Sustainability

13 pages, 386 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Environmentally and Socially Responsible Behavior of Women from Generation Z in the Context of Tourist Activity

by Agata Balińska, Ewa Jaska and Agnieszka Werenowska

Sustainability 2024, 16(13), 5603; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16135603 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2024

The aim of this research was to determine the scope of environmentally and socially responsible behavior related to tourist trips of women from Generation Z. The choice of this issue falls within the scientific discussion on the sustainable behavior of young consumers and [...] Read more.

The aim of this research was to determine the scope of environmentally and socially responsible behavior related to tourist trips of women from Generation Z. The choice of this issue falls within the scientific discussion on the sustainable behavior of young consumers and the area of research on sustainable tourism. The presented research fills the research gap related to the sustainable behavior of young women in the context of tourist trips. This article reviews the literature justifying the choice of this research topic. The results of our own survey research were presented (a sample of 618 touristically active women from Generation Z). Quantitative and qualitative analyses of the obtained results were made. This research showed that respondents were most concerned about recreational space (not leaving garbage in the forest or on the beach, observing regulations in tourist regions and towns, and using only designated trails). They rated their behavior the lowest in terms of reduction in water consumption, use of ecological cosmetics while using water reservoirs, and choosing accommodation places where pro-ecological solutions are used. According to the respondents, the main reasons for the lack of responsible behavior are indifference and habits learned at home. The originality of the presented research results from its scope and concerns only women belonging to Generation Z. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inclusive Tourism and Its Place in Sustainable Development Concepts)

26 pages, 1458 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pricing and Financing Strategies of Dual-Channel Green Supply Chain with Risk Aversion and Consumer Preferences

by Maojun Zhang, Jiaqi Li, Feifei Liu, Jiangxia Nan and Jiawen Jiang

Sustainability 2024, 16(13), 5602; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16135602 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2024

Abstract

Abstract: Nowadays, considering the growing tendency of companies toward e-commerce as well as green production, dual-channel green supply chain management has become particularly important. This paper investigates pricing decisions within a dual-channel green supply chain framework while considering the capital constraints faced [...] Read more.

Abstract: Nowadays, considering the growing tendency of companies toward e-commerce as well as green production, dual-channel green supply chain management has become particularly important. This paper investigates pricing decisions within a dual-channel green supply chain framework while considering the capital constraints faced by risk-averse manufacturers. Simultaneously, the impact of the degree of risk aversion, consumer green preferences, and channel preferences on the optimal decision-making process of green supply chain members is analyzed. We address the issue of financial constraints faced by manufacturers through bank loans and trade credit financing and compare the two cases. Our findings illustrate that trade credit financing outperforms bank loan financing in the dual-channel green supply chain. Moreover, pricing decisions under different models are influenced by consumer preferences and risk aversion. Specifically, the greenness of the product, wholesale price, and sale price exhibit negative correlations with manufacturers’ risk aversion but positive correlations with consumer preferences. Full article

20 pages, 1583 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Predicting High Technology Exports of Countries for Sustainable Economic Growth by Using Machine Learning Techniques: The Case of Turkey

by Yonis Gulzar, Ceren Oral, Mehmet Kayakus, Dilsad Erdogan, Zeynep Unal, Nisa Eksili and Pınar Celik Caylak

Sustainability 2024, 16(13), 5601; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16135601 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2024

Abstract

In this study, the estimation of high-tech exports for Turkey’s foreign trade target in line with sustainable development was carried out. The research was carried out for Turkey since it has been focusing on sustainable and environmentally friendly production and an export-oriented growth [...] Read more.

