Sustainability

23 pages, 914 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Research on the Impact of Environmental Regulation on Green Technology Innovation from the Perspective of Regional Differences: A Quasi-Natural Experiment Based on China’s New Environmental Protection Law

by Qin Liu, Ying Zhu, Weixin Yang and Xueyu Wang

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1714; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031714 - 1 Feb 2022

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 5835

Abstract

Environmental regulations have a certain impact on regional green technology innovation affected by regional differences. Using the panel data of 30 provincial-level administrative regions in China (excluding Tibet, Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan) from 2011 to 2019, we consider China’s new environmental protection [...] Read more.

Environmental regulations have a certain impact on regional green technology innovation affected by regional differences. Using the panel data of 30 provincial-level administrative regions in China (excluding Tibet, Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan) from 2011 to 2019, we consider China’s new environmental protection law (NEPL) as a quasi-natural experiment to evaluate the impact of environmental regulation on green technology innovation in a difference-in-differences (DID) framework and further analyze the influences of regional differences. The results indicate that environmental regulations can promote regional green technology innovation, and that regional differences have a significant impact on this issue. Furthermore, environmental regulations in regions with high and low levels of economic development and education, and regions with medium and low levels of energy consumption have a significant impact on green technology innovation. The government should reasonably formulate environmental regulation policies on the basis of regional differences, encourage cross-regional exchanges and cooperation, and more efficiently stimulate regional green technology innovation to achieve sustainable development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Air Pollution Control and Sustainable Development)

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15 pages, 1051 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Theoretical Model for the Implementation of Social Sustainability in the Synthesis of Tourism, Disability Studies, and Special-Needs Education

by Éva Happ and Veronika Bolla

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1700; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031700 - 1 Feb 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4937

Abstract

This paper deals with the study of disability science, special-needs education, and psychology of special needs in the context of tourism. It is rare to find a link between these research areas in the literature. Accessible tourism has attracted widespread research interest in [...] Read more.

This paper deals with the study of disability science, special-needs education, and psychology of special needs in the context of tourism. It is rare to find a link between these research areas in the literature. Accessible tourism has attracted widespread research interest in recent decades, but the number of studies focusing on tourism in the fields of disability studies, special-needs education, and psychology of special needs is very limited. Although there is growing literature on accessible tourism and related topics, the development of the research field is uneven, as most research focuses on specific subareas without considering the context of the whole spectrum of the topic. The interdisciplinary research aims to explore the situations of people with disabilities in terms of their participation in tourism. The data collected will be used to analyse the supply and demand side of tourism from a specific perspective. Among the external environmental impacts, the issue of sustainability will be highlighted, which will be addressed from a societal perspective by analysing the sustainable development goals (SDGs) related to the topic. The study includes a theoretical analysis through the processing of secondary sources, linking the fields of tourism, disability studies, special-needs education, and psychology of special needs, with the potential of social sustainability and the achievement of the SDGs. The paper presents a new model that illustrates the potential for achieving social sustainability from the supply and demand side of tourism. The model can be valuable, not only for those who want to extend their research into this new field, but also for tourism policy makers. The study also identifies key research questions on this topic that merit theoretical and empirical exploration in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Tourism Research and Regional Sciences)

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22 pages, 6720 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Green Densities: Accessible Green Spaces in Highly Dense Urban Regions—A Comparison of Berlin and Qingdao

by Olaf Mumm, Ryan Zeringue, Nannan Dong and Vanessa Miriam Carlow

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1690; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031690 - 1 Feb 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 5515

Abstract

Recreational green spaces are associated with human thriving and well-being. During the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic a spotlight has been shed on the interconnection between access to these spaces, human well-being and social equity. Containment measures enacted in many cities effectively precluded people from [...] Read more.

Recreational green spaces are associated with human thriving and well-being. During the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic a spotlight has been shed on the interconnection between access to these spaces, human well-being and social equity. Containment measures enacted in many cities effectively precluded people from reaching distant recreational areas during the pandemic and consequently, recreational areas close to home became particularly important. Urban density is often associated with building or population density with the assumption that if either parameter has a high value, the availability of open (green) space is low. Certain densities are associated with specific spatial qualities. Addressing challenges of sustainable development, a detailed evaluation of density is necessary to allow evidence-based arguments, planning and decision-making. In this study we develop a multi-scale analysis method for quantifying and assessing green infrastructures from settlement unit to building level to reach a differentiated view on density, arguing that density can be organized in different ways achieving very different qualities. For this purpose, we use geospatial-data analysis and in-depth neighborhood studies to compare two cities in Asia and Europe, revealing different ways of organizing density in the built environment and identifying a derivation of approaches for sustainable development in dense urban regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rethinking Urban Population Density and Sustainable Cities)

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18 pages, 3167 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Urban Planning Insights from Tree Inventories and Their Regulating Ecosystem Services Assessment

by Luca Rossi, Maria Elena Menconi, David Grohmann, Antonio Brunori and David J. Nowak

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1684; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031684 - 1 Feb 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4252

Abstract

With the uncertainties that our societies are living with (the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change), it becomes essential to provide urban planners and decision-makers with state-of-the-art and user-friendly methodologies to incorporate ecosystem service considerations into their designs for resilient cities. In this regard, [...] Read more.

With the uncertainties that our societies are living with (the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change), it becomes essential to provide urban planners and decision-makers with state-of-the-art and user-friendly methodologies to incorporate ecosystem service considerations into their designs for resilient cities. In this regard, urban forests play a crucial role. The quantification of the ecosystem services is geo-specific and needs studies in different urban contexts. At this scope, we evaluated the urban forest of a neighborhood of a densely built-up Italian city (Perugia) with a low level of urban greenery management and with a tree inventory still in progress. Furthermore, we defined a tool helpful in tree-planting decisions and management. This paper involves citizens in field research for trees inventory. Then, it uses i-Tree Eco to evaluate four ecosystem services (carbon storage and sequestration, pollution removal, and runoff avoided) provided by 373 inventoried urban trees belonging to 57 species. Our results show that Italian Municipal tree inventories do not adequately represent their urban forest and that citizens’ participation provides a cost-effective method for integrating field data. Finally, the paper develops an easy tool helping local administrations enhance the ecosystem services provisions in urban green design. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Infrastructures and Sustainable Development)

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24 pages, 870 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Will COVID-19 Boost Sustainable Tourism: Wishful Thinking or Reality?

by Verena Tauber and Thomas Bausch

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1686; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031686 - 1 Feb 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3401

Abstract

Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, scholars have presented publications discussing a shift of tourism towards a higher level of sustainability. Many argue that in 2020, people were not able to travel as usual and therefore could discover the added value of [...] Read more.

Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, scholars have presented publications discussing a shift of tourism towards a higher level of sustainability. Many argue that in 2020, people were not able to travel as usual and therefore could discover the added value of a sustainable vacation through new experiences in new, often domestic destinations. Using a quantitative online panel-based study in five European countries and the USA, we looked for evidence supporting such arguments. We analyzed demographics, the observed change in destination choice, and important criteria when selecting a different destination, including potential effects of the pandemic on traveling. We uncovered possible impacts of the 2020 vacation experience on future traveling and looked at both travel push factors and social values of non-travelers and travelers for explanation. Overall, we could not find any evident signals for the pandemic to be a trigger for more sustainable traveling, nor a long-term change in future demand. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability Governance: International Frameworks and Local Contributions with Special Consideration of Mountain Areas)

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28 pages, 2337 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Vulnerability Assessment of Target Shrimps and Bycatch Species from Industrial Shrimp Trawl Fishery in the Bay of Bengal, Bangladesh

by Umme Kaniz Fatema, Hasan Faruque, Md. Abdus Salam and Hiroyuki Matsuda

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1691; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031691 - 1 Feb 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4233

Abstract

Productivity susceptibility analysis (PSA) is a semi-quantitative ecological risk assessment tool, widely used to determine the relative vulnerability of target and non-target species to fishing impacts. Considering the available information on species-specific life-history and fishery-specific attributes, we used PSA to assess the relative [...] Read more.

Productivity susceptibility analysis (PSA) is a semi-quantitative ecological risk assessment tool, widely used to determine the relative vulnerability of target and non-target species to fishing impacts. Considering the available information on species-specific life-history and fishery-specific attributes, we used PSA to assess the relative risk of the 60 species interacting with the shrimp trawl fishery in the Bay of Bengal, Bangladesh. Penaeus monodon, the most important target, and Metapenaeus monoceros, the highest catch contributor, along with other 15 species were in the moderate-risk category, while seven non-target bycatch species were in the high-risk category. PSA-derived vulnerability results were validated with IUCN extinction risk, exploitation rate and stocks’ catch trend. The majority of the identified species showed high productivity (37%) and high susceptibility (46%), and all the moderately and highly vulnerable species were subjected to overfishing conditions by shrimp trawl fishery, which coincided with the vulnerability scores (V ≥ 1.8). Species with V ≥ 1.8 mostly showed a decreasing catch trend, while the species with a stable or increasing catch trend had a V ≤ 1.72. Data quality analysis of productivity and susceptibility attributes indicated that the majority of species were considered data-limited, which emphasizes the acquisition of data on spatio-temporal abundance, catch and effort, and biological information specifically relating to species age, growth, and reproduction. However, our findings can assist fishery administrators in implementing an ecosystem approach to ensure the sustainability and conservation of marine biodiversity in the Bay of Bengal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Natural Resources Management)

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33 pages, 3658 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

It Is a Balancing Act: The Interface of Scientific Evidence and Policy in Support of Effective Marine Environmental Management

by Jemma-Anne Lonsdale, Andrew B. Gill, Khatija Alliji, Silvana N. R. Birchenough, Sylvia Blake, Holly Buckley, Charlotte Clarke, Stacey Clarke, Nathan Edmonds, Leila Fonseca, Freya Goodsir, Andrew Griffith, Adrian Judd, Rachel Mulholland, Joe Perry, Karema Randall and Daniel Wood

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1650; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031650 - 31 Jan 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3378

Abstract

The marine environment is a complex system, and with growing human demand, the sustainable use of multiple marine resources is continually challenged. The increasing complexity of overlapping marine activities causes pressures on the environment. Here, we review the fundamental aspects for effective marine [...] Read more.

