that the perceived usefulness of AI and self-efficacy directly and positively influence the behavioral intention to learn about AI. Furthermore, social pressure and basic AI knowledge indirectly influence this intention. In turn, both behavioral intention and social pressure significantly predicted AI learning behaviors. The model demonstrates strong explanatory power, accounting for 91% of the variance in the behavioral intention to learn about AI. These findings provide evidence to inform the design of teacher training initiatives and policies that promote responsible, ethical, and inclusive integration of AI in educational settings, contributing to sustainable development through education. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence in Education and Sustainable Development)

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23 pages, 699 KB

Open AccessArticle

Motivation Predicting Satisfaction and Loyalty in Sustainable Coastal Destinations

by Mauricio Carvache-Franco, Lidija Bagarić, Orly Carvache-Franco, Aracelly Núñez-Naranjo and Wilmer Carvache-Franco

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3132; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063132 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 265

Abstract

Sustainable coastal destinations offer a variety of natural and cultural activities that form a construct of motivations that influence tourist behavior regarding their willingness to return to and recommend the destination. In this sense, the present study aimed to achieve the following objectives: [...] Read more.

Sustainable coastal destinations offer a variety of natural and cultural activities that form a construct of motivations that influence tourist behavior regarding their willingness to return to and recommend the destination. In this sense, the present study aimed to achieve the following objectives: to identify the motivations that drive tourist demand in sustainable coastal destinations, to establish which motivations predict tourist satisfaction in coastal destinations, and to determine which motivations predict tourist loyalty in coastal destinations. There are behavioral variables to consider, such as the intention to return, willingness to recommend the destination, and propensity to speak positively about it. The study was carried out in Montañita (Ecuador), a major surfing city in Latin America with extensive potential for water sports. A total of 380 valid surveys were collected on-site for quantitative analysis. Multiple regression and exploratory factor analysis were among the methods used. The final results showed five motivational dimensions linked to tourism in coastal areas, including nature and culture, sun and sea, recreational and sporting activities, novelty, and social interaction. Among all these factors, social interactivity and novelty stood out as the elements that had the greatest impact on visitor loyalty and satisfaction, followed by the sun and beach component. The findings will serve as input for destination managers to develop sustainable management guidelines and are also a contribution to academic literature. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rural Sustainability: Touristic Consumption and Local Development)

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22 pages, 2820 KB

Open AccessArticle

Designing Visual Arts Education for Sustainability: An Arts-Based Approach to Fostering Ecological Awareness in Pre-Service Teachers

by Zlata Tomljenović

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3131; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063131 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 283

Abstract

Visual arts education (VAE) offers a promising pedagogical space for addressing sustainability challenges by engaging the cognitive, emotional, and ethical dimensions of learning. This study examines how engagement with contemporary visual arts and art-based pedagogical practices can foster ecological thinking, ecological literacy, and [...] Read more.

Visual arts education (VAE) offers a promising pedagogical space for addressing sustainability challenges by engaging the cognitive, emotional, and ethical dimensions of learning. This study examines how engagement with contemporary visual arts and art-based pedagogical practices can foster ecological thinking, ecological literacy, and sustainability awareness among pre-service teachers. The research was conducted over one academic year (2022/2023) within two visual arts courses attended by a total of 69 second- and third-year students enrolled in a teacher education programme. Using a qualitative, interpretative research design, the study investigated how selected contemporary artworks addressing ecological themes were pedagogically contextualised and discussed, and how students engaged with these artworks through dialogue, reflection, and their own art-making processes. Data were collected from students’ written reflections, group discussions, and visual works, and analysed using an interpretative framework informed by visual hermeneutics and sustainability education discourse. The findings indicate that engagement with contemporary visual art can foster the development of ecological literacy by enabling students to integrate experiential, affective, reflective, and relational dimensions of sustainability into their understanding of environmental issues. In line with the objectives of SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 13 (Climate Action), the study contributes to existing literature by demonstrating the pedagogical potential of visual arts education within teacher education and Education for Sustainable Development. Full article

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31 pages, 7554 KB

Open AccessArticle

Credible Reserve Assessment Method for Virtual Power Plants Considering User-Bounded Rationality Response

by Ting Yang, Qi Cheng, Butian Chen, Danhong Lu, Han Wu and Yiming Zhu

Sustainability 2026, 18(6), 3130; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18063130 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 200

Abstract

Virtual power plants (VPPs) aggregate flexible resources, such as distributed photovoltaics (PV), energy storage, and flexible loads, to provide substantial reserve capacity for grid operation. However, the combined effects of renewable energy output uncertainty, load forecast errors, and user-bounded rationality responses lead to [...] Read more.

Virtual power plants (VPPs) aggregate flexible resources, such as distributed photovoltaics (PV), energy storage, and flexible loads, to provide substantial reserve capacity for grid operation. However, the combined effects of renewable energy output uncertainty, load forecast errors, and user-bounded rationality responses lead to significant errors in traditional deterministic VPP reserve assessment methods, severely affecting the balance between system supply and demand. To address this challenge, this paper proposes a credible reserve assessment method that accounts for user-bounded rationality. First, thermodynamic models with on–off constraints for air conditioning loads, energy feasible region, and power constraint models for electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems (ESSs), as well as PV forecast error models are established to characterize physical reserve boundaries. Second, prospect theory is introduced to describe user-bounded rationality and a logit-based response probability model is developed. Monte Carlo sampling and kernel density estimation are employed to derive credible reserve sets under different confidence levels, achieving a probabilistic quantification of VPP reserve capacity distribution. Case studies demonstrate that the proposed method accurately characterizes the probabilistic distribution characteristics of VPP reserve provision under multiple uncertainties, providing comprehensive and reliable assessment information for power dispatching agencies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart Grid Technology Contributing to Sustainable Energy Development)

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