In this study, the estimation of high-tech exports for Turkey’s foreign trade target in line with sustainable development was carried out. The research was carried out for Turkey since it has been focusing on sustainable and environmentally friendly production and an export-oriented growth model, with a transformation in its economic growth strategy as of 2021, and high-tech products are a determining factor in the export target. In this research, three different machine learning techniques, namely artificial neural networks, logistic regression, and support vector regression, were used to determine a successful prediction method close to the ideal scenario. In the models, high technology exports for the period of 2007–2023 with data obtained from the World Bank were taken as the dependent variable, while the gross national product, number of patents, and research and development expenditures were taken as independent variables. By calculating the R², MAPE, and MSE metrics, the success of the model with the least error was evaluated, and it was seen that artificial neural networks (ANNs) were the most successful model, with values of 94.2%, 0.011, and 0.073, respectively. The ANN model was followed by support regression and logistic regression. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability—2nd Edition)

19 pages, 416 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How to Drive Tourists’ Pro-Environmental Behavior: Interactive Effect of Benefit Appeals and Goal Framing

by Pengfei Deng, Xingye Zhou, Dan Xie and Peng Zheng

Sustainability 2024, 16(13), 5600; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16135600 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2024

Abstract

The drive to foster tourists’ pro-environmental behavior (TPEB) is a current research hotspot amidst the deteriorating ecological environment. However, existing studies have yet to reach definitive conclusions on how tourist destinations influence TPEB through different benefit appeals and goal framing. This paper investigates [...] Read more.

The drive to foster tourists’ pro-environmental behavior (TPEB) is a current research hotspot amidst the deteriorating ecological environment. However, existing studies have yet to reach definitive conclusions on how tourist destinations influence TPEB through different benefit appeals and goal framing. This paper investigates the interactive effects of these factors on TPEB, reporting on two experiments. Study 1 confirmed significant interactive effects of benefit appeals and goal framing on TPEB, wherein altruistic appeals and gain framing, as well as appeals to self-interest and loss framing, demonstrates matching effects. Furthermore, environmental awareness mediated these interactions. Study 2 established that tourists’ environmental knowledge moderates the interactive effects of goal framing and benefit appeals on TPEB. The moderating effect of high-level environmental knowledge is more pronounced, and tourists with higher environmental knowledge are more inclined to engage in TPEB compared with those with lower levels of environmental knowledge. The conclusions of this study not only enrich the research on influencing factors and mechanisms of TPEB but also offer practical insights for environmental management in tourist destinations. Full article

19 pages, 1473 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Environmental Justice and Corporate Green Innovation: The Role of Legitimacy Pressures

by Guoyi Zhang and Dong Chen

Sustainability 2024, 16(13), 5599; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16135599 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2024

Abstract

This study examines the impact of environmental judicial reinforcement on green technology innovation, constructing a progressive difference-in-differences model using firm- and city-level panel data from 2006 to 2019 and taking the successive establishment of environmental courts by the Intermediate People’s Court in Chinese [...] Read more.

This study examines the impact of environmental judicial reinforcement on green technology innovation, constructing a progressive difference-in-differences model using firm- and city-level panel data from 2006 to 2019 and taking the successive establishment of environmental courts by the Intermediate People’s Court in Chinese prefectural-level cities as a quasi-natural experiment. We find that establishing environmental courts in China promotes green technology innovation. This finding still holds after a series of robustness tests such as selected fixed-effects Poisson model regression. The mechanism analysis suggests that environmental courts primarily promote increased green innovation output by heavily polluting firms by exerting more substantial pressure regarding environmental legitimacy. The heterogeneity analysis reveals that the positive impact of the establishment of environmental courts on green technology innovation is more pronounced in water pollution-intensive industries and areas with high public participation and media attention. Our findings provide new insights into how environmental justice affects firms’ green innovation and validate the Porter hypothesis. Also, they serves as a reference for constructing environmental courts in China and other policy jurisdictions that may be interested. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Innovation: The Power Source of Enterprise Sustainable Development)

18 pages, 582 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Tourist Motivations to Adopt Sustainable Smart Hospitality: An Innovation Resistance Theory Perspective

by Qingyu Zhang, Salman Khan, Safeer Ullah Khan, Ikram Ullah Khan and Shafaqat Mehmood

Sustainability 2024, 16(13), 5598; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16135598 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2024

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the neglected conceptualization of smartness in the context of tourism and its probable consequences. Specifically, this study focused on investigating the relationships between sustainable smartness, usage barriers, value barriers, risk barriers, traditional barriers, image barriers, and tourists’ behavioral [...] Read more.

