Sustainability

33 pages, 31192 KB

Open AccessArticle

SDG-Based Assessment of Urban Green Development and Identification of Nonlinear Coordination Drivers: An Explainable Machine Learning Analysis of the Pearl River Delta

by Houbo Zhou, Qiuli Lv, Jinghui Wei, Yangmingxin Tan and Longyu Shi

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4619; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094619 - 6 May 2026

Viewed by 741

Abstract

Urban green sustainable development has become a key pathway for achieving high-quality regional growth under intensifying climate change and resource constraints. However, SDG-oriented localized assessments at the urban scale remain limited, particularly in identifying key factors and nonlinear relationships underlying multi-system coordination. This [...] Read more.

Urban green sustainable development has become a key pathway for achieving high-quality regional growth under intensifying climate change and resource constraints. However, SDG-oriented localized assessments at the urban scale remain limited, particularly in identifying key factors and nonlinear relationships underlying multi-system coordination. This study develops an evaluation framework integrating the sustainable development goals (SDGs) with China’s new development philosophy, following a coordinated pathway of pollution reduction, carbon mitigation, green development, and economic growth. Using nine cities in the Pearl River Delta, we assess the spatiotemporal dynamics of green development and coordination, and apply explainable machine learning (SHAP) to identify key influencing factors and their nonlinear effects. The results show that the overall level of urban green development increased from 45.22 in 2015 to 55.54 in 2022. Innovation, green, and sharing subsystems exhibited the most significant growth, whereas the openness subsystem declined after 2019. Spatially, a clear core–transition–periphery structure emerged, with coordination levels decreasing from southeast coastal to northwest inland areas. SHAP-based analysis further reveals that innovation and openness dominate the explanation of coordination differences, jointly accounting for 77.95% of total feature importance. Moreover, key drivers exhibit pronounced nonlinear patterns characterized by threshold effects and diminishing marginal returns. Specifically, marginal contributions are weak or negative at lower levels, become positive after crossing empirical thresholds, and gradually attenuate or stabilize at higher levels. This study advances SDG-oriented urban assessment and provides robust evidence of nonlinear and context-dependent drivers of coordinated urban green development. Full article

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24 pages, 1535 KB

Open AccessArticle

From Governance to Public Value in Public Enterprises: A Capability Framework for Process Optimization

by Marcela Luzuriaga-Amador, Nibia Novillo-Luzuriaga and Juan Diego Valenzuela-Cobos

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4618; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094618 - 6 May 2026

Viewed by 847

Abstract

Public enterprises operate under a dual mandate: optimizing internal workflows while delivering reliable services and demonstrable public value. This study develops and tests a governance-enabled capability framework linking Process Optimization (PRO) to Service Quality (SQ) and Public Value (PV) in a public enterprise [...] Read more.

Public enterprises operate under a dual mandate: optimizing internal workflows while delivering reliable services and demonstrable public value. This study develops and tests a governance-enabled capability framework linking Process Optimization (PRO) to Service Quality (SQ) and Public Value (PV) in a public enterprise in Ecuador. Using an employee survey instrument (7-point Likert; N = 300) covering leadership and governance (LGO), digitalization and automation (DGA), standardization and BPM (STB), human capability (HCC), performance and data management (PDM), budget/line-item management (BLM), interunit coordination (IAC), PRO, SQ, and PV, we combine capability profiling (PCA + k-means) with PLS-SEM. PCA shows a dominant maturity gradient (PC1 = 87.17%). In the baseline model, PRO is most strongly associated with DGA (β = 0.242), BLM (β = 0.230), and IAC (β = 0.132), with very high explained variance (R²(PRO) = 0.976). The outcome chain is strong (PRO → SQ β = 0.964; SQ → PV β = 0.964). A second-order “Capability Maturity” robustness model preserves downstream performance (R²(SQ) = 0.929; R²(PV) = 0.930) while sharply reducing structural collinearity (max inner VIF for PRO predictors: 25.246 → 1.515). Results are interpreted as associations consistent with a capability–maturity mechanism. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Public Administration)

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28 pages, 5823 KB

Open AccessArticle

Explainable AI-Driven Health Scoring Framework for Smart City Sustainability

by Hamada Nayel and Ezz El-Din Hemdan

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4617; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094617 - 6 May 2026

Viewed by 659

Abstract

The rapid evolution of smart cities demands a transition from reactive healthcare systems to proactive, data-driven health management paradigms that support long-term urban sustainability. Predicting population health status based on lifestyle-related behavioral and physiological factors is critical for enabling early intervention, personalized healthcare, [...] Read more.

The rapid evolution of smart cities demands a transition from reactive healthcare systems to proactive, data-driven health management paradigms that support long-term urban sustainability. Predicting population health status based on lifestyle-related behavioral and physiological factors is critical for enabling early intervention, personalized healthcare, and efficient resource allocation directly contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being; SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities). This study proposes an IoT-enabled Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) framework for predictive health scoring as part of sustainable population health management, integrating real-time data acquisition, cloud-based analytics, and interpretable machine learning. To address the limitations of conventional ensemble models particularly the black-box nature and hyperparameter sensitivity of Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) a Bayesian optimization strategy is employed to automatically fine-tune model parameters, thereby enhancing predictive accuracy and generalization performance. Furthermore, Shapley Additive Explanations (SHAP) are incorporated to provide transparent, interpretable insights into model predictions by quantifying the contribution of individual lifestyle features. Using a publicly available Kaggle dataset (“Health and Lifestyle Data for Regression”), experimental evaluation demonstrates that the proposed Bayesian-Optimized XGBoost model achieves superior performance (Test R² = 0.878, RMSE = 4.983), outperforming ten benchmark models, including standard XGBoost, which exhibits signs of overfitting (Test R² = 0.832). The results further reveal that Body Mass Index (BMI) and diet quality are the most influential factors affecting health scores, providing actionable insights for urban health policymakers. The proposed framework highlights the synergy between IoT, optimization techniques, and explainable AI to develop transparent, reliable, and scalable predictive health systems. This work provides a practical foundation for next-generation smart healthcare applications and decision-support systems, advancing the vision of sustainable, data-driven, and human-centric smart cities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Health, Well-Being and Sustainability)

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24 pages, 1122 KB

Open AccessArticle

Macro-Level Correlates of Indigenous Community Well-Being in Canada: Implications for Northern Indigenous Food Security and Well-Being

by Amzad Hossain, Ying Kong, Md. Hasan and Jennie Wastesicoot

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4616; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094616 - 6 May 2026

Viewed by 770

Abstract

Indigenous communities in northern Canada experience severe household food insecurity rates ranging from 21.8% to 70%. However, the relationship between national-level economic and environmental indicators and Indigenous Community Well-being (ICWB) remains inadequately understood. This study examines national-level correlates of ICWB from 1991 to [...] Read more.

