Sustainability

22 pages, 2011 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Advanced Municipal Wastewater Treatment and Bioproduct Generation via Optimized Autotrophic and Mixotrophic Microalgal Cultivation

by Juan Nápoles-Armenta, Itzel Celeste Romero-Soto, Luis Samaniego-Moreno, Lourdes Mariana Díaz-Tenorio, Luis Alonso Leyva Soto, Celia De La Mora-Orozco, Rafael González Pérez, Edgardo Martínez-Orozco, Celestino García-Gómez and Laura Izascum Pérez-Valencia

Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6539; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146539 (registering DOI) - 17 Jul 2025

Abstract

In this paper, the production of biomass, pigments, lipids, and carbohydrates and the elimination of ammonium and orthophosphate by the microalgae Chlorella vulgaris, grown in synthetic wastewater (SWW), were studied under different light intensities (3000–10,000 lux), pH (7.5–9.5) and daily illumination time [...] Read more.

In this paper, the production of biomass, pigments, lipids, and carbohydrates and the elimination of ammonium and orthophosphate by the microalgae Chlorella vulgaris, grown in synthetic wastewater (SWW), were studied under different light intensities (3000–10,000 lux), pH (7.5–9.5) and daily illumination time (8–16 h). The best conditions for the autotrophic culture of microalgae were predicted using response surface methodology (RSM). The results showed that the adaptation of the microalgae for this nutrient source was effective. The best conditions for the cultivation of Chlorella vulgaris in SWW were 8.44 pH and a light intensity of 8433 lux in the daily illumination time of 16 h. Under optimal conditions, the production of microalgal biomass, chlorophyll-a, chlorophyll-b, carotenoids, lipids and carbohydrates was 0.534 g/L, 7.46 mg/mL, 3.53 mg/mL, 2.01 mg/mL, 21.40% and 28.46%, respectively. The removal efficiencies of ammonium and orthophosphate from SWW were 97.66% and 58.78% in autotrophic cultures. This investigation introduces a new aspect by verifying the optimized cultivation conditions with real municipal wastewater, indicating that the procedure could be utilized for sustainable production of bioproducts and efficient treatment of municipal wastewater. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Wastewater Treatment, Biomass Valorization, and Environmental Sustainability)

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23 pages, 2572 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Drivers and Barriers for Edible Streets: A Case Study in Oxford, UK

by Kuhu Gupta, Mohammad Javad Seddighi, Emma L. Davies, Pariyarath Sangeetha Thondre and Mina Samangooei

Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6538; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146538 (registering DOI) - 17 Jul 2025

Abstract

This study introduces Edible Streets as a distinct and scalable model of community-led urban food growing, specifically investigating the drivers and barriers to the initiative. Unlike traditional urban food-growing initiatives, Edible Streets explores the integration of edible plants into street verges and footpaths [...] Read more.

This study introduces Edible Streets as a distinct and scalable model of community-led urban food growing, specifically investigating the drivers and barriers to the initiative. Unlike traditional urban food-growing initiatives, Edible Streets explores the integration of edible plants into street verges and footpaths with direct community involvement of the people who live/work in a street. This study contributes new knowledge by evaluating Edible Streets through the COM-B model of behavioural change, through policy and governance in addition to behaviour change, and by developing practical frameworks to facilitate its implementation. Focusing on Oxford, the research engaged residents through 17 in-person interviews and 18 online surveys, alongside a stakeholder workshop with 21 policymakers, community leaders, and NGO representatives. Findings revealed strong motivation for Edible Streets, driven by values of sustainability, community resilience, and improved well-being. However, capability barriers, including knowledge gaps in gardening, land-use policies, and food preservation, as well as opportunity constraints related to land access, water availability, and environmental challenges, hindered participation. To address these, a How-to Guide was developed, and a pilot Edible Street project was launched. Future steps include establishing a licensing application model to facilitate urban food growing and conducting a Post-Use Evaluation and Impact Study. Nationally, this model could support Right to Grow policies, while globally, it aligns with climate resilience and food security goals. Locally grown food enhances biodiversity, reduces carbon footprints, and strengthens social cohesion. By tackling key barriers and scaling solutions, this study provides actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners to create resilient, equitable urban food systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Urban and Rural Development)

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19 pages, 1066 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Toward a Sustainable Livestock Sector in China: Evolution Characteristics and Driving Factors of Carbon Emissions from a Life Cycle Perspective

by Xiao Wang, Xuezhen Xiong and Xiangfei Xin

Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6537; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146537 (registering DOI) - 17 Jul 2025

Abstract

Addressing the sustainability challenges posed by the expanding livestock sector is crucial for China’s green transition. With the transformation of national dietary structure and increasing demand for livestock products, the associated resource consumption and environmental impacts, particularly carbon emissions have intensified. Reducing carbon [...] Read more.