This study aimed to assess the neglected conceptualization of smartness in the context of tourism and its probable consequences. Specifically, this study focused on investigating the relationships between sustainable smartness, usage barriers, value barriers, risk barriers, traditional barriers, image barriers, and tourists’ behavioral intentions regarding their stay in smart hotels. The conceptual model of this study is constructed based on innovation resistance theory. By engaging structural equation modeling (SEM) in Smart-PLS 3.2.8, we calculated data from 672 valid respondents. The findings demonstrate that smartness significantly affects usage, value, risk, and traditional and image barriers. Furthermore, we unearthed a significant effect of all barriers on tourists’ behavioral intentions. Full article

23 pages, 1542 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainability of the Housing Market: Post-COVID-19 Effects on Housing Preferences in Cyprus

by Maria Evangelou and Martha Katafygiotou

Sustainability 2024, 16(13), 5597; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16135597 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2024

Abstract

After the announcement of the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, people around the world had to adopt online education, working from home and social-distancing policies in an effort to stop the spread of COVID-19. The lockdowns and home isolation brought to the surface [...] Read more.

After the announcement of the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, people around the world had to adopt online education, working from home and social-distancing policies in an effort to stop the spread of COVID-19. The lockdowns and home isolation brought to the surface the current limitations of the existing housing stock as people needed to re-organize their home space to host various daytime functionalities. Therefore, one could question whether the priorities of potential homebuyers have been changed due to technology, health, and socialization alteration? This study explores the preferences for housing attributes and trends in Cyprus post-COVID-19 pandemic and compares these against the views of real estate professionals who represent the Cypriot residential demand prior the pandemic. Data were gathered via qualitative surveys from 117 potential homebuyers and 36 real estate professionals from across Cyprus. A survey methodology with questionnaires was used to analyze the changes in the real estate demand between the pre- and post-COVID-19 periods. Descriptive statistics were used to determine the mean importance of the housing attributes and to compare the results from the pre- and post-COVID-19 pandemic periods. The analysis found a shift toward houses rather than apartments, and the results suggest that new housing should contain more capacity for private use spaces, and at the same time, it should be designed with flexible and adaptive layouts to accommodate more activities. This study discusses whether these shifts are likely to be temporary or permanent and the implications for real estate professionals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Contemporary Paradigms for a 'Sustainable' Construction: Development of Design Strategies and Building Materials for Restoration, Reuse and Civil Engineering)

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19 pages, 6414 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Balancing Emerging Risks Considering the Life-Cycle Perspectives of Submerged Floating Tunnels for a Resilient Future Infrastructure

by Shweta Velde, Jessada Sresakoolchai and Sakdirat Kaewunruen

Sustainability 2024, 16(13), 5596; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16135596 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2024

Abstract

Infrastructure expansion considerably contributes to greenhouse gas emissions causing the critical global issue of climate change. In recent years, submerged floating tunnels (SFTs) have thus been developed as a sustainable and efficient solution for crossing large water bodies instead of resource-demanding superstructures (e.g., [...] Read more.

