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Editor’s Choice Articles

Editor’s Choice articles are based on recommendations by the scientific editors of MDPI journals from around the world. Editors select a small number of articles recently published in the journal that they believe will be particularly interesting to readers, or important in the respective research area. The aim is to provide a snapshot of some of the most exciting work published in the various research areas of the journal.

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19 pages, 23803 KiB  
Article
BlueNavi: A Microservices Architecture-Styled Platform Providing Maritime Information
by Hongze Liu, Irena Jurdana, Nikola Lopac and Nobukazu Wakabayashi
Sustainability 2022, 14(4), 2173; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14042173 - 14 Feb 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3728
Abstract
Traditional methods of marine navigation are undergoing a revolution brought about by the almost universal adoption of the Automatic Identification System (AIS). AIS exchanges a wealth of navigational information among vessels and between ships to shore through Very High Frequency (VHF). With AIS [...] Read more.
Traditional methods of marine navigation are undergoing a revolution brought about by the almost universal adoption of the Automatic Identification System (AIS). AIS exchanges a wealth of navigational information among vessels and between ships to shore through Very High Frequency (VHF). With AIS data integrated into the Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS), the identification and navigational information of surrounding vessels as well as aids to navigation can be reflected on the electronic charts in real time, despite some problems such as the low AIS carriage rate on small vessels where it is not mandatory and the high cost of ECDIS preventing such vessels from installing it. In this paper, we introduce BlueNavi, a lower cost but sustainable maritime information providing platform built with microservices architecture allowing flexible on-demand scalability and cross-platform adaptability. Applications served by BlueNavi can provide users with data either stored in a remote data center through the internet or received locally by devices connected to the station without the need for the internet. From our land test, we show that users with only an internet connection but without any AIS equipment can also obtain live AIS data collected by other stations. Conversely, with access to the internet, BlueNavi can also send data back to the land stations, enabling other ships to identify non-AIS ships as well. Through the live-ship test, we demonstrate that BlueNavi works well offline in cooperation with shipborne AIS equipment. We also look at some possible application scenarios for BlueNavi with other data sources and means of communication other than AIS and VHF that can be expanded to the platform. BlueNavi will enable inexpensive ship identification for small vessels and provide an extension of functionality to ECDIS for large ships. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Maritime Communications Network Development)
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19 pages, 486 KiB  
Article
Immigrant Diversity, Institutional Quality, and GVC Position
by Ying Zhou and Sajid Anwar
Sustainability 2022, 14(4), 2129; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14042129 - 13 Feb 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1855
Abstract
This paper investigates the effect of immigrant diversity on a country’s position in global value chains (GVCs) and how this effect depends on the institutional quality of destination countries. We investigate this issue using data on 19 manufacturing sectors of 18 OECD countries [...] Read more.
This paper investigates the effect of immigrant diversity on a country’s position in global value chains (GVCs) and how this effect depends on the institutional quality of destination countries. We investigate this issue using data on 19 manufacturing sectors of 18 OECD countries over the 2000–2014 period. Fixed effects estimation results show that the impact of immigrant diversity on the GVC position is significantly influenced by the institutional quality of destination countries. Specifically, in countries with high (low) institutional quality, immigrant diversity is positively (negatively) associated with the GVC position. Moreover, the interaction effect of immigrant diversity and institutional quality on the GVC position is heterogeneous across immigrant groups and institutional dimensions. This study not only enriches the literature on the relationship between immigrant diversity and GVC position but also discusses new ideas that can promote GVC positions of real economics, which is essential for sustainable economic development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Business Finance, Economic Development and Entrepreneurship under Uncertainty)
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19 pages, 2923 KiB  
Article
An Eye-Tracking Study on the Effect of Different Signalized Intersection Typologies on Pedestrian Performance
by Chiara Gruden, Irena Ištoka Otković and Matjaž Šraml
Sustainability 2022, 14(4), 2112; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14042112 - 12 Feb 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2574
Abstract
Pedestrian safety is a well-known issue, such that many road safety associations emphasize measures to improve this aspect. One of the main conflict points is pedestrian crossings, where motorized and non-motorized traffic flows directly interact and where pedestrian attention and reaction are two [...] Read more.
Pedestrian safety is a well-known issue, such that many road safety associations emphasize measures to improve this aspect. One of the main conflict points is pedestrian crossings, where motorized and non-motorized traffic flows directly interact and where pedestrian attention and reaction are two elements that can strongly influence their safety. Nowadays, these aspects are often deviated by the use of smartphones to surf the Internet or social media. The aim of the present study is to find out (1) whether and how intersection typology affects pedestrian behavior, both in terms of attention and crossing performance, and (2) whether and how gaze and behavioral characteristics are affected by smartphone use and social media browsing. To achieve this goal, eye-tracking technology was used to obtain qualitative and quantitative information on the number of fixations, their duration, and reaction times of pedestrians. Additionally, from the eye-tracking videos, it was possible to derive pedestrian waiting times, crossing times, and speeds. Statistical tests were conducted to determine if there is a significant difference in pedestrian behavior at the three different types of intersections and in their behavior when using or not using their device. Results confirm the initial hypotheses and quantify the difference in pedestrian gaze behavior and crossing performance when walking across three different types of signalized crosswalks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Traffic Flow, Road Safety, and Sustainable Transportation)
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16 pages, 1624 KiB  
Article
Characteristic Analysis of the Built Environment of Ferry Terminals: A Case Study of Mokpo, South Korea
by Hwayoung Kim, Jungyeon Choi, Yunwoo Nam and Jong-Hoon Youn
Sustainability 2022, 14(4), 2115; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14042115 - 12 Feb 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 4705
Abstract
Ferry terminals are an essential facility for those frequently commuting between islands or towns ashore. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure a smooth and efficient flow of passengers and vehicles while guaranteeing safety and convenience at the ferry terminal. This study investigates and [...] Read more.
Ferry terminals are an essential facility for those frequently commuting between islands or towns ashore. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure a smooth and efficient flow of passengers and vehicles while guaranteeing safety and convenience at the ferry terminal. This study investigates and evaluates the walking path environment and determines the passengers’ walkability and walking satisfaction of ferry terminals in Korea. As a case study, to measure the passenger’s overall perception and satisfaction of the built environment of the ferry terminal, we conducted an importance–performance analysis for two ferry terminals located in Mokpo city of Korea. The segments of the poor built environment in terms of walking were found. Furthermore, the ANOVA and t-test results confirmed that the satisfaction level of the built environment varied by age and residential location of passengers. There was a significant difference in satisfaction between the groups (age and residential location) in the walking path segments while embarking and disembarking the ferry. Passengers’ perceptions and walking satisfaction were different depending on the features of the built environment, including public transport accessibility, layout, distance, and surface condition of the walking path of the ferry terminal. As a limitation of the study, the case study was conducted only in the Mokpo region due to the impact of COVID-19, and the sample survey was also conducted in a short period of time. In addition, further studies are needed on the generalization of passengers’ walkability in ferry terminals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)
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20 pages, 1186 KiB  
Review
Socially Responsible Human Resource Management: A Systematic Literature Review and Research Agenda
by Afshin Omidi and Cinzia Dal Zotto
Sustainability 2022, 14(4), 2116; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14042116 - 12 Feb 2022
Cited by 27 | Viewed by 13173
Abstract
At the intersection of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and human resource management (HRM), a specific research strand has been forming and considerably flourishing over the past years, contributing to the burgeoning academic debate of what has been called “socially responsible human resource management” [...] Read more.
At the intersection of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and human resource management (HRM), a specific research strand has been forming and considerably flourishing over the past years, contributing to the burgeoning academic debate of what has been called “socially responsible human resource management” (SRHRM). The SRHRM debate seeks to proactively enhance employees’ work experiences and meet their personal and social expectations in ethical and socially responsible ways. Despite the increasing interest in research about SRHRM, however, the literature in this area is highly scattered, and a comprehensive study has yet to be undertaken. The present paper addresses this shortcoming by systematically reviewing 57 scholarly articles published in this research domain. It integrates previous insights on the topic to provide a far-reaching theoretical framework that highlights antecedents, practices, and outcomes of SRHRM research. As the results show, between 2011 and 2021, the Sustainability journal has published most of the empirical papers in this area, while the last three years (2019–2021) experienced a significant surge of publications on the topic. Our framework shapes a holistic overview of the SRHRM domain and illuminates different relevant elements upon which future studies in this area could be developed. This contribution is also beneficial for general CSR literature as it stresses the importance of its internal stakeholders, which have been comprehensively given less attention so far. By critically examining the recent literature on SRHRM, we further show how previous research is dominated by studies rooted in utilitarian approaches. Therefore, we set a research agenda for future studies by acknowledging the need for process-oriented studies and the importance of critical scholarship within the field of SRHRM. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Management)
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18 pages, 3210 KiB  
Article
Empirical Study on Temperature Influence on Noise Measurements with the Statistical Pass-By Method
by Michiel Geluykens, Ablenya Grangeiro de Barros, Luc Goubert and Cedric Vuye
Sustainability 2022, 14(4), 2099; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14042099 - 12 Feb 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2948
Abstract
Road traffic noise measurements, such as the Statistical Pass-By method (SPB) described in ISO 11819-1, are pivotal in assessing this noise pollution problem. As temperature is a primary cause of uncertainty in tyre/road noise measurements, the SPB method results need to be temperature [...] Read more.
Road traffic noise measurements, such as the Statistical Pass-By method (SPB) described in ISO 11819-1, are pivotal in assessing this noise pollution problem. As temperature is a primary cause of uncertainty in tyre/road noise measurements, the SPB method results need to be temperature corrected. The ISO 11819-1 standard is currently being revised and will refer to ISO/DTS 13471-2:2021, also in the drafting stage, for a temperature-correction procedure that is not present in the current ISO 11819-1:1997 version. Compared to other methods, little research has evaluated the temperature influence using the SPB method. In this paper, 18 SPB measurements were performed at three locations, with dense asphalt concrete and SMA as the pavement type. In total, over 5700 vehicles were captured, covering the complete temperature range in ISO 11819-1. For passenger cars, a temperature coefficient of −0.103 dB/°C was obtained while no statistically significant proof was found that temperature influences the sound-pressure levels for heavy vehicles at the speeds in this study (45–65 km/h). In this speed range for heavy vehicles, not only the tyre/road noise is a significant source of pass-by vehicle noise but also the power unit noise, on which the temperature influence is more complicated. Additionally, the analysis of various temperatures (air, road and estimated tyre temperature) revealed that the air temperature appears to be best suited for the temperature correction procedure. In third-octave bands, no effect was observed in the low-frequency range for passenger cars, contradicting previous research. Negative correction coefficients were found in the middle and high-frequency range, although trends presented in other studies were not observed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Noise)
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17 pages, 1258 KiB  
Article
Digital Education for Sustainable Development in Non-Formal Education in Germany and COVID-19-Induced Changes
by Florian Kohler, Alina Kuthe, Fiona Rochholz and Alexander Siegmund
Sustainability 2022, 14(4), 2114; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14042114 - 12 Feb 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2740
Abstract
Digital media increasingly transform daily routines as well as everyday actions and working environments, including education. Apps, games, computer programs, and social media, etc. can support and improve learning processes. The COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting restrictions of social life accelerated a shift [...] Read more.