Addressing the sustainability challenges posed by the expanding livestock sector is crucial for China’s green transition. With the transformation of national dietary structure and increasing demand for livestock products, the associated resource consumption and environmental impacts, particularly carbon emissions have intensified. Reducing carbon emissions from livestock is vital for mitigating global warming, enhancing resource utilization efficiency, improving ecosystems and biodiversity, and ultimately achieving sustainable development of the livestock industry. Against this backdrop, this study measures the carbon emissions from livestock sector employing the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) method, and applies the Generalized Divisia Index Method (GDIM) to analyze the factors affecting the changes in carbon emissions, aiming to quantify and analyze the carbon footprint of China’s livestock sector to inform sustainable practices. The findings reveal that China’s total carbon emissions from the livestock sector fluctuated between 645.15 million tons and 812.99 million tons from 2000 to 2023. Since 2020, emissions have entered a new phase of continuous growth, with a 5.40% increase in 2023 compared to 2020. Significantly, a positive trend toward sustainability is observed in the substantial decline of carbon emission intensity over the study period, with notable reductions in emission intensity across provinces and a gradual convergence in inter-provincial disparities. Understanding the drivers is key for effective mitigation. The output level and total mechanical power consumption level emerged as primary positive drivers of carbon emissions, while output carbon intensity and mechanical power consumption carbon intensity served as major negative drivers. Moving forward, to foster a sustainable and low-carbon livestock sector, China’s livestock sector development should prioritize coordinated carbon reduction across the entire industrial chain, adjust the industrial structure, and enhance the utilization efficiency of advanced low-carbon agricultural machinery while introducing such equipment. Full article

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18 pages, 1263 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Study of Working Conditions in Platform Work

by Zofia Pawłowska, Szymon Ordysiński, Małgorzata Pęciłło and Magdalena Galwas-Grzeszkiewicz

Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6536; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146536 (registering DOI) - 17 Jul 2025

Abstract

Despite growing academic interest in platform work and the gig economy, most existing research focuses on Western Europe, often neglecting the unique institutional and socioeconomic contexts of Central and Eastern Europe. This study addresses that gap by exploring the working conditions of platform [...] Read more.

Despite growing academic interest in platform work and the gig economy, most existing research focuses on Western Europe, often neglecting the unique institutional and socioeconomic contexts of Central and Eastern Europe. This study addresses that gap by exploring the working conditions of platform workers in Poland, with particular emphasis on both material and psychosocial dimensions from the workers’ own perspectives. Data were collected from a nationally representative sample of 450 platform workers engaged in both online and location-based tasks, using the computer-assisted web interviewing (CAWI) method. The findings show a high level of perceived autonomy, with 74% of respondents feeling that they are independent in their work. However, autonomy is often limited by external factors, in particular, the availability of work. Workers who treat platform work as a side job are significantly more likely to report a sense of autonomy. In terms of health and safety, only 27% expressed concerns about negative health impacts, and 24% reported poor working conditions. Those who received health and safety information from the platform were more likely to acknowledge potential risks. Interestingly, workers relying on platform work as their primary source of income were more likely to perceive their work as safe, compared to those treating it as supplementary employment. Full article

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

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29 pages, 6641 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Climate-Adaptive Passive Design Strategies for Near-Zero-Energy Office Buildings in Central and Southern Anhui, China

by Jun Xu, Yu Gao and Lizhong Yang

Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6535; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146535 (registering DOI) - 17 Jul 2025

Abstract

Driven by the global energy transition and China’s dual-carbon targets, Passive ultra-low-energy buildings are a key route for carbon reduction in the construction sector. This study addresses the high energy demand of office buildings and the limited suitability of current efficiency codes in [...] Read more.