Infrastructure expansion considerably contributes to greenhouse gas emissions causing the critical global issue of climate change. In recent years, submerged floating tunnels (SFTs) have thus been developed as a sustainable and efficient solution for crossing large water bodies instead of resource-demanding superstructures (e.g., cable stayed bridges). This research delves into a comparative analysis of two SFT design alternatives: SFTs with pontoons and SFTs with tethers centered on environmental sustainability and long-term viability. By incorporating life-cycle assessments and quantitative risk analysis methodologies, our study aims to ascertain the optimal SFT design for real-world application. Our study embarks on detailed investigations into SFTs and then gathers data on material quantities and LCA studies, identifying potential hazards and comparing life cycle performance. Our new findings highlight the significant advantage of the SFT with a tethered design, which has a lower dependency on materials, particularly steels, resulting in lower CO₂ emissions. Additionally, in terms of risk, the SFT with tethers has a lower risk profile in general, especially in situations, including environmental elements, like rising water levels, potential tsunamis, and storms. This design is a promising solution for sustainable and resilient infrastructure development, coinciding with global objectives to cut down carbon emissions and enrich potential benefits in the face of increasing climatic uncertainties. Not only does this study scrutinize the risk and environmental aspects of both SFT designs, but it also opens the path for future infrastructure projects that emphasize engineering robustness and environmental sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Circular Economy Innovations and Breakthroughs for Built Environments)

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20 pages, 4664 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

A Systemic Review on the Adoption of Service Design Practices to Improve the Quality of User Experience and Organization in the Healthcare Environment

by Angela Cristiana Palazzo, Matteo Bertelli and Jacopo Gaspari

Sustainability 2024, 16(13), 5595; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16135595 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2024

Abstract

Healthcare services and spaces are recognized as complex ecosystems where different user categories interact daily facing often urgent and difficult situations that challenge the established organizational and procedural models. The increasingly evolving needs and conditions influencing the processes affect the capacity to quickly [...] Read more.

Healthcare services and spaces are recognized as complex ecosystems where different user categories interact daily facing often urgent and difficult situations that challenge the established organizational and procedural models. The increasingly evolving needs and conditions influencing the processes affect the capacity to quickly adapt the available operational models as well as spaces to provide a timely and efficient response. This calls for new approaches and methods to enable the managing staff to overcome the conventional silos-based structure and integrate new methods and tools to facilitate interdisciplinary analysis and synergies. Some frontrunning healthcare structures started to adopt Service Design practices, which are largely grounded in the Design Thinking approach, to reshape the conventional models for improving the quality of user experience with remarkable expected impacts on social, economic, and environmental sustainability in the mid-long run. Following the rigorous investigation structure of Systemic Review, the paper explores the adoption of Service Design practices in frontrunner experiences focusing on organizational aspects to draft a reference framework, including successful factors, barriers, and viable pathways, which are currently missing. The main scope of the paper is accordingly to address the detected gaps in clarifying methods tools and goals of Service Design-oriented practices for improving healthcare processes and user experience quality. The main reported findings highlight the importance of introducing Co-Design and participative practices to integrate specialistic perspectives and organizational aspects as well as to engage all the key players at different levels. Full article

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24 pages, 1279 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Powering the Future: An Integrated Framework for Clean Renewable Energy Transition

by Hanan Wehbi

Sustainability 2024, 16(13), 5594; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16135594 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2024

Abstract

The transition to renewable energy has been recognized as a crucial step in addressing climate change and achieving greenhouse gas reduction targets, but it can also cause energy sprawl if not planned properly. Clean renewable energy communities (CREC) are emerging globally as an [...] Read more.

The transition to renewable energy has been recognized as a crucial step in addressing climate change and achieving greenhouse gas reduction targets, but it can also cause energy sprawl if not planned properly. Clean renewable energy communities (CREC) are emerging globally as an approach for decentralized energy systems and an alternative to traditional centralized energy systems. CREC aim to lower the energy carbon footprint, enhance local energy resilience, and improve the quality of life of residents. Through a comprehensive literature review, this study reviews metrics that can assess the impact of energy transition plans and support decision-making to select technologies that create efficient, reliable, and accessible energy systems. It classifies these metrics into a five-dimensional sustainability approach including environmental, technical, social, economic, and political and institutional dimensions. The paper proposes a conceptual framework to guide decision-makers in recognizing the role of sustainable land development, sustainable energy planning, and resiliency as an integrated approach to energy transition planning. This framework stresses mapping the place-based potential for clean renewable energy at various scales, highlights the importance of resilience in energy planning, and addresses challenges associated with energy source selection, built environment efficiency, and the energy trade. While the framework can serve as a starting point for evaluating energy transition plans, further work is needed to address the limitations of existing metrics and identify additional evaluations for mixed-energy land use that are critical to managing energy sprawl in terms of ecosystem services and other land uses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Energy Planning and Environmental Assessment)