Digital media increasingly transform daily routines as well as everyday actions and working environments, including education. Apps, games, computer programs, and social media, etc. can support and improve learning processes. The COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting restrictions of social life accelerated a shift towards the application of digital media in education as well as in distance learning. This paper answers questions about the current usage of digital media in non-formal education in Germany, especially in the context of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). The results of a 2020 survey in Germany with 111 participants show that digital media are an integral part of non-formal education; in particular, audio and video recording and filesharing are used often. Notably, the usage of web calls and webinars has increased since the pandemic. Regarding the disadvantages of digitals formats, participants note the investment in time and effort as well as the expensive equipment needed for development. Despite being dissatisfied with existing offers, a lot of institutions have not developed their own digital education formats (yet). This indicates a possible need for further training and education of educators in non-formal ESD, enabling them to independently create digital formats. This would also contribute to the quality of digital formats, of which many were possibly developed without proper expertise. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Trends, Challenges and Opportunities for Education in the New Agenda 2030)
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12 pages, 2343 KiB  
Article
Improving the Contribution of Forests to Carbon Neutrality under Different Policies—A Case Study from the Hamburg Metropolitan Area
by Leam Martes and Michael Köhl
Sustainability 2022, 14(4), 2088; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14042088 - 12 Feb 2022
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4176
Abstract
As various political initiatives have set goals to reach net-zero emissions by the mid-21st century, forests will play an important role as a carbon sink for sequestering unavoidable emissions. Forest management can take two approaches by either decreasing harvest and enlarging the forest [...] Read more.
As various political initiatives have set goals to reach net-zero emissions by the mid-21st century, forests will play an important role as a carbon sink for sequestering unavoidable emissions. Forest management can take two approaches by either decreasing harvest and enlarging the forest carbon stock or increasing harvest to increase carbon uptake and create harvested wood products (HWPs). Currently, these two management options seem at odds with seemingly conflicting policy directives being written. We used the BEKLIFUH model to assess six management scenarios based on carbon offset potential taking into consideration forest carbon, HWPs and the material and energetic substitution effects. The results show that while conservation leads to a higher above-ground carbon pool, including HWPs, material and energetic substitution leads to more overall carbon offsets for management scenarios with more timber harvesting. With compromise being possible by selectively conserving old growth forests with a high biodiversity value. In conclusion, if the forest sector decouples GHG reporting from forest management and includes all the secondary effects of timber harvest, this new approach can lead to a different cost–benefit analysis for the choice between harvest vs. conservation. This could result in a paradigm shift to a future where biodiversity and carbon neutrality can coexist. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Forestry)
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15 pages, 2010 KiB  
Article
Measuring the Value of Blockchain Traceability in Supporting LCA for Textile Products
by Vincent Carrières, Andrée-Anne Lemieux, Manuele Margni, Robert Pellerin and Sylvain Cariou
Sustainability 2022, 14(4), 2109; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14042109 - 12 Feb 2022
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 5156
Abstract
The efficiency of sustainability assessments of textile products is generally prevented because of a lack of available and reliable data across complex and globalized supply chains. The purpose of this study is to evaluate how blockchain traceability data can improve the Life Cycle [...] Read more.
The efficiency of sustainability assessments of textile products is generally prevented because of a lack of available and reliable data across complex and globalized supply chains. The purpose of this study is to evaluate how blockchain traceability data can improve the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of textile products and to measure the actual value of exploiting this specific traceability data. To do so, a case study consisting of two LCAs modeling the production of wool top lots in China was conducted. A first LCA was conducted with generic data and the second with the added value of specific blockchain traceability data. Based on the second LCA, different wool top lot composition scenarios were then modeled to account for the environmental impact of different farming practices. Two main results were obtained: the environmental impact of wool top lots can vary up to +118% between two batches depending on their composition, and the specific data changes drastically from the impact calculated with generic data, with +36% calculated impact for the same wool composition of batches. Therefore, it was concluded that blockchain traceability data could be a strong asset for conducting LCA at the batch level by providing differentiated data on batch composition and origin and providing readily available specific data for a more representative assessment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability Through the Textile and Apparel Supply Chain)
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18 pages, 340 KiB  
Review
Zero-Cement Concrete Resistance to External Sulfate Attack: A Critical Review and Future Needs
by Dima Kanaan, Ahmed M. Soliman and Ahmed R. Suleiman
Sustainability 2022, 14(4), 2078; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14042078 - 11 Feb 2022
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4118
Abstract
The durability of zero-cement concrete or alkali-activated materials (AAMs) is a subject of controversy, especially when exposed to sulfate attacks. This can be due to the different elemental and microstructural compositions of the broad alkali-activated systems that exhibit different degradation mechanisms in sulfate-rich [...] Read more.
The durability of zero-cement concrete or alkali-activated materials (AAMs) is a subject of controversy, especially when exposed to sulfate attacks. This can be due to the different elemental and microstructural compositions of the broad alkali-activated systems that exhibit different degradation mechanisms in sulfate-rich environments. Various parameters, such as properties of raw source materials (nature, fineness, and mineralogy), activators (type and concentration), mixture design, curing regime, types of sulfate salt and sulfate ion concentrations, and weathering conditions, are considered to have a significant impact on zero-cement concrete sulfate attack resistance. Furthermore, the adequacy of the standard sulfate immersion tests raises more concerns about the reported behavior. This paper presents a critical review of the current aging protocol associated with ordinary cement resistance and zero-cement concrete or AAMs to external sulfate attack. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability and Green Construction)
22 pages, 3107 KiB  
Article
Use of Universal Simulation Software Tools for Optimization of Signal Plans at Urban Intersections
by Peter Bindzar, Daniel Macuga, Jaroslaw Brodny, Magdalena Tutak and Marcela Malindzakova
Sustainability 2022, 14(4), 2079; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14042079 - 11 Feb 2022
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2739
Abstract
Intersections in cities are important transport hubs, where traffic flows from all roads meet, connect, disconnect or intersect. This research is dedicated to the creation of simulation models of intersections and is based on real observations of two crossroads in a city. The [...] Read more.
Intersections in cities are important transport hubs, where traffic flows from all roads meet, connect, disconnect or intersect. This research is dedicated to the creation of simulation models of intersections and is based on real observations of two crossroads in a city. The principle is based on observing traffic flows using real traffic counting at peak times. The aim is to reduce traffic congestion by adjusting signal plans on the monitored section using computer simulation and modelling in ExtendSim8 software, which is a universal tool allowing the user to simulate any system or process by creating a logical representation in an easy-to-use format. According to our preliminary literature research, the ExtendSim software has never before been used before to create an intersection simulation to optimize the signal plan. There are several specialized software products for simulating traffic and intersections, but not everyone has access to these, or else they require lengthy user training. Therefore, it is very advantageous to use a universal simulation tool that is not used for traffic simulation at intersections in the city. The article points out that a universal simulation program such as ExtendSim can also be used in the design or assessment of signal plans at intersections. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Public Transport in Urban Areas – Optimization, Management and Development)
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16 pages, 441 KiB  
Article
The Innovation of the Cashierless Store: A Preliminary Analysis in Italy
by Patrizia Gazzola, Daniele Grechi, Ilaria Martinelli and Roberta Pezzetti
Sustainability 2022, 14(4), 2034; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14042034 - 11 Feb 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 7296
Abstract
The retail sector, under the pressure of digitalization and technological innovation, has experienced profound changes in the last decade, and retailers have had to cope with these changes by implementing new business models and competitive strategies with the aim of satisfying the consumers’ [...] Read more.
The retail sector, under the pressure of digitalization and technological innovation, has experienced profound changes in the last decade, and retailers have had to cope with these changes by implementing new business models and competitive strategies with the aim of satisfying the consumers’ needs. In the last few decades, the sector has been affected by different new trends, from the birth of supermarkets to the advent of e-commerce, up to the introduction of cashierless stores. The latter represents a new category of store that is totally computer-based and digitalized, in which the use of cameras, sensors and self-shelves minimizes human interaction. Amazon pioneered this emerging concept, with the launch of Amazon Go, but other start-up companies are rapidly entering the cashierless retail market and embracing the challenge. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the knowledge of Italian consumers of cashierless shops, and the relevance of different factors related to this new kind of shops. A questionnaire was sent to a sample of more than 1000 consumers to identify and evaluate the actual situation and knowledge of this phenomenon, which is not yet diffuse in Italy. A statistical analysis, regarding both their knowledge about cashierless stores and the customer experience, is provided to discuss the most relevant factors affecting the customers’ perceptions and attitudes, with a comparison per gender and type of users. The results of the provided analysis reveal that the phenomenon is very little known, and this is certainly influenced by the lack of these stores in Italy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fourth Revolution and Sustainability)
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14 pages, 470 KiB  
Article
Application of Physics-Informed Machine Learning Techniques for Power Grid Parameter Estimation
by Subhash Lakshminarayana, Saurav Sthapit and Carsten Maple
Sustainability 2022, 14(4), 2051; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14042051 - 11 Feb 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3619
Abstract
Power grid parameter estimation involves the estimation of unknown parameters, such as the inertia and damping coefficients, from the observed dynamics. In this work, we present physics-informed machine learning algorithms for the power system parameter estimation problem. First, we propose a novel algorithm [...] Read more.