Indigenous communities in northern Canada experience severe household food insecurity rates ranging from 21.8% to 70%. However, the relationship between national-level economic and environmental indicators and Indigenous Community Well-being (ICWB) remains inadequately understood. This study examines national-level correlates of ICWB from 1991 to 2021, analyzing relationships between ICWB scores and agricultural production volumes (canola, corn, wheat, soybeans), their commodity prices, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, with a particular focus on the role of traditional food systems. The study uses data from the Government of Canada, Statistics Canada, and Environment Canada, supplemented by secondary literature on Indigenous traditional food systems. Three documented mechanisms provide a framework for interpreting how national indicators may affect northern communities: commodity price transmission through integrated markets, federal policy responses calibrated to national economic data, and supply chain dependencies linking southern production to northern availability. Correlation analysis reveals significant positive associations between ICWB and production volumes of canola, corn, and soybeans, as well as the prices of wheat, corn, canola, and soybeans. Regression analysis that accounts for temporal trends reveals that soybean and canola prices are negatively associated with ICWB, indicating that increasing prices may reduce community well-being, potentially reflecting increased economic pressure or reduced affordability. GHG emissions correlate positively with ICWB, likely reflecting confounding by economic development rather than direct environmental benefits. These national-level correlates have potential implications for northern Indigenous food security and well-being through recognized transmission mechanisms. The paradoxical positive correlation between rising commodity prices and ICWB is consistent with an adaptive response: as market food costs increase, communities may strengthen traditional food harvesting and local production, though higher equipment and resource prices may constrain these efforts, making food sovereignty enhancement a complex challenge. Findings suggest that northern communities participate in national economic systems through price, policy, and supply chain pathways, but may yet retain adaptive capacity through traditional food systems if persistent multi-stage supports are provided. Policy implications include indexing northern food subsidies to commodity price volatility, prioritizing funding for Indigenous-led food sovereignty initiatives that integrate traditional knowledge with modern techniques, and investing in infrastructure to reduce supply chain vulnerabilities. Future research should examine community-specific responses to national economic patterns and identify local factors that strengthen nature-led traditional food systems in northern Indigenous contexts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Impacts of Climate Change and Extreme Events on Global Food Security)

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42 pages, 1005 KB

Open AccessReview

Air Pollution in Public Transport Microenvironments: A Global Scoping Review of Exposure, Methods, and Gaps

by Juan J. Pacheco Tovar, Ana G. Castañeda-Miranda, Harald N. Böhnel, Rodrigo Castañeda-Miranda, Luis A. Flores-Chaires, Remberto Sandoval-Aréchiga, Jose R. Gomez-Rodriguez, Alejandro Rodríguez-Trejo, Sodel Vazquez-Reyes, Margarita L. Martinez-Fierro and Salvador Ibarra Delgado

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4615; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094615 - 6 May 2026

Viewed by 890

Abstract

Air pollution associated with public transport systems constitutes a critical yet highly heterogeneous component of urban exposure and represents an important challenge for sustainable urban mobility and environmental health governance. Commuters and transport workers are frequently subjected to pollutant concentrations that exceed those [...] Read more.

Air pollution associated with public transport systems constitutes a critical yet highly heterogeneous component of urban exposure and represents an important challenge for sustainable urban mobility and environmental health governance. Commuters and transport workers are frequently subjected to pollutant concentrations that exceed those reported by ambient background monitoring networks. This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of the global scientific literature on air quality in public transport microenvironments—including buses, bus stops, terminals, and underground stations—through a multidimensional analytical framework that considers climatic classification, socio-economic context, meteorological drivers, transport microenvironment typology, sampling strategies, analytical techniques, and exposure metrics. A large body of peer-reviewed studies published worldwide was examined to identify dominant patterns, methodological trends, and persistent knowledge gaps. Across regions, the evidence consistently reports elevated concentrations of particulate matter (PM_2.5, PM₁₀, and ultrafine particles) and traffic-related gaseous pollutants, particularly within confined or poorly ventilated environments and during peak traffic periods. Marked geographical, climatic, and socio-economic imbalances are evident, with most studies conducted in temperate and tropical climates and in countries with very high or high Human Development Index, whereas arid, continental, and low-HDI regions remain substantially underrepresented. From a methodological perspective, the literature is dominated by short- to intermediate-term monitoring campaigns relying on active sampling, mobile measurements, and increasingly calibrated low-cost sensors, while long-term stationary observations and standardized integrative monitoring frameworks remain scarce. Although advanced analytical approaches—such as chemical characterization, environmental magnetism, receptor modeling, computational fluid dynamics, and inhaled dose assessment—are increasingly applied, their systematic integration remains limited. Overall, this review reveals persistent methodological, geographical, and conceptual gaps and highlights the urgent need for standardized, interdisciplinary, and long-term monitoring strategies to improve exposure assessment and support evidence-based mitigation policies and sustainable urban transport planning aimed at reducing health risks associated with public transport-related air pollution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthy Indoor Environments: Air Quality in Sustainable Public and Healthcare Buildings)

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16 pages, 26942 KB

Open AccessArticle

Structural Connectivity Analysis and Optimization of the River Network in the Baiyangdian Basin Using Complex Network Theory and MCR

by Lei Zhang, Xiuwen Wang, Zhihong Qie, Hongdong Song and Jianyong Zhao

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4614; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094614 - 6 May 2026

Viewed by 721

Abstract

The morphological structure and connectivity of river systems are critical to ecological functions, water resource allocation, and disaster prevention in watersheds. This study applies an integrated approach combining morphological analysis, graph theory, landscape ecology, and complex network theory to analyze and optimize the [...] Read more.

The morphological structure and connectivity of river systems are critical to ecological functions, water resource allocation, and disaster prevention in watersheds. This study applies an integrated approach combining morphological analysis, graph theory, landscape ecology, and complex network theory to analyze and optimize the river network structure of the Baiyangdian basin. The results showed significant structural improvements from 2014 to 2025: river network density (Dr) increased from 0.0335 to 0.1443 km/km², and river frequency (Fr) rose from 0.0015 to 0.0132 rivers/km². Connectivity indices also exhibited an overall increasing trend: circuitry (α) increased from −0.05 to 0.03, the edge–node ratio (β) from 0.90 to 1.06, and network connectivity (γ) from 0.30 to 0.35. Spatial analysis further identified a clear gradient of node importance: peripheral nodes showed low centrality, while critical nodes were predominantly concentrated along the South-to-North Water Diversion Project (SNWD) corridor. Optimization based on the 2025 baseline further improved network connectivity, with corresponding increases in connectivity metrics. These findings provide scientific support for integrated water management and climate-adaptive planning in the Baiyangdian basin. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Future of Ecohydrology: Climate Change and Land Use)

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38 pages, 1436 KB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Social Media Advertising and Monetisation: Digital Payments, Consumer Behaviour, and ESG Governance

by Rania Abdallah, Farah Saboune, Layal Halawani and Khaled Alhasan

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4613; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094613 - 6 May 2026

Viewed by 5905

Abstract

Digital commerce ecosystems increasingly depend on the alignment between social media advertising formats and digital payment systems, yet existing research has examined these mechanisms in isolation, overlooking their combined influence on consumer behaviour, conversion, and long-term value creation. This study addresses that gap [...] Read more.

Digital commerce ecosystems increasingly depend on the alignment between social media advertising formats and digital payment systems, yet existing research has examined these mechanisms in isolation, overlooking their combined influence on consumer behaviour, conversion, and long-term value creation. This study addresses that gap by developing an integrative conceptual framework that examines how advertising formats and payment infrastructures jointly shape sustainable digital monetisation within an Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework. Methodologically, the study adopts a structured narrative literature review of interdisciplinary peer-reviewed studies and selected high-quality institutional reports, drawn from Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, and Google Scholar, covering publications from 2015 to April 2026. A four-stage PRISMA-adapted selection protocol was applied to ensure transparency, replicability, and analytical rigour across the review process. The findings demonstrate that advertising formats including native advertising, influencer marketing, user-generated content, short-form video, live streaming, and augmented reality drive consumer attention and purchase intention, while payment systems encompassing digital wallets, BNPL services, and in-platform checkout shape transactional trust and friction. Conversion and customer lifetime value emerge as joint outcomes of this interaction, mediated by consumer trust and transaction friction. The study further identifies key sustainability tensions related to digital carbon footprints from data-intensive formats, financial vulnerability associated with frictionless credit tools, and governance concerns surrounding transparency, privacy, and platform power concentration. The study contributes an integrative conceptual model linking advertising formats, payment systems, consumer behaviour, and ESG dimensions within a unified framework, supported by six theoretically grounded hypotheses (H1–H6) to guide future empirical research in sustainable digital commerce. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancing Management Practices Through Digital Marketing and Sustainable Innovation)

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16 pages, 3675 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Integrated Biochar and Seaweed Extract on Chemical Soil Properties, N-Use Efficiency Indices and Wheat Production Under Different Nitrogen Levels in Saline Soil

by Mohamed S. Elsaka, El-Sayed H. EL-Seidy, Abdel-Moety Salama, Alaa El-Dein Omara, Eman M. Shaker and Tamer H. Khalifa

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4612; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094612 - 6 May 2026

Viewed by 645

Abstract

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) productivity in saline soils is often constrained by nutrient imbalance, water scarcity, and ionic stress, particularly in arid regions such as the Nile Delta of Egypt. This study evaluated the combined effects of biochar (2.4 t ha⁻¹ [...] Read more.