Driven by the global energy transition and China’s dual-carbon targets, Passive ultra-low-energy buildings are a key route for carbon reduction in the construction sector. This study addresses the high energy demand of office buildings and the limited suitability of current efficiency codes in the hot-summer/cold-winter, high-humidity zone of central and southern Anhui. Using multi-year climate records and energy-use surveys from five cities and one scenic area (2013–2024), we systematically investigate climate-adaptive passive-design strategies. Climate-Consultant simulations identify composite envelopes, external shading, and natural ventilation as the three most effective measures. Empirical evidence confirms that optimized envelope thermal properties significantly curb heating and cooling loads; a Huangshan office-building case validates the performance of the proposed passive measures, while analysis of a near-zero-energy demonstration project in Chuzhou yields a coordinated insulation-and-heat-rejection scheme. The results demonstrate that region-specific passive design can provide a comprehensive technical framework for ultra-low-energy buildings in transitional climates and thereby supporting China’s carbon-neutrality targets. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Building Sustainability within a Smart Built Environment)

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23 pages, 418 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Do Economic Growth Targets Aggravate Environmental Pollution? Evidence from China

by Jianbao Chen and Chenwei Wu

Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6534; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146534 (registering DOI) - 17 Jul 2025

Abstract

How to balance the relationship between economic development and environmental protection is a common challenge faced by developing countries. Based on panel data from 30 Chinese provinces between 2008 to 2021, we analyze the impact of economic growth targets (EGTs) on environmental pollution [...] Read more.

How to balance the relationship between economic development and environmental protection is a common challenge faced by developing countries. Based on panel data from 30 Chinese provinces between 2008 to 2021, we analyze the impact of economic growth targets (EGTs) on environmental pollution (EP) using a spatial autoregressive threshold panel (SARTP) model. The empirical findings are as follows. (1) A 1% increase in the EP index in adjacent provinces leads to a 0.5870% increase in the observing province. (2) For provinces with EGTs above 7.5%, a 1% increase in the EGT results in a 0.3799% increase in the EP index. Conversely, its impact on EP is not significant. (3) As EGTs increase, the EP effect intensifies in central provinces, weakens in western provinces, and remains insignificant in eastern provinces; the EP effect of EGTs is significantly greater in provinces with a large population size and a low proportion of tertiary industry. (4) When the provincial EGT exceeds the central target by 0.5%, a 1% increase in the EGT results in a 0.4469% increase in the EP index. Our paper offers theoretical and empirical insights for alleviating EP and promoting sustainable economic development. Full article

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22 pages, 435 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Entrepreneurship in Emerging Economies: The Role of Financial Planning, Environmental Consciousness, and Artificial Intelligence in Ecuador—A Cross-Sectional Study

by Martha Cecilia Aguirre Benalcázar, Marcia Fabiola Jaramillo Paredes and Oscar Mauricio Romero Hidalgo

Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6533; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146533 (registering DOI) - 17 Jul 2025

Abstract

This study investigates the interconnected roles of financial planning, environmental consciousness, and artificial intelligence (AI) in fostering sustainable entrepreneurship among merchants in Machala, Ecuador. Through structural equation modeling analysis of data from 300 entrepreneurs, we found that financial planning positively influences both sustainable [...] Read more.

This study investigates the interconnected roles of financial planning, environmental consciousness, and artificial intelligence (AI) in fostering sustainable entrepreneurship among merchants in Machala, Ecuador. Through structural equation modeling analysis of data from 300 entrepreneurs, we found that financial planning positively influences both sustainable entrepreneurship (β = 0.508, p < 0.001) and environmental consciousness (β = 0.421, p < 0.001). Environmental consciousness demonstrates a significant impact on sustainable business development (β = 0.504, p < 0.001), while AI integration emerges as a powerful enabler of both financial planning (β = 0.345, p < 0.001) and sustainable entrepreneurship (β = 0.664, p < 0.001). The findings reveal how AI technologies can democratize access to sophisticated sustainability planning tools in resource-constrained environments, potentially transforming how emerging market entrepreneurs approach environmental challenges. This research advances our understanding of sustainable entrepreneurship by demonstrating that successful environmental business practices in developing economies require an integrated approach combining financial literacy, ecological awareness, and technological adoption. The results suggest that policy interventions supporting sustainable entrepreneurship should simultaneously address financial capabilities, environmental education, and technological accessibility to maximize their impact on sustainable development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue AI-Driven Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Business Innovation)

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21 pages, 1186 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Digital Technology and Business Innovation Enhance Economic–Environmental Sustainability in Legal Organizations

by Linhua Xia, Zhen Cao and Muhammad Bilawal Khaskheli

Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6532; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146532 (registering DOI) - 17 Jul 2025

Abstract

This study discusses the role of organizational pro-environmental behavior in driving sustainable development. Studies of green practices highlight their capacity to achieve ecological goals while delivering economic sustainability with business strategies for sustainable businesses and advancing environmental sustainability law. It also considers how [...] Read more.