Power grid parameter estimation involves the estimation of unknown parameters, such as the inertia and damping coefficients, from the observed dynamics. In this work, we present physics-informed machine learning algorithms for the power system parameter estimation problem. First, we propose a novel algorithm to solve the parameter estimation based on the Sparse Identification of Nonlinear Dynamics (SINDy) approach, which uses sparse regression to infer the parameters that best describe the observed data. We then compare its performance against another benchmark algorithm, namely, the physics-informed neural networks (PINN) approach applied to parameter estimation. We perform extensive simulations on IEEE bus systems to examine the performance of the aforementioned algorithms. Our results show that the SINDy algorithm outperforms the PINN algorithm in estimating the power grid parameters over a wide range of system parameters (including high and low inertia systems) and power grid architectures. Particularly, in case of the slow dynamics system, the proposed SINDy algorithms outperforms the PINN algorithm, which struggles to accurately determine the parameters. Moreover, it is extremely efficient computationally and so takes significantly less time than the PINN algorithm, thus making it suitable for real-time parameter estimation. Furthermore, we present an extension of the SINDy algorithm to a scenario where the operator does not have the exact knowledge of the underlying system model. We also present a decentralised implementation of the SINDy algorithm which only requires limited information exchange between the neighbouring nodes of a power grid. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Securing Smart Grid Cyber-Physical Infrastructure against Emerging Threats)
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18 pages, 3076 KiB  
Article
A Preliminary Assessment of Rider/Driver Gaze Behaviour in Slovenian Urban Areas
by Tomaž Tollazzi, Matej Moharić and Chiara Gruden
Sustainability 2022, 14(4), 2056; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14042056 - 11 Feb 2022
Viewed by 2373
Abstract
Motorcycle riders are an increasing group of road users. The intrinsic characteristics of powered two wheelers (PTW) allow them to be particularly flexible, both in urban and extra-urban environments. Nevertheless, crash statistics indicate that riders involved in road accidents are highly likely to [...] Read more.
Motorcycle riders are an increasing group of road users. The intrinsic characteristics of powered two wheelers (PTW) allow them to be particularly flexible, both in urban and extra-urban environments. Nevertheless, crash statistics indicate that riders involved in road accidents are highly likely to suffer severe injuries, underlining the vulnerability of this group of road users. An element that can greatly affect the safety of PTW users is road design, as roads are usually designed for two-track vehicles (cars, buses, and lorries) and do not consider the needs of PTWs. Additionally, handling a motorcycle is quite different from driving a car; thus, the behaviour of riders is different to that of drivers. The aim of this paper is to compare how different road designs are perceived by riders and drivers and to preliminarily assess if riders’ behaviour and attention allocation are related. For the purpose of this research, an eye-tracking experiment was developed outdoors. Both drivers and riders travelled along a route comprising four different road designs and various road layouts, and the output was analysed both qualitatively and quantitatively. Although it was not possible to carry out a statistical analysis due to the limited number of participants, the results demonstrate that there is a difference in the gaze behaviour of drivers and riders, with the latter being far more focused on the left-hand side of the road and concentrating on defined elements of road design. Furthermore, the experiment demonstrated that a higher number of fixations is related to lower speeds. Finally, it was noted that both kinds of road users focus fairly well on the carriageway, leading to the conclusion that the indications given through road markings may be much more effective than vertical signalisation, which has rarely been observed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Traffic Flow, Road Safety, and Sustainable Transportation)
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15 pages, 1215 KiB  
Article
Learning Football for Good: The Development and Evaluation of the Football3 MOOC
by Louis Moustakas and Lisa Kalina
Sustainability 2022, 14(4), 2061; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14042061 - 11 Feb 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2541
Abstract
Over the last two decades, sport has become a recognised tool to achieve sustainable development outcomes. Known as sport for development (SFD), this approach can broadly be defined as the intentional use of sport to achieve development objectives. Many SFD organisations implement methods [...] Read more.
Over the last two decades, sport has become a recognised tool to achieve sustainable development outcomes. Known as sport for development (SFD), this approach can broadly be defined as the intentional use of sport to achieve development objectives. Many SFD organisations implement methods that seek to achieve developmental goals by reorienting sport away from its competitive aspects and encouraging participation, fair play and communication. Of these methods, football3 is arguably the most widespread. Despite its popularity, there remain challenges in its implementation. As a result, there have been numerous calls to develop educational materials and opportunities around football3. In response, the football3 for all project led to the development and launch of a freely accessible, Massive Open Online Course (MOOC). However, there is still little knowledge about how online learning approaches are used in SFD, how they accommodate the practical and social nature of SFD, and whether they optimise student learning. Using findings from feedback surveys and focus group discussions, we present results from the development and evaluation of the football3 MOOC. The findings suggest a high level of satisfaction with the course, but also a need for practical tools and exchange to improve delivery on the pitch. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovation in Physical Education, Physical Activity and Sport)
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11 pages, 937 KiB  
Article
Paralympic Powerlifting as a Sustainable Way to Improve Strength in Athletes with Spinal Cord Injury and Other Disabilities
by Felipe J. Aidar, Stefania Cataldi, Georgian Badicu, Ana Filipa Silva, Filipe Manuel Clemente, Francesca Latino, Gianpiero Greco and Francesco Fischetti
Sustainability 2022, 14(4), 2017; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14042017 - 10 Feb 2022
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 2438
Abstract
Background: in Paralympic Powerlifting (PP), athletes with a spinal cord injury (SCI) and other disabilities (OD) compete together. However, athletes with SCI are at a disadvantage in terms of force production and transfer. Objective: to analyze the strength and the dynamic and static [...] Read more.
Background: in Paralympic Powerlifting (PP), athletes with a spinal cord injury (SCI) and other disabilities (OD) compete together. However, athletes with SCI are at a disadvantage in terms of force production and transfer. Objective: to analyze the strength and the dynamic and static indicators, at different intensities, tied and untied in athletes with SCI and OD. Methods: the sample presented 10 OD (28.30 ± 4.92 years) and 10 SCI (30.00 ± 4.27 years), classified competitors, and eligible to compete in the sport (all males). Maximum isometric force (MIF); time to MIF (Time); rate of force development (RFD); impulse, variability, and fatigue index (FI); and the dynamic tests of Mean Propulsive Velocity (MPV), Velocity Maximum (Vmax), and Power with loads of 40, 60, and 80% of 1 Repetition Maximum (1 RM), respectively. Results: there were no differences between OD and SCI in dynamic and isometric strength indicators. In MPV, there was an 80% difference between tethered and untethered SCI (p = 0.041). In VMax, there were differences in SCI between tethered and untethered, 40% (p = 0.004) and 80% (p = 0.023), respectively. There were no differences in the other intensities. Conclusion: PP training seems to be a sustainable way to promote strength gains in SCI, since there were no differences between athletes with SCI and OD, as practitioners of Paralympic Powerlifting. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Education, Exercise, and Sport for a Sustainable Environment and Lifestyle)
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18 pages, 16167 KiB  
Article
Urban Sound Auralization and Visualization Framework—Case Study at IHTApark
by Josep Llorca-Bofí, Christian Dreier, Jonas Heck and Michael Vorländer
Sustainability 2022, 14(4), 2026; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14042026 - 10 Feb 2022
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4197
Abstract
In the context of acoustic urban planning, the use of noise mappings is a worldwide well-established practice. Therefore, the noise levels in an urban environment are calculated based on models of the sound sources, models of the physical sound propagation effects and the [...] Read more.
In the context of acoustic urban planning, the use of noise mappings is a worldwide well-established practice. Therefore, the noise levels in an urban environment are calculated based on models of the sound sources, models of the physical sound propagation effects and the position of the receivers in the area of interest. However, the noise mapping method is limited to sound levels in frequency bands due to missing temporal and spectral information of the sound signals. This, in turn, leads to missing information about the qualitative sound properties, as they can be evaluated in psychoacoustic parameters. Beyond the scope of the classical noise mapping, auralization and physically-based simulation of sound fields can be applied to urban scenarios in the context of urban soundscape analysis. By supporting the auralization technology with a visual counterpart of the urban space, a plausible virtual representation of a real environment can be achieved. The presented framework combines the possibilities of the open-source auralization tool Virtual Acoustics with 3D visualization. In order to enable studies with natural human response or for public communication of urban design projects, those virtual scenes can be either reproduced with immersive technologies—such head-mounted displays (HMD)—or using online video platforms and traditional playback devices. The paper presents an overview of what physical principles can already be simulated, which technological considerations need to be taken into account, and how to set up such environment for auralization and visualization of urban scenes. We present the framework by the case study of IHTApark. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Noise Analysis and Management in Smart Cities)
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23 pages, 2994 KiB  
Article
Sustainable Management Practices and Stakeholder Pressure: A Systematic Literature Review
by Fazli Haleem, Sami Farooq, Yang Cheng and Brian Vejrum Waehrens
Sustainability 2022, 14(4), 1967; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14041967 - 9 Feb 2022
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 7242
Abstract
This paper aims to summarize and analyze what is known regarding the ways in which stakeholder pressure may influence sustainable practices. Furthermore, this study extends this understanding to the development of several research opportunities for further investigation. A systematic extensive literature review was [...] Read more.
This paper aims to summarize and analyze what is known regarding the ways in which stakeholder pressure may influence sustainable practices. Furthermore, this study extends this understanding to the development of several research opportunities for further investigation. A systematic extensive literature review was performed to investigate the relationship between stakeholder pressure and sustainable management practices. This literature review shows that organizational factors are more widely covered than the individual and macro-level factors as moderating variables, and suggests more organizational-, individual-, and macro-level factors, as well as the interaction of these factors as moderating variables on the link between stakeholder pressure and sustainable management practices. Furthermore, the use of the stakeholder theory is dominant, followed by the use of the institutional theory. The manufacturing sector is widely covered, survey methodology is extensively used, and the environmental dimensions are more addressed than the social dimensions of sustainability. The relationship between stakeholder pressure and the adoption of sustainable management practices is not obvious, due to the varied results. Therefore, it is difficult to establish a direct relationship between stakeholder pressure and the adoption of sustainable management practices. This study furthers insight into the stakeholder pressure influence on sustainable management practices by reviewing the comprehensive literature and suggesting future research opportunities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Management)
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12 pages, 1428 KiB  
Article
A Noninvasive Genetic Insight into the Spatial and Social Organization of an Endangered Population of the Eurasian Otter (Lutra lutra, Mustelidae, Carnivora)
by Laura Lerone, Chiara Mengoni, Mirko Di Febbraro, Hannah Krupa and Anna Loy
Sustainability 2022, 14(4), 1943; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14041943 - 9 Feb 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2790
Abstract
The Eurasian otter is endangered in Italy, only surviving in southern river basins. The spatial and social structure of a population living at the border of the current range was explored through a noninvasive genetic study along 174 km of the Sangro river. [...] Read more.