The marine environment is a complex system, and with growing human demand, the sustainable use of multiple marine resources is continually challenged. The increasing complexity of overlapping marine activities causes pressures on the environment. Here, we review the fundamental aspects for effective marine management, particularly the role of science and scientific evidence to inform marine policy and decision making. The outcomes of internal expert workshops were used to analyse currently applied marine management practices in the UK using four marine sectors in English waters based on the expertise: environmental impact assessments; dredge and disposal operations; marine protected areas; and offshore renewable energy. Strengths, weaknesses, and commonalities between these sectors were assessed in terms of their effectiveness for marine management. Finally, we make recommendations based on the outputs to better inform effective yet sustainable marine management. The importance of increasing accessibility to data, hypothesis-driven environmental monitoring, streamlining funding opportunities and ensuring effective dissemination of data to ensure scientific outcomes and achieve increased robustness of assessments is emphasised. We also recommend that assessment drivers align with the outputs and approaches should be holistic and engage with the public to ensure a shared understanding and vision. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability of Socio-Ecological Paradigms in the Marine Environment)

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14 pages, 2303 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Organic Waste Management and Circular Bioeconomy: A Literature Review Comparison between Latin America and the European Union

by Sara Bottausci, Roger Midence, Francisco Serrano-Bernardo and Alessandra Bonoli

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1661; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031661 - 31 Jan 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5455

Abstract

Worldwide, organic waste represents one of the most significant shares in the waste management system. Within the framework of circular bioeconomy, new and cutting-edge infrastructure has been developed at the European level to turn organic waste into valuable resources. The present paper aims [...] Read more.

Worldwide, organic waste represents one of the most significant shares in the waste management system. Within the framework of circular bioeconomy, new and cutting-edge infrastructure has been developed at the European level to turn organic waste into valuable resources. The present paper aims to provide an exhaustive comparison between the European Union and Latin America regarding organic waste valorization. To this end, an introductive analysis about the state of the art circular bioeconomy in Latin America and Caribbean countries was developed. Subsequently, a systematic literature review in the context of South and Central America was conducted to detect differences and similarities in technologies and best practices for treating biowaste. The results show that the Latin American region is home to numerous bio-based infrastructures: biogas recovery, composting facilities and bioremediation strategies. Nevertheless, a conclusive remark underlines that some social, economic and political barriers are still encountered in the region, and therefore, new and locally-based studies are of paramount importance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Solid Waste Management and International Cooperation in Low-Middle Income and Developing Countries: A Step Forward Sustainable Development)

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25 pages, 7695 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Process Model for Cooperative Risk Management in Seaports

by Ayman Nagi and Wolfgang Kersten

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1662; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031662 - 31 Jan 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3893

Abstract

Seaports are critical links within supply chains that are often located near residential areas. These seaports can be directly affected by the consequences of operational risk sources and natural disasters such as undeclared dangerous goods and flood, respectively. The diversity and large number [...] Read more.

Seaports are critical links within supply chains that are often located near residential areas. These seaports can be directly affected by the consequences of operational risk sources and natural disasters such as undeclared dangerous goods and flood, respectively. The diversity and large number of stakeholders at seaports add another level of complexity for risk management that requires a standard approach and clear guidelines. This paper aims to develop a prescriptive process model for cooperative risk management (CoRiMaS) in seaports to enable the stakeholder to manage different sources of risk during risk prevention and response. The prescriptive process model builds on two previous published papers which focused on developing a conceptual framework and a descriptive model based on an ontology for CoRiMaS, respectively. A detailed requirement analysis based on focus groups and a survey study in the Baltic Sea Region (BSR) provide important inputs to integrate the required elements into the CoRiMaS prescriptive process model. The model requires an overall input represented by the type of seaport and structure. The prescriptive process model presents all steps and aspects related to stakeholder analysis, risk governance, risk management, and knowledge management. Implications for theory and practice, as well as an agenda for future research, are presented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Risk Management and Safety Engineering)

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17 pages, 3052 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Right to Accessible COVID-19 Testing in the Post-Epidemic Period under the Urban–Rural Integration: Haishu District, Ningbo City, China

by Xianjun Liang, Renfeng Ma, Yuxian Cheng, Qianqian Gong, Jiaming Li and Baoyu Zhu

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1636; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031636 - 30 Jan 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2763

Abstract

The reasonable distribution of COVID-19 testing facilities is a crucial public necessity to protect the civil right of health and the proper functioning of society in the post-epidemic period. However, most of the current COVID-19 testing facilities are in large hospitals in China, [...] Read more.

The reasonable distribution of COVID-19 testing facilities is a crucial public necessity to protect the civil right of health and the proper functioning of society in the post-epidemic period. However, most of the current COVID-19 testing facilities are in large hospitals in China, partially overlooking the COVID-19 testing needs of rural dwellers. This paper used shortest-path analysis and the improved potential model to measure the accessibility of current and potential COVID-19 testing facilities, superimposing this with the testing demands of residents, as calculated by the population demand index, so as to comprehensively evaluate the equity of the spatial allocation of the current and potential testing facilities, with a particular focus on Haishu District, Ningbo City, China. The results revealed that the overall accessibility of the current testing facilities in Haishu District was high, while the internal spatial differentiation was considerable. The comprehensive accessibility of testing facilities gradually declined from the downtown areas towards the rural areas. Moreover, roughly half of the rural population needing COVID-19 tests encountered hindrances due to poor access to testing agencies. However, after fully exploiting the potential testing facilities, the comprehensive accessibility of testing facilities was significantly improved, and the inequity in the accessibility to testing facilities was effectively alleviated, which significantly improved the equity of the allocation of testing facilities in Haishu District. The leveraging of current medical facilities to boost the number of testing facilities in rural areas could eliminate the disparity of resource distribution caused by urban and rural binary opposition, and could quickly identify external sources of COVID-19 in rural areas in the post-epidemic period. Moreover, efficient COVID-19 testing combined with the travel records of infection carriers can effectively identify unknown infection cases and obviate large-scale infection outbreaks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Climate Change, Transport Geography and Smart Cities)

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22 pages, 6405 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Facilitating Conservation and Bridging Gaps for the Sustainable Exploitation of the Tunisian Local Endemic Plant Marrubium aschersonii (Lamiaceae)

by Elias Pipinis, Stefanos Hatzilazarou, Stefanos Kostas, Soumaya Bourgou, Wided Megdiche-Ksouri, Zeineb Ghrabi-Gammar, Mohamed Libiad, Abdelmajid Khabbach, Mohamed El Haissoufi, Fatima Lamchouri, Emmanouil Koundourakis, Vasileios Greveniotis, Evgenia Papaioannou, Michalia A. Sakellariou, Ioannis Anestis, Georgios Tsoktouridis and Nikos Krigas

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1637; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031637 - 30 Jan 2022

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3334

Abstract

In the frame of conservation and sustainable utilization of neglected and underutilized phytogenetic resources, this study produced for the first time a detailed ecological profiling for the local Tunisian endemic Marrubium ascheronii (Lamiaceae) using Geographical Information Systems and open-source data. This profile was [...] Read more.

In the frame of conservation and sustainable utilization of neglected and underutilized phytogenetic resources, this study produced for the first time a detailed ecological profiling for the local Tunisian endemic Marrubium ascheronii (Lamiaceae) using Geographical Information Systems and open-source data. This profile was used to illustrate the abiotic environmental conditions of its wild habitats; the profile facilitated the examination of the effect of temperature on its seed germination and may inform species-specific guidelines for its cultivation in man-made environments. With effective seed propagation firstly reported herein (68.75% at 20 °C), species-specific in situ conservation efforts and ex situ conservation or sustainable exploitation strategies were enabled for M. aschersonii. The first-reported molecular authentication (DNA barcoding) of M. aschersonii may facilitate its traceability, allowing for product design. This study also reports for the first time the effects of chemical and integrated nutrient management (INM) fertilizers on the growth and pilot cultivation of M. aschersonii seedlings, with the latter being advantageous. This multidisciplinary approach has bridged important research gaps that hindered the conservation efforts and/or the sustainable exploitation for this local endemic plant of Tunisia. Based on all the above, we re-evaluated and updated the feasibility and readiness timescale for sustainable exploitation of M. aschersonii in the medicinal-cosmetic, agro-alimentary and ornamental-horticultural sectors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Exploitation of Neglected or Underutilized Phytogenetic Resources: From Wild-Growing Native Plants to New Domesticated Crops)

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24 pages, 1402 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Role of Education and Income Inequality on Environmental Quality: A Panel Data Analysis of the EKC Hypothesis on OECD Countries

by Paolo Maranzano, João Paulo Cerdeira Bento and Matteo Manera

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1622; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031622 - 30 Jan 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4214

Abstract

This study examines the impact of education on the pollution–income relationship, controlling for income inequality in 17 European OECD countries over the period 1950–2015. We developed a novel two-stage algorithm, whose first step consists in applying clustering techniques to group countries according to [...] Read more.

This study examines the impact of education on the pollution–income relationship, controlling for income inequality in 17 European OECD countries over the period 1950–2015. We developed a novel two-stage algorithm, whose first step consists in applying clustering techniques to group countries according to the income inequality temporal pattern. In the second step, we estimate the educational-mitigated EKC hypothesis (Educational EKC) by employing panel regression techniques accounting for endogeneity issues. The clustering findings suggest the existence of high variability in income inequality levels across countries and heterogeneous development patterns. Empirical estimates highlight that, for high income inequality countries, the Educational EKC hypothesis holds, and that the emissions–income elasticity appears to decline when including the schooling level. In the low income inequality cluster, these effects are not clear-cut. For these countries, we propose a different specification of the EKC, which substitutes the income per capita term with the years of schooling. The new specification is statistically validated for both high income inequality and low income inequality countries. In conclusion, we can state that education should be addressed as a crucial cornerstone to shaping the EKC curve. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability and the Environmental Kuznets Curve Conjecture)

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46 pages, 71221 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Regional Cooperation in Waste Management: Examining Australia’s Experience with Inter-municipal Cooperative Partnerships

by Steven Tobin and Atiq Zaman

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1578; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031578 - 29 Jan 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4185

Abstract

Effective governance and inter-organisational cooperation is key to progressing Australia’s journey toward the circular economy. At the local governance level, inter-municipal cooperative partnerships in waste management (‘IMC-WM’ partnerships) are a widespread phenomenon throughout Australia, and the world. This paper aims to analyse waste [...] Read more.

