Sustainability

19 pages, 867 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Embedding Product-Service System of Cutting Tools into the Machining Process: An Eco-Efficiency Approach toward Sustainable Development

by Cledson Oliveira Lanzilotti, Luiz Fernando Rodrigues Pinto, Francesco Facchini and Salvatore Digiesi

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1100; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031100 - 18 Jan 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3549

Abstract

Product-Service System (PSS) is a sustainable strategy that shifts the focus of the business from selling physical products to providing service by using the product. The innovation proposed in the PSS, focused on sustainable production and consumption, is consistent with the sustainable development [...] Read more.

Product-Service System (PSS) is a sustainable strategy that shifts the focus of the business from selling physical products to providing service by using the product. The innovation proposed in the PSS, focused on sustainable production and consumption, is consistent with the sustainable development goals of the United Nations 2030 Agenda. The scientific literature on PSS in machining showed studies that address the economic factor of PSS contract, machine maintenance and logistics and operational process improvement. Then, there is a lack of studies on the assessment of the PSS in machining under a sustainability factors perspective. Thus, the objective of this paper was to evaluate the economic, environmental, and social advantages of PSS cutting tools in machining. Consistent with this aim, the research focused on a case study in a diesel engine parts machining company. From an economic point of view, the results indicated a reduction in operating costs of US$ 1,206,080 per year, which allowed a nine-month return on investment. From an ecological perspective, the recovery of 602 kg of carbide per year mitigated the environmental impact of tungsten and cobalt exploration. These results are even more expressive because it deals with scarce metals. Furthermore, technological advances reduced the risk of injury to operators. This research increased knowledge on PSS in machining by presenting an original study that led the analysis under a sustainability perspective. Moreover, this study contributes to managers by showing the business model’s advantages that reduce operating costs and socio-environmental impacts, enhancing sustainable development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cleaner Production Practices and Sustainable Development)

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17 pages, 3654 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Climate Change and Sustainability in ASEAN Countries

by David K. Ding and Sarah E. Beh

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 999; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020999 - 17 Jan 2022

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 9312

Abstract

The ASEAN region is one of the most susceptible regions to climate change, with three of its countries—Myanmar, the Philippines, and Thailand—among those that have suffered the greatest fatalities and economic losses because of climate-related disasters. This paper reveals that the ASEAN’s environmental [...] Read more.

The ASEAN region is one of the most susceptible regions to climate change, with three of its countries—Myanmar, the Philippines, and Thailand—among those that have suffered the greatest fatalities and economic losses because of climate-related disasters. This paper reveals that the ASEAN’s environmental performance is sorely lagging other regions despite evidence of its cohesive and comprehensive efforts to mitigate emissions and build up adaptive capacity to climate-related disasters. Within the ASEAN, there exist gaps in environmental performance between each country. This suggests that increased cooperation between individual ASEAN countries is pertinent for the region to collectively combat climate change. In addition, we show that government effectiveness has a positive influence on a country’s climate performance, signifying that a government’s strong commitment to governance is necessary in the fight against climate change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Business Strategies concerning the Sustainable Development Goals and the SDG Compass)

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12 pages, 419 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Effect of Plant-Based Nutrition Diets on Plasma Lipids Profile—A Study Case in Romania

by Corina Aurelia Zugravu, Marina Ruxandra Otelea, Radu Vladareanu, Corina Grigoriu, Teodor Salmen, Fulvia Ancuta Manolache and Roxana Elena Bohiltea

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 1008; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14021008 - 17 Jan 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3640

Abstract

Diet is an important tool in managing dyslipidemic disorders, thus contributing to the prophylaxis of cardiovascular morbidity. Research has shown that a plant-based diet could have positive effects through many pathways. We conducted a study on a group of 38 plant-based individuals from [...] Read more.