The Eurasian otter is endangered in Italy, only surviving in southern river basins. The spatial and social structure of a population living at the border of the current range was explored through a noninvasive genetic study along 174 km of the Sangro river. Sampling was conducted in 2011 and 2012, collecting spraints and anal jellies at 62 marking sites. Samples were successfully genotyped at 13 nuclear microsatellites and the ZFX/ZFY locus for molecular sexing, resulting in 14 distinct genotypes (4 females, 2 possible females, 8 males), from 35 marking sites. Mean captures/recaptures rate was 3.8 captures/individual, with males being recaptured more frequently than females. Spatial overlap among individuals was analyzed through a linear regression model fitted against sibship categories and sex pairing. Nine out of the fourteen genotyped individuals belonged to three full-sib clusters, while five individuals had no full-sibs in the population. Full-sibs overlapped more than half-sibs, while male–male pairs showed significantly higher spatial overlap than both male–female and female–female pairs. Estimated mean density was 0.152 otters/km and 2.4 individuals/10 × 10 km grid cell. Accordingly, the 3440 grid cells of otter occurrence in Italy could likely host about 8000 otters, suggesting the current population has become larger than the minimum viable population size. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mammal Status: Diversity, Abundance and Dynamics)
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13 pages, 2655 KiB  
Article
The Impact of the Neophyte Tree Fraxinus pennsylvanica [Marshall] on Beetle Diversity under Climate Change
by Andreas Floren, Peter J. Horchler and Tobias Müller
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1914; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031914 - 8 Feb 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 5021
Abstract
We studied the impact of the neophyte tree Fraxinus pennsylvanica on the diversity of beetles in floodplain forests along the river Elbe in Germany in 2016, 2017 and in 2020, where 80% of all Fraxinus excelsior trees had died following severe droughts. Beetles [...] Read more.
We studied the impact of the neophyte tree Fraxinus pennsylvanica on the diversity of beetles in floodplain forests along the river Elbe in Germany in 2016, 2017 and in 2020, where 80% of all Fraxinus excelsior trees had died following severe droughts. Beetles were collected by insecticidal knock-down from 121 trees (64 F. excelsior and 57 F. pennsylvanica) and identified to 547 species in 15,214 specimens. The trees sampled in 2016 and 2017 showed no signs of drought stress or ash dieback and serve as a reference for the comparison with the 2020 fauna. The data proved that F. excelsior harbours the most diverse beetle community, which differed also significantly in guild composition from F. pennsylvanica. Triggered by extremely dry and long summer seasons, the 2020 ash dieback had profound and forest-wide impacts. Several endangered, red-listed beetle species of Saxonia Anhalt had increased in numbers and became secondary pests on F. excelsior. Diversity decreased whilst numbers of xylobionts increased on all trees, reaching 78% on F. excelsior. Proportions of xylobionts remained constant on F. pennsylvanica. Phytophages were almost absent from all trees, but mycetophages increased on F. pennsylvanica. Our data suggest that as a result of the dieback of F. excelsior the neophyte F. pennsylvanica might become a rescue species for the European Ash fauna, as it provides the second-best habitat. We show how difficult it is to assess the dynamics and the ecological impact of neophytes, especially under conditions similar to those projected by climate change models. The diversity and abundance of canopy arthropods demonstrates their importance in understanding forest functions and maintenance of ecosystem services, illustrating that their consideration is essential for forest adaptation to climate change. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selecting Climate Resilient Tree Species for Forest Restoration – What Is Necessary and What Is Possible?)
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18 pages, 3086 KiB  
Article
Forest Education with the Use of Educational Infrastructure in the Opinion of the Public-Experience from Poland
by Natalia Korcz and Emilia Janeczko
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1915; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031915 - 8 Feb 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2535
Abstract
In Poland, informal forest education is carried out mostly on forest educational paths, equipped with educational boards. Due to the diverse audience, an attempt was made to assess the elements supporting forest education from the perspective of forest users. The aim of the [...] Read more.
In Poland, informal forest education is carried out mostly on forest educational paths, equipped with educational boards. Due to the diverse audience, an attempt was made to assess the elements supporting forest education from the perspective of forest users. The aim of the study is to determine the basic criteria that, in the opinion of path users, determine the use, attractiveness, and importance of educational boards in education. In an anonymous questionnaire, 504 people participated during meetings with an educator on paths in forests of the Regional Directorate of the State Forests in Lublin. In the opinion of trail users, boards are not an important element that should be present on educational trails; in their opinion, they moderately support informal forest education activities. Users generally paid attention to between one to two or three to four boards. The attractiveness of the boards is determined by the graphics of the whole board. Respondents would also prefer boards on which information is presented in graphical rather than text form. Our study indicates a somewhat negative perception of educational boards in forest education, which has prompted the authors to conduct further research in order to clarify forest users’ perceptions of the issues analyzed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Forest Education)
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24 pages, 1816 KiB  
Article
Analyzing the Implementation of Lean Methodologies and Practices in the Portuguese Industry: A Survey
by Carla M. A. Pinto, Jorge Mendonça, Lurdes Babo, Francisco J. G. Silva and José L. R. Fernandes
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1929; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031929 - 8 Feb 2022
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4553
Abstract
The mass production paradigm on which much of the industry was based has changed. The market is increasingly demanding, requesting diversity and products that are more and more adapted to personal wishes and requirements. This implies producing a greater diversity of products in [...] Read more.
The mass production paradigm on which much of the industry was based has changed. The market is increasingly demanding, requesting diversity and products that are more and more adapted to personal wishes and requirements. This implies producing a greater diversity of products in smaller quantities. Competitiveness is enormous, which forces most companies to be truly effective and efficient, taking care of product quality, delivery time, and final cost. Lean methodologies have been a valuable aid in this field. The diversity of Lean tools has been shown to have answers to the most diverse challenges, and companies are aware of this, increasingly adopting methodologies and processes that aim to progressively reduce waste and adapting their production paradigm to what the market requires. This work intends to provide a vision, as global as possible, of the pathway of Lean implementation in the Portuguese industry. For this purpose, a survey was carried out with a significant sample of Portuguese industrial companies from a wide range of activity sectors. The data collected through the survey were treated statistically, and then a SWOT analysis of the results was performed, which provided a collection of precious information on the evolution of industrial companies in Portugal. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection New Frontiers in Production Engineering)
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26 pages, 5589 KiB  
Article
Life Cycle Assessment of the High Performance Discontinuous Fibre (HiPerDiF) Technology and Its Operation in Various Countries
by Amy M. Fitzgerald, Nathan Wong, Annabel V. L. Fitzgerald, David A. Jesson, Ffion Martin, Richard J. Murphy, Tim Young, Ian Hamerton and Marco L. Longana
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1922; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031922 - 8 Feb 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3354
Abstract
Composite waste is a growing issue due to the increased global demand for products manufactured from these advanced engineering materials. Current reclamation methods produce short length fibres that, if not realigned during remanufacture, result in low-value additives for non-structural applications. Consequently, to maximise [...] Read more.
Composite waste is a growing issue due to the increased global demand for products manufactured from these advanced engineering materials. Current reclamation methods produce short length fibres that, if not realigned during remanufacture, result in low-value additives for non-structural applications. Consequently, to maximise the economic and functional potential, fibre realignment must occur. The High Performance Discontinuous Fibre (HiPerDiF) technology is a novel process that produces highly aligned discontinuous fibre-reinforced composites, which largely meet the structural performance of virgin fibres, but to date, the environmental performance of the machine is yet to be quantified. This study assessed the environmental impacts of the operation of the machine using life cycle assessment methodology. Electrical energy consumption accounts for the majority of the greenhouse gas emissions, with water consumption as the main contributor to ecosystem quality damage. Suggestions have been made to reduce energy demand and reuse the water in order to reduce the overall environmental impact. The hypothetical operation of the machine across different European countries was also examined to understand the impacts associated with bulk material transport and electricity from different energy sources. It was observed that the environmental impact showed an inverse correlation with the increased use of renewable sources for electricity generation due to a reduction in air pollutants from fossil fuel combustion. The analysis also revealed that significant reductions in environmental damage from material transport between the reclamation facility to the remanufacturing site should also be accounted for, and concluded that transportation routes predominantly via shipping have a lower environmental impact than road and rail haulage. This study is one of the first attempts to evaluate the environmental impact of this new technology at early conceptual development and to assess how it would operate in a European scenario. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Sustainability Challenges in Polymer Composite Materials: Bio-Based Materials, Recycling, and Life Cycle)
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8 pages, 500 KiB  
Article
Sustainable Local Food Evaluation by Dosage of Some Metallic Pollutants in Wild Insect Species Consumed in Togo
by Fègbawè Badanaro, Narcis Barsan, Amivi Tété-Benissan, Valentin Nedeff and Mirela Panainte-Lehadus
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1892; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031892 - 7 Feb 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1579
Abstract
In tropical countries, where human consumption of insects is a traditional practice, insects are mainly harvested in the natural environment. These insects are thus exposed to all forms of pollution, particularly metallic pollutants. However, an inventory of scientific knowledge on the risks related [...] Read more.
In tropical countries, where human consumption of insects is a traditional practice, insects are mainly harvested in the natural environment. These insects are thus exposed to all forms of pollution, particularly metallic pollutants. However, an inventory of scientific knowledge on the risks related to the consumption of insects is missing in the international scientific literature. It is therefore essential to conduct research on the trace metals (TMEs) contained in insects caught in the wild. The objective of this work is to evaluate the level of accumulation of TMEs by insect species commonly consumed in Togo to estimate the health risk related to insect consumption. To do this, 12 species of insects consumed in their adult stage were collected across the whole territory of Togo. These samples were analyzed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry to determine TMEs. It appears that traces of different metallic elements exist in the samples at variable rates. The aquatic species Cybister tripunctatus is the most contaminated, with levels of cadmium (0.504 mg/kg) and lead (0.501 mg/kg) at the limit of edibility threshold. The concentrations of all TMEs in insects during this study are within acceptable limits for human consumption. The risk of human contamination with TMEs through insect consumption is therefore low. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Waste: Treatments, Environmental Impacts, Current and Potential Uses)
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19 pages, 966 KiB  
Article
Spatio-Temporal Assessment of Biomass Self-Sufficiency in the European Union
by Vlada Vitunskienė, Akvilė Aleksandravičienė and Neringa Ramanauskė
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1897; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031897 - 7 Feb 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2617
Abstract
Growing concerns over ecosystem degradation, climate change, loss in biodiversity, and rapid depletion of natural resources have urged societies of the developed countries all over the world to encounter the challenge of shifting from fossil-based to bio-based economies. With European Green Deal priorities [...] Read more.