Effective governance and inter-organisational cooperation is key to progressing Australia’s journey toward the circular economy. At the local governance level, inter-municipal cooperative partnerships in waste management (‘IMC-WM’ partnerships) are a widespread phenomenon throughout Australia, and the world. This paper aims to analyse waste management in Australia through a governance perspective and inaugurate the scholarship on understanding the complex interactions between actors and institutions designed for regional cooperation. To this end, we explore the partnerships’ institutional characteristics, joint activity outputs and the internal relations observed between participants. Data were collected through a nationwide census survey of Australia’s IMC–WM partnerships and a short online questionnaire to the municipal policy actors (councillors, executives and council officers) who participate in them. The investigation observes that a diversity of innovative institutional responses has emerged in Australia. However, within these partnerships, a culture of competitiveness antithetical to sustainability is also detected. Despite competitive behaviours, the partnerships perform very well in cultivating goodwill, trust, reciprocity and other social capital values among their participants—as well as a strong appreciation of the complexity of municipal solid waste (MSW) policy and the virtues of regional cooperation. This dissonance in attitudes and engagement dynamics, it is suggested, can be explained by considering the cultural-cognitive influence of broader neoliberalist paradigms. As the first scholarly investigation into Australia’s experience with regional cooperation in waste management, this research reveals the macro-level structures and ascendent micro-institutional dynamics shaping the phenomenon. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Policy and Governance: Evolutionary Perspectives)

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8 pages, 1544 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Glacier Retreat Results in Loss of Fungal Diversity

by Masaharu Tsuji, Warwick F. Vincent, Yukiko Tanabe and Masaki Uchida

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1617; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031617 - 29 Jan 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3338

Abstract

Walker Glacier near the northern coast of Ellesmere Island in the Canadian High Arctic (terrestrial margin of the ‘Last Ice Area’) is undergoing rapid ice attrition in response to climate change. We applied culture and molecular methods to investigate fungal diversity at the [...] Read more.

Walker Glacier near the northern coast of Ellesmere Island in the Canadian High Arctic (terrestrial margin of the ‘Last Ice Area’) is undergoing rapid ice attrition in response to climate change. We applied culture and molecular methods to investigate fungal diversity at the terminus of this glacier. Analysis of the mycoflora composition showed that the Walker Glacier isolates separated into two clusters: the surface of the glacier ice and the glacier foreland. The recently exposed sediments of the foreland had a lower fungal diversity and different species from those on the ice, with the exception of five species that occurred in both habitats. This loss of glacial ice in the Arctic is therefore resulting in the loss of habitats for cold-dwelling fungal species. Fungal diversity is a potentially rich biological resource of glacial ecosystems, with unique taxa. The rapid loss of these glacial habitats underscores the urgency for genomic surveys of fungal diversity in the High Arctic, and the need for further isolation of strains as well as cryopreservation of environmental micro-biome samples for future research and conservation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microbial Diversity in Cold Environments and Their Sustainable Use)

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20 pages, 4767 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Potential Impact of Climate Extremes on Cotton and Wheat Crops in Southern Punjab, Pakistan

by Muhammad Asgher Ali, Mujtaba Hassan, Mazhar Mehmood, Dildar Hussain Kazmi, Farrukh Ahmed Chishtie and Imran Shahid

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1609; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031609 - 29 Jan 2022

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 6310

Abstract

The assessment of climate extremes’ impact on crop yield is essential to improve our understanding of agricultural resilience. In the present study, we analyzed the potential impact of climate extremes on wheat and cotton production in Southern Punjab, Pakistan using 30-year observed data [...] Read more.

The assessment of climate extremes’ impact on crop yield is essential to improve our understanding of agricultural resilience. In the present study, we analyzed the potential impact of climate extremes on wheat and cotton production in Southern Punjab, Pakistan using 30-year observed data from the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) and the fifth-generation reanalysis data (ERA-5) from the European Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF). Cotton is a Kharif season crop that is sown in May and harvested in October, and wheat is a Rabi season crop that is planted in November and harvested in April. The agricultural data (1985–2015) that contained the crop area and crop yield were obtained from the Bureau of Statistics, Punjab for six selected districts in Southern Punjab. Three precipitation indices, namely consecutive dry days (CDD), consecutive wet days (CWD) and total precipitation of wet days (PRCPTOT), and four temperature indices, namely warm days (TX90p), warm nights (TN90p), cool days (TX10p) and cool nights (TN10p), were selected to analyze the potential impacts of climate extremes on crop production. (1) We found a potential association of TX10p, TN10p, TX90p and TN90p with crop yield in those years for which the production area remained the same. (2) In a few districts of the study area, the wheat yield losses in the Rabi season were associated with an increase in warmer days and warmer nights. (3) The grain size was suppressed due to an increase in the frequency of TX90p and TN90p, which ultimately reduced the net crop production. (4) In some districts, we found strong positive correlations between extreme temperature indices and crop yield; however, other potential factors such as the use of advanced technology, fertilizer, seeds, etc., may lead to improved net production. This study can help in adaptation planning for resilient agricultural production under the stress of climate extreme events in Southern Punjab. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Soil Management in a Changing Climate)

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17 pages, 921 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Challenges and Opportunities for Circular Economy Promotion in the Building Sector

by Rafaela Tirado, Adélaïde Aublet, Sylvain Laurenceau and Guillaume Habert

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1569; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031569 - 28 Jan 2022

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 6730

Abstract

The accelerated development of cities involves important inflows and outflows of resources. The construction sector is one of the main consumers of raw materials and producers of waste. Due to its quantity and potential for recovery, waste from the construction sector constitutes significant [...] Read more.

The accelerated development of cities involves important inflows and outflows of resources. The construction sector is one of the main consumers of raw materials and producers of waste. Due to its quantity and potential for recovery, waste from the construction sector constitutes significant deposits and requires major action by bringing together different stakeholders to achieve the objectives of a circular economy. Consequently, it is crucial to understand the current knowledge of urban metabolism, deposits, and recovery practices. This article aims to investigate the role of local authorities in the planning of strategies to facilitate a circular economy; in particular, this article aims to answer how local authorities facilitate circular economy initiatives in the building sector and what opportunities and obstacles they encounter in the process. The strategy used for the study was to conduct semistructured interviews with those responsible for circular economy projects within local authorities that were pioneering circular economy projects in metropolitan France. The results highlight the importance of community involvement in the implementation of circular economy principles in the building sector. Thus, it is essential to identify the different stakeholders and their respective challenges to build an operational framework. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Construction and Demolition Waste: Challenges and Opportunities)

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16 pages, 2129 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Autonomous Mobility: A Potential Opportunity to Reclaim Public Spaces for People

by Maryam Fayyaz, Esther González-González and Soledad Nogués

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1568; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031568 - 28 Jan 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 6942

Abstract

The advent of autonomous vehicles (AVs) has the potential to drastically change society and the way we understand, plan and design cities and regions, just as automobiles did a century ago. In the current context of climate change, sustainable urban environments based on [...] Read more.

The advent of autonomous vehicles (AVs) has the potential to drastically change society and the way we understand, plan and design cities and regions, just as automobiles did a century ago. In the current context of climate change, sustainable urban environments based on active mobility (walking and cycling), urban proximity and green spaces, are increasingly in demand, leading to the emergence of new interventions and urban models. Although these trends may be affected by the arrival of AVs, most decision-makers and planners still do not address these issues in their current planning. This is because of the confusion associated with the diversity of impacts of AVs, but also by the lack of design recommendations and planning tools. To shed light on these aspects, this paper reviews the relationship between mobility and urban public space, the impacts of AVs on urban space and design proposals and strategies aimed at configuring driverless cities, with special focus on street design. The results of the review show that the implementation of AVs can be a great opportunity to liberate urban space and reclaim it for people, in line with new urban models such as the superblocks (Barcelona), the 15-minute city (Paris), or tactical urbanism interventions against COVID-19. However, it may also entail risks such as a reduction in active mobility or public transport use. The magnitude and direction of these impacts will depend on crucial decisions that need to be taken now, such as encouraging shared used over ownership, and establishing citizen-centred urban planning and design objectives and strategies to make AV deployment the most beneficial for all. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Moving towards Sustainable Cities: Urban Planning and Policies for the Autonomous Mobility Age)

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13 pages, 277 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Linking Female College Students’ Causal Attribution Habits, Cultural Orientation, and Self-Efficacy: A Study on Cross-National Differences

by Kerstin Hamann, Ronan L. H. Wilson, Bruce M. Wilson and Maura A. E. Pilotti

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1561; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031561 - 28 Jan 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2451

Abstract

The present research concerns the extent to which explanations for desirable or undesirable academic outcomes (grades) as well as cultural orientation could account for self-efficacy beliefs of female undergraduate students from two societies with dissimilar cultural traditions. The United States of America (U.S.) [...] Read more.

The present research concerns the extent to which explanations for desirable or undesirable academic outcomes (grades) as well as cultural orientation could account for self-efficacy beliefs of female undergraduate students from two societies with dissimilar cultural traditions. The United States of America (U.S.) was selected for its individualistic culture, whereas the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) was chosen for its mix of traditional collectivist and individualistic values. A matched-pairs design ensured that students’ self-efficacy levels were equated between cultural groups (n = 560; 280 matched pairs). The research uncovered cultural differences in the choice of explanations and in the extent to which explanations might contribute to self-efficacy beliefs. These findings represent a blueprint for informing instructional interventions intended to effectively prepare students from different cultures for academic success. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Trends, Challenges and Opportunities for Education in the New Agenda 2030)

13 pages, 1880 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Habitat Suitability for Small Mammals in Mediterranean Landscapes: How and Why Shrubs Matter

by Ignasi Torre, Carlos Jaime-González and Mario Díaz

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1562; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031562 - 28 Jan 2022

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 4029

Abstract

Fires are usually seen as a threat for biodiversity conservation in the Mediterranean, but natural afforestation after abandonment of traditional land uses is leading to the disappearance of open spaces that benefit many species of conservation interest. Fires create open habitats in which [...] Read more.