This study discusses the role of organizational pro-environmental behavior in driving sustainable development. Studies of green practices highlight their capacity to achieve ecological goals while delivering economic sustainability with business strategies for sustainable businesses and advancing environmental sustainability law. It also considers how the development of artificial intelligence, resource management, big data analysis, blockchain, and the Internet of Things enables companies to maximize supply efficiency and address evolving environmental regulations and sustainable decision-making. Through digital technology, businesses can facilitate supply chain transparency, adopt circular economy practices, and produce in an equitable and environmentally friendly manner. Additionally, intelligent business management practices, such as effective decision-making and sustainability reporting, enhance compliance with authorities while ensuring long-term profitability from a legal perspective. Integrating business innovation and digital technology within legal entities enhances economic efficiency, reduces operational costs, improves environmental sustainability, reduces paper usage, and lowers the carbon footprint, creating a double-benefit model of long-term resilience. The policymakers’ role in formulating policy structures that lead to green digital innovation is also to ensure that economic development worldwide is harmonized with environmental protection and international governance. Using example studies and empirical research raises awareness about best practices in technology-based sustainability initiatives across industries and nations, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pro-Environmental Behavior and Sustainable Development in Organizations)

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27 pages, 2272 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A New Approach Based on Trend Analysis to Estimate Reference Evapotranspiration for Irrigation Planning

by Murat Ozocak

Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6531; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146531 (registering DOI) - 17 Jul 2025

Abstract

Increasing drought conditions at the global level have created concerns about the decrease in water resources. This situation has made the correct planning of irrigation applications the most important situation. Irrigation management in future periods is possible with the correct determination of the [...] Read more.

Increasing drought conditions at the global level have created concerns about the decrease in water resources. This situation has made the correct planning of irrigation applications the most important situation. Irrigation management in future periods is possible with the correct determination of the reference evapotranspiration (ET₀) trend. In the current situation, the trend is usually determined using one or two methods. Failure to conduct a detailed trend analysis results in incorrect irrigation management. With the new approach presented in the research, all of the Mann–Kendall (MK), innovative trend analysis (ITA), Sen’s slope (SS) and Spearman’s rho (SR) tests were used, and the common results of the four tests, namely increase, decrease, and no trend, were taken into account. The ET₀ values calculated in different approaches were focused on temporal and spatial analysis for the future irrigation management of Türkiye with the Blaney–Criddle (BC), Turc (TR), and Coutagne (CT) methods. The future period forecast was made using four different trend analyses with geographical information system (GIS) based spatial applications using 12-month ET₀ data calculated from 59 years of data between 1965 and 2023. Statistical analysis was performed to reveal the relationship between ET₀ calculation methods. The findings showed that although there is a general increasing trend in ET₀ values in the region, this situation is more pronounced, especially in the provinces in the western and central regions. The research results improve the determination of plant water needs for future periods in terms of irrigation management. This new approach, which determines ET₀ trend analysis in the Black Sea region, can be used in regional, national, and international studies by supporting different calculations to be made in order to plan future water management correctly, to reduce the concern of decreasing water resources in drought conditions, and to obtain comprehensive data in order to provide appropriate irrigation. Full article

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23 pages, 6037 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Integrated Assessment of Groundwater Vulnerability and Drinking Water Quality in Rural Wells: Case Study from Ceanu Mare Commune, Northern Transylvanian Basin, Romania

by Nicolae-Leontin Petruța, Ioana Monica Sur, Tudor Andrei Rusu, Timea Gabor and Tiberiu Rusu

Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6530; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146530 (registering DOI) - 17 Jul 2025

Abstract

Groundwater contamination by nitrates (NO₃⁻) and nitrites (NO₂⁻) is an urgent problem in rural areas of Eastern Europe, with profound public health and sustainability implications. This paper presents an integrated assessment of groundwater vulnerability and water quality [...] Read more.