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15 pages, 1556 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Airbnb and Mountain Tourism Destinations: Evidence from an Inner Area in the Italian Alps

by Stefano Duglio, Giulia Mascadri and Giulia Salotti

Sustainability 2024, 16(13), 5593; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16135593 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2024

Abstract

Starting from this decade, peer-to-peer (P2P) accommodation has witnessed a valuable growth that has interested both urban and rural environments. With reference to the Italian context, the Airbnb platform represents the main platform used by tourists, contributing to reshaping tourism offerings and to [...] Read more.

Starting from this decade, peer-to-peer (P2P) accommodation has witnessed a valuable growth that has interested both urban and rural environments. With reference to the Italian context, the Airbnb platform represents the main platform used by tourists, contributing to reshaping tourism offerings and to the “drive” of the image of tourism destinations. The aim of this study is to present insight into the Airbnb phenomenon in a marginal mountain destination in the Italian Alps, for a better understanding of how the environmental dimension is considered by both guests and hosts. In order to reach this goal, 727 guests’ reviews in 35 Airbnb accommodation facilities of the municipalities of Soana Valley were analyzed through a qualitative sentiment analysis performed with NVivo 14 software. The evidence was compared with the hosts’ viewpoint, thanks to semi-structured interviews with three local actors. Preliminary considerations of the guests’ reviews reported positive comments (79.5%) for both the accommodation per sé (perfect, excellent, beautiful, welcoming, and clean) and the mountainous area as well, particularly appreciated for its natural characteristics. These were confirmed by the hosts’ interviews, who underlined how nature represented one of the main guests’ highlighted aspects. Moreover, visitors’ needs and expectations have increased over the years, forcing the need to improve the quality of offerings. This contribution concludes with a reflection on the opportunities that second home tourism can represent for Italian inner mountainous areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development in Different Fields of Tourism)

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35 pages, 1407 KiB

Open AccessReview

Handheld In Situ Methods for Soil Organic Carbon Assessment

by Nancy Loria, Rattan Lal and Ranveer Chandra

Sustainability 2024, 16(13), 5592; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16135592 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2024

Abstract

Soil organic carbon (SOC) assessment is crucial for evaluating soil health and supporting carbon sequestration efforts. Traditional methods like wet digestion and dry combustion are time-consuming and labor-intensive, necessitating the development of non-destructive, cost-efficient, and real-time in situ measurements. This review focuses on [...] Read more.

Soil organic carbon (SOC) assessment is crucial for evaluating soil health and supporting carbon sequestration efforts. Traditional methods like wet digestion and dry combustion are time-consuming and labor-intensive, necessitating the development of non-destructive, cost-efficient, and real-time in situ measurements. This review focuses on handheld in situ methodologies for SOC estimation, underscoring their practicality and reasonable accuracy. Spectroscopic techniques, like visible and near-infrared, mid-infrared, laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy, and inelastic neutron scattering each offer unique advantages. Preprocessing techniques, such as external parameter orthogonalization and standard normal variate, are employed to eliminate soil moisture content and particle size effects on SOC estimation. Calibration methods, like partial least squares regression and support vector machine, establish relationships between spectral reflectance, soil properties, and SOC. Among the 32 studies selected in this review, 14 exhibited a coefficient of determination (R²) of 0.80 or higher, indicating the potential for accurate SOC content estimation using in situ approaches. Each study meticulously adjusted factors such as spectral range, pretreatment method, and calibration model to improve the accuracy of SOC content, highlighting both the methodological diversity and a continuous pursuit of precision in direct field measurements. Continued research and validation are imperative to ensure accurate in situ SOC assessment across diverse environments. Thus, this review underscores the potential of handheld devices for in situ SOC estimation with good accuracy and leveraging factors that influence its precision. Crucial for optimizing carbon farming, these devices offer real-time soil measurements, empowering land managers to enhance carbon sequestration and promote sustainable land management across diverse agricultural landscapes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Soil Conservation and Sustainability)