Diet is an important tool in managing dyslipidemic disorders, thus contributing to the prophylaxis of cardiovascular morbidity. Research has shown that a plant-based diet could have positive effects through many pathways. We conducted a study on a group of 38 plant-based individuals from Romania who have adopted the diet for at least one year. The aim of the research was to evaluate eventual changes in their lipid profile. We analyzed to what extent the values of different markers significantly changed following the dietary transition. Improvements were obtained for body mass index (BMI) and all lipid markers, with the exception of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). Results showed that 75.0% of persons with elevated TGs (triglycerides) succeeded in normalizing them, as well as individuals with high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels, where 72.7% from the borderline elevated became optimal. The total cholesterol (TC)/HDL-C ratio shifted from elevated to optimum in 78.6% of cases. Results were poor in three participants with presumed familial hypercholesterolemia, which were later successfully managed by using lipid-lowering medication. In conclusion, although dyslipidemias are only a surrogate marker for cardiovascular morbidity, the actions by which a plant-based diet can influence cardiovascular diseases are multiple, and we consider that our study confirms its positive effect. Full article

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

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12 pages, 3751 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Using Organigraphs to Map Disaster Risk Management Governance in the Field of Cultural Heritage

by Louis J. Durrant, Atish N. Vadher, Mirza Sarač, Duygu Başoğlu and Jacques Teller

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 1002; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14021002 - 17 Jan 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5752

Abstract

Global cultural heritage is threatened by the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters caused by climate change. International experts emphasise the importance of managing cultural heritage sustainably as part of a paradigm shift in cultural heritage perception, understanding, and management. This paradigm [...] Read more.

Global cultural heritage is threatened by the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters caused by climate change. International experts emphasise the importance of managing cultural heritage sustainably as part of a paradigm shift in cultural heritage perception, understanding, and management. This paradigm shift has stimulated a need to integrate cultural heritage into pre-existing disaster risk management governance. However, there is currently a lack of robust and practical approaches to map the complex nature of disaster risk management governance. It is here considered that a shared understanding of the respective roles and responsibilities of the different organisations involved in risk management is a critical element in improving the preparedness of cultural heritage sites. The purpose of this article is to present the utility of the Organigraph technique and its main components as a tool to map governance structures, identify key stakeholders, and integrate cultural heritage experts into wider disaster risk management. The article presents a semi-empirical research approach, consisting of four iterative phases in which a series of digital workshops, semi-structured meetings, and bilateral expert meetings were used to co-produce five Organigraphs for heritage sites participating in an ongoing European Project. Our findings suggest that Organigraphs provide a valuable tool at the disposal of practitioners and academics with the potential to provide a basis for cross-national, cross-issue, and cross-scale peer learning between heritage sites. Furthermore, the technique is a valuable self-diagnostic tool to facilitate learning and proactive discussions in the preparedness phase of disaster risk management. Finally, they facilitate the co-creation of solutions through an evolving, interactive platform to integrate data-driven approaches. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Climate Change and the Built Environment: Towards Sustainable Development and Resilience)

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15 pages, 2776 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Transition of Socio-Demographic Characteristics in Urban Areas by Applying a Topic Model to Small Area Units

by Makoto Tsukai, Satoko Ohno and Yuta Tsukano

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 1010; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14021010 - 17 Jan 2022

Viewed by 1310

Abstract

Under the depopulation society in Japan, the hollowing out and suburbanization of urban areas have become very serious problems, but an appropriate analytical tool for land use transition has not yet been proposed. This study analyzes the transitions in socio-demographic characteristics of small [...] Read more.

Under the depopulation society in Japan, the hollowing out and suburbanization of urban areas have become very serious problems, but an appropriate analytical tool for land use transition has not yet been proposed. This study analyzes the transitions in socio-demographic characteristics of small area units in the Fukuoka and Kitakyushu metropolitan areas by applying a topic model to geographical data. Plotting the topic shares on a map clarified the spatial distribution of topics, and the transitions between two cross-sections were analyzed along with other geographical characteristics. Our empirical study showed that the topic model could clearly and quantitatively describe the transitions between two cross-sections of these urban areas. The topic model revealed that the urban center of the Fukuoka metropolitan area was expanding, while the urban center of the Kitakyushu metropolitan area was shrinking. In suburban areas, both metropolitan areas had increasing low-density residential and commercial land use. In the Kitakyushu metropolitan area, this transition could seriously threaten the sustainability of land use, since the total population had significantly decreased. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Urban Design: Urban Externalities and Land Use Planning)