Groundwater contamination by nitrates (NO₃⁻) and nitrites (NO₂⁻) is an urgent problem in rural areas of Eastern Europe, with profound public health and sustainability implications. This paper presents an integrated assessment of groundwater vulnerability and water quality in rural wells in the Ceanu Mare commune, Cluj County, Romania—a representative area of the Northern Transylvania Basin, characterized by diverse geological structures, intensive agricultural activities, and incomplete public water infrastructure. This study combines detailed hydrochemical analyses, household-level studies, and geological context to identify and quantify key factors influencing nitrate and microbial contamination in rural wells, providing a comprehensive perspective on water quality challenges in the central part of Romania. This study adopts a multidisciplinary approach, integrating detailed geotechnical investigations conducted through four strategically located boreholes. These are complemented by extensive hydrogeological and lithological characterization, as well as rigorous chemical and microbiological analyses of nearby wells. The results reveal persistently elevated concentrations of NO₃⁻ and NO₂⁻, commonly associated with inadequate livestock waste management and the proximity of manure storage areas. Microbiological contamination was also frequent. In this study, the NO₃⁻ levels in well water ranged from 39.7 to 48 mg/L, reaching up to 96% of the EU/WHO threshold (50 mg/L), while the NO₂⁻ concentrations varied from 0.50 to 0.69 mg/L, exceeding the legal limit (0.5 mg/L) in 87% of the sampled wells. Ammonium (NH₄⁺) was detected (0.25–0.34 mg/L) in all the wells, below the maximum allowed limit (0.5 mg/L) but indicative of ongoing organic pollution. All the well water samples were non-compliant for microbiological parameters, with E. coli detected in 100% of cases (5–13 CFU/100 mL). The regional clay–marl substrate offers only limited natural protection against pollutant infiltration, primarily due to lithological heterogeneity and discontinuities observed within the clay–marl layers in the study area. This research delivers a replicable model for rural groundwater assessment and addresses a critical gap in regional and European water safety studies. It also provides actionable recommendations for sustainable groundwater management, infrastructure development, and community risk reduction in line with EU water directives. Full article

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27 pages, 1666 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Artificial Intelligence and Environmental Sustainability Playbook for Energy Sector Leaders

by Abdullah Abonamah, Salah Hassan and Tena Cale

Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6529; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146529 (registering DOI) - 17 Jul 2025

Abstract

The energy sector uses artificial intelligence (AI) as a crucial instrument to achieve environmental sustainability targets by improving resource efficiency and decreasing emissions while minimizing waste production. This paper establishes an industry-specific executive playbook that guides energy sector leaders by implementing AI technologies [...] Read more.

The energy sector uses artificial intelligence (AI) as a crucial instrument to achieve environmental sustainability targets by improving resource efficiency and decreasing emissions while minimizing waste production. This paper establishes an industry-specific executive playbook that guides energy sector leaders by implementing AI technologies for sustainability management with approaches suitable for industrial needs. The playbook provides an industry-specific framework along with strategies and AI-based solutions to help organizations overcome their sustainability challenges. Predictive analytics combined with smart grid management implemented through AI applications produced 15% less energy waste and reduced carbon emissions by 20% according to industry pilot project data. AI has proven its transformative capabilities by optimizing energy consumption while detecting inefficiencies to create both operational improvements and cost savings. The real-time monitoring capabilities of AI systems help companies meet strict environmental regulations and international climate goals by optimizing resource use and waste reduction, supporting circular economy practices for sustainable operations and enduring profitability. Leaders can establish impactful technology-based sustainability initiatives through the playbook which addresses the energy sector requirements for corporate goals and regulatory standards. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Circular Economy and Sustainability: Integrating Technology and Management Solutions)

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30 pages, 363 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Institutional Ownership and Climate-Related Disclosures in Malaysia: The Moderating Role of Sustainability Committees

by Heba Mousa Mousa Hikal, Abbas Abdelrahman Adam Abdalla, Iman Babiker, Aida Osman Abdalla Bilal, Bashir Bakri Agib Babiker, Abubkr Ahmed Elhadi Abdelraheem and Shadia Daoud Gamer

Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6528; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146528 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

This study explores the relationship between institutional shareholders and climate-related disclosure (CRD) and how sustainability committees influence this relationship among publicly listed Malaysian firms. For the analysis, 990 firm-year observations were studied from 198 highly polluting firms from 2021 to 2024. A strong [...] Read more.