Fires are usually seen as a threat for biodiversity conservation in the Mediterranean, but natural afforestation after abandonment of traditional land uses is leading to the disappearance of open spaces that benefit many species of conservation interest. Fires create open habitats in which small mammals can live under more favourable conditions, such as lower predation, interspecific competition, and higher food availability. We analysed the role of changes in shrub cover and shrub preference by small mammals along the Mediterranean post-fire succession. We used data (period 2008–2018) from 17 plots woodlands and post-fire shrublands present in the study area (Barcelona’s Natural Parks, Catalonia, NE Spain), and vegetation structure was assessed by LiDAR technology for modelling ground-dwelling small mammal preferences. The diversity, abundance, and stability of Mediterranean small mammal communities negatively responded to vegetation structural complexity, which resulted from the combined effects of land abandonment and recovery after wildfires. We suggest that biotic factors such as vegetation profiles (providing food and shelter) and their interaction with predators and competitors could be responsible for the observed patterns. Considering the keystone role of small mammals in the sustainability of Mediterranean forest, our results could be useful for management under the current global change conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mammal Status: Diversity, Abundance and Dynamics)

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30 pages, 4877 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The ResourcePlan—An Instrument for Resource-Efficient Development of Urban Neighborhoods

by Birgitta Hörnschemeyer, Anne Söfker-Rieniets, Jan Niesten, Rosalie Arendt, Jonas Kleckers, Christian Klemm, Celestin Julian Stretz, Christa Reicher, Winona Grimsehl-Schmitz, Daniel Wirbals, Vanessa Bach, Matthias Finkbeiner, Jens Haberkamp, Janik Budde, Peter Vennemann, Gotthard Walter, Sabine Flamme and Mathias Uhl

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1522; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031522 - 28 Jan 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3153

Abstract

In Germany, the current sectoral urban planning often leads to inefficient use of resources, partly because municipalities lack integrated planning instruments and argumentation strength toward politics, investors, or citizens. The paper develops the ResourcePlan as (i) legal and (ii) a planning instrument to [...] Read more.

In Germany, the current sectoral urban planning often leads to inefficient use of resources, partly because municipalities lack integrated planning instruments and argumentation strength toward politics, investors, or citizens. The paper develops the ResourcePlan as (i) legal and (ii) a planning instrument to support the efficient use of resources in urban neighborhoods. The integrative, multi-methodological approach addresses the use of natural resources in the building and infrastructural sectors of (i) water (storm- and wastewater) management, (ii) construction and maintenance of buildings and infrastructure, (iii) urban energy system planning, and (iv) land-use planning. First, the development as legal instrument is carried out, providing (i) premises for integrating resource protection at all legal levels and (ii) options for implementing the ResourcePlan within German municipal structures. Second, the evaluation framework for resource efficiency of the urban neighborhoods is set up for usage as a planning instrument. The framework provides a two-stage process that runs through the phases of setting up and implementing the ResourcePlan. (Eco)system services are evaluated as well as life cycle assessment and economic aspects. As a legal instrument, the ResourcePlan integrates resource protection into municipal planning and decision-making processes. The multi-methodological evaluation framework helps to assess inter-disciplinary resource efficiency, supports the spatial identification of synergies and conflicting goals, and contributes to transparent, resource-optimized planning decisions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Resource Management in Urban Districts – a Contribution to Sustainable Urban Development)

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21 pages, 1688 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Recognizing Potential Pathways to Increasing the Consumption of Edible Insects from the Perspective of Consumer Acceptance: Case Study from Finland

by Vilma Halonen, Ville Uusitalo, Jarkko Levänen, Jani Sillman, Lauri Leppäkoski and Anna Claudelin

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1439; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031439 - 27 Jan 2022

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 3609

Abstract

Mitigating the sustainability challenges related to agriculture and ensuring adequate availability of nutritious food requires an increase in the use of sustainable alternative protein sources. Edible insects are considered to be a sustainable protein source and a possible substitute for meat. There are [...] Read more.

Mitigating the sustainability challenges related to agriculture and ensuring adequate availability of nutritious food requires an increase in the use of sustainable alternative protein sources. Edible insects are considered to be a sustainable protein source and a possible substitute for meat. There are many readily available edible insect species with many competing utilization possibilities, which, from the producers’ perspective, increases the complexity of the area. Through a consumer survey and expert interviews, this study recognizes four pathways to increasing the use of edible insects in Western countries and especially in Finland where the survey and interviews were conducted: (1) producing a variety of insect-based food products, especially food products where insects are not recognizable as such and the food is in a familiar form; (2) producing edible insect food products which could replace greenhouse gas emission-intensive animal proteins; (3) focusing on the price, taste, and availability of insect food; and (4) using insects as animal feed. Our findings provide information on the prospects of the studied pathways in terms of consumption and production. Technological development is expected to decrease the price of insect-based food products, but at the same time, the increased use of edible insects faces challenges related to eating habits, contradictory perceptions about the sustainability implications of insect farming, and the availability of insect-based products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insects, Food Security and Circular Food Production)

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19 pages, 562 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Impact of Female Role Models Leading a Group Mentoring Program to Promote STEM Vocations among Young Girls

by Mariluz Guenaga, Andoni Eguíluz, Pablo Garaizar and Ander Mimenza

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1420; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031420 - 26 Jan 2022

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 6716

Abstract

From an early age, girls disregard studies related to science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM), and this means that a gender gap begins during secondary education and continues to increase over time. Multiple causes have been identified for this phenomenon in the literature, [...] Read more.

From an early age, girls disregard studies related to science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM), and this means that a gender gap begins during secondary education and continues to increase over time. Multiple causes have been identified for this phenomenon in the literature, and numerous initiatives are being carried out to reverse this situation. In this paper, we analyze the impact that a group mentoring initiative led by a female STEM role model had on the young people who participated and whether the impact was different based on their sex. We analyzed how these mentoring sessions affected their attitudes towards technology, mathematical self-efficacy, gender stereotypes, science and technology references, and career vocations. To this end, 303 students between the ages of 10 and 12 years old from 10 schools in Spain participated in the six sessions comprising the program and completed a series of questionnaires before and after participating. The results show that the program had an impact on the students’ attitudes towards technology, increased the number of female STEM references they knew, and improved their opinions of vocations and professions related to science and technology. The impact was greater among girls, although in aspects such as attitudes towards technology, the female participants still demonstrated lower values than boys. The program did not improve the stereotypes that the young participants had about mathematical self-efficacy, which was also always lower among girls. We conclude that the lack of STEM vocations among girls is rooted in multiple social, educational, and personal aspects that need to be addressed from a very early age and that should involve multiple agents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender Diversity in STEM Disciplines)

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12 pages, 270 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effective but Not Feasible—What Support Staff in All-Day Primary Schools Think of Pedagogical Interventions with Regard to Children with ADHD

by Holger Domsch, Martina Ruhmland and Ilka Lissmann

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1393; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031393 - 26 Jan 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2308

Abstract

Children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are faced with multiple challenges both in the classroom and in the homework situation. While there are many studies on pedagogical interventions by teachers in the classroom, this is hardly the case when it comes to support [...] Read more.

Children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are faced with multiple challenges both in the classroom and in the homework situation. While there are many studies on pedagogical interventions by teachers in the classroom, this is hardly the case when it comes to support staff in after-school homework supervision. In this study, 196 support staff with different qualifications were asked not only about their knowledge of ADHD, their subjective level of stress, and whether they felt trained enough to work with children with ADHD, but also to assess the effectiveness and feasibility of 25 interventions in homework supervision. Overall, the respondents rated effectiveness higher than feasibility. Higher qualifications, greater knowledge, and better preparation went hand in hand with higher ratings of effectiveness. The more stressed the support staff feel themselves to be, the less feasible they rate the measures. The results underline the necessity of employing well-trained pedagogical staff to supervise children with ADHD. A number of interventions can be identified that the support staff deem to be both effective and feasible, and that promise a high level of implementation in practice. At the same time, more attention should be given to potential obstacles to using recommended measures in training and further education. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue ADHD and Related Problems in the Classroom: Perspectives for Sustainability)

22 pages, 4054 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Circular Economy, International Cooperation, and Solid Waste Management: A Development Project in La Paz (Bolivia)

by Navarro Ferronato, Rodolfo Pasinetti, Daysi Valencia Vargas, Iris Jabneel Calle Mendoza, Edith Gabriela Guisbert Lizarazu, Marcelo Antonio Gorritty Portillo, Fabio Conti and Vincenzo Torretta

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1412; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031412 - 26 Jan 2022

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5640

Abstract

This paper introduces the preliminary results of a development project focused on waste recycling and recovery in La Paz (Bolivia). The aim is to share best practices and to present real-world challenges when implementing appropriate waste management systems in developing countries. Environmental pollution, [...] Read more.

This paper introduces the preliminary results of a development project focused on waste recycling and recovery in La Paz (Bolivia). The aim is to share best practices and to present real-world challenges when implementing appropriate waste management systems in developing countries. Environmental pollution, social inequality, lack of resources, and economic discrepancies are challenges still present in the 21st century, and a global call-for-action is needed to support sustainable development. The project “LaPazRecicla”, financed by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation, provides perspectives that are potentially useful for policy-makers, waste management practitioners, and circular economy visionaries. The article aims to present the effective contribution of the practical actions to the local municipality, and to introduce the reason for why theoretical methods were employed to support the project. The outcomes provided two main indications: on one hand, cooperation among interdisciplinary actors and financial support can give the chance of improvement, suggesting international donors should continue in this direction; on the other, political instability, lack of local technical knowledge, and the absence of planning for a long-term period makes these actions unsuitable for tangible change. Global reflections are required in order to measure the potential benefits of small-scale projects, evaluating the time needed to move towards a sustainable future in low-income countries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Solid Waste Management and International Cooperation in Low-Middle Income and Developing Countries: A Step Forward Sustainable Development)

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14 pages, 462 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Risk-Informed Decision-Making Framework for Climate Change Adaptation through Robust Land Use and Irrigation Planning

by Tatiana Ermolieva, Petr Havlik, Stefan Frank, Taher Kahil, Juraj Balkovic, Rastislav Skalsky, Yuri Ermoliev, Pavel S. Knopov, Olena M. Borodina and Vasyl M. Gorbachuk

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1430; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031430 - 26 Jan 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4529

Abstract

Uncertainty and variability are key challenges for climate change adaptation planning. In the face of uncertainty, decision-making can be addressed in two interdependent stages: make only partial ex ante anticipative actions to keep options open until new information is revealed, and adapt the [...] Read more.