Growing concerns over ecosystem degradation, climate change, loss in biodiversity, and rapid depletion of natural resources have urged societies of the developed countries all over the world to encounter the challenge of shifting from fossil-based to bio-based economies. With European Green Deal priorities on a transition to a climate-neutral economy with net-zero GHGs emissions by 2050, projected demand for biomass is 40–100% higher, relative to its supply. To provide an overview on the capacity of the European Union countries to satisfy its demand for biomass through the organic materials extracted directly from the domestic natural environment, the study aimed to assess the biomass self-sufficiency based on its domestic extraction-domestic consumption balance. Both the spatial and temporal variability of the self-sufficiency ratio are used to characterise the stability of capacity to satisfy our own needs for biomass in the EU economy as a whole, and at the level of individual member states. The findings indicate that the differences in biomass self-sufficiency ratios are quite high among the European Union member countries (i.e., in the range of 15% in Malta and 33% in Cyprus; up to 184% in Estonia and 224% in Latvia (on average in 2016–2018)). GMM analysis (EU-28, 2000–2018 period) is provided in this study to define the main statistically significant factors that have an impact on the biomass self-sufficiency ratio. This study contributes to the debate on the issues of biomass self-sufficiency in the context of ecological constraint and the EU’s Green Deal. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Circular Bioeconomy)
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17 pages, 604 KiB  
Article
Do University Students’ Security Perceptions Influence Their Walking Preferences and Their Walking Activity? A Case Study of Granada (Spain)
by Carmen Lizárraga, Cathaysa Martín-Blanco, Isabel Castillo-Pérez and Jorge Chica-Olmo
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1880; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031880 - 7 Feb 2022
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3222
Abstract
A sustainable city must be a safe place for its inhabitants when walking, with the absence of fear of crime being one of its main attributes. Although perceived insecurity is one of the main deterrents of walking activity, this relationship requires some clarification [...] Read more.
A sustainable city must be a safe place for its inhabitants when walking, with the absence of fear of crime being one of its main attributes. Although perceived insecurity is one of the main deterrents of walking activity, this relationship requires some clarification in environments which are walkable and safe, with low crime rates. This article contributes to the evidence for the influence of perceived security on walking activity and, as a novel aspect, also analyzes the effects of perceived security on walking as the preferred travel mode. In order to study this relationship, we use a method that combines non-linear principal component analysis (NLPCA) and a logit model (LM). The data are taken from a survey of university students carried out in the city of Granada. Results show that gender and perceived security have a greater effect on the choice of walking as the preferred travel mode, while location factors have significantly more weight in the explanation of the choice of walking as the most usual travel mode. These findings may be extended to other urban areas and can be of use for the implementation of urban policies aimed at designing the built environment to develop more sustainable cities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Transport Inequalities, Transport Poverty and Sustainability)
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13 pages, 2045 KiB  
Article
Shared Logistic Service for Resilient Agri-Food System: Study of E-Commerce for Local and B2B Markets in Japan
by Kaiyuan Lin, Hiroe Ishihara, Chialin Tsai, Shihhan Hung and Masaru Mizoguchi
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1858; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031858 - 6 Feb 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4260
Abstract
Escalating intensification and homogenization occurring throughout the supply chain poses serious challenges to the global food supply. Several approaches have been developed to shift the food systems to a more resilient path; however, the high unit costs of shipping impede its development. This [...] Read more.
Escalating intensification and homogenization occurring throughout the supply chain poses serious challenges to the global food supply. Several approaches have been developed to shift the food systems to a more resilient path; however, the high unit costs of shipping impede its development. This paper proposes a shared logistic service supported by E-commerce as a solution to this problem. It analyzes the shared logistic system developed by Vegibus Ins. in Japan which has unique features, such as fixed routes. It argues that the logistic service has the ability to connect different scales while supporting flexible transactions leading to the construction of a resilient agri-food system. At the same time, the paper points out the need for subsidies from the governments to facilitate this kind of shared logistic service at the initial stage as one limitation to this approach. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Food Value Chain for Rural Development: The Use of Smart Agriculture)
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13 pages, 2140 KiB  
Article
The Effects of Rabbit Manure-Derived Biochar on Soil Health and Quality Attributes of Two Mine Tailings
by Eliana Cárdenas-Aguiar, Ana Méndez, Jorge Paz-Ferreiro and Gabriel Gascó
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1866; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031866 - 6 Feb 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3176
Abstract
Biochar amendment is becoming a promising technology for mining soil restoration. The addition of biochar can improve soil microbiological parameters related to soil quality, such as enzyme activities. The aim of the present research was to evaluate the effect of rabbit manure (RM) [...] Read more.
Biochar amendment is becoming a promising technology for mining soil restoration. The addition of biochar can improve soil microbiological parameters related to soil quality, such as enzyme activities. The aim of the present research was to evaluate the effect of rabbit manure (RM) and two rabbit manure biochars prepared at two pyrolysis temperatures (300 and 600 °C) on the biochemical properties of two mining soils in the Portman area (Spain) in the presence or absence of vegetation. Soils were amended with the RM, the two biochars and a mixture of the rabbit manure and biochars (50/50 w/w) at a rate of 10% in a mesocosms experiment to study the changes in dehydrogenase, phosphomonoesterase, β-glucosidase activities, geometric mean of enzyme activities (GMea) and soil microbial biomass (SMB). Changes in individual enzyme activities were not always consistent. However, when using the GMea as a measure of soil quality, our results showed an increase in the GMea (217–360 times) after the addition of rabbit manure to mining soils, while this increase was from 81–270 times following the addition of rabbit manure with biochar prepared at 300 °C. Therefore, the use of biochar prepared at low temperatures could be a promising direction for the improvement of soil quality and soil carbon sequestration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Waste to Biochar for a Sustainable Future)
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14 pages, 2786 KiB  
Article
Exploring Differentiated Conservation Priorities of Urban Green Space Based on Tradeoffs of Ecological Functions
by Huiying Li, Dianfeng Liu and Jianhua He
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1845; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031845 - 5 Feb 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2568
Abstract
Urban green space (UGS) can simultaneously provide social and ecological benefits for humans. Although numerous studies have evaluated the multifunctional benefits of urban green space, few of them have determined the differentiated conservation priorities of UGS towards the tradeoff relationship of multiple UGS [...] Read more.
Urban green space (UGS) can simultaneously provide social and ecological benefits for humans. Although numerous studies have evaluated the multifunctional benefits of urban green space, few of them have determined the differentiated conservation priorities of UGS towards the tradeoff relationship of multiple UGS functions. Here, we proposed an integrated framework to explore the targeted conservation strategies of UGS patches. Specifically, the circuit theory model and gravity floating catchment area method were adopted to evaluate ecological connectivity and spatial accessibility of UGS under multiple scenarios in terms of different species dispersal distances and resident travelling modes, and Pareto ranking analysis was utilized to identify conservation priorities of UGS. Wuhan City in central China was taken as a case study. The results show that Wuhan exhibits low synergic relationship of ecological connectivity and spatial accessibility of UGS, and only approximately 7.51% of UGS patches on average rank high. Based on the frequency of UGS Pareto ranks under different scenarios, the differentiated conservation strategy was developed, which identified 10 key green areas that need to be protected and 11 green areas that need to be restored. This work is expected to provide an applicable framework to identify key UGS patches and assist in urban planning and layout optimization of multifunctional UGS in Wuhan, China. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Sustainable Utilization and Optimal Decision of Land Resources)
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25 pages, 7784 KiB  
Article
Exploring the Impact of Green Walls on Occupant Thermal State in Immersive Virtual Environment
by Alireza Sedghikhanshir, Yimin Zhu, Yan Chen and Brendan Harmon
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1840; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031840 - 5 Feb 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3187
Abstract
Green walls have been used in built environments as a natural element to bring various benefits, thus improving human health and well-being. However, in conventional virtual environments, the visual connection with a green wall is the only way that this natural element could [...] Read more.
Green walls have been used in built environments as a natural element to bring various benefits, thus improving human health and well-being. However, in conventional virtual environments, the visual connection with a green wall is the only way that this natural element could benefit humans. Unfortunately, the impact of such visual connection on human thermal perception is still not well understood. Thus, we conducted an experimental study with 40 participants comparing the thermal state of two virtual sessions: biophilic (a room with a green wall) and non-biophilic (the same room without a green wall). Both sessions were conducted in a climate chamber under a slightly warm condition (28.89 °C and 50% relative humidity). Participants’ thermal state, skin temperature, and heart rate data were collected. According to the results, participants’ thermal comfort and hand skin temperature were significantly different between the two sessions, and their mean skin temperature was statistically increased over time. The study suggests that before the extent to which the impact of visual stimuli (e.g., green walls) on thermal perception is fully understood, researchers may need to control visual and thermal stimuli separately when using them in immersive virtual environments. Furthermore, the virtual exposure time should be an important consideration when designing experimental procedures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Built Environment and Sustainability)
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15 pages, 9395 KiB  
Article
Impact of Transport Development on the Accessibility of Selected Functional Elements: The Case of the Suburban Zielonki Municipality within the Krakow Metropolitan Area
by Sabina Puławska-Obiedowska, Tomasz Bajwoluk and Piotr Langer
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1821; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031821 - 5 Feb 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2055
Abstract
The objective of this paper is to present the findings of an investigation of areas of concentration of selected functions within the Zielonki suburban community—namely, their mutual relations and accessibility. The investigation of interdependence between transport system development within a municipality and transformation [...] Read more.
The objective of this paper is to present the findings of an investigation of areas of concentration of selected functions within the Zielonki suburban community—namely, their mutual relations and accessibility. The investigation of interdependence between transport system development within a municipality and transformation processes observed to take place in its territory can allow one to determine the precepts of its future development. The investigation covered Zielonki—a suburban community near Krakow—as a distinctive case of contemporary transformations of the functio-spatial structure of a suburban zone that remains under the influence of the developmental processes of a large urban center in Poland. The ongoing urbanization of suburban areas indicates their constant investment attractiveness. However, the development of transport infrastructure does not seem to keep pace with the ongoing process of change, especially in the areas of new housing and service concentration zones. The observed phenomena negatively impact the emergence of a sustainable suburban space, and the increase in vehicular traffic lowers the quality of life within this area. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Transport Infrastructure in Regional Development)
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21 pages, 1469 KiB  
Article
How Many Real Islands Have Existed along a Mid-Danube Section during the Past 250 Years?
by Szilvia Ádám and Ákos Malatinszky
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1829; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031829 - 5 Feb 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1847
Abstract
The consequences of river regulation work and other human interventions from the past can still be followed and cause various effects on the Danube river, especially on the formation and state of the islands. We aimed to compile an inventory of the islands [...] Read more.