This study explores the relationship between institutional shareholders and climate-related disclosure (CRD) and how sustainability committees influence this relationship among publicly listed Malaysian firms. For the analysis, 990 firm-year observations were studied from 198 highly polluting firms from 2021 to 2024. A strong CRD index was designed using the recognized climate reporting frameworks and well-grounded literature to assess the level of climate-related disclosure. Fixed-effects and hierarchical panel regression models show that CRD increases when institutional investor ownership increases, meaning firms with more institutional investors disclose more information on climate-related topics. In addition, a sustainability committee at the board level greatly improves this relationship by highlighting the positive impact of strong internal governance. As a result, such committees establish climate management and improve communication with investors, making the firm’s actions more transparent. The findings of this study are consistent with agency and legitimacy theories because institutional investors assist in monitoring firms’ environmental performance, and sustainability committees help the company maintain these standards internally. Further, this study helps grow the understanding of corporate governance (CG) and sustainability by pointing out that the presence of institutional owners and sustainability committees can promote openness about climate matters. Accordingly, these findings can guide policymakers, investors, and business leaders in boosting responsible environmental reporting and sustainable business practices in developing countries. Full article

22 pages, 791 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Turkiye’s Carbon Emission Profile: A Global Analysis with the MEREC-PROMETHEE Hybrid Method

by İrem Pelit and İlker İbrahim Avşar

Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6527; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146527 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

This study conducts a comparative evaluation of Turkiye’s carbon emission profile from both sectoral and global perspectives. Utilizing 2022 data from 76 countries, it applies two widely recognized multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) methods: MEREC, for determining objective weights of criteria, and PROMETHEE II, for [...] Read more.

This study conducts a comparative evaluation of Turkiye’s carbon emission profile from both sectoral and global perspectives. Utilizing 2022 data from 76 countries, it applies two widely recognized multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) methods: MEREC, for determining objective weights of criteria, and PROMETHEE II, for ranking countries based on these criteria. All data used in the analysis were obtained from the World Bank, a globally recognized and credible statistical source. The study evaluates seven criteria, including carbon emissions from the energy, transport, industry, and residential sectors, along with GDP-related indicators. The results indicate that Turkiye’s carbon emissions, particularly from industry, transport, and energy, are substantially higher than the global average. Moreover, countries with higher levels of industrialization generally rank lower in environmental performance, highlighting a direct relationship between industrial activity and increased carbon emissions. According to PROMETHEE II rankings, Turkiye falls into the lower-middle tier among the assessed countries. In light of these findings, the study suggests that Turkiye should implement targeted, sector-specific policy measures to reduce emissions. The research aims to provide policymakers with a structured, data-driven framework that aligns with the country’s broader sustainable development goals. MEREC was selected for its ability to produce unbiased criterion weights, while PROMETHEE II was chosen for its capacity to deliver clear and meaningful comparative rankings, making both methods highly suitable for evaluating environmental performance. This study also offers a broader analysis of how selected countries compare in terms of their carbon emissions. As carbon emissions remain one of the most pressing environmental challenges in the context of global warming and climate change, ranking countries based on emission levels serves both to support scientific inquiry and to increase international awareness. By relying on recent 2022 data, the study offers a timely snapshot of the global carbon emission landscape. Alongside its contribution to public awareness, the findings are expected to support policymakers in developing effective environmental strategies. Ultimately, this research contributes to the academic literature and lays a foundation for more sustainable environmental policy development. Full article

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19 pages, 522 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Rural Entrepreneurs and Forest Futures: Pathways to Emission Reduction and Sustainable Energy

by Ephraim Daka

Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6526; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146526 - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

Rural areas around the world are increasingly dealing with energy and environmental challenges. These challenges are particularly acute in developing countries, where persistent reliance on traditional energy sources—such as wood fuel—intersects with concerns about forest conservation and energy sustainability. While wood fuel use [...] Read more.

Rural areas around the world are increasingly dealing with energy and environmental challenges. These challenges are particularly acute in developing countries, where persistent reliance on traditional energy sources—such as wood fuel—intersects with concerns about forest conservation and energy sustainability. While wood fuel use is often portrayed as unsustainable, it is important to acknowledge that much of it remains ecologically viable and socially embedded. This study explores the role of rural entrepreneurs in shaping low-carbon transitions at the intersection of household energy practices and environmental stewardship. Fieldwork was carried out in four rural Zambian communities in 2016 and complemented by 2024 follow-up reports. It examines the connections between household energy choices, greenhouse gas emissions, and forest resource dynamics. Findings reveal that over 60% of rural households rely on charcoal for cooking, with associated emissions estimated between 80 and 150 kg CO₂ per household per month. Although this is significantly lower than the average per capita carbon footprint in industrialized countries, such emissions are primarily biogenic in nature. While rural communities contribute minimally to global climate change, their practices have significant local environmental consequences. This study draws attention to the structural constraints as well as emerging opportunities within Zambia’s rural energy economy. It positions rural entrepreneurs not merely as policy recipients but as active agents of innovation, environmental monitoring, and participatory resource governance. A model is proposed to support sustainable rural energy transitions by aligning forest management with context-sensitive emissions strategies. Full article