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20 pages, 2010 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

De-Risking the Energy Efficient Renovation of Commercial Office Buildings through Technical-Financial Risk Assessment

by Annalisa Andaloro, Graziano Salvalai, Gabriele Fregonese, Linda Tso and Giulia Paoletti

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 1011; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14021011 - 17 Jan 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2298

Abstract

Energy efficiency in the building sector plays a key role in supporting European and global commitments against the current climate crisis. A massive adoption of deep renovation measures would allow a global reduction of energy need up to 36%, based on estimations. However, [...] Read more.

Energy efficiency in the building sector plays a key role in supporting European and global commitments against the current climate crisis. A massive adoption of deep renovation measures would allow a global reduction of energy need up to 36%, based on estimations. However, the market for building renovation is still limited, due to uncertainties associated with risk evaluation. This paper aims to suggest a method to evaluate the financial impacts of technical risks related to energy efficiency investments. Key performance indicators (KPIs) necessary to evaluate the investment risk associated with energy renovation have been defined based on an analysis of the correlation between technical and financial risks, and their originating factors or root causes. The evaluation has been carried out thanks to the EEnvest tool: a web-based search and match platform, developed within the EEnvest collaborative research project funded by the European Commission (EC). This evaluation methodology has then been applied to a case study, an office building located in Rome, for whom an energy efficient renovation project was already in place to reduce energy needs. The investment risk of the renovation project is calculated for two different scenarios: with and without risk mitigation measures being applied during the design, installation and operation phases. The results show the different technical and financial risk trends of these two scenarios, highlighting the benefits obtained by the implementation of mitigation measures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Zero to Plus Energy Buildings: Innovation in Technologies and Methodologies for New Buildings and Deep Renovation)

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22 pages, 1334 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Assessing the Performance of Vietnam’s Banks in the Era of Free Trade Agreements

by Hoang Nguyen and Youngbok Ryu

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 1014; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14021014 - 17 Jan 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 4255

Abstract

The performance of banks is a great barometer of the sustainability of the economy, particularly for emerging economies. In the expansion of its economy, over the last decade, Vietnam has entered a series of free trade agreements, such as the European Union–Vietnam Free [...] Read more.

The performance of banks is a great barometer of the sustainability of the economy, particularly for emerging economies. In the expansion of its economy, over the last decade, Vietnam has entered a series of free trade agreements, such as the European Union–Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) in 2020. In that context, this study assesses the performance of Vietnam’s banks in the period of 2020–2021 and explores the relationship between performance and various demographic and environmental variables. This study utilizes data envelopment analysis with two disposability concepts where desirable outputs (e.g., return on equity) are maximized while undesirable outputs (e.g., non-performing loan ratio) are minimized. Subsequently, Tobit and bootstrap truncated regression analyses are conducted for the testing of two hypotheses: (1) EVFTA’s commitments, including the updating of the Fintech system, may be positively associated with bank’s performance, and (2) Locations of banks, encumbered by heterogeneous levels of urban concentration and real estate development in different regions, may be associated with the banks’ performance. The findings are twofold: (1) While EVFTA can contribute to Vietnamese banks’ financial profit performance through foreign trading and hedging activities, it may harm banks’ financial health performance due to Fintech-originated bad debts and a lack of relevant regulations; and (2) Banks in southern Vietnam outperform those in northern Vietnam in managing their credit risk by better controlling of bad debts, which result primarily from the volatility of the real estate market and from better positive externalities, in terms of economic, cultural, and political conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and the Making of Sustainable Change)

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17 pages, 5069 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Indoor Air Quality in Healthcare Units—A Systematic Literature Review Focusing Recent Research

by Ana Fonseca, Isabel Abreu, Maria João Guerreiro and Nelson Barros

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 967; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020967 - 15 Jan 2022

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 5566

Abstract

The adequate assessment and management of indoor air quality in healthcare facilities is of utmost importance for patient safety and occupational health purposes. This study aims to identify the recent trends of research on the topic through a systematic literature review following the [...] Read more.