The consequences of river regulation work and other human interventions from the past can still be followed and cause various effects on the Danube river, especially on the formation and state of the islands. We aimed to compile an inventory of the islands along the Hungarian Danube stretch between Vének (1797 rkm) and Budapest (1647 rkm) during the past 250 years, focusing on their landscape history. Real islands were defined as gravel bars that are permanently covered with pioneer woody vegetation, constantly surrounded by water (side-branch is not closed), and their surface remains unflooded at an average water level. We identified 123 real islands that existed on this 150 km long river stretch in the last centuries. These were real islands for a shorter or longer period between the 18th and the 21st century. A total of 66 of them existed at the same time about 200 years ago, i.e., before the large-scale water regulation works, while today this number is only 18, meaning that 73% of current potential Danube islands are at a stage of side-branch succession. Before the river regulation works, the natural successional changes of a real island occurred over hundreds of years, but today they happen rapidly. The formation of new islands became very limited compared to the past due to the lack of sediments and the altered river dynamics. In order to conserve this unique ecological corridor and green infrastructure element in the long run, and restore its damaged floodplain habitats, no more hard-tech interventions should be allowed in the fluvial system. These aspects need to be taken into consideration in decision-making processes with an integrated approach. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Landscape and Nature Conservation Issues in Human-Altered Environments)
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22 pages, 5168 KiB  
Article
GIS and AHP Based Groundwater Potential Zones Delineation in Chennai River Basin (CRB), India
by Pazhuparambil Jayarajan Sajil Kumar, Lakshmanan Elango and Michael Schneider
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1830; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031830 - 5 Feb 2022
Cited by 25 | Viewed by 5756
Abstract
Groundwater depletion is one of the most critical concerns for users and policymakers. Identifying groundwater potential (low to high) helps properly plan the available groundwater resource. This study has used the possibilities of a geographical information system (GIS), remote sensing and, of course, [...] Read more.
Groundwater depletion is one of the most critical concerns for users and policymakers. Identifying groundwater potential (low to high) helps properly plan the available groundwater resource. This study has used the possibilities of a geographical information system (GIS), remote sensing and, of course, field data to delineate the groundwater potential zones in the Chennai River Basin (CRB). Thematic layers generated for eleven controlling factors, such as geology, water level, drainage, soil, lineament, rainfall, land use, slope, aspect, geomorphology, and depth to bedrock, were brought into the GIS environment. Then, appropriate weightage was given to each layer using a multi-criteria decision-making technique, namely, the analytic hierarchical process (AHP). A groundwater potential map is generated using weighted overlay analysis, with the following five classes: very poor, poor, moderate, good, and very good. The results were comparable to the actual specific yield data from the field and accuracy was 78.43%. Thus, AHP-aided GIS–RS mapping is a useful tool in groundwater prospecting in this region of the world. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multidisciplinary Approaches for Sustainable Management of Coastal Areas)
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14 pages, 573 KiB  
Article
Autonomous Vehicle Overtaking: Modeling and an Optimal Trajectory Generation Scheme
by Yu Yamada, Abu Saleh Md Bakibillah, Kotaro Hashikura, Md Abdus Samad Kamal and Kou Yamada
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1807; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031807 - 5 Feb 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 5150
Abstract
Traffic congestion or accidents may occur as a consequence of the difficulty of performing a safe, comfortable, and efficient overtaking in a timely manner when there is a slow or stopped vehicle, cyclist, or partial lane blockage on the road. Specifically, most drivers [...] Read more.
Traffic congestion or accidents may occur as a consequence of the difficulty of performing a safe, comfortable, and efficient overtaking in a timely manner when there is a slow or stopped vehicle, cyclist, or partial lane blockage on the road. Specifically, most drivers find it challenging to overtake a sluggish vehicle on a single-lane road in the presence of vehicles coming from other directions. To resolve such overtaking concerns, this paper proposes a novel optimal trajectory generating scheme for autonomous vehicle overtaking that is both smooth and safe and can be used in a variety of traffic scenarios. The proposed scheme is based on the solution of an optimal predictive problem with the goal of minimizing driving costs while limiting collision risks in the presence of any opposite vehicle on the overtaking lane. The computational burden of the scheme is almost negligible and can be implemented in real-time. The scheme is evaluated in a variety of traffic conditions, including stopped and slow vehicles in the lane, as well as the presence or absence of a nearby opposite vehicle. The simulation results show that the proposed scheme effectively obtains the optimal trajectories even in the difficult overtaking contexts considering various constraints imposed by the road curve, opposite vehicles, and slow preceding vehicles. Finally, the optimal overtaking costs are obtained for various states of the associated vehicles, which provide an indication of the best state to initiate the overtake. The proposed technology can be employed as a fully automated system or an advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) to improve the vehicle flows at challenging driving conditions and enhance transportation sustainability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Emerging Simulation Technologies in Achieving Sustainable Transportation Systems)
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19 pages, 3828 KiB  
Article
Using Soil Sustainability and Resilience Concepts to Support Future Land Management Practice: A Case Study of Mt Grand Station, Hāwea, New Zealand
by Carol Smith, Sadeepa Jayathunga, Pablo Gregorini, Fabiellen C. Pereira and Wendy McWilliam
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1808; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031808 - 5 Feb 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3048
Abstract
Soil acts as the integrator of processes operating within the biological and hydrological landscapes and responds to external disturbances and processes on varying time scales. The impact of any change results in a corresponding response in the system; which is dependent on the [...] Read more.
Soil acts as the integrator of processes operating within the biological and hydrological landscapes and responds to external disturbances and processes on varying time scales. The impact of any change results in a corresponding response in the system; which is dependent on the resistance of the soil system to the disturbance. Irreversible permanent change results when the soil system shifts over a threshold tipping point; with the soil system experiencing a regime shift with associated structural and functional collapse. Climate change is the most important external disturbance or stressor on these systems due to changes in precipitation, temperature and moisture regimes. Our research at Mt Grand is focused on approaches to increasing land use resiliency in the face of environmental change. Our purpose is to select and apply soil quality indices which can be used to assess soil resilience to external disturbance events for Mt Grand Station in New Zealand. We will identify biophysical variations and landscape drivers in soil resilience; and use these results to match land management practices with variations in soil resilience. For example, soils with low resilience will only have land management practices that have a low impact on the soil resource. We selected soil attributes that represented indicators of resistance, used to quantify the capacity of a soil to recover its functionality. We mapped this soil resilience framework against a national database of soil and landscape attributes for Mt Grand Station. The output from this research is to posit a conceptual framework of soil quality indices which relates to soil resilience, and thus to create a spatial map of soil resilience for Mt Grand Station. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Grazing in Future Multi-Scapes: From Thoughtscapes to Landscapes, Creating Health from the Ground Up)
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23 pages, 3642 KiB  
Article
Fostering Resilience and Adaptation to Drought in the Southern High Plains: Using Participatory Methods for More Robust Citizen Science
by Jacqueline M. Vadjunec, Nicole M. Colston, Todd D. Fagin, Austin L. Boardman and Brian Birchler
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1813; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031813 - 5 Feb 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3570
Abstract
Citizen science holds the potential and capacity to change the role of science in the face of current and impending environmental sustainability challenges. However, the sustainability science community must also address the ethical challenges inherent in the nature and outcomes of citizen participation [...] Read more.
Citizen science holds the potential and capacity to change the role of science in the face of current and impending environmental sustainability challenges. However, the sustainability science community must also address the ethical challenges inherent in the nature and outcomes of citizen participation and inclusion. In this article, we provide a brief history of Participatory Action Research (PAR), long popular in the social sciences, and explain how participatory methods can inform the process and products of citizen science to meet the dueling ideals of ethically engaging communities and producing more robust science. Our decade of human-environment research on drought resilience and adaptation in the Southern High Plains of the United States illustrates how PAR complements formal science and can contribute to community resilience and adaptation efforts. Synthesized into 10 entry points for more ethical and participatory science, our semi-chronological narrative offers concrete strategies informed by PAR principles and values, at various stages of research, and highlights the place-based, ethical, and methodological contexts for applying each strategy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Citizen Science in Environmentally Oriented Social Science Research: Trends, Projects, and Innovative Technologies)
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18 pages, 3106 KiB  
Article
COVID-19 Pandemic, Technological Progress and Food Security Based on a Dynamic CGE Model
by Xinyue Lin, Lingli Qi, Haoran Pan and Basil Sharp
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1842; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031842 - 5 Feb 2022
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3421
Abstract
The global spread of COVID-19 has complicated the international equilibrium of grain production and trade. China now faces external shocks in the international grain market and deep-seated problems associated with the structure of domestic supply. We used a dynamic, computable general equilibrium (CGE) [...] Read more.
The global spread of COVID-19 has complicated the international equilibrium of grain production and trade. China now faces external shocks in the international grain market and deep-seated problems associated with the structure of domestic supply. We used a dynamic, computable general equilibrium (CGE) model to analyse the effects on China’s food security and macroeconomics under the COVID-19 scenario and four technological progress paths in the agricultural sector. We showed that the COVID-19 pandemic is disrupting China’s food security in the short term, and critical quantitative variables such as grain production and grain consumption per capita have declined. Considering food security and macroeconomic development, labour-saving technological progress outperformed neutral technological progress, land-saving technological progress, and capital-saving technological progress in the short run. While land-saving technological progress contributes the most to the arable land area per capita of wheat and other grains in the long run. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Agriculture)
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16 pages, 924 KiB  
Article
Effects of Processing and Storage Conditions on Functional Properties of Powdered Blueberry Pomace
by Laura Calabuig-Jiménez, Leidy Indira Hinestroza-Córdoba, Cristina Barrera, Lucía Seguí and Noelia Betoret
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1839; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031839 - 5 Feb 2022
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2840
Abstract
Promoting a circular economy through valorisation of food processing waste into functional ingredients is a challenge today. The combination of hot air drying with milling is a cheap and highly available option for obtaining powdered products from blueberry pomace, a residue with a [...] Read more.
Promoting a circular economy through valorisation of food processing waste into functional ingredients is a challenge today. The combination of hot air drying with milling is a cheap and highly available option for obtaining powdered products from blueberry pomace, a residue with a large amount of fibre and a high proportion of polyphenols from the fruit. The objective of this work was to analyse the effect of drying temperature (60 °C and 70 °C) and granulometry (coarse and fine) on physicochemical properties, including antioxidant properties and monomeric anthocyanins content. The potential prebiotic effect of blueberry pomace powders, as well as their water and oil interaction properties, were also assessed. Stability of physicochemical properties over 20 weeks of storage was also evaluated. Powders obtained showed a total fibre content higher than 30% with a good proportion between insoluble and soluble fractions and a high retention of monomeric anthocyanins from fresh pomace (75% at 60 °C and 66% at 70 °C). The powders showed good water interaction properties and interesting technological properties, such as solubility and hygroscopicity, which were not affected by differences in particle size. Stability of powders’ physicochemical properties was evidenced throughout the storage period. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations in Food Science and Engineering for a Sustainable Food System)
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13 pages, 2036 KiB  
Article
Measuring Sustainable Intensification Using Satellite Remote Sensing Data
by Francisco J. Areal, Wantao Yu, Kevin Tansey and Jiahuan Liu
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1832; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031832 - 5 Feb 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2494
Abstract
Farm-level sustainable intensification metrics are needed to evaluate farm performance and support policy-making processes aimed at enhancing sustainable production. Farm-level sustainable intensification metrics require environmental impacts associated with agricultural production to be accounted for. However, it is common that such indicators are not [...] Read more.