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34 pages, 3914 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ecological Status of the Small Rivers of the East Kazakhstan Region

by Natalya Seraya, Gulzhan Daumova, Olga Petrova, Ricardo Garcia-Mira and Arina Polyakova

Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6525; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146525 - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

The article presents a long-term assessment of the surface water quality of six small rivers in the East Kazakhstan region (Breksa, Tikhaya, Ulba, Glubochanka, Krasnoyarka, and Oba) based on hydrochemical monitoring data from the Kazhydromet State Enterprise for the period 2017–2024. A unified [...] Read more.

The article presents a long-term assessment of the surface water quality of six small rivers in the East Kazakhstan region (Breksa, Tikhaya, Ulba, Glubochanka, Krasnoyarka, and Oba) based on hydrochemical monitoring data from the Kazhydromet State Enterprise for the period 2017–2024. A unified water quality classification system was applied, along with statistical methods, including multiple linear regression. The Glubochanka and Krasnoyarka rivers were identified as the most polluted (reaching classes 4–5), with multiple exceedances of Zn (up to 2.96 mg/dm³), Cd (up to 0.8 mg/dm³), and Cu (up to 0.051 mg/dm³). The most stable and highest water quality was recorded in the Oba River, where from 2021 to 2024, water consistently corresponded to Class 2. Regression models of water quality class as a function of time and annual precipitation were constructed to assess the influence of climatic factors. Statistical analysis revealed no consistent linear correlation between average annual precipitation and water quality (correlation coefficients ranging from −0.49 to +0.37), indicating a complex interplay between climatic and anthropogenic factors. Significant relationships were found for the Breksa (R² = 0.903), Glubochanka (R² = 0.602), and Tikhaya (R² = 0.555) rivers, suggesting an influence of temporal and climatic factors on water quality. In contrast, the Oba (R² = 0.130), Ulba (R² = 0.100), and Krasnoyarka (R² = 0.018) rivers exhibited low coefficients, indicating the predominance of other, likely local, sources of pollution. It was found that summer periods are characterized by the highest pollution due to low water flow, while episodes of acid runoff occur in spring. A decrease in pH below 7.0 was first recorded in 2023–2024 in the Ulba and Tikhaya rivers. Forecasts to 2030 suggest relative stability in water quality under current climatic conditions; however, by 2050, the risk of water quality deterioration is expected to rise due to increased precipitation and extreme weather events. This study presents, for the first time, a systematic long-term analysis of small rivers in the East Kazakhstan region, offering deeper insight into the dynamics of surface water quality and providing a scientific foundation for developing adaptive strategies for the protection and sustainable use of water resources under climate change and anthropogenic pressure. The results emphasize the importance of prioritizing rivers with high variability in water quality for regular monitoring and the development of adaptive conservation measures. The research holds strong applied significance for shaping a sustainable water use strategy in the region. Full article

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27 pages, 1677 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of IMO Market-Based Measures on Korean Shipping Companies: A Focus on the GHG Levy

by Hanna Kim and Sunghwa Park

Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6524; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146524 - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

This study examines the effects of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) market-based measures, with a particular focus on the greenhouse gas (GHG) levy and on the financial and operational performance of Korean shipping companies. The analysis estimates that these companies, which play a [...] Read more.

This study examines the effects of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) market-based measures, with a particular focus on the greenhouse gas (GHG) levy and on the financial and operational performance of Korean shipping companies. The analysis estimates that these companies, which play a vital role in global trade, consume approximately 9211 kilotons of fuel annually and emit 28.5 million tons of carbon dioxide. Under the lowest proposed carbon tax scenario, the financial burden on these companies is estimated at approximately KRW 1.07 trillion, resulting in an 8.8% reduction in net profit, a 2.4% decrease in return on equity (ROE), and a 1.1% decline in return on assets (ROA). Conversely, under the highest carbon tax scenario, costs rise to KRW 4.89 trillion, leading to a significant 40.2% decrease in net profit, thereby posing a serious threat to the financial stability and competitiveness of these firms. These findings underscore the urgent need for strategic policy interventions to mitigate the financial impact of carbon taxation while promoting both environmental sustainability and economic resilience in the maritime sector. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Management of Shipping, Ports and Logistics)

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26 pages, 5423 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Using System Thinking to Identify Food Wastage (FW) Leverage Points in Four Different Food Chains

by Annelies Verspeek-van der Stelt, Frederike Praasterink, Evelot Westerink-Duijzer, Ayella Spaapen, Woody Maijers and Antien Zuidberg

Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6523; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146523 - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

About one third of all food produced for human consumption is lost or wasted, leading to societal, economic and environmental challenges. This study identifies the most important food wastage (FW) leverage points and their interrelations with specific food chains. Semi-structured interviews were conducted [...] Read more.