The adequate assessment and management of indoor air quality in healthcare facilities is of utmost importance for patient safety and occupational health purposes. This study aims to identify the recent trends of research on the topic through a systematic literature review following the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) methodology. A total of 171 articles published in the period 2015–2020 were selected and analyzed. Results show that there is a worldwide growing research interest in this subject, dispersed in a wide variety of scientific journals. A textometric analysis using the IRaMuTeQ software revealed four clusters of topics in the sampled articles: physicochemical pollutants, design and management of infrastructures, environmental control measures, and microbiological contamination. The studies focus mainly on hospital facilities, but there is also research interest in primary care centers and dental clinics. The majority of the analyzed articles (85%) report experimental data, with the most frequently measured parameters being related to environmental quality (temperature and relative humidity), microbiological load, CO₂ and particulate matter. Non-compliance with the WHO guidelines for indoor air quality is frequently reported. This study provides an overview of the recent literature on this topic, identifying promising lines of research to improve indoor air quality in healthcare facilities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management of Indoor Air Quality in Healthcare Units)

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13 pages, 621 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Towards a More-than-Human Approach to Smart and Sustainable Urban Development: Designing for Multispecies Justice

by Walter Fieuw, Marcus Foth and Glenda Amayo Caldwell

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 948; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020948 - 14 Jan 2022

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 5886

Abstract

The term ‘sustainability’ has become an overused umbrella term that encompasses a range of climate actions and environmental infrastructure investments; however, there is still an urgent need for transformative reform work. Scholars of urban studies have made compelling cases for a more-than-human conceptualisation [...] Read more.

The term ‘sustainability’ has become an overused umbrella term that encompasses a range of climate actions and environmental infrastructure investments; however, there is still an urgent need for transformative reform work. Scholars of urban studies have made compelling cases for a more-than-human conceptualisation of urban and environmental planning and also share a common interest in translating theory into practical approaches and implications that recognise (i) our ecological entanglements with planetary systems and (ii) the urgent need for multispecies justice in the reconceptualisation of genuinely sustainable cities. More-than-human sensibility draws on a range of disciplines and encompasses conventional and non-conventional research methods and design approaches. In this article, we offer a horizon scan type of review of key posthuman and more-than-human literature sources at the intersection of urban studies and environmental humanities. The aim of this review is to (i) contribute to the emerging discourse that is starting to operationalise a more-than-human approach to smart and sustainable urban development, and; (ii) to articulate a nascent framework for more-than-human spatial planning policy and practice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State of the Art and Future Perspectives in Smart and Sustainable Urban Development)

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16 pages, 2943 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Accounting for Cultural Capital—Sustainability Agenda of Charities Serving the First Nations People towards Self-Determination—Evidence from the Northern Territory, Australia

by Indra Abeysekera

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 949; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020949 - 14 Jan 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2807

Abstract

This study examined the role of the First Nations beneficiary charities in contributing to the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the Northern Territory, Australia, as a way of attaining self-determination by closing the expectations gap between First Nations people and [...] Read more.

This study examined the role of the First Nations beneficiary charities in contributing to the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the Northern Territory, Australia, as a way of attaining self-determination by closing the expectations gap between First Nations people and the mainstream Australians. Informed by the theory of self-determination (ethical and functional strands), a latent content analysis of 118 charities serving the First Nations people was conducted, coding the summary of their activities to ascertain their strategic engagement with the SDGs. A network analysis was also carried out to examine the charities’ connections with each other and their collective contribution towards the SDGs. The findings show that charities contribute to creating cultural capital through social capital, followed by intellectual capital dimensions. However, charities contributed little to building environmental capital dimension of the First Nations people. This study examined charities’ engagement with SDGs to build cultural capital in furtherance of self-determination of Australia’s First Nations people. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Business Strategies concerning the Sustainable Development Goals and the SDG Compass)

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16 pages, 3595 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Geodesign Approaches to City Resilience Planning: A Systematic Review

by Ripan Debnath, Christopher Pettit and Simone Zarpelon Leao

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 938; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020938 - 14 Jan 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3393

Abstract

The increased frequency of extreme events facing society is placing mounting pressure on cities and regions that need more robust resilience planning against growing uncertainty. Data augmented participatory methods, such as geodesign, offer much promise in supporting strategic planning to make our cities [...] Read more.