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) productivity in saline soils is often constrained by nutrient imbalance, water scarcity, and ionic stress, particularly in arid regions such as the Nile Delta of Egypt. This study evaluated the combined effects of biochar (2.4 t ha⁻¹) and 1% foliar seaweed extract under varying nitrogen application levels on soil chemical properties, wheat growth, yield, nutrient uptake, and N-use efficiency indices over two consecutive winter seasons (2023/2024 and 2024/2025). A factorial field experiment with three replicates was conducted using four nitrogen rates: 0%, 50%, 75%, and 100% of the recommended application (168 kg N ha⁻¹), combined with four treatments: control, seaweed extract, biochar, and their integration. Combined analysis showed that the highest grain yield was obtained under full nitrogen with biochar and seaweed extract (7085.75 kg ha⁻¹), although this was not significantly different from several integrated treatments, particularly those involving 75% nitrogen with amendments. The 75% N + biochar + seaweed extract treatment achieved comparable yield while significantly improving nitrogen-use efficiency indices, including recovery efficiency, agronomic efficiency, and partial factor productivity. Biochar and seaweed extract improved soil organic carbon, cation exchange capacity, and nutrient availability, while electrical conductivity was not significantly affected. These results indicate that nitrogen input can be reduced by up to 25% without yield loss when combined with these amendments, while enhancing nutrient-use efficiency. However, conclusions regarding salinity stress mitigation remain indirect due to the absence of physiological measurements. Overall, this integrated approach supports more sustainable wheat production in saline soils. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Scientific Achievements in the Agri-Food Supply Chain Towards Sustainable Foods V)

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30 pages, 580 KB

Open AccessArticle

Insurance Penetration and Sustainability Economic Development in Saudi Arabia: Insights from Financial Development and Renewable Energy Consumption Using the ARDL Model

by Faten Mouldi Derouez and Arwa Yucuf Aljabr

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4611; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094611 - 6 May 2026

Viewed by 1970

Abstract

Saudi Arabia has consistently had low insurance penetration (around 0.89% of GDP over the previous three decades), which is far lower than the worldwide average and the goals set by Vision 2030. This research examines the factors influencing insurance penetration (INSP) in Saudi [...] Read more.

Saudi Arabia has consistently had low insurance penetration (around 0.89% of GDP over the previous three decades), which is far lower than the worldwide average and the goals set by Vision 2030. This research examines the factors influencing insurance penetration (INSP) in Saudi Arabia from 1990 to 2024, primarily testing the demand-following hypothesis which posits that sustainable economic growth acts as a key determinant of insurance demand. The Kingdom intends to diversify its economy as part of Vision 2030 by lowering its dependence on oil, boosting the use of renewable energy, expanding financial markets, and strengthening resilience. The insurance industry is becoming more and more important for managing risk, making green investments, and allocating long-term capital. The analysis employs annual data and the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) bounds testing methodology to investigate both short- and long-term relationships between insurance penetration and five critical variables: sustainable economic growth (SD, indicated by GDP per capita growth), financial development (FD, domestic credit to the private sector as a percentage of GDP), renewable energy consumption (REC, percentage of total final energy consumption), trade openness (TO), and urbanization (URB). The main results show that the insurance industry is very route dependent. In the long term, sustainable economic growth, financial development, and the use of renewable energy all have big beneficial effects on insurance penetration. This shows how important they are for extending the insurable base and supporting green investments. Urbanization has a little negative but statistically weak long-term impact (coefficient −0.0056, p < 0.10), while trade openness does not have any effect at all. In the near term, using renewable energy is the biggest positive driver (coefficient 0.096, p < 0.01). This shows how important insurance is in paying for and reducing the risk of energy transition. These findings are resilient to CUSUM and CUSUMSQ stability assessments. This study makes a unique contribution to the field by presenting the first single-country cointegration analysis of an oil-rich economy undergoing structural transformation, directly correlating the adoption of renewable energy with insurance demand, supported by data extending to 2024. The results show that making insurance markets work with the Saudi Green Initiative through green insurance products, mandated coverage for private finance, and digital/micro-insurance aimed at city dwellers can help Vision 2030 targets be reached faster. Policy suggestions stress the need to combine insurance with changes in the financial and renewable energy sectors in order to reach greater penetration goals (which have recently been raised to 3.6–4.5% levels) and build a more diverse, strong, and low-carbon economy. Full article

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35 pages, 3656 KB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainability-Oriented Oxidative Desulfurization of Light Gas Oil Using a MoO₃–Fe₂O₃/Al₂O₃–Carbon Nanofiber Nanocomposite Catalyst: Performance, Kinetic Modeling, and Process Optimization

by Aysar T. Jarullah, Ban A. Al-Tabbakh, Helal A. A. Saleem, Shymaa A. Hameed, Liqaa I. Saeed, Jasim I. Humadi, Mudhar A. Al-Obaidi, Dhifaf Sadeq, Alhassan H. Ismail, M. N. Mohammed and Iqbal M. Mujtaba

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4610; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094610 - 6 May 2026

Viewed by 686

Abstract

In the present study, a kinetic model was developed for the process of oxidative desulfurization of light gas oil with 7329 ppm sulfur using a newly synthesized nanocomposite catalyst. The batch reactor experiments were conducted at different thermal conditions (313–373 K) and reaction [...] Read more.

In the present study, a kinetic model was developed for the process of oxidative desulfurization of light gas oil with 7329 ppm sulfur using a newly synthesized nanocomposite catalyst. The batch reactor experiments were conducted at different thermal conditions (313–373 K) and reaction times (30–90 min) to explain this endeavor of desulfurization performance as a function of these variables, targeting the design of a reliable reactor system. Carbon nanofibers (CNFs) were integrated into the support γ-Al₂O₃ at various concentrations of 5%, 7.5%, and 10% to improve mechanical properties, surface area, and distribution of active metals. The nanocomposite support was impregnated with molybdenum trioxide (MoO₃) and iron oxide (Fe₂O₃) to form four variants of the catalyst: CAT-1 with 10% MoO₃ + 5% Fe₂O₃/Al₂O₃ + 5% CNF, CAT-2 with 10% MoO₃ + 5% Fe₂O₃/Al₂O₃ + 7.5% CNF, CAT-3 with 10% MoO₃ + 5% Fe₂O₃/Al₂O₃ + 10% CNF, and CAT-4 with 10% MoO₃ + 5% Fe₂O₃/Al₂O₃ with no CNF. CAT-3 had the best effectiveness for sulfur removal with 87.5% at 373 K and a reaction time of 90 min. The model predicts a maximum sulfur removal rate of 99.86% under optimal conditions of 550 K and 200 min (for an initial sulfur concentration of 7329 ppm). The experimental and modeling results therefore indicate the potential of the developed catalyst system, while the optimum condition at 550 K and 200 min should be interpreted as a model-predicted outcome. The development of such highly efficient nanocatalysts for deep desulfurization is a crucial advancement in green chemistry, directly contributing to the production of cleaner fuels to mitigate air pollution and supporting the aims of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). From a sustainability perspective, the proposed ODS system supports cleaner fuel production and reduced sulfur-derived emissions, while operating-condition optimization helps improve process efficiency in support of more sustainable refining strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Green Technologies and Sustainable Solutions for Environmental Challenges)

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16 pages, 558 KB

Open AccessArticle

Integrating Hydrogen Justice with Infrastructure Engineering

by Elisabeth A. Shrimpton and Nazmiye Balta-Ozkan

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4609; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094609 - 6 May 2026

Viewed by 614

Abstract

Hydrogen produced with net zero CO₂ (H₂NZ) has a significant role to play in a sustainable energy transition. Often overlooked are the different means of producing H₂NZ with different trade-offs that will impact communities in diverse ways. Science [...] Read more.