Uncertainty and variability are key challenges for climate change adaptation planning. In the face of uncertainty, decision-making can be addressed in two interdependent stages: make only partial ex ante anticipative actions to keep options open until new information is revealed, and adapt the first-stage decisions with respect to newly acquired information. This decision-making approach corresponds to the two-stage stochastic optimization (STO) incorporating both anticipative ex ante and adaptive ex post decisions within a single model. This paper develops a two-stage STO model for climate change adaptation through robust land use and irrigation planning under conditions of uncertain water supply. The model identifies the differences between decision-making in the cases of perfect information, full uncertainty, and two-stage STO from the perspective of learning about uncertainty. Two-stage anticipative and adaptive decision-making with safety constraints provides risk-informed decisions characterized by quantile-based Value-at-Risk and Conditional Value-at-Risk risk measures. The ratio between the ex ante and ex post costs and the shape of uncertainty determine the balance between the anticipative and adaptive decisions. Selected numerical results illustrate that the alteration of the ex ante agricultural production costs can affect crop production, management technologies, and natural resource utilization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modeling and Managing Catastrophic Risks in Heterogeneous Systems)

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4 pages, 167 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoicePerspective

Shaping Arctic’s Tomorrow through Indigenous Knowledge Engagement and Knowledge Co-Production

by Tatiana Degai, Andrey N. Petrov, Renuka Badhe, Parnuna P. Egede Dahl, Nina Döring, Stephan Dudeck, Thora M. Herrmann, Andrei Golovnev, Liza Mack, Elle Merete Omma, Gunn-Britt Retter, Gertrude Saxinger, Annette J. M. Scheepstra, Chief Vyachelav Shadrin, Norma Shorty and Colleen Strawhacker

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1331; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031331 - 25 Jan 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 5021

Abstract

This perspective presents a statement of the 10th International Congress of Arctic Social Sciences Indigenous Knowledge and knowledge co-production panel and discussion group, 20 July 2021. The statement is designed to serve as a characterization of the state-of-the-art and guidance for further advancement [...] Read more.

This perspective presents a statement of the 10th International Congress of Arctic Social Sciences Indigenous Knowledge and knowledge co-production panel and discussion group, 20 July 2021. The statement is designed to serve as a characterization of the state-of-the-art and guidance for further advancement of Indigenous Knowledge and knowledge co-production in the Arctic. It identifies existing challenges and provides specific recommendations for researchers, Indigenous communities, and funding agencies on meaningful recognition and engagement of Indigenous Knowledge systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Shaping Tomorrow’s Arctic)

13 pages, 1304 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Feral Cats in the Subtropics of Australia—The Shamrock Station Irrigation Project

by Michael Thomas Lohr, Dave Algar, Neil Hamilton and Cheryl Anne Lohr

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1373; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031373 - 25 Jan 2022

Viewed by 2993

Abstract

Environmental damage caused by the intensification of agriculture may be compensated by implementing conservation projects directed towards reducing threatening processes and conserving threatened native species. In Australia, feral cats (Felis catus) have been a ubiquitous threatening process to Australian fauna since [...] Read more.

Environmental damage caused by the intensification of agriculture may be compensated by implementing conservation projects directed towards reducing threatening processes and conserving threatened native species. In Australia, feral cats (Felis catus) have been a ubiquitous threatening process to Australian fauna since European colonisation. On Shamrock Station, in the north-west of Western Australia, the Argyle Cattle Company has proposed intensifying agriculture through the installation of irrigation pivots. There is concern that irrigating land and storing agricultural produce may indirectly increase the abundance of feral cats and European red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) on the property, which in turn may negatively impact threatened bilbies (Macrotis lagotis) that also inhabit the property. Feral cat control is required under the approved management plan for this project to mitigate this potential impact. Our baseline study revealed a high density of feral cats on Shamrock Station (0.87 cats km⁻²) and dietary data that suggest the current native mammal assemblage on Shamrock Station is depauperate. Given the high density of feral cats in this area, the effective control of this introduced predator is likely to confer benefits to the bilby and other native species susceptible to cat predation. We recommend ongoing monitoring of both native species and feral cats to determine if there is a benefit in implementing feral cat control around areas of intensive agriculture and associated cattle production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Conservation Planning and Wildlife Management)

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14 pages, 1886 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Outreach and Post-Publication Impact of Soil Erosion Modelling Literature

by Nejc Bezak, Pasquale Borrelli, Matjaž Mikoš and Panos Panagos

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1342; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031342 - 25 Jan 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1970

Abstract

Back in the 1930s, the aphorism “publish or perish” first appeared in an academic context. Today, this phrase is becoming a harsh reality in several academic environments, and scientists are giving increasing attention to publishing and disseminating their scientific work. Soil erosion modelers [...] Read more.

Back in the 1930s, the aphorism “publish or perish” first appeared in an academic context. Today, this phrase is becoming a harsh reality in several academic environments, and scientists are giving increasing attention to publishing and disseminating their scientific work. Soil erosion modelers make no exception. With the introduction of the bibliometric field, the evaluation of the impact of a piece of scientific work becomes more articulated. The post-publication impact of the research became an important aspect too. In this study, we analyse the outreach and the impact of the literature on soil erosion modelling using the altmetric database, i.e., Altmetric. In our analysis, we use only a small fraction (around 15%) of Global Applications of Soil Erosion Modelling Tracker (GASEMT) papers because only 257 papers out of 1697 had an Altmetric Score (AS) larger than 0. We observed that media and policy documents mentioned more frequently literature dealing with global-scale assessments and future projection studies than local-scale ones. Papers that are frequently cited by researchers do not necessarily also yield high media and policy outreach. The GASEMT papers that had an AS larger than 0 were, on average, mentioned by one policy document and five Twitter users and had 100 Mendeley readers. Only around 5% and 9% of papers with AS > 0 appeared in news articles and blogs, respectively. However, this percentage was around 45% for Twitter and policy mentions. The top GASEMT paper’s upper bound was around 1 million Twitter followers, while this number was around 10,000 for the 10th ranked GASEMT paper. The exponentially increasing trend for erosion modelling papers having an AS has been confirmed, as during the last 3 years (2014–2017), we estimated that the number of entries had doubled compared to 2011–2014 and quadrupled if we compare it with 2008–2011. Full article

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

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15 pages, 267 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Organizational Learning at Purpose-Driven Enterprise: Action–Research Model for Leadership Improvement

by Angel Losada-Vazquez

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1301; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031301 - 24 Jan 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4184

Abstract

Knowledge Economy companies need to be aligned with social improvement challenges not only in order to promote sustainable innovation but also because knowledge workers need to feel their work is meaningful in both organizational and social terms. This is the reason why organizational [...] Read more.

Knowledge Economy companies need to be aligned with social improvement challenges not only in order to promote sustainable innovation but also because knowledge workers need to feel their work is meaningful in both organizational and social terms. This is the reason why organizational purpose might play a strategic role and becomes a top management duty. Furthermore, organizational purpose, as part of the social enterprise identity, needs to be built as a result of a new kind of leadership performance, focused on learning processes and driven by individual and organizational communication capabilities. Such a challenge points out, on one hand, that a more socially concerned enterprise is needed and, on the other, that top management capabilities must be improved in order to play the new role they are compelled to in order to promote social economy and stakeholders capitalism. What is at stake applies to both theoretically sound foundations and transformational managerial practices such as those this paper intends to apply by presenting outcomes from a research project focused on the transformational role of leadership as drivers for organizational learning capabilities improvement in search of innovation and social impact. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability-Oriented Innovation for the Challenges of the Contemporary Society)

13 pages, 2793 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effect of Acorn Thermotherapy and Short-Term Storage on Morphological Characteristics of Related Quercus Robur L. Seedlings

by Jelena Kranjec Orlović, Damir Drvodelić, Ela Španjol, Sanja Bogunović, Danko Diminić and Milan Oršanić

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1307; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031307 - 24 Jan 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2746

Abstract

To preserve the sustainability of Quercus robur forests, which is at risk due to the disturbed natural regeneration, human assisted sowing of acorns or planting of oak seedlings is often performed. However, the success of these methods depends greatly on the use of [...] Read more.

To preserve the sustainability of Quercus robur forests, which is at risk due to the disturbed natural regeneration, human assisted sowing of acorns or planting of oak seedlings is often performed. However, the success of these methods depends greatly on the use of high-quality sowing and planting material. Thermotherapy is thus often employed to decrease the acorn mycobiota and maintain their quality during the storage. The aim of this study was to test the impact of acorn thermotherapy, followed by a short-term storage at −1 °C or 3 °C, on the quality of related oak seedlings, which was assessed based on the easily observable morphological characteristics. Height, root collar diameter and seedling form were measured or noted for the 1284 and 1190 seedlings at the age of four months and three years, respectively. It was found that acorn thermotherapy affirmatively affected seedling height, especially at the early growth stage. Positive impact on other seedling attributes could not be decisively confirmed because of the lack of the continuity of the effect (not visible in both younger and older seedlings) and the prevailing impact of other factors. Different acorn thermotherapy conditions (temperature and duration) and short-term storage temperatures appeared to be associated only with the occurrence of stem forking at the earlier stage of seedling growth. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Close to Nature Forestry – Hope for the European Green Deal)

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24 pages, 325 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Meat Me Halfway: Sydney Meat-Loving Men’s Restaurant Experience with Alternative Plant-Based Proteins

by Diana Bogueva, Dora Marinova and Christopher Bryant

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1290; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031290 - 24 Jan 2022

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 8125

Abstract

Within the theoretical framework of psychological reactance and impression management, this study conducted in Sydney, Australia, in 2020–2021, explores the acceptance by men of alternatives to animal-based foods. Qualitative in-depth interviews were conducted with 36 men who have visited a vegan restaurant and [...] Read more.

Within the theoretical framework of psychological reactance and impression management, this study conducted in Sydney, Australia, in 2020–2021, explores the acceptance by men of alternatives to animal-based foods. Qualitative in-depth interviews were conducted with 36 men who have visited a vegan restaurant and have eaten a plant-based burger. The findings from the study show that, despite the increasing popularity of these novel food options, men are unlikely to include the plant-based alternatives as a permanent feature of their diets as explained by the theory of psychological reactance. However, the study’s male participants acknowledged the importance of women for their visit to the vegan restaurant which can be explained by impression management theory. Using excerpts from the interviews, men’s experience is highlighted, particularly as it relates to concerns linked to masculinity, dietary identity and social perception by others. The analysis reveals the complexity of transitioning to more sustainable food choices within a gender-constructed social environment. Whether the new plant-based alternatives to meat are going to be a short-lived trend or a more lasting option in the men’s diets is also discussed. Practical implications for social marketing as a tool to influence collective behaviour are drawn. They emphasise the role of women, changing social perceptions and transparency about the new plant-based products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Innovation for Planetary Health)

14 pages, 1119 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Soil Organic Carbon in Alley Cropping Systems: A Meta-Analysis

by Vladimir Ivezić, Klaus Lorenz and Rattan Lal

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1296; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031296 - 24 Jan 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5379

Abstract

Population growth and an increasing demand for food cause the intensification of agriculture leading to soil degradation and a decrease in the soil organic carbon (SOC) stock. Agroforestry systems such as alley cropping are gaining more and more attention as a practice to [...] Read more.