The increased frequency of extreme events facing society is placing mounting pressure on cities and regions that need more robust resilience planning against growing uncertainty. Data augmented participatory methods, such as geodesign, offer much promise in supporting strategic planning to make our cities and regions more resilient. In that context, this study aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of geodesign practices in resilience planning, through a systematic review of the selected 487 studies available from various bibliographic databases. The results indicate that a total of 75 studies were connected to resilience thinking, with a focus on climate change, floods, and sea level rise risks. A significant cluster of those resilience-related studies worked, especially, on improving sustainability. A detailed analysis of 59 relevant geodesign case studies revealed a strong underlying emphasis on disaster risk reduction and management activities. This study also noticed two prominent approaches among the analysed case studies to future city scenario planning: computational (41 studies), and collaborative (18 studies). It is recommended that an explicit integration of these two approaches into the geodesign approach can assist future city resilience planning endeavours. Thus, future research should further investigate the utility of integrating data-driven modelling and simulation within a collaborative scenario planning process, the usability of digital tools such as planning support systems within a collaborative geodesign framework, and the value of the plan’s performance evaluation during resilience decision-making. Another area for future work is increased community engagement in city resilience practices. The geodesign approach can provide a comprehensive framework for bringing communities, decision-makers, experts, and technologists together to help plan for more resilient city futures. Finally, while geodesign’s explicit role in empirical resilience implementations has been found to be low in this systematic review study, there are significant opportunities to support evidence-based and collaborative city resilience planning and decision-making activities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Disaster Risk Reduction and Resilient Built Environment)

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37 pages, 996 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Implementing E-Commerce from Logistic Perspective: Literature Review and Methodological Framework

by Ilenia Zennaro, Serena Finco, Martina Calzavara and Alessandro Persona

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 911; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020911 - 14 Jan 2022

Cited by 38 | Viewed by 18155

Abstract

E-commerce is always more diffused as a selling channel around the whole world market, and its importance has increased and continues to increase with the COVID-19 pandemic emergency. It provides enterprises a lot of opportunities, as the importance of physical stores to sell [...] Read more.

E-commerce is always more diffused as a selling channel around the whole world market, and its importance has increased and continues to increase with the COVID-19 pandemic emergency. It provides enterprises a lot of opportunities, as the importance of physical stores to sell goods is bypassed. However, it has also changed the role of logistics in the supply chain. For this reason, this work aims to identify the main logistics research areas related to e-commerce implementation and the factors and key performance indicators, which should be taken into account for each logistics research area, with particular attention to sustainable aspects. For doing this, a structured and comprehensive literature analysis is carried out. Keywords associated with e-commerce and logistics areas are matched to identify the most interesting works related to its implementation. From the analysis, five main research areas are identified: Supply Chain Network Design (SCND); Outbound Logistics (OL); Reverse Logistics (RL); Warehousing (WR); and IT and data management (E-IT). For each area, key factors, strategies and performance indicators have been identified. Finally, a methodological framework that summarizes the results of the analysis is presented; this is a useful tool for managers to implement or expand their e-commerce business. Many works are focused on one research area, carrying out critical factors, models, and methods to implement that topic. Instead, the methodological framework presented here summarizes multiple research areas from a logistic point of view, identifying for each one input and output variables and how they influence each other. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Servitization, Logistics and Manufacturing in Resilient and Digital Supply Chains)

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16 pages, 518 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Artificial Intelligence in the Water–Energy–Food