Hydrogen produced with net zero CO₂ (H₂NZ) has a significant role to play in a sustainable energy transition. Often overlooked are the different means of producing H₂NZ with different trade-offs that will impact communities in diverse ways. Science and engineering need to be part of the dialogue so the nuances of these technologies can be understood and just solutions generated. However, there is little direct engagement with science and engineering in the energy justice literature. To address this gap, a workshop of expert engineers and social scientists is used to analyse four developing H₂NZ technologies with justice issues. The results propose a way forward to integrate engineering with the energy justice discourse and, at the same time, encourage social science to reach out to engineering. The outcome and novelty are a suite of questions that integrate disciplinary perspectives and offer a means of encouraging context and technologically sensitive outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)

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31 pages, 3919 KB

Open AccessArticle

UASB Treatment of Wastewater from the Food Industry: Performance, Kinetic Analysis, and Energy Recovery

by Satawat Tanarat, Surachai Wongcharee, Jutaporn Sawaengkaew, Nathiya Kreetachat, Suphalerk Khaowdang, Weerapong Rukapan, Kowit Suwannahong and Torpong Kreetachat

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4608; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094608 - 6 May 2026

Viewed by 649

Abstract

The stabilization of two-stage bioenergy systems and optimization of the energy recovery efficiency have been found to be closely related to the management of VFA-rich effluent obtained after the dark fermentation of food waste. In this study, the performance of a mesophilic UASB [...] Read more.

The stabilization of two-stage bioenergy systems and optimization of the energy recovery efficiency have been found to be closely related to the management of VFA-rich effluent obtained after the dark fermentation of food waste. In this study, the performance of a mesophilic UASB reactor was investigated at different OLR levels. The focus of this study was to assess methane yield and substrate degradation during anaerobic digestion. The results revealed that the performance of the UASB reactor was stable within the range of 2.5–7.0 kg COD m⁻³ d⁻¹. At this range, it was possible to convert VFAs into methane gas through the synergistic interaction of fermentative bacteria and methanogenic archaea. The methane content was 67.9%, TCOD removal efficiency was 89.7% at the optimal OLR of 7.0 kg COD m⁻³ d⁻¹, and volumetric methane production rate was 2.41 L_CH4 L⁻¹ d⁻¹. The increase in OLR to 10.0 kg COD m⁻³ d⁻¹ resulted in instability of the anaerobic digestion process. The instability of the anaerobic digestion process was characterized by propionate accumulation and a high VFA/alkalinity ratio of 0.89. The Grau second-order and Modified Stover–Kincannon models were found to describe COD removal efficiency. The Monod model was found to show limited preliminary agreement under the conditions tested for high-rate granular sludge. The highest methane yield and efficiency of energy recovery were obtained at 7.0 kg COD m⁻³ d⁻¹. The recoverable energy obtained at this OLR was 2.04 MJ d⁻¹. The results of this study revealed that it is possible to integrate dark fermentation and anaerobic digestion through the use of UASB reactors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Solutions for Water Sustainability: Wastewater Treatment and Reuse)

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33 pages, 6815 KB

Open AccessArticle

Green-Synthesized Ag/Zn Nanocomposites from Chlorella vulgaris Polar Extract: Sustainable Photocatalytic Water Remediation and Kinetic Modeling

by Federico Zedda, Federico Atzori, Silvia Casu, Agnieszka Sidorowicz, Giacomo Fais, Francesco Desogus, Roberta Licheri, Stefania Porcu, Giacomo Cao, Giovanni Antonio Lutzu and Alessandro Concas

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4607; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094607 - 6 May 2026

Viewed by 550

Abstract

The growing demand for sustainable water treatment technologies requires photocatalysts that combine low environmental impact, energy efficiency, and mechanistic robustness. In this work,

A g / Z n

nanocomposites were green-synthesized using Chlorella vulgaris polar extract as a bio-mediated reducing and stabilizing agent, [...] Read more.

The growing demand for sustainable water treatment technologies requires photocatalysts that combine low environmental impact, energy efficiency, and mechanistic robustness. In this work,

A g / Z n

nanocomposites were green-synthesized using Chlorella vulgaris polar extract as a bio-mediated reducing and stabilizing agent, eliminating hazardous reagents and high-energy processing steps. Structural characterization (XRD, FTIR, SEM, UV–Vis) confirmed the coexistence of crystalline wurtzite

Z n O

with metallic

A g

and

{A g}_{2} O

phases. Photocatalytic activity was evaluated through Congo Red degradation under a sequential dark–light protocol, enabling clear separation of adsorption and photoactivated pathways. During the

60 m i n

dark stage, removal remained limited (

~ 9 - 11 %

), consistent with adsorption–desorption equilibration. Upon UV irradiation, a distinct kinetic transition occurred, leading to final removal efficiencies of

44 - 49 %

after

180 m i n

. Notably, performance remained stable across the investigated photon flux range, indicating operation beyond a strictly photon-limited regime and highlighting an intrinsically energy-resilient catalytic response. A mechanistic kinetic model integrating reversible adsorption with light-dependent degradation accurately reproduced all experimental profiles (

N R M S E = 3.14 %

) and successfully predicted an independent dark-control experiment without additional fitting. By coupling green synthesis with quantitative kinetic validation, this study proposes a sustainability-oriented framework for designing photocatalysts that align low-impact fabrication with energy-conscious water remediation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Resource Recovery and Sustainable Biomass Waste and Wastewater Management)

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18 pages, 3771 KB

Open AccessArticle

Fluoride Enrichment and Health Risks in the Aksu River Basin Oasis: Implications for Soil–Groundwater Systems

by Quan Xu, Jianjun Yang, Mengting Jin, Xingxing Duan and Peng Guo

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4606; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094606 - 6 May 2026

Viewed by 317

Abstract

The Aksu River Basin oasis, a typical arid ecological environment, faces considerable ecological and public health risks from fluoride accumulation in soil and groundwater. However, systematic investigations integrating soil–groundwater co-enrichment mechanisms with multi-pathway health risk assessments under environmentally relevant conditions remain scarce. We [...] Read more.

The Aksu River Basin oasis, a typical arid ecological environment, faces considerable ecological and public health risks from fluoride accumulation in soil and groundwater. However, systematic investigations integrating soil–groundwater co-enrichment mechanisms with multi-pathway health risk assessments under environmentally relevant conditions remain scarce. We examined spatial fluoride distribution in the soil–groundwater system, associated health risks, and key driving mechanisms. Based on 2009 soil and 264 groundwater samples, we applied radial basis function (RBF) interpolation, Getis-Ord G_i* hotspot analysis, the geo-accumulation index (I_geo), the ecological risk index (ER), and the U.S. EPA health risk assessment model to evaluate pollution levels, ecological risks, and health impacts on adults and children. Spearman’s correlation analysis revealed relationships with 12 environmental factors, including topography, climate, soil properties, and vegetation. Key results are as follows: (1) High-fluoride soils (>700 mg·kg⁻¹) clustered in the eastern basin, while groundwater fluoride increased along a west–east gradient, with RBF interpolation yielding the highest accuracy; (2) soil fluoride was generally “unpolluted–moderate risk” (mean I_geo = −0.14, ER = 1.40), whereas groundwater posed the primary health risk, with a mean hazard quotient of 1.83 for children via drinking water, indicating non-carcinogenic risk; (3) soil enrichment was driven by evaporation–concentration–alkaline activation, while groundwater enrichment followed a convergence–concentration–evaporation mechanism, being negatively correlated with elevation. Groundwater fluoride presents a clear health risk, particularly to children, arising from high geological background levels and intense evaporation. Managing fluoride pollution and safeguarding drinking water quality in arid oasis regions is consequential. These findings provide a scientific basis for sustainable groundwater management and public health protection in arid oases. Full article

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25 pages, 505 KB

Open AccessArticle

Renewables or Fossils: How Economic Growth and Financial Development Shape Egypt’s Energy Demand Under Globalization and Ecological Constraints

by Ahmed Aboubakr Mohamed Alkasih and Wagdi Khalifa

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4605; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094605 - 6 May 2026

Viewed by 7121

Abstract

Energy remains fundamental to economic growth and national development, yet Egypt faces a persistent challenge in expanding energy supply without deepening dependence on conventional sources. Although earlier studies examined the determinants of energy use, limited evidence exists on whether macroeconomic and environmental factors [...] Read more.