21 pages, 3519 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mapping the Nexus: A County-Level Analysis and Visualization of Iowa’s Food–Energy–Water Systems

by Júlia Brittes Tuthill and Amy Kaleita

Sustainability 2024, 16(13), 5591; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16135591 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2024

Abstract

This study presents a county-level analysis and visual assessment of Iowa’s Food–Energy–Water systems (IFEWs), focusing on the interdependencies of agricultural practices, nitrogen management, and energy production. We use data from the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service and other sources to assess cropland-nitrogen sources, [...] Read more.

This study presents a county-level analysis and visual assessment of Iowa’s Food–Energy–Water systems (IFEWs), focusing on the interdependencies of agricultural practices, nitrogen management, and energy production. We use data from the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service and other sources to assess cropland-nitrogen sources, animal-based-nitrogen contributions, and ethanol production capacity across Iowa’s counties. Our methodology leverages geoprocessing and interpolation tools to address data availability challenges and refine nitrogen surplus (Ns) estimates. The results reveal spatial–temporal dynamics of cropland-nitrogen, quantify non-point nitrogen sources at the county level, and evaluate the impact of energy systems on the IFEWs balance. We discuss the implications of our findings for sustainable agriculture, environmental management, and energy production in Iowa. The study highlights the need for integrated approaches to address the complex interactions within the IFEWs and informs policy development for sustainable resource management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Agriculture, Land and Farm Management)

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25 pages, 6185 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhanced Adaptive Dynamic Surface Sliding Mode Control for Optimal Performance of Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Systems

by Hashim Alnami, Sultan H. Hakmi, Saad A. Mohamed Abdelwahab, Walid S. E. Abdellatif, Hossam Youssef Hegazy, Wael I. Mohamed and Moayed Mohamed

Sustainability 2024, 16(13), 5590; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16135590 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2024

Abstract

This study presents an enhanced, adaptive, and dynamic surface sliding mode control (SMC), a cutting-edge method for improving grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) system performance. The suggested control approach uses dynamic SMC and adaptive approaches to enhance the robustness and efficiency of a system. Proportional–integral [...] Read more.

This study presents an enhanced, adaptive, and dynamic surface sliding mode control (SMC), a cutting-edge method for improving grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) system performance. The suggested control approach uses dynamic SMC and adaptive approaches to enhance the robustness and efficiency of a system. Proportional–integral (PI) and SMC, two control systems for maximum power point tracking (MPPT) in PV systems, are compared in this paper. This study finds that the SMC system is a more effective and efficient MPPT approach for PV systems compared to the conventional PI control system. The SMC system’s unique feature is the capacity to stabilize grid voltage and attain a modulation index of less than one. An important component of power electronic system control is the index, which acts as a parameter representing the relationship between the output signal’s amplitude and the reference signal’s amplitude. The SMC method demonstrates improved robustness, efficiency, and stability, especially in dynamic operating settings with load and solar radiation changes. Compared to the PI control, the SMC exhibits a noteworthy 75% reduction in voltage fluctuations and an improvement in the power output of 5% to 10%. Regarding output power optimization, voltage stability, and accurate current tracking, the SMC system performs better than the PI control system. Furthermore, the SMC technique maintains a modulation index below one and guarantees grid voltage stability, both of which are essential for the efficiency and stability of power electrical systems. Full article

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36 pages, 1922 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Tapping the Conversation on the Meaning of Decarbonization: Discourses and Discursive Agency in EU Politics on Low-Carbon Fuels for Maritime Shipping

by Fredrik von Malmborg

Sustainability 2024, 16(13), 5589; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16135589 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2024

Abstract

EU politics on decarbonizing shipping is an argumentative endeavor where different policy actors strive try to influence others to see problems and policy solutions according to their perspectives to gain monopoly on the framing and design of policies. This article critically analyzes, by [...] Read more.