Population growth and an increasing demand for food cause the intensification of agriculture leading to soil degradation and a decrease in the soil organic carbon (SOC) stock. Agroforestry systems such as alley cropping are gaining more and more attention as a practice to maintain and/or increase SOC in agroecosystems. The aim of this study was to add to the knowledge on SOC in alley cropping systems and to evaluate the contribution of introducing trees into agricultural landscapes by conducting a meta-analysis of the available data. The soil carbon (C) input will increase with time. Our findings suggest that a beneficial effect on SOC occurs after approximately a decade of alley cropping practice adoption. Furthermore, the effect of alley cropping is more beneficial in regions with lower initial SOC concentration compared to that in regions rich in SOC. Higher relative SOC is observed in the tropical region compared to that in the temperate climate zone. The establishment of alley cropping systems on agricultural land needs to consider several parameters such as alley width and tree species when designing such systems to achieve the highest possible tree and crop productivity while increasing SOC. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Benefits Enclosed in Agroforestry-Based Systems)

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12 pages, 22647 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Understanding Urban Complexity via the Spatial Diversity of Activities: An Application to Barcelona (Spain)

by Salvador Rueda Palenzuela, Albert Santasusagna Riu, Berta Cormenzana Izquierdo, Joan Tort Donada and Xavier Úbeda

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1298; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031298 - 24 Jan 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3758

Abstract

Urban complexity can be measured by the numerical and spatial diversity of activities in a territory. Just as biodiversity can be measured in a natural ecosystem, diversity indices can be applied to urban settings. Urban diversity presents higher values in areas where there [...] Read more.

Urban complexity can be measured by the numerical and spatial diversity of activities in a territory. Just as biodiversity can be measured in a natural ecosystem, diversity indices can be applied to urban settings. Urban diversity presents higher values in areas where there is a greater number of (economic, institutional, and social) activities with a high degree of differentiation between them. This study seeks to investigate the potential of applying an urban diversity index in a specific case study: namely, the city of Barcelona (Spain), known for the orthogonal grid plan of its Eixample district. Results show that the municipal territory of Barcelona as a whole is characterized by highly differentiated spaces according to their urban diversity values. Specifically, it is the Eixample district that presents the highest values of urban diversity, reflecting the densification of its morphology and its urban commercial policies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Car-Free Cities: Urban Planning Strategies to Reduce Private Transport)

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19 pages, 3153 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Sustainability of the Portuguese North-Western Fishing Activity in the Face of the Recently Implemented Maritime Spatial Planning

by Emilio Salas-Leiton, Ana Costa, Vanessa Neves, Joana Soares, Adriano Bordalo and Sérgia Costa-Dias

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1266; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031266 - 24 Jan 2022

Viewed by 2915

Abstract

The Maritime Spatial Planning (MSP) for continental Portugal was approved in December 2019 and has established a novel framework for those players that carry out maritime activities. In light of this challenge, our work addresses the current status of the fishing activity in [...] Read more.

The Maritime Spatial Planning (MSP) for continental Portugal was approved in December 2019 and has established a novel framework for those players that carry out maritime activities. In light of this challenge, our work addresses the current status of the fishing activity in the north-western region of Portugal, where relevant small-scale fisheries (SSF) are still well established. Based on official statistical data and a stakeholder survey, structural, economic, and social issues that significantly influence the sustainability of this industry were studied. Throughout the 2012–2019 pre-COVID-19 period, the price revalorization of primary products in first-sale markets was the key aspect that allowed fisheries to partially counteract the loss of economic value associated with the decreased fishing production (a decline of 46% of the total nominal catches). Regarding the regional fishing trade network, the fact that a given species reaches a wide range of prices in closely located major landing ports (Matosinhos, Póvoa de Varzim, and Viana do Castelo) constitutes, nonetheless, an issue that deserves attention and optimization. A survey conducted among training professional fishers confirmed a deeply rooted family/regional tradition but revealed concerns about the future generational replacement. The trainees demanded stronger support from the government, a modernization process for fishing activity, as well as higher social salary standards. Moreover, they assigned a high relevance to the sustainability of aquatic resources. In conclusion, the results shown in the present study reveal a noticeable ability of the regional fishing industry to overcome the challenging economic circumstances that have occurred in the last few years. Against the new scenario decisively influenced by the MSP, a generation of future regional fishers that pursue high social and environmental standards is certainly a solid basis for an optimistic future performance of this activity. For that purpose, a firm commitment to the use of technology seems like a key strategy to adopt in order to further the sustainability of the fisheries in the north-western region of Portugal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Maritime Spatial Planning for Sustainable Fisheries)

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12 pages, 4784 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Vegetal Fiber Additives in Mortars: Experimental Characterization of Thermal and Acoustic Properties

by Chiara Quintaliani, Francesca Merli, Costanza Vittoria Fiorini, Marco Corradi, Emanuela Speranzini and Cinzia Buratti

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1260; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031260 - 23 Jan 2022

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 4439

Abstract

This paper investigates the influence of adding vegetal fibers on thermal and acoustic performance based on natural hydraulic lime. Mortar samples with 10% weight of vegetal fibers were fabricated adding water to obtain easily workable mortars with good consistency; their performance was compared [...] Read more.

This paper investigates the influence of adding vegetal fibers on thermal and acoustic performance based on natural hydraulic lime. Mortar samples with 10% weight of vegetal fibers were fabricated adding water to obtain easily workable mortars with good consistency; their performance was compared to mortar samples without vegetal fibers. The fibers were of different types (rice husk, spelt bran, and Khorasan (turanicum) wheat chaff) and size (as-found and ground form). Thermal performance was measured with the Small Hot Box experimental apparatus. Thermal conductivity was reduced in the 1–11% range (with Khorasan wheat chaff and rice husk); no significant reduction was found with spelled bran in the mixture. When ground, fibers were characterized by both good thermal and acoustic absorption performance; a reduction of 6–22% in thermal conductivity λ was achieved with spelled bran (λ = 0.64 W/mK) and rice husks (λ = 0.53 W/mK), whereas the Khorasan wheat chaff had the highest sound absorption average index (0.38). However, the addition of fibers reduced sound insulation properties due to their low weight densities. This reduction was limited for rice husks (transmission loss value was only 2 dB lower than the reference). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Materials for Thermal and Noise Insulation of Buildings)

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27 pages, 1151 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Assessing and Monitoring of Building Performance by Diverse Methods

by Paola Seminara, Behrang Vand, Seyed Masoud Sajjadian and Laura Tupenaite

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1242; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031242 - 22 Jan 2022

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 6292

Abstract

Buildings are one of the largest contributors to energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) in the world. There is an increased interest in building performance evaluation as an essential practice to design a sustainable building. Building performance is influenced by various terms, [...] Read more.

Buildings are one of the largest contributors to energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) in the world. There is an increased interest in building performance evaluation as an essential practice to design a sustainable building. Building performance is influenced by various terms, for example, designs, construction-related factors such as building envelope and airtightness, and energy technologies with or without micro-generations. How well a building performs thermally is key to determining the level of energy demand and GHG emissions. Building standards and regulations, in combination with assessments (e.g., energy modeling tools) and certifications, provide sets of supports, guidelines and instructions for designers and building engineers to ensure users’ health and well-being, consistency in construction practices and environmental protection. This paper reviews, evaluates and suggests a sequence of building performance methods from the UK perspective. It shows the relationships between such methods, their evolutions and related tools, and further highlights the importance of post-occupancy analysis and how crucial such assessments could be for efficient buildings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optimization of Energy Use in Buildings)

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34 pages, 5372 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Role of a Hazardous Waste Intermediate Management Plant in the Circularity of Products

by David Viruega Sevilla, Ahinara Francisco López and Pastora M. Bello Bugallo

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1241; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031241 - 22 Jan 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2897

Abstract

Zero-pollution goals and the reduction in environmental pressures related to production and consumption have become a priority in recent environmental policies such as the 8th European Environment Action Program proposal. Adapting current industrial processes is essential to this transition towards a regenerative economy. [...] Read more.

Zero-pollution goals and the reduction in environmental pressures related to production and consumption have become a priority in recent environmental policies such as the 8th European Environment Action Program proposal. Adapting current industrial processes is essential to this transition towards a regenerative economy. This work presents a redesign plan for an industrial system that includes mechanical workshops and a hazardous waste intermediate management plant, covering all management activities (both off-site and on-site), such as collection, transport, and treatment. The waste management hierarchy is modified/amplified considering the original definition and the circular economy focus. This includes the improvement of existing processes and/or the design of new sustainable processes from waste to energy and useful materials, with different foci (integrated pollution prevention and control, industrial ecology, the circular economy, system dynamics, and life-cycle thinking (LCT)) and different tools employed (Best Available Techniques inventory (BAT), process simulation, BAT analysis, industrial symbiosis, dynamic material and energy flow analysis, and LCT tools). These tools help us to improve the sustainability of waste to energy and useful materials processes and improve symbiotic behaviour in the industrial system. This study shows the real possibility of achieving the circularity of products, transforming the waste sector into a productive one. Meanwhile, it contributes to the extinction of the traditional concept of waste. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Environmental Management of Hazardous Wastes)

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22 pages, 804 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Criteria of “Effectiveness” and Related Aspects in Adaptive Reuse Projects of Heritage Buildings

by Fatemeh Hedieh Arfa, Barbara Lubelli, Hielkje Zijlstra and Wido Quist

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1251; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031251 - 22 Jan 2022

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 6592

Abstract

Adaptive reuse (AR) of heritage buildings is a complex process due to the involvement of many actions and actors, which influence the results of the projects. The effectiveness of AR projects can be described by various criteria. This paper aims to provide a [...] Read more.