Energy remains fundamental to economic growth and national development, yet Egypt faces a persistent challenge in expanding energy supply without deepening dependence on conventional sources. Although earlier studies examined the determinants of energy use, limited evidence exists on whether macroeconomic and environmental factors differently affect renewable energy consumption (REC) and non-renewable energy consumption (NREC) in the Egyptian context. This study addresses this problem by examining the roles of economic growth, financial development, the ecological footprint, and economic globalization in shaping REC and NREC in Egypt over the period 1970 to 2024. To achieve this objective, the study employs the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) approach, which is suitable for estimating short-run dynamics and long-run relationships among variables with mixed orders of integration. The results indicate that across the REC models, economic growth increases renewable consumption, while the ecological footprint reduces it, indicating that environmental pressure has not translated into stronger REC. Financial development exhibits as a negative in the long run, suggesting finance has not been consistently directed toward renewables. Although economic globalization is insignificant, trade and financial globalization reduce REC in the long run. For the NREC models in the long run, GDP, financial development, and ecological footprint increase NREC. Economic, trade, and financial globalization effects are mostly insignificant for NREC, implying that domestic fundamentals drive conventional energy use. Thus, the findings suggest that Egypt’s energy structure is still driven more by domestic growth and financial conditions than by external integration. However, these results should be interpreted as evidence of association within the ARDL framework rather than proof of causality. The study therefore highlights the need for policies that align economic growth with renewable energy expansion, improve the direction of finance toward green investment, and strengthen the institutional conditions necessary to support a more sustainable energy transition Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)

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24 pages, 550 KB

Open AccessArticle

Enterprise Social Network and Innovation Performance: Unpacking the Black Box of Knowledge Management Capability as Mediators

by Zhaoyuan Yu, Zhiyu Xu and Haiqing Yu

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4604; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094604 - 6 May 2026

Viewed by 295

Abstract

Against the backdrop of Supply Chain 4.0, social networks play an increasingly critical role in enterprises’ knowledge management and innovation. However, existing studies have not thoroughly explored how social networks affect knowledge management and innovation performance, nor clarified the differentiated roles of internal [...] Read more.

Against the backdrop of Supply Chain 4.0, social networks play an increasingly critical role in enterprises’ knowledge management and innovation. However, existing studies have not thoroughly explored how social networks affect knowledge management and innovation performance, nor clarified the differentiated roles of internal and external social networks in knowledge transmission. This research gap, combined with enterprises’ practical demand for improving innovation efficiency and reducing knowledge management costs, forms the core basis of this study. To fill these gaps, this study focuses on the relationship between social network, knowledge management, and innovation performance, with three specific objectives: (1) explore how internal and external social networks affect enterprise innovation performance through knowledge management; (2) clarify the differentiated mediating roles of various knowledge management capabilities in this relationship; (3) explore the moderating role of strategic orientation in this process. Based on a sample of 324 Chinese technology manufacturing enterprises, this study uses structural equation modeling and bootstrap methods to empirically test the research hypotheses. The results indicate that internal social networks enhance innovation performance through the mediating role of knowledge inventive, transformative, and innovative capability. External social network exerts a positive influence on innovation performance via the mediating mechanism of knowledge absorptive, connective, and desorptive capability. Furthermore, entrepreneurial orientation moderates the relationship between knowledge innovative capability and innovation performance, while market orientation plays a moderating role in the link between knowledge desorptive capability and innovation performance. This study’s primary academic contribution lies in unpacking the “black box” of knowledge management capability and delineating its multifaceted role in driving innovation performance, thereby offering a novel perspective on the underlying mechanism through which enterprise social networks influence innovation performance. Full article

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20 pages, 1386 KB

Open AccessArticle

Nexus Biofuel Consumption, Economic Growth and Environment in Saudi Arabia: Current and Prospective

by Abda Emam, Egbal Elmsaad and Amal Abass

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4603; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094603 - 6 May 2026

Viewed by 260

Abstract

Environmental and climatic alterations, coupled with increasing economic activity and increasing energy demand, have reinforced the global need to develop substitute fuels as a means of reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Saudi Arabia has shown increasing biofuel consumption (charcoal and fuelwood) in recent [...] Read more.

Environmental and climatic alterations, coupled with increasing economic activity and increasing energy demand, have reinforced the global need to develop substitute fuels as a means of reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Saudi Arabia has shown increasing biofuel consumption (charcoal and fuelwood) in recent years. Thus, this study was designed to examine the relationship between biofuel energy consfumption, economic growth and the environment. Accordingly, the study comprises dual portions: the first tests the cointegration association among biofuel consumption and economic growth, while the second discovers a cointegration association among biofuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. The study also includes a forecasting analysis. Data on biofuel energy consumption, economic growth and the environment were compiled from numerous sources covering the period from 1990 to 2023. Engel–Granger method assessments revealed long-term relationships between bioenergy consumption, economic growth, and environmental quality. FMOLS and DOLS estimates yielded results well-matched with those acquired using the Engel–Granger method. Furthermore, the gross rates of biofuel consumption equal 2.40% for the period 2010–2023 and 2.80% for the forecast period 2023–2035. Similarly, the growth rates of gross domestic product were calculated at 7.50% for the period 2010–2023 and 11.00% for the projected period 2023–2035. Also, the gross rates of CO₂ emissions were calculated at 1.90% for the period 2010–2023 and 0.95% for the projected period 2023–2035. The results indicate that biofuel consumption is expected to continue growing at a faster rate, joined by strong economic growth. Particularly, the projected slowdown in carbon dioxide emissions suggests a possible decoupling of economic activity from environmental degradation. These findings underscore the need to promote biofuel development and clean energy policies to reinforce sustainable economic growth while reducing emissions in the long term. Full article

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23 pages, 859 KB

Open AccessReview

Sustainable Manufacturing: Enabling Technologies and Emerging Research Trends—A Scoping Review

by Alejandro Martínez, Eva M. Rubio, Amabel García-Domínguez and Juan Claver

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4602; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094602 - 6 May 2026

Viewed by 294

Abstract

The current industrial production model faces major environmental, economic, and social challenges due to resource depletion, increasing energy demand, and climate change. Manufacturing significantly contributes to emissions, material consumption, and waste, making sustainable manufacturing (SM) essential for transitioning toward more resource-efficient, circular, and [...] Read more.