Farm-level sustainable intensification metrics are needed to evaluate farm performance and support policy-making processes aimed at enhancing sustainable production. Farm-level sustainable intensification metrics require environmental impacts associated with agricultural production to be accounted for. However, it is common that such indicators are not available. We show how satellite-based remote sensing information can be used in combination with farm efficiency analysis to obtain a sustainable intensification (SI) indicator, which can serve as a sustainability benchmarking tool for farmers and policy makers. We obtained an SI indicator for 114 maize farms in Yangxin County, located in the Shandong Province in China, by combining information on maize output and inputs with satellite information on the leaf area index (from which a nitrogen environmental damage indicator is derived) into a farm technical efficiency analysis using a stochastic frontier approach. We compare farm-level efficiency scores between models that incorporate environmental damage indicators based on satellite-based remote sensing information and models that do not account for environmental impact. The results demonstrate that (a) satellite-based information can be used to account for environmental impacts associated with agriculture production and (b) how the environmental impact metrics derived from satellite-based information combined with farm efficiency analysis can be used to obtain a farm-level sustainable intensification indicator. The approach can be used to obtain tools for farmers and policy makers aiming at improving SI. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability of Farming in Future: Developing of Sustainable Intensification)
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16 pages, 2052 KiB  
Article
Status and Trends in Forest Environment Transfer Tax and Information Interface between Prefectures and Municipalities: Multi-Level Governance of Forest Management in 47 Japanese Prefectures
by Ryo Kohsaka and Yuta Uchiyama
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1791; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031791 - 4 Feb 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2076
Abstract
In 2019, Japan introduced a national forest-environment-transfer tax (FETT). Prefectural and municipal governments receive tax revenue. Currently, 37 prefectures in Japan have prefectural forest taxes, and the prefectures need to demarcate how their own taxes and the national tax are being used. This [...] Read more.
In 2019, Japan introduced a national forest-environment-transfer tax (FETT). Prefectural and municipal governments receive tax revenue. Currently, 37 prefectures in Japan have prefectural forest taxes, and the prefectures need to demarcate how their own taxes and the national tax are being used. This study analyzed the overall use trends of national tax, which is for supporting municipal forest management, and review the status of prefectural forest environmental taxes. National tax was primarily applied to organizing the information of forests and their owners. The main components of support by prefectures to municipalities were support to questionnaires for private forest owners, other technical supports, securing successors, and training successors. Regarding the prefectural taxes, forest types and policies, which were implemented by the taxes, were reviewed in 18 prefectures. The differentiation of the tax uses of prefectural tax and FETT as a national tax was implemented based on the types of forest and supporting activities, and the spatial scales of forest management. The formation of FETT does not necessarily accompany the flexible assignment of jurisdictions and functions of multi-level governance, with potentially limiting impacts so far. This study could concretely conclude with the demand for participatory social learning toward sustainable forest policymaking and implementations of payment for ecosystem services in forests at the multi-levels of the national government, prefectures, and municipalities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Landscape Approaches in Era of Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework: Sustainable Forestry and Agriculture, Close-to-Nature Forestry, and Conservations in OECMs)
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18 pages, 3890 KiB  
Article
Co-Selection of Heavy Metal and Antibiotic Resistance in Soil Bacteria from Agricultural Soils in New Zealand
by Ali Heydari, Nick D. Kim, Jacqui Horswell, Gerty Gielen, Alma Siggins, Matthew Taylor, Collette Bromhead and Barry R. Palmer
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1790; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031790 - 4 Feb 2022
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4314
Abstract
Accumulation of trace elements (including heavy metals) in soil from usage of superphosphate fertilisers induces resistance of soil bacteria to trace elements of environmental concern (TEoEC) and may co-select for resistance to antibiotics (Ab). This study aimed to investigate selection of co-resistance of [...] Read more.
Accumulation of trace elements (including heavy metals) in soil from usage of superphosphate fertilisers induces resistance of soil bacteria to trace elements of environmental concern (TEoEC) and may co-select for resistance to antibiotics (Ab). This study aimed to investigate selection of co-resistance of soil bacteria to Cd, Zn and Hg, and Ab in soils with varied management histories. Genetic diversity of these bacteria and horizontal transfer of Cd resistance genes (cadA and czcA) were also investigated. Soils with either pastoral and arable management histories and either high levels of Cd and Zn, or indigenous bush with background levels of these TEoEC from the Waikato region, New Zealand were sampled. Plate culturing with a range of TEoEC and Ab concentrations, Pollution Induced Community Tolerance (PICT) assay, antibiotic sensitivity, terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (TRFLP) and horizontal gene transfer (HGT) analyses were employed to investigate co-selection of TEoEC and Ab resistance. Higher levels of bacterial resistance to TEoEC and Ab correlated with higher levels of TEoEC in soil. Bacterial community structures were altered in soils with high TEoEC levels. Cd resistance genes were transferred from donor bacterial isolates, to recipients and the transconjugants also had resistance to Zn and/or Hg and a range of Ab. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diffuse Contamination of the Environment — From Heavy Metals to Microplastics)
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10 pages, 1595 KiB  
Article
Global Warming Potential of Organic Strawberry Production under Unheated High Tunnels in Kentucky, USA
by Sean Clark and Seyed Hashem Mousavi-Avval
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1778; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031778 - 4 Feb 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2740
Abstract
The global warming potential (GWP) of organic strawberries (Fragaria × ananassa) grown under high tunnels in Kentucky, USA, was assessed using life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology. The site, part of the Berea College Farm, had been under organic crop management for [...] Read more.
The global warming potential (GWP) of organic strawberries (Fragaria × ananassa) grown under high tunnels in Kentucky, USA, was assessed using life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology. The site, part of the Berea College Farm, had been under organic crop management for two decades. The GWP was calculated as 0.57 kg CO2-eq per kg of strawberries with the combined impact of the aluminum and plastic manufacturing accounting for 44% of the total and the direct production activities, including labor, accounting for another 28%. The average yields of 18,990 kg/ha of fresh fruit over the two years (2020–2021) were comparable to those typically reported in the southeastern USA for conventional production, but opportunities to increase strawberry yields in high tunnels without increasing inputs should be explored to reduce the GWP. Future research should also measure the GWP of production in controlled-environment agriculture (CEA) systems, particularly plant factories with artificial lighting (PFALs), to compare the greenhouse gas emissions of strawberries grown with these technologies to those produced using the simple, high-tunnel method. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecological Engineering for Agricultural Sustainability)
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29 pages, 8186 KiB  
Article
Towards a More Sustainable Urban Food System—Carbon Emissions Assessment of a Diet Transition with the FEWprint Platform
by Nick ten Caat, Martin Tenpierik and Andy van den Dobbelsteen
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1797; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031797 - 4 Feb 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3128
Abstract
The production, processing, and transportation of food, in particular animal-based products, imposes great environmental burden on the planet. The current food supply system often constitutes a considerable part of the total carbon emissions of urban communities in industrialised cities. Urban food production (UFP) [...] Read more.
The production, processing, and transportation of food, in particular animal-based products, imposes great environmental burden on the planet. The current food supply system often constitutes a considerable part of the total carbon emissions of urban communities in industrialised cities. Urban food production (UFP) is a method that can potentially diminish food emissions. In parallel, a shift towards a predominantly plant-based diet that meets the nutritional protein intake is an effective method to curtail carbon emissions from food. Considering the high land use associated with the production of animal-based products, such a shift will prompt a community food demand that is more inclined to be satisfied with local production. Therefore, during the design process of a future low-carbon city, the combined application of both methods is worth exploring. This work introduces, describes, and demonstrates the diet shift component of the FEWprint platform, a user friendly UFP assessment platform for designers that is constructed around the broader three-pronged strategy of evaluation, shift, and design. For three neighborhoods, in Amsterdam, Belfast, and Detroit, the contextual consumption and country-specific environmental footprint data are applied to simulate a theoretical community-wide diet shift from a conventional to a vegan diet, whilst maintaining protein intake equilibrium. The results show that in total terms, the largest carbon mitigation potential awaits in Detroit (−916 kg CO2eq/cap/year), followed by Belfast (−866 kg) and Amsterdam (−509 kg). In relative terms, the carbon reduction potential is largest in Belfast (−25%), followed by Amsterdam (−15%) and Detroit (−7%). The FEWprint can be used to generate preliminary figures on the carbon implications of dietary adaptations and can be employed to give a first indication of the potential of UFP in urban communities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Agriculture and Sustainable Urban Development Planning)
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23 pages, 2624 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Rearing Scale and Density on the Growth and Nutrient Composition of Hermetia illucens (L.) (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) Larvae
by Wael Yakti, Simon Schulz, Virginia Marten, Inga Mewis, Murali Padmanabha, Arne-Jens Hempel, Alexander Kobelski, Stefan Streif and Christian Ulrichs
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1772; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031772 - 4 Feb 2022
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 5773
Abstract
With the worldwide industrialization of black soldier fly (BSF) production, it is necessary to better understand how the rearing scale and larvae density influence the performance of larvae and the quality of the final product. In this study, a factorial experiment was conducted [...] Read more.
With the worldwide industrialization of black soldier fly (BSF) production, it is necessary to better understand how the rearing scale and larvae density influence the performance of larvae and the quality of the final product. In this study, a factorial experiment was conducted to test the effect of rearing scale and density on the growth and composition of the BSF larvae. The larvae were grown in four different scales (box sizes), keeping the area and feed provided to each larva constant and in two different densities. The results reveal significant differences in the larval growth depending on the scale and density, which could be attributed to the higher temperatures achieved in the bigger scales with a temperature difference of more than 5 °C between the smallest and the biggest scale. Both the scale and the density influenced the composition of the larvae. The crude protein levels were higher on the smallest scale, and the lower density (ranging from 32.5% to 36.5%), and crude fat concentrations were the opposite (ranging from 31.7% to 20.1%). The density also influenced the concentrations of S, Mg, K, P, Fe, Zn, Cu, Al, B, and Co, in addition to the analyzed free amino acids PPS, ALA, CIT, and ANS. Furthermore, the rearing scale influenced the concentration of S, Zn, Cu, and Mo. The results provide further insight into the optimization of BSF production processes and the transfer of lab-scale results into big-scale production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Insect Farming: Feed the Future)
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19 pages, 2749 KiB  
Article
The Use of Drones for Last-Mile Delivery: A Numerical Case Study in Milan, Italy
by Fabio Borghetti, Claudia Caballini, Angela Carboni, Gaia Grossato, Roberto Maja and Benedetto Barabino
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1766; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031766 - 3 Feb 2022
Cited by 61 | Viewed by 12818
Abstract
The increasing use of e-commerce introduces major challenges for last-mile delivery, which is critical to ensure smooth functioning of supply chains. Besides the speed and cost of delivery, which are the most important factors for last-mile logistics, environmental and social sustainability factors are [...] Read more.