Adaptive reuse (AR) of heritage buildings is a complex process due to the involvement of many actions and actors, which influence the results of the projects. The effectiveness of AR projects can be described by various criteria. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the criteria of effectiveness in AR projects with the final scope to guide and improve the AR process. A review of the jury reports of two highly prestigious awards in the Netherlands (NRP Golden Phoenix award) and Europe (Europa Nostra) has been conducted. In total, the reports of 48 cases have been reviewed. The five criteria mentioned in the regulations of the NRP award have been used to categorize the aspects mentioned in the jury reports of both awards. These criteria are: “social value creation”, “sublimation (both architectural and cultural aspects)”, “environmental sustainability”, “economic value creation”, and “innovation”. This review reveals that “social value creation” and “sublimation” are among the most highlighted criteria that the juries considered for the effectiveness of AR projects. Often aspects mentioned for these criteria overlap partially with those aspects mentioned in the criterion of “economic value creation”. This indicates that enhancement of the qualities of heritage buildings and their surroundings and improvement of the social values and the resulting positive economic effects are strictly interrelated. The overview of the criteria of effectiveness, as defined in this work, will serve as a basis for the investigation of the tools and methods which can be used in the AR process to achieve these criteria. Full article

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

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22 pages, 2291 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Review of Current Design and Construction Practice for Road Kerbs and a Sustainability Analysis

by Hasan Momotaz, Md Mizanur Rahman, Md Rajibul Karim, Asif Iqbal, Yan Zhuge, Xing Ma and Peter Levett

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1230; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031230 - 21 Jan 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 11387

Abstract

Kerb is an integral part of road infrastructure and performs several important functions, including providing stability to the edges of the road and providing effective drainage. Their performance can significantly influence the behaviour and service life of a road. The design conditions, construction [...] Read more.

Kerb is an integral part of road infrastructure and performs several important functions, including providing stability to the edges of the road and providing effective drainage. Their performance can significantly influence the behaviour and service life of a road. The design conditions, construction materials and their sustainability can be important to assess from an asset management and sustainable construction point of view even though this area has been paid limited research attention in the past. This paper reviews the available literature on the design and construction considerations for kerbs and critically analyses them with a special focus on sustainable construction practice. The different materials commonly used around the world for the construction of kerb in terms of their properties, failure and available design guidelines have been discussed along with their management practice. Special situations, such as expansive soil movement and tree root-related problems, have also been considered, and the current guidelines for designing in such situations have also been discussed. A carbon footprint and sustainability analysis has been conducted on the current practice of using natural aggregate concrete and compared against several potential alternatives. The review of the design process indicated that the current practice relies on over-simplified design procedures and identified scopes for improvement, especially with the incorporation of mechanical behaviour of the material being used in construction. The carbon footprint and sustainability analysis indicated that the use of alternative materials could result in significant savings in the kerb construction industry’s carbon footprint. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Roads and Airfields: Pavement Materials and Pavement Engineering)

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16 pages, 1273 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Who Uses Virtual Wardrobes? Investigating the Role of Consumer Traits in the Intention to Adopt Virtual Wardrobes

by Haeun Bang and Jin Su

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1209; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031209 - 21 Jan 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5506

Abstract

Over-consumption by consumers is a significant challenge to sustainability. Technology, such as that of virtual wardrobes, can suggest options that may reduce excessive consumption. A virtual wardrobe is a service that allows users to create and manage their wardrobes digitally. It also helps [...] Read more.

Over-consumption by consumers is a significant challenge to sustainability. Technology, such as that of virtual wardrobes, can suggest options that may reduce excessive consumption. A virtual wardrobe is a service that allows users to create and manage their wardrobes digitally. It also helps users to realize what they have in their wardrobes and can recommend appropriate styles of clothing for the users based on an analysis of the wardrobe. From the perspective of consumer characteristics, this research investigates what motivates consumers to adopt and use virtual wardrobes and proposes marketing strategies for addressing these behaviors. Fishbein’s attitude theory was used as a theoretical framework. By surveying 265 U.S. college students and using structural equation modeling analysis, the study shows that consumers’ socially responsible consumption behavior and personal innovativeness in information technology positively affect their attitude toward virtual wardrobes, which, in turn, increases their intention to use virtual wardrobes. However, their personal shopping value and fashion involvement have no significant impacts on consumers’ attitudes toward virtual wardrobes. The findings indicate that marketers of virtual wardrobes should highlight social responsibility and technological innovation in product and service promotions. By gaining insight into their wardrobes, consumers can be more strategic about clothing consumption, use, and disposal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Sustainable Practices from Product to Consumer)

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22 pages, 677 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Coverage of Disabled People in Environmental-Education-Focused Academic Literature

by Chiara Salvatore and Gregor Wolbring

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1211; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031211 - 21 Jan 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5060

Abstract

Environmental education (EE) is a lifelong process to acquire knowledge and skills that can influence pro-environmental behavior, environmental activism, and disaster-risk management. Disabled people are impacted by environmental issues, environmental activism, and how EE is taught. Disabled people can be learners within EE [...] Read more.

Environmental education (EE) is a lifelong process to acquire knowledge and skills that can influence pro-environmental behavior, environmental activism, and disaster-risk management. Disabled people are impacted by environmental issues, environmental activism, and how EE is taught. Disabled people can be learners within EE but can contribute to EE in many other roles. Given the importance of EE and its potential impact on disabled people—and given that equity, diversity, and inclusion is an ever-increasing policy framework in relation to environment-focused disciplines and programs in academia and other workplaces, which also covers disabled people—we performed a scoping review of academic literature using Scopus and EBSCO-HOST (70 databases) as sources, to investigate how and to what extent disabled people are engaged with EE academic literature. Of the initial 73 sources found, only 27 contained relevant content whereby the content engaged mostly with disabled people as EE learners but rarely with other possible roles. They rarely discussed the EE impact on disabled people, did not engage with EE teaching about disabled people being impacted by environmental issues and discourses, and did not connect EE to environment-related action by disabled people. Results suggest the need for a more differentiated engagement with disabled people in the EE literature. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Education Researches)

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21 pages, 1996 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Superheated Steam Torrefaction of Biomass Residues with Valorisation of Platform Chemicals—Part 1: Ecological Assessment

by Baharam Roy, Peter Kleine-Möllhoff and Antoine Dalibard

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1212; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031212 - 21 Jan 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4349

Abstract

Within the last decade, research on torrefaction has gained increasing attention due to its ability to improve the physical properties and chemical composition of biomass residues for further energetic utilisation. While most of the research works focused on improving the energy density of [...] Read more.

Within the last decade, research on torrefaction has gained increasing attention due to its ability to improve the physical properties and chemical composition of biomass residues for further energetic utilisation. While most of the research works focused on improving the energy density of the solid fraction to offer an ecological alternative to coal for energy applications, little attention was paid to the valorisation of the condensable gases as platform chemicals and its ecological relevance when compared to conventional production processes. Therefore, the present study focuses on the ecological evaluation of an innovative biorefinery concept that includes superheated steam drying and the torrefaction of biomass residues at ambient pressure, the recovery of volatiles and the valorisation/separation of several valuable platform chemicals. For a reference case and an alternative system design scenario, the ecological footprint was assessed, considering the use of different biomass residues. The results show that the newly developed process can compete with established bio-based and conventional production processes for furfural, 5-HMF and acetic acid in terms of the assessed environmental performance indicators. The requirements for further research on the synthesis of other promising platform chemicals and the necessary economic evaluation of the process were elaborated. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Circular Economy Strategies for Sustainable Development: Applications and Impacts)

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15 pages, 648 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Impacts of Tourism Stays on Residents’ Self-Reported Health: A Pan-European Analysis on the Role of Age and Urbanization Level

by Anna Bornioli, Susan J. Vermeulen, Jeroen van Haaren, Riccardo Valente and Giuliano Mingardo

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1157; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031157 - 20 Jan 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2924

Abstract

Understanding the impacts of tourism on the quality of life of residents is a priority for the sustainable tourism agenda, and is especially relevant to the COVID-19 recovery period. However, the evidence is poor, and it is not clear whether the outcomes vary [...] Read more.

Understanding the impacts of tourism on the quality of life of residents is a priority for the sustainable tourism agenda, and is especially relevant to the COVID-19 recovery period. However, the evidence is poor, and it is not clear whether the outcomes vary among sociodemographic groups. This study fills this gap by proposing a pan-European analysis of the effects of tourism stays per 1000 residents (as a measure of tourism pressure) on self-perceived health at a regional level, based on data from Eurostat, the EU-SILC (European Union Statistics on Income and Living Conditions survey), and the LFS (Labor Force Survey). Multilevel models with random effects were used, including three levels: region, time, and region–time. Results show that tourism pressure may benefit self-reported health but only among residents aged over 50 years old living in rural contexts, or over 65 living in low density urban areas. As for younger groups (under 50) living in high density cities, tourism is longitudinally associated with worsened self-reported health. These results, which are supported by instrumental-variable estimations, suggest that urban residents and younger groups do not benefit from tourism. This might be due to a number of side effects related to increased living costs, precarious labour, and conflicts related to public space. Therefore, our findings challenge the narrative that urban tourism universally improves residents’ quality of life. Considering the global urgency of creating healthier and more equitable post-COVID-19 cities and societies, tourism should be considered together with health and equity dimensions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Health Tourism)

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14 pages, 5856 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Land Cover and Vegetation Coverage Changes in the Mining Area—A Case Study from Slovakia

by Stefan Kuzevic, Diana Bobikova and Zofia Kuzevicova

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1180; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031180 - 20 Jan 2022

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 2937

Abstract

Dealing with landscape changes in space and time is an important activity in terms of the process of future development of the selected area. In particular, it is necessary to focus on territories that are exposed to the effects of extraction activities. The [...] Read more.

Dealing with landscape changes in space and time is an important activity in terms of the process of future development of the selected area. In particular, it is necessary to focus on territories that are exposed to the effects of extraction activities. The main objective of the paper was the mapping of spatio-temporal changes in the landscape in connection with the extraction of minerals due to mining activities on the landscape using satellite images and data from the Corine land cover (CLC) database in the environment of geographic information systems. The selected study area is specific to the presence of four mineral deposits (three of which are under active mining). The Rohožník-Konopiská deposit was abandoned and the area was subsequently reclaimed. The study used Corine land cover (CLC) data and Landsat 5, 7, 8 satellite images for selected years in the period 1990–2021. The Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) was calculated for vegetation cover analysis, which was further combined with the forest spatial division units (FSDU) layer. Areas in the immediate vicinity of the open-pit mine were selected for detailed analysis of vegetation changes. Using the FSDU data, an average NDVI index value was calculated using the Zonal statistics function for each plot. The results showed that over the selected period there have been changes indicating an improvement in the landscape condition by reclamation operations at two deposits, Rohožník-Konopiská (inactive) and Sološnica-Hrabník (active). The analyzed CLC data detected the change at the Rohožník-Konopiská deposit, but the active deposit Sološnica-Hrabník was not detected in these data. The loss of vegetation on the other two deposits is mainly due to pre-mining preparatory work, which causes the removal of soil and vegetation layers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Resource Utilization and Environmental Protection in Mining Industry)

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16 pages, 1703 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Assessing the Environmental Footprint of Distiller-Dried Grains with Soluble Diet as a Substitute for Standard Corn–Soybean for Swine Production in the United States of America

by Md Ariful Haque, Zifei Liu, Akinbile Demilade and Nallapaneni Manoj Kumar

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1161; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031161 - 20 Jan 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2703

Abstract

The swine diet formulation in the United States of America (U.S.A.) is entering a new era of decision making to promote low-carbon pork production systems. As a part of the decision-making process, the precision nutrition approaches to customize diet and alternative feeding options [...] Read more.