The current industrial production model faces major environmental, economic, and social challenges due to resource depletion, increasing energy demand, and climate change. Manufacturing significantly contributes to emissions, material consumption, and waste, making sustainable manufacturing (SM) essential for transitioning toward more resource-efficient, circular, and socially responsible systems. This study provides a structured overview of SM, focusing on enabling technologies and emerging research trends. Sustainability is analyzed through approaches such as sustainable development, cleaner production, eco-efficiency, and the circular economy. The role of key technologies—including additive manufacturing, artificial intelligence, big data analytics, the Internet of Things, digital twins, and cyber-physical systems—is examined in improving efficiency, reducing waste, and supporting circular production. A scoping review was conducted following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines using the Web of Science database, focusing on recent publications. The results highlight a growing integration of digital technologies, energy-efficient systems, and circular strategies, alongside the increasing importance of data-driven decision-making. A strong convergence between artificial intelligence, energy transition, circular economy approaches, and digital transformation is also identified. Overall, achieving sustainable manufacturing requires an integrated approach addressing environmental, economic, and social dimensions. This review maps the field and identifies key directions for future research and practice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Modern Technologies for Sustainable Manufacturing)

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20 pages, 1870 KB

Open AccessArticle

Field Theory Insight into Intangible Cultural Heritage Skills Education: Field–Capital–Habitus Interaction and Teaching Practice in China

by Jin Li, Chang Yi and Yin Zhang

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4601; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094601 - 6 May 2026

Viewed by 274

Abstract

Education in intangible cultural heritage (ICH) skills plays a vital role in cultural transmission and innovation, yet it faces persistent structural tension between the authenticity of regional culture and the standardization of modern educational systems. Drawing on Bourdieu’s field theory, this study examines [...] Read more.

Education in intangible cultural heritage (ICH) skills plays a vital role in cultural transmission and innovation, yet it faces persistent structural tension between the authenticity of regional culture and the standardization of modern educational systems. Drawing on Bourdieu’s field theory, this study examines the dynamic interaction of field, capital, and habitus within intangible cultural heritage skills education in Chinese higher education. Employing an exploratory qualitative single-case study design, the research investigates the ethnic arts curriculum at Southwest Minzu University, with data drawn from documentary evidence, teaching artifacts, and participant observation. The findings reveal a composite educational field structured by the intersection of native cultural, educational institutional, and cultural reproduction fields, within which cultural capital in its embodied, objectified, and institutionalized forms is transformed into symbolic and social capital through teaching practices, creative production, and institutional certification. The study further identifies a practical pathway extending from cultural capital accumulation to symbolic capital acquisition and ultimately to social capital expansion. Notably, the analysis empirically identifies the role of emotional persons—actors whose habitus is shaped by institutionally mandated affective cultivation, as articulated in the university’s formal talent training program—in mediating capital reproduction and habitus formation. This study offers a systematic theoretical framework for understanding the internal operational mechanisms of intangible cultural heritage skills education and provides practical insights for balancing cultural authenticity with educational standardization in the context of globalization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Approaches, Innovation and Sustainability in Higher Education Teaching and Learning)

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22 pages, 936 KB

Open AccessArticle

Driving the Green Transition in the Digital Economy: How Leader Prosocial Motivation and Workplace Digitalization Shape Employee Green Innovation Intention

by Yue Sui, Xiaohu Zhou, Hui Zhang and Yucai Jia

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4600; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094600 - 6 May 2026

Viewed by 244

Abstract

As organizations globally pursue the twin transitions of digitalization and sustainability, whether digital tools inherently facilitate green objectives remains a critical debate. Drawing on Social Information Processing (SIP) theory, this study develops an affective–cognitive dual-path model, examining how perceived leader prosocial motivation catalyzes [...] Read more.

As organizations globally pursue the twin transitions of digitalization and sustainability, whether digital tools inherently facilitate green objectives remains a critical debate. Drawing on Social Information Processing (SIP) theory, this study develops an affective–cognitive dual-path model, examining how perceived leader prosocial motivation catalyzes employees’ green innovation intention. Utilizing a mixed-methods design in China, we first conducted a scenario-based experiment (Study 1, N = 184) to establish internal validity, followed by a two-wave, multi-source field survey (Study 2, N = 428) across diverse industries to enhance ecological validity. Regression analyses confirm that perceived leader prosocial motivation positively relates to employees’ green innovation intentions. This relationship is mediated by green organizational identity and green mindfulness, underscoring the pivotal role of individual affective and cognitive factors in translating organizational green visions into employee innovation. Crucially, we reveal a critical signal interference effect: high workplace digitalization acts as a negative boundary condition that weakens the positive influence of leader motivation. Our findings highlight the necessity for leaders to cultivate and signal prosocial motivation to effectively inspire employees’ green innovation intentions. Furthermore, our study challenges the synergy myth of the twin transition. We provide critical insights for digital governance by revealing that excessive digital embedding can trigger cognitive overload and attention fragmentation among employees, ultimately stifling the organizational green transition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Digital Transformation for Inclusive Growth: Green Transition Strategies)

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19 pages, 628 KB

Open AccessArticle

Addressing University Students Climate Change Knowledge–Behavior Gap Using Self-Determination Theory

by Karen A. Woodruff and Daniela J. Shebitz

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4599; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094599 - 6 May 2026

Viewed by 262

Abstract

There is often a disconnect between what university students know and believe about climate change and their level of engagement in meaningful, pro-environmental practices. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the climate change knowledge and behaviors of undergraduate students, compared to [...] Read more.

There is often a disconnect between what university students know and believe about climate change and their level of engagement in meaningful, pro-environmental practices. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the climate change knowledge and behaviors of undergraduate students, compared to state and national respondents and to recognize existing and potential support for supporting engagement in climate change mitigating behaviors. A survey instrument aligned to the Yale Program on Climate Change Communication (YPCCC) Opinion Maps was administered to 1032 undergraduate students at Kean University in New Jersey. Odds ratio analysis suggests the likelihood of students to respond to statements regarding knowledge, risk perceptions, policy support, and behaviors, compared to surveyed populations in New Jersey and the United States. Results indicate that Kean University students are (1) knowledgeable about climate change, (2) express strong concern and policy support, and (3) regularly engage in accessible, low-barrier actions, yet are less frequently involved in less readily accessible, high-barrier actions. Interpreting these patterns through Self-determination Theory, we suggest that students’ basic psychological needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness are more fully supported for individual engagement than for collective forms of engagement and discuss campus initiatives that may sustain meaningful climate engagement. Full article

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23 pages, 11691 KB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Iron Ore Prospecting Using Integrated Remote Sensing and Geochemistry: Taref Formation, Wadi El-Muweih, Eastern Desert, Egypt

by El Sayed A. Saber, Ahmed M. Youssef, Shaymaa Rizk and Bosy A. El-Haddad

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4598; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094598 - 6 May 2026

Viewed by 342

Abstract

Meeting future material needs requires expanding metal supply while reducing environmental footprints and improving the efficiency of exploration and resource assessment. The Wadi El-Muweih area, located north of the Aswan region in Egypt’s Eastern Desert, hosts significant iron ore potential within the Late [...] Read more.

Meeting future material needs requires expanding metal supply while reducing environmental footprints and improving the efficiency of exploration and resource assessment. The Wadi El-Muweih area, located north of the Aswan region in Egypt’s Eastern Desert, hosts significant iron ore potential within the Late Cretaceous Nubia sandstone (Taref Formation). This study provides a systematic, integrated approach for delineating ironstone extensions to support more targeted field campaigns and responsible development pathways. Remote sensing enabled the rapid screening and mapping of iron-bearing zones, subsequently validated through field observations and mineralogical and geochemical analyses. The iron-bearing middle member of the Taref Formation consists of glauconitic/chamositic and ferruginous sandstones, with ironstone bands occurring in three fining-upward cycles. The mineralogical results indicate chamosite, hematite, and goethite as primary constituents, with detrital quartz and apatite in varying proportions. The geochemical data show high Fe₂O₃ (avg. 68.83%) and SiO₂ (avg. 13.13%), with elevated Al₂O₃, CaO, and P₂O₅ compared to Aswan’s oolitic ironstones. The study confirms that massive, oolitic, and conglomeratic ironstone facies formed in a near-shore environment during transgressive–regressive cycles. By combining remote sensing with ground-based validation, the workflow supports sustainable metal technologies by improving discovery efficiency, reducing unnecessary disturbance, and strengthening the geoscientific basis for future iron resource planning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Towards Sustainable Metal Technologies: For Future Material Needs)

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31 pages, 976 KB

Open AccessReview

Design for Excellence in the Era of Circular Economy Challenges

by Maciej Bielecki, Goran Đukić and Maja Trstenjak

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4597; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094597 - 6 May 2026

Viewed by 291

Abstract

Design for excellence (DfX) comprises a broad family of product design methodologies aimed at addressing the often-competing requirements of multiple stakeholders throughout the product life cycle. Among the most pressing contemporary challenges in DfX is integrating environmental considerations into product design systematically and [...] Read more.