EU politics on decarbonizing shipping is an argumentative endeavor where different policy actors strive try to influence others to see problems and policy solutions according to their perspectives to gain monopoly on the framing and design of policies. This article critically analyzes, by means of argumentative discourse analysis, the politics and policy process related to the recent adoption of the FuelEU Maritime regulation, the world’s first legislation to set requirements for decarbonizing maritime shipping. Complementing previous research focusing on the roles and agency of policy entrepreneurs and beliefs of advocacy coalitions active in the policy process, this paper dives deeper into the politics of the new legislation. It aims to explore and explain the discursive framing and politics of meaning-making. By analyzing the political and social meaning-making of the concept “decarbonizing maritime shipping”, this paper helps us understand why the legislation was designed in the way it was. Different narratives, storylines and discourses defining different meanings of decarbonization are analyzed. So is the agency of policy actors trying to mutate the different meanings into a new meaning. Two discourses developed in dialectic conversation framed the policy proposals and subsequent debates in the policy process, focusing on (i) incremental change and technology neutrality to meet moderate emission reductions and maintain competitiveness, and (ii) transformative change and technology specificity to meet zero emissions and gain competitiveness and global leadership in the transition towards a hydrogen economy. Policy actors successfully used discursive agency strategies such as multiple functionality and vagueness to navigate between and resolve conflicts between the two discourses. Both discourses are associated with the overarching ecological modernization discourse and failed to include issue of climate justice and a just transition. The heritage of the ecological modernization discourse creates lock-ins for a broader decarbonization discourse, thus stalling a just transition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Transition and Sustainability: Economic, Technological, National, Regional and Global Opportunities and Challenges)

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26 pages, 8941 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fostering Resilient and Sustainable Rural Development through Nature-Based Tourism, Digital Technologies, and Built Heritage Preservation: The Experience of San Giovanni Lipioni, Italy

by Carlo Costantino, Alberto Calleo, Anna Chiara Benedetti, Cristiana Bartolomei and Giorgia Predari

Sustainability 2024, 16(13), 5588; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16135588 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2024

Abstract

Situated in the province of Chieti, Italy, San Giovanni Lipioni is a representative case of depopulation, mirroring the challenges numerous rural areas across Europe face. In this regard, the present paper describes the activities of a four-year research project in collaboration with a [...] Read more.

Situated in the province of Chieti, Italy, San Giovanni Lipioni is a representative case of depopulation, mirroring the challenges numerous rural areas across Europe face. In this regard, the present paper describes the activities of a four-year research project in collaboration with a territorial promotion association and a local action group (LAG) aimed at fostering the sustainable development of the territory, focusing on nature-based tourism, digital-based communication and activation strategies, and the preservation of built heritage. A multidisciplinary approach is employed, delving into three distinct levels, as follows: (i) a comprehensive analysis of the built heritage and the tangible and intangible culture; (ii) the activation of the nature hiking trails between surrounding municipalities; and (iii) an exploration of digital communication strategies for tourism promotion and territorial reactivation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Tourism and Use of Natural Resources—Contemporary Practices and Management Challenges)

15 pages, 629 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Learning Sustainability: Post-Graduate Students’ Perceptions on the Use of Social Media Platforms to Enhance Academic Writing

by Ensaf Nasser Al Mulhim and Dina Ahmed Ismaeel

Sustainability 2024, 16(13), 5587; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16135587 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2024

Abstract

Academic writing is a vital element in any post-graduate study. Therefore, it is crucial to harness all the tools and capabilities available to serve this purpose. These capabilities include the digital tools that characterize the current era. This paper aims to explore post-graduate [...] Read more.