The increasing use of e-commerce introduces major challenges for last-mile delivery, which is critical to ensure smooth functioning of supply chains. Besides the speed and cost of delivery, which are the most important factors for last-mile logistics, environmental and social sustainability factors are taking on an increasingly important role, especially in urban areas. In this perspective, last-mile delivery by drones could be a good choice both in terms of transport speed and sustainability. Being electrically powered, drones can reduce environmental impact; moreover, they enable the reduction of road congestion since they do not interfere with land infrastructures. The goal of this study is to analyse the viability of drones for last-mile delivery in the Italian city of Milan. A stated preference survey was carried out to assess end-user propensity towards drones. Using these results, a goods delivery service by drones was designed. Furthermore, a preliminary financial analysis was performed to evaluate the benefits for a company that would provide such a transport service. Findings show that last-mile delivery by drones can be successfully used to deliver small and light packages, reducing environmental and social impacts, and ensuring profits for the transport provider. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Resilient, Safe and Sustainable Solutions for Freight Transport and Logistics)
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27 pages, 3322 KiB  
Article
Upscaling via a Prospective LCA: A Case Study on Tomato Homogenate Using a Near-to-Market Pasteurisation Technology
by Maria Calero, Gabriela Clemente, Dinar Fartdinov, Sancho Bañón, Israel Muñoz and Neus Sanjuán
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1716; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031716 - 2 Feb 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2876
Abstract
Thanks to food technology, the production of cold tomato soups such as salmorejo, a traditional Spanish dish, has become industrialised. Thermal treatments play an important role in ready-to-eat meals, prolonging their shelf-life. Radiofrequency (RF) heating is less energy-intensive than conventional heat exchangers [...] Read more.
Thanks to food technology, the production of cold tomato soups such as salmorejo, a traditional Spanish dish, has become industrialised. Thermal treatments play an important role in ready-to-eat meals, prolonging their shelf-life. Radiofrequency (RF) heating is less energy-intensive than conventional heat exchangers and has been successfully used to pasteurise food; novel applications, however, provide results at laboratory or pilot scale, so conclusions might not be translatable to industry. In this study, a prospective Life-Cycle Assessment of salmorejo pasteurised using RF was performed to highlight the relevance of upscaling and to compare its environmental impacts with those of conventional pasteurisation. “Gate-to-gate” results show that the pilot has greater environmental impacts due to its greater energy consumption, as thermal energy is not recovered. The packing and landfill of organic waste exhibit the highest impacts at industrial scale. RF technology does not imply significant environmental improvements versus conventional pasteurisation. Potential changes in the energy background of future scenarios have relevant consequences in the environmental impacts. “Farm-to-factory-gate” analysis highlights ingredients and tomato valorisation as the most impacting stages. The prospective LCA of scaled up scenarios constitutes a tool for environmental screening in food ecodesign, contributing to Sustainable Development Goal 12. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations in Food Science and Engineering for a Sustainable Food System)
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18 pages, 988 KiB  
Article
Containing the Risk of Phosphorus Pollution in Agricultural Watersheds
by Matthias Wildemeersch, Shaohui Tang, Tatiana Ermolieva, Yurii Ermoliev, Elena Rovenskaya and Michael Obersteiner
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1717; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031717 - 2 Feb 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2529
Abstract
Phosphorus (P) is an essential nutrient to boost crop yields, but P runoff can cause nutrient over-enrichment in agricultural watersheds and can lead to irreversible effects on aquatic ecosystems and their biodiversity. Lake Erie is one prominent example as this watershed has experienced [...] Read more.
Phosphorus (P) is an essential nutrient to boost crop yields, but P runoff can cause nutrient over-enrichment in agricultural watersheds and can lead to irreversible effects on aquatic ecosystems and their biodiversity. Lake Erie is one prominent example as this watershed has experienced multiple episodes of harmful algal blooms over the last decades. Annual P loads crucially depend on yearly weather variations, which can create the risk of years with high runoff and excessive nutrient loads. Here we apply stochastic modeling to derive sustainable management strategies that balance crop yield optimization with environmental protection, while accounting for weather variability as well as weather trends as a result of climate change. We demonstrate that ignoring annual weather variations results in mitigation efforts for environmental pollution that are largely insufficient. Accounting explicitly for future variations in precipitation allows us to control the risk of emissions exceeding the P target loads. When realistic risk targets are imposed, we find that a package of additional measures is required to avoid P over-enrichment in the Lake Erie watershed. This package consists of a substantial reduction of P inputs (approximately 30% for different accepted risk levels), adoption of cover crops throughout the near- and mid-century, and cultivation of less nutrient-intensive crops (30% more soy at the expense of corn). Although climate change reinforces these conclusions, we find that the accepted risk level of exceeding P target loads is the predominant factor in defining a sustainable nutrient management policy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modeling and Managing Catastrophic Risks in Heterogeneous Systems)
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15 pages, 2642 KiB  
Article
Big Data: The Engine to Future Cities—A Reflective Case Study in Urban Transport
by Christopher James Pettit, Simone Zarpelon Leao, Oliver Lock, Matthew Ng and Jonathan Reades
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1727; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031727 - 2 Feb 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4084
Abstract
In an era of smart cities, artificial intelligence and machine learning, data is purported to be the ‘new oil’, fuelling increasingly complex analytics and assisting us to craft and invent future cities. This paper outlines the role of what we know today as [...] Read more.
In an era of smart cities, artificial intelligence and machine learning, data is purported to be the ‘new oil’, fuelling increasingly complex analytics and assisting us to craft and invent future cities. This paper outlines the role of what we know today as big data in understanding the city and includes a summary of its evolution. Through a critical reflective case study approach, the research examines the application of urban transport big data for informing planning of the city of Sydney. Specifically, transport smart card data, with its diverse constraints, was used to understand mobility patterns through the lens of the 30 min city concept. The paper concludes by offering reflections on the opportunities and challenges of big data and the promise it holds in supporting data-driven approaches to planning future cities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Urban Design: Urban Externalities and Land Use Planning)
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16 pages, 1787 KiB  
Article
Minimum Rainfall Inter-Event Time to Separate Rainfall Events in a Low Latitude Semi-Arid Environment
by José Bandeira Brasil, Maria Simas Guerreiro, Eunice Maia de Andrade, Helba Araújo de Queiroz Palácio, Pedro Henrique Augusto Medeiros and Jacques Carvalho Ribeiro Filho
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1721; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031721 - 2 Feb 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2986
Abstract
Water scarcity in dry tropical regions is expected to intensify due to climate change. Characterization of rainfall events is needed for a better assessment of the associated hydrological processes, and the proposition of adaptation strategies. There is still no consensus on the most [...] Read more.
Water scarcity in dry tropical regions is expected to intensify due to climate change. Characterization of rainfall events is needed for a better assessment of the associated hydrological processes, and the proposition of adaptation strategies. There is still no consensus on the most appropriate method to separate rainfall events from a continuous database, although the minimum inter-event time (MIET) is a commonly used criterion. Semi-arid regions of low latitudes hold a distinct rainfall pattern compared to their equivalent at higher latitudes; these seasonally dry tropical forests experience strong spatial–temporal variability with intense short-duration rainfall events, which, in association with high energy surplus and potential evaporation, leads to an atmospheric water deficit. In this study, we identified the most adequate MIET based on rainfall data continuously measured at 5-min intervals over the last decade (2009–2020) in the semi-arid northeast of Brazil. The rainfall events were grouped according to different MIETs: 15 min, 1 h, 2 h, 3 h, 6 h, 12 h, and 24 h to determine rainfall depth, duration and intensity at intervals of 5, 30, and 60 min, time between events, and respective temporal distribution, with and without single tip events. Including single tip events in the dataset affected the number of rainfall events and respective characteristics up to a MIET of 3 h. A MIET of 6 h is the most appropriate to characterize the rainfall distribution in this tropical semi-arid region. Three classes were defined based on rainfall depth, duration, and intensity: I-small events (77% below 40 mm and 32 mm/h), II-high intensity events (3% between 36 and 76 mm/h), III-longer events of higher depth (20%). This study is useful for understanding how the MIET relates to other ecohydrological processes and provides more precise information on the rainfall characteristics at the event scale. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydrology of Semi-Arid Regions, Natural Resources and their Sustainability)
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29 pages, 8526 KiB  
Article
Optimization of All-Renewable Generation Mix According to Different Demand Response Scenarios to Cover All the Electricity Demand Forecast by 2040: The Case of the Grand Canary Island
by Carlos Vargas-Salgado, César Berna-Escriche, Alberto Escrivá-Castells and Dácil Díaz-Bello
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1738; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031738 - 2 Feb 2022
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 2396
Abstract
The decarbonization of the electric generation system is fundamental to reaching the desired scenario of zero greenhouse gas emissions. For this purpose, this study describes the combined utilization of renewable sources (PV and wind), which are mature and cost-effective renewable technologies. Storage technologies [...] Read more.
The decarbonization of the electric generation system is fundamental to reaching the desired scenario of zero greenhouse gas emissions. For this purpose, this study describes the combined utilization of renewable sources (PV and wind), which are mature and cost-effective renewable technologies. Storage technologies are also considered (pumping storage and mega-batteries) to manage the variability in the generation inherent to renewable sources. This work also analyzes the combined use of renewable energies with storage systems for a total electrification scenario of Grand Canary Island (Spain). After analyzing the natural site’s resource constraints and focusing on having a techno-economically feasible, zero-emission, and low-waste renewable generation mix, six scenarios for 2040 are considered combining demand response and business as usual. The most optimal solution is the scenario with the maximum demand response, consisting of 3700 MW of PV, around 700 MW of off-shore wind system, 607 MW of pump storage, and 2300 MW of EV batteries capacity. The initial investment would be EUR 8065 million, and the LCOE close to EUR 0.11/kWh, making the total NPC EUR 13,655 million. The payback is 12.4 years, and the internal rate of return is 6.39%. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smartgrids and Microgrids Based on Renewable Sources)
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