The swine diet formulation in the United States of America (U.S.A.) is entering a new era of decision making to promote low-carbon pork production systems. As a part of the decision-making process, the precision nutrition approaches to customize diet and alternative feeding options that are economically viable and environmentally sustainable are given priority. Hence, the objective of this study is to identify an alternative diet over a standard corn–soybean meal diet. The byproducts from the supply chain of human food and biofuels, i.e., distiller-dried grain with solubles (DDGS), are chosen as an alternative option to formulate a swine diet. First, two alternative byproduct diets with low and high DDGS inclusion (10.1% and 28.8%, respectively) were formulated using the least-cost technique. Second, a life cycle inventory was created, followed by data collection from the key sources, including DATA SMART-2017, USDA, RIA-GREET 2018, and the relevant literature. Third, in SimaPro 8.5.2.0 (PRé Sustainability: LE Amersfoort, The Netherlands), the ReCiPe 2016, the midpoint method by economic allocation was used to investigate the environmental footprint of the formulated diets to inform sustainability decisions of swine-farm managers. The considered functional unit is the ‘lb diet’, and the system boundary is the farm gate that considers only the feed production stage. The observed results include global warming potential, land use, water consumption, fossil resources scarcity, and terrestrial ecotoxicity. The comparative results of a 28.8% DDGS diet over the standard corn–soybean meal diet for the displacement ratio of 0.69 show an approximate global warming potential saving of 0.04 kg CO₂ eq. per lb DDGS feed at the feed production stage. Moreover, the DDGS displacement ratio of 0.69 does not significantly impact water consumption and fossil resources; however, it can reduce land use by 26% and terrestrial ecotoxicity by 8% compared to the standard diet. Overall, the quantified environmental footprint results of the byproduct DDGS diets indicate that the footprints of DDGS diets were lower than the standard diet. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Circular Bioeconomy)

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15 pages, 2188 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Urbanization, Economic Development, and Ecological Environment: Evidence from Provincial Panel Data in China

by Xiaofu Chen, Chang Liu and Xiaohua Yu

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1124; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031124 - 19 Jan 2022

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 6747

Abstract

The relationship between urbanization and the ecological environment is not conclusive in the literature. We used the provincial data from China from 1998 to 2019 to empirically study the relationship between the urbanization ratio and ecological environment which is proxied by the NDVI [...] Read more.

The relationship between urbanization and the ecological environment is not conclusive in the literature. We used the provincial data from China from 1998 to 2019 to empirically study the relationship between the urbanization ratio and ecological environment which is proxied by the NDVI (normalized difference vegetation index) from the remote sensing data. The results indicate that the coefficient of the interaction between urbanization and per capita GDP is statistically significant and negative (−0.0946), while the coefficient of urbanization itself is very trivial and not statistically significant. It implies that urbanization could reduce ecological quality, particularly for the high-income regions. The higher the urbanization ratio is, the larger the negative impact is. It implies that urban expansion does reduce the ecological environment. The effect of economic development level on the NDVI can be divided into three stages: the one where the NDVI improves with the increase of GDP per capita (urbanization rate of less than 77.59%), the one where the value of the NDVI is not affected by the level of GDP per capita (urbanization rate equal to 77.59%), and the one where the NDVI decreases with the increase of GDP per capita (urbanization rate of more than 77.59%). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability and Ecosystem Health: How to Balance Development and Conservation with Rapid Global Changes?)

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22 pages, 5620 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Comparative Investigations into Environment-Friendly Production Methods for Railway Prestressed Concrete Sleepers and Bearers

by Ruilin You, Jijun Wang, Sakdirat Kaewunruen, Meng Wang and Na Ning

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1059; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031059 - 18 Jan 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2748

Abstract

Prestressed concrete sleeper is a safety-critical track component widely used in ballasted railway tracks. The performance, endurance and quality of prestressed concrete sleepers can detrimentally affect the serviceability and durability of a railway track. An optimal production method is an important criterion underpinning [...] Read more.

Prestressed concrete sleeper is a safety-critical track component widely used in ballasted railway tracks. The performance, endurance and quality of prestressed concrete sleepers can detrimentally affect the serviceability and durability of a railway track. An optimal production method is an important criterion underpinning quality and durability over the entire service life of prestressed concrete sleepers. At present, the research work of the sleeper mainly focuses on the dynamic load, bearing capacity and structural design method, etc. However, there exists a lack of research on the specific advantages and disadvantages of the sleeper production process and the improvement of the sleeper process research. This study is the world’s first to collect and analyse the technical data and characteristics of modern production methods of prestressed concrete sleepers, including the long-line system method, pre-tensioned long-mould flow method, pre-tensioned short-mould flow method, post-tensioned short-mould flow method and instant-demoulded short-mould flow method. The precautions for these prestressed concrete sleepers are highlighted in the paper as well. The research results show that the long-line system method, pre-tensioned short-mould flow method, post-tensioned short-mould flow method and instant-demoulded short-mould flow method have a higher automation level and lower efficiency than the pre-tensioned long-mould flow method. The production method of the pre-tensioned long-mould flow method has high efficiency and low cost of equipment, but more workers are needed. Through a comparative analysis, this paper also determines the environmental impacts and provide new references and suggestions for the development and progress of sleeper production technologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Organic Materials Used in the Construction Sector)

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19 pages, 1980 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Improving Safety Management through Analysis of Near-Miss Reports—A Tanker Ship Case Study

by Nermin Hasanspahić, Srđan Vujičić, Miho Kristić and Mario Mandušić

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1094; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031094 - 18 Jan 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4454

Abstract

A near-miss management system (NMMS) is a tool used for improving safety at sea if adequately implemented. Valuable knowledge to improve safety management might be gained by investigating and analysing reported events. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance to report each observed [...] Read more.

A near-miss management system (NMMS) is a tool used for improving safety at sea if adequately implemented. Valuable knowledge to improve safety management might be gained by investigating and analysing reported events. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance to report each observed near-miss event. Because tankers are generally considered dangerous, but at the same time safe due to stringent requirements, near-miss reports and NMMS policy were collected from one oil tanker ship. Data were pre-processed and analysed. Variables used during analysis were near-miss type, risk level, ship position, and onboard location of near-miss occurrence. Analysis of policy and reports revealed that most near misses occurred on the deck area, but higher-risk-level events were reported in the engine room and navigating bridge. Housekeeping, equipment failure, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and process-/procedure-related events were most common and generally related to lower risk levels. The most frequent corrective actions recorded were implementing safe working practices and PPE. In addition, higher-risk-level events were related to less effective corrective actions. Based on the findings, suggestions for improvements include promoting safe behaviour and adequate PPE usage through additional training, ensuring proper housekeeping, regular maintenance of shipboard equipment and spare parts management, and toolbox meetings and risk assessments that include conclusions of near-miss investigations and analysis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Risk Management and Safety Engineering)

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13 pages, 2579 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Feasibility Investigation for Residential Battery Sizing Considering EV Charging Demand

by Noman Shabbir, Lauri Kütt, Kamran Daniel, Victor Astapov, Hadi Ashraf Raja, Muhammad Naveed Iqbal and Oleksandr Husev

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1079; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031079 - 18 Jan 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3129

Abstract

Photovoltaic (PV) systems along with battery energy storage systems (BESS) are an increasing trend for residential users due to the increasing cost of energy and environmental factors. Future sustainable grids will also have electric vehicles (EVs) integrated into these residential microgrids. However, this [...] Read more.

Photovoltaic (PV) systems along with battery energy storage systems (BESS) are an increasing trend for residential users due to the increasing cost of energy and environmental factors. Future sustainable grids will also have electric vehicles (EVs) integrated into these residential microgrids. However, this large-scale deployment of EVs and PV systems could mean several problems in terms of power quality, hosting capacity and as well economic implications. This paper aims to provide input to more optimal design and management of domestic PV and BESS for residential users with EVs. In this work, a measurement-based data set from a low-voltage distribution network in a rural area has been used. Investigation sees different household and PV-EV penetration levels to propose the BESS capacity and use cases. An economic analysis has been performed to check the feasibility of the proposed systems. The payback period is found to be between 13 to 15 years of the proposed systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mechatronics Technology and Transportation Sustainability)

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17 pages, 3993 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Efficient Urban Runoff Quantity and Quality Modelling Using SWMM Model and Field Data in an Urban Watershed of Tehran Metropolis

by Fariba Zakizadeh, Alireza Moghaddam Nia, Ali Salajegheh, Luis Angel Sañudo-Fontaneda and Nasrin Alamdari

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1086; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031086 - 18 Jan 2022

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 4423

Abstract

This study aims to calibrate and validate the EPA Storm Water Management Model from field measurements of rainfall and runoff, in order to simulate the rainfall-runoff process in an urban watershed of Tehran metropolis, Iran. During and after three significant storm events, the [...] Read more.

This study aims to calibrate and validate the EPA Storm Water Management Model from field measurements of rainfall and runoff, in order to simulate the rainfall-runoff process in an urban watershed of Tehran metropolis, Iran. During and after three significant storm events, the flow rates, total suspended solids (TSS), total phosphorus (TP), and total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN) concentrations were measured at the outlet of the catchment, and were used in the model calibration and validation process. The performance of the SWMM model was evaluated based on the statistical criteria, as well as graphical techniques. In this study, a local sensitivity analysis was carried out to identify the key model parameters, show that “the percentage of impervious surface in each subwatershed had the most effect on the model output”. Based on the analysis of the results, SWMM model calibration and validation can be judged as satisfactory, and the goodness-of-fit indices for simulating runoff quality and quantity are placed in acceptable ranges. The adjustment obtained for the variations in the measured and simulated flow rates, pollutograph concentrations, total pollutant load, peak concentration, and the event mean concentration (EMC) confirms the considerable predictive capability of the SWMM model when it is well calibrated by using field measurements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geomatic Techniques Applied to Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems to help Urban and Land-Use Planning)

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