About one third of all food produced for human consumption is lost or wasted, leading to societal, economic and environmental challenges. This study identifies the most important food wastage (FW) leverage points and their interrelations with specific food chains. Semi-structured interviews were conducted across four different food chains (milk, poultry, potatoes and greenhouse-grown fruit and vegetables) from primary production to food service. The outcomes of the interviews were summarized via a systems approach and validated during co-creation sessions. A total of twenty-two FW leverage points were identified across the food chains, consisting of four major hotspots, six patterns of behaviours, six structures and six mental models. Common transformative leverage points across all food chains were damaged products, oversupply, regulations and standards that limit product use and a lack of prioritization of FW reduction. Additionally, this study found that co-creation sessions with stakeholders from across the food chains could facilitate the formation of coalitions of willing companies, encouraging collaborative efforts to reduce FW. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Waste and Recycling)

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32 pages, 5175 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Scheduling and Routing of Device Maintenance for an Outdoor Air Quality Monitoring IoT

by Peng-Yeng Yin

Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6522; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146522 - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

Air quality monitoring IoT is one of the approaches to achieving a sustainable future. However, the large area of IoT and the high number of monitoring microsites pose challenges for device maintenance to guarantee quality of service (QoS) in monitoring. This paper proposes [...] Read more.

Air quality monitoring IoT is one of the approaches to achieving a sustainable future. However, the large area of IoT and the high number of monitoring microsites pose challenges for device maintenance to guarantee quality of service (QoS) in monitoring. This paper proposes a novel maintenance programming model for a large-area IoT containing 1500 monitoring microsites. In contrast to classic device maintenance, the addressed programming scenario considers the division of appropriate microsites into batches, the determination of the batch maintenance date, vehicle routing for the delivery of maintenance services, and a set of hard constraints such as QoS in air quality monitoring, the maximum number of labor working hours, and an upper limit on the total CO₂ emissions. Heuristics are proposed to generate the batches of microsites and the scheduled maintenance date for the batches. A genetic algorithm is designed to find the shortest routes by which to visit the batch microsites by a fleet of vehicles. Simulations are conducted based on government open data. The experimental results show that the maintenance and transportation costs yielded by the proposed model grow linearly with the number of microsites if the fleet size is also linearly related to the microsite number. The mean time between two consecutive cycles is around 17 days, which is generally sufficient for the preparation of the required maintenance materials and personnel. With the proposed method, the decision-maker can circumvent the difficulties in handling the hard constraints, and the allocation of maintenance resources, including budget, materials, and engineering personnel, is easier to manage. Full article

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

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23 pages, 1257 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Review of Research on Inclusive Tourism: Clusters of Thematic Links and Research Gaps

by Karolina Korbiel, Katarzyna Gmyrek and Zygmunt Kruczek

Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6521; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146521 - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

The aim of the study is to identify research on inclusive tourism and its links with related research directions. For this purpose, a review of the literature available in the Scopus database was carried out using the VOSviewer bibliometric tool. The analysis included [...] Read more.

The aim of the study is to identify research on inclusive tourism and its links with related research directions. For this purpose, a review of the literature available in the Scopus database was carried out using the VOSviewer bibliometric tool. The analysis included titles and abstracts of a selected group of articles that were assessed directly by the researchers. This process enabled the identification and characterisation of thematic clusters reflecting the most frequently undertaken research issues, and also allowed for the indication of research gaps and changes occurring over time. The results of the analysis are presented in the form of graphs and tables. In the discussion and final conclusions, significant connections of inclusive tourism are indicated. Although inclusiveness is an important objective of sustainable development, these terms were clearly linked in scientific research only in 2002, and since 2020, there has been a noticeable increase in these connections. The vast majority of studies are focused on the needs of people with mobility disabilities and seniors, but it has been noted that research is beginning to increasingly pay attention to other groups of individuals with special needs as well as the inclusion of marginalised social groups in tourism planning. Full article

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

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