Design for excellence (DfX) comprises a broad family of product design methodologies aimed at addressing the often-competing requirements of multiple stakeholders throughout the product life cycle. Among the most pressing contemporary challenges in DfX is integrating environmental considerations into product design systematically and comprehensively. The circular economy (CE) is implemented through various R strategies (e.g., 3R: reduce, reuse, recycle), providing a normative framework intended to guide pro-environmental design decisions and life cycle thinking. This study conducts a systematic literature review focused on product development and its alignment with DfX methods in the context of circular economy practices (CEPs) to identify prevailing research trends and structural gaps in this area. Both quantitative and qualitative analyses of the literature are performed and interpreted through the lens of the circular economy butterfly diagram proposed by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation. The results reveal a pronounced asymmetry in the distribution of CE practices within product design research. Recycling and remanufacturing dominate the literature despite being positioned in the CE framework as less desirable than resource-preserving strategies such as reuse, repair, and life extension. This imbalance suggests that current research and design practices remain largely anchored in end-of-life (EoL) and resource-intensive solutions rather than prioritizing strategies that slow material and product flows. These findings highlight a critical need to intensify research on product circularity at the design stage, with greater emphasis on life-extension-oriented strategies and their integration within DfX methodologies and practices. The study provides a structured foundation for future research on circular product design and contributes to ongoing discussions on aligning design practice more closely with the fundamental principles of the circular economy. Full article

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59 pages, 1295 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Conceptual Co-Design Co-Create Framework for Citizen Engagement in Disaster Risk Reduction and Resilience

by Murat Şentürk, Ömer Özdinç, Mehmet Hanefi Topal, Adem Başpınar, Raif Cergibozan, Kenan Mengüç and Alpaslan Durmuş

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4596; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094596 - 6 May 2026

Viewed by 308

Abstract

Disasters pose severe threats to life, livelihoods, and socioeconomic stability globally, with disproportionate impacts on vulnerable groups. Despite growing recognition of the importance of citizen engagement in disaster risk reduction and resilience (D3R), existing participatory frameworks remain fragmented, predominantly top-down, and unsustainable beyond [...] Read more.

Disasters pose severe threats to life, livelihoods, and socioeconomic stability globally, with disproportionate impacts on vulnerable groups. Despite growing recognition of the importance of citizen engagement in disaster risk reduction and resilience (D3R), existing participatory frameworks remain fragmented, predominantly top-down, and unsustainable beyond project funding cycles. There is a recognised need for an integrated conceptual framework that aims to systematically embed co-design and co-create principles into D3R governance while aiming to ensure the inclusion of vulnerable populations. This paper addresses this gap by presenting the Co-Design Co-Create Framework (CCF), a conceptual institutional model for citizen engagement in D3R. The CCF comprises six iterative phases—KNOW, RAISE AWARENESS, CO-DESIGN CO-CREATE, OUTREACH, KEEP ENGAGED, and EVALUATION—organized as a Living Lab ecosystem. Distinctive conceptual innovations include a Disaster Assembly mechanism designed to promote long-term sustainability through polycentric governance, explicit inclusion of vulnerable groups via Social Vulnerability Index assessment, proposed dual production of co-created policies and co-designed tangible solutions, and participatory tools including Policy Delphi and Storytelling. Unlike conventional time-bound initiatives, the CCF is designed to address critical gaps in existing disaster risk reduction (DRR) practices through embedded sustainability mechanisms, citizen empowerment aimed at Arnstein’s highest participation level, systematic knowledge-to-product translation, and bottom-up planning principles. This conceptual framework conceptualises disaster resilience as a continuously evolving, socially legitimate, and just process anchored in durable governance structures. Empirical validation through field implementation constitutes a direction for future research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Disaster Risk Management and Resilience)

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21 pages, 4689 KB

Open AccessArticle

Prediction of Land Price for Sustainable Housing Development in the Capital of Thailand Using Deep Learning Techniques

by Kongkoon Tochaiwat and Anake Suwanchaisakul

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4595; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094595 - 6 May 2026

Viewed by 251

Abstract

Due to the high population density and limited land availability in Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, land values have been increasing every year, posing challenges to sustainable housing development. Accurate land valuation is critical not only for investment decisions but also for promoting [...] Read more.

Due to the high population density and limited land availability in Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, land values have been increasing every year, posing challenges to sustainable housing development. Accurate land valuation is critical not only for investment decisions but also for promoting economic efficiency, social equity, and sustainable urban land use. Inaccurate analysis can lead to losses for real estate developers, project residents, and surrounding communities. However, this process requires extensive knowledge and experience. This research presents an approach for analyzing land values in Bangkok using Deep Learning techniques, which can help real estate developers assess appropriate land values more accurately and precisely. The study collected data on vacant land in Bangkok from an online feasibility study database and analyzed them using Deep Learning techniques. The results showed 30 determinants categorized into five groups. The study conducted 80 parameter adjustments with a ratio of 128:64:32 using a Quadratic Loss Function. The model was validated using k-fold cross-validation to ensure robustness and a Model Simulator operator to test sensitivity analysis. The Deep Learning model resulted in an R-square value of 0.917 and an RMSE of 2620 USD. The results of this research can be used as an effective decision-making tool for real estate developers, landowners, and brokers in determining appropriate buying or selling prices for land to support real estate sustainable development. Full article

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38 pages, 2200 KB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Water Supply Chain Management Through Corporate-Oriented Water Rights Trading: An Application of an Evolutionary Game Model Under Imbalanced Water Quotas

by Yali Lu, Cong Jiao, Md Helal Miah and Jannatul Ferdous Mou

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4594; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094594 - 6 May 2026

Viewed by 206

Abstract

Freshwater scarcity is emerging as a critical constraint on industrial clusters, production networks, and urban service systems, where water functions simultaneously as an essential production input and a shared regional resource. This study investigates how post-allocation water-quota imbalances in large inter-basin diversion systems [...] Read more.

Freshwater scarcity is emerging as a critical constraint on industrial clusters, production networks, and urban service systems, where water functions simultaneously as an essential production input and a shared regional resource. This study investigates how post-allocation water-quota imbalances in large inter-basin diversion systems can be addressed through adaptive secondary water rights trading. Focusing on China’s South-to-North Water Diversion Project (SNWDP), the research aims to explain under what institutional and efficiency conditions water rights trading can enhance corporate social responsibility, environmental management, and sustainable supply chain resilience. The study’s main innovation lies in the development of a corporate-oriented evolutionary game model that links water governance with corporate production, urban–industrial demand, and responsible supply chain management. Unlike conventional models, it incorporates bounded rationality, heterogeneous water-use efficiency, information asymmetry, transaction costs, primary allocation water pricing, and the risk of unrecovered basic water fees. Using a case inspired by the Zhengzhou–Nanyang transaction along the Middle Route of the SNWDP, the model simulates the strategic interaction between a water-rich node with surplus quota and a water-scarce node facing deficit demand. The findings show that a socially desirable Trade–Trade equilibrium emerges only when efficiency expectations and institutional conditions are favorable. Lower transaction costs and basic water prices, higher sunk-fee risk, and clearer efficiency differentials significantly increase trading willingness. The study demonstrates the practical value of transparent secondary water markets in improving allocative flexibility, reducing governance rigidity, and promoting more responsible and environmentally efficient regional water management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Water Management)

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23 pages, 14629 KB

Open AccessArticle

Audiovisual Environmental Characteristics and Tourist Loyalty in Urban Waterfronts: Implications for Socially Sustainable Design

by Guojing Yan, Zexin Lei, Yaru Feng, Zhengchao Han, Peicong Li and Jing Gao

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4593; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094593 - 6 May 2026

Viewed by 220

Abstract

Urban waterfronts are vital public spaces that contribute to urban sustainability by providing residents with opportunities for recreation, social interaction, and nature experiences. Understanding user perceptions in these environments is essential for evidence-based design. Taking Taiyuan Fenhe Park in China as a case [...] Read more.