Academic writing is a vital element in any post-graduate study. Therefore, it is crucial to harness all the tools and capabilities available to serve this purpose. These capabilities include the digital tools that characterize the current era. This paper aims to explore post-graduate students’ perceptions of the use of social media platforms to enhance academic writing during the COVID-19 pandemic who are enrolled in the Master of Educational Technology in our institution, Saudi Arabia. The study followed a qualitative research methodology and used semi-structured interviews with ten students to gather data. Thematic analysis was applied. The results showed that post-graduate students value the role of the use of social media platforms in enhancing their academic writing. The findings also showed the advantages, disadvantages, and obstacles of the use of social media platforms in enhancing their academic writing. The implications of this study can inform post-graduate supervisors to reconsider the benefits of social media platforms as high-value communication tools in enhancing the skills of academic writing. Thus, they may adopt, employ, and blend them with traditional methods of communication in their efforts to develop their students’ academic writing skills. Using social media platforms for learning academic writing during the COVID-19 pandemic may mirror the fourth goal of sustainable development. The implications of the study over post-pandemic postgraduate education have been discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Technology Supports for Sustainable Development of Human Society during and Post-pandemic Contexts)

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21 pages, 3787 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Scenarios in an Urban Planning Studio: The Perception of Multidisciplinary Students

by Maycon Sedrez, Ali Cheshmehzangi, Linjun Xie and Yimeng Wang

Sustainability 2024, 16(13), 5586; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16135586 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2024

Abstract

With the ongoing development of increasingly complex and uncertain urban contexts, imagining and envisioning future scenarios have become essential competences in the education of urban planners. We applied scenario planning in a postgraduate studio titled Sustainable Urbanism Project that aimed at facilitating students’ [...] Read more.

With the ongoing development of increasingly complex and uncertain urban contexts, imagining and envisioning future scenarios have become essential competences in the education of urban planners. We applied scenario planning in a postgraduate studio titled Sustainable Urbanism Project that aimed at facilitating students’ learning and improving their ability to craft context-based and future-oriented urban solutions. We believe that this method effectively guided students with multidisciplinary backgrounds to engage with the subject, enhancing their creativity and capability in co-designing sustainable futures. This paper investigates the expectations and challenges faced by students throughout the project process, discussing the applicability of the method and its outcomes, pitfalls, and advantages. The study highlights the reflective role of scenario planning in urban planning studios to guide students in recognising sustainable and unsustainable scenarios for the future. It is important that scenario planning allows students to fully understand the planning process rather than just focusing on generic planning solutions or interventions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transformative Pedagogies for Sustainability Competence Development)

20 pages, 797 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Heterogeneous Environmental Regulation Tools on Economic Growth: Can Environmental Protection and Economic Growth Be Win-Win?

by Haoyang Lu, Alistair Hunt and Bruce Morley

Sustainability 2024, 16(13), 5585; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16135585 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2024

Abstract

Abstract: This paper explores the relationship between economic growth and environmental regulation using panel data for 30 provinces in China from 2009–2021 using the fixed effects model and the threshold model. First, the baseline regression results show that market-based environmental regulation promotes economic [...] Read more.

Abstract: This paper explores the relationship between economic growth and environmental regulation using panel data for 30 provinces in China from 2009–2021 using the fixed effects model and the threshold model. First, the baseline regression results show that market-based environmental regulation promotes economic growth. However, command-and-control environmental regulation in China can not promote China’s economic growth. Second, further research has shown that environmental regulation’s role in promoting the economy is constrained by the intensity of environmental regulation. Market-based environmental regulation is only able to promote economic growth when the intensity is low. If the intensity of market-based environmental regulation is too high, market-based environmental regulation, on the contrary, can not promote economic growth. Third, The impact of market-based environmental regulation on economic growth also is found to be constrained by the level of economic development: market-based environmental regulation does not promote economic growth when the economy is less developed. It is only when the economy has reached a high level that market-based environmental regulation will contribute to economic growth. Finally, this paper finds that financial development and market-based environmental regulation can synergize to promote economic growth. Full article

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