Urban waterfronts are vital public spaces that contribute to urban sustainability by providing residents with opportunities for recreation, social interaction, and nature experiences. Understanding user perceptions in these environments is essential for evidence-based design. Taking Taiyuan Fenhe Park in China as a case with local residents as respondents, this study investigated how objective audiovisual characteristics are associated with tourist loyalty through perceptual dimensions, while also examining interactive associations between visual and auditory elements. Data were collected at 539 spatial samples spaced at five-minute walking intervals. Methods included on-site acoustic measurements, panoramic imaging, computer-based visual and auditory quantification, and questionnaire surveys, yielding a total of 1768 valid responses. Visual features were quantified using semantic segmentation, object detection, and depth prediction, whereas the auditory environment was characterized by physical acoustic and psychoacoustic indicators. Three perceptual dimensions—environmental restorativeness (ERS), spatial vitality (SVS), and environmental controllability (ECS)—were extracted and tested as mediators within the stimulus–organism–response (S-O-R) framework. Results indicated that ERS, SVS, and ECS function as three parallel mediating constructs in the statistical model, with SVS showing the strongest statistical association with tourist loyalty. In addition, fluctuation strength exhibited a significant direct effect on tourist loyalty independent of these three perceptual dimensions. A total of 17 significant audiovisual interactions were identified, revealing both synergistic and antagonistic effects. These findings contribute to theoretical frameworks of multisensory integration and provide practical guidance for sustainable waterfront design. Specifically, zoning strategies and carefully selected audiovisual combinations are relevant to enhanced user experience and may contribute to long-term social well-being. Full article

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20 pages, 1819 KB

Open AccessArticle

Integrating Biochar to Sustain Lettuce Production in Sandy Soils of Burkina Faso Under Water-Limited Conditions

by Faith Mawia Muema, Marie Sawadogo, Amadou Keita, Yohan Richardson, Firmin Sawadogo and Yacouba Sanou

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4592; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094592 - 6 May 2026

Viewed by 310

Abstract

Valorization of agricultural residues into biochar for soil applications offers dual benefits of waste management and sustainable agriculture. However, the mechanisms governing sandy soil and lettuce response to biochar under deficit irrigation are not well understood. This study evaluated the effects of biochar [...] Read more.

Valorization of agricultural residues into biochar for soil applications offers dual benefits of waste management and sustainable agriculture. However, the mechanisms governing sandy soil and lettuce response to biochar under deficit irrigation are not well understood. This study evaluated the effects of biochar types on sandy soil physiochemical properties and lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) yield at different irrigation levels. A field experiment was performed using a randomized complete block design with four treatments (soil only, cotton stalk biochar, cashew nutshells biochar, and a mix of cotton stalks+ cashew nutshells biochar) and three irrigation regimes (100%, 80, and 60% of crop water requirements ETc) in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. The results showed that biochar-amended soils had consistently higher water retention and macronutrients, resulting in higher fresh, marketable lettuce yields under deficit irrigation compared to untreated soils. Compared to other treatments, a mix of cotton-stalk and cashew-nutshell biochar produced the highest yield (18.1 tons/ha) under moderate irrigation (80% ETc). Achieving optimal yields with 20% less irrigation water indicates biochar’s water-saving potential in climate-resilient vegetable farming. These findings underscore the potential of combining deficit irrigation and biochar for sustainable vegetable production to mitigate food security in water-scarce regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agriculture: Strategies for Soil, Bioinoculants, and Biomass Management)

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21 pages, 3353 KB

Open AccessArticle

Understanding How Physicochemical Properties of Mancozeb and Metalaxyl Shape Onion (Allium cepa L.) Production Outcomes: Experimental Stability Studies and Molecular Modeling

by Maria M. Savanović, Đorđe Vojnović, Andrijana Bilić, Žarko M. Ilin, Igor Savić, Teodora Gajo, Stevan Armaković and Sanja J. Armaković

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4591; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094591 - 6 May 2026

Viewed by 279

Abstract

This study aims to elucidate the impact of biostimulants and fungicides on onion yield and quality, utilizing a combined experimental and molecular modeling approach. The biostimulants (Humiblack^®, Agasi^®, and Tifi^®) and fungicides (mancozeb and metalaxyl) were applied [...] Read more.

This study aims to elucidate the impact of biostimulants and fungicides on onion yield and quality, utilizing a combined experimental and molecular modeling approach. The biostimulants (Humiblack^®, Agasi^®, and Tifi^®) and fungicides (mancozeb and metalaxyl) were applied to onion crops, resulting in significant improvements in onion quality and yield. The stability and environmental impact of mancozeb and metalaxyl alone and in conjunction with biostimulants were investigated. The stability of the fungicide mixture was assessed in ultrapure water and rainwater, revealing high resistance to hydrolysis. Solar stability assessments, conducted using a sun simulator to mimic environmental conditions, highlighted differences in stability between mancozeb and metalaxyl in the presence of biostimulants. Metalaxyl showed higher photostability owing to the benzene ring. It was also less susceptible to biostimulant effects and remained stable in solution. Density functional theory descriptors and frontier orbital analysis rationalized the higher photoreactivity of mancozeb (smaller HOMO–LUMO gap and broader orbital delocalization). At the same time, molecular dynamics simulations supported stronger solvation of mancozeb and short-range water structuring, consistent with enhanced aqueous susceptibility. The results link fungicide physicochemical properties with field performance and aqueous stability, supporting the use of the fungicide mixture together with a single biostimulant as a practical approach for balancing crop productivity and environmental persistence. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Bioeconomy of Sustainability)

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Open AccessArticle

Digital Transformation of the Accounting Profession Under CSRD: Automation, Data Integration, and Sustainability Reporting in an EU Emerging Country

by Pompei Mititean, Mihai-Constantin Avornicului, Lucian-Claudiu Anghel and Dumitru-Petrică Becheș

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4590; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094590 - 6 May 2026

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Abstract

This study examines the impact of sustainability reporting regulations on the accounting profession, with a focus on how accounting professionals are expected to adapt to new reporting requirements in the context of digitalization and sustainability integration. Using a qualitative research design, the study [...] Read more.

This study examines the impact of sustainability reporting regulations on the accounting profession, with a focus on how accounting professionals are expected to adapt to new reporting requirements in the context of digitalization and sustainability integration. Using a qualitative research design, the study is based on a focus group involving accounting professionals and sustainability experts, aimed at identifying key challenges, opportunities and competency needs related to the effective implementation of sustainability reporting within organizations. The findings indicate that sustainability reporting requirements necessitate the development of a broad set of competencies among accounting professionals, extending beyond technical reporting skills to include sustainability knowledge, digital literacy, and enhanced communication and negotiation abilities. Automation and digitalization of accounting and reporting processes are identified as key enablers for improving efficiency, reducing repetitive tasks and minimizing human error. Moreover, advanced IT solutions, including artificial intelligence, machine learning and natural language processing, are perceived as valuable tools for supporting ESG data collection, integration and analysis. The study is conducted in the Romanian context, providing insights into the specific challenges faced by an emerging EU economy in adapting to sustainability reporting requirements. The study concludes that continuous learning and adaptability are considered important for accounting professionals to effectively respond to evolving sustainability reporting regulations, contributing to the existing literature by highlighting emerging competency requirements in this field. These findings should be interpreted as exploratory and context-specific, reflecting the perspectives of participants from a single focus group conducted in the Romanian accounting context. Full article

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Sustainability, Volume 18, Issue 9 (May-1 2026) – 473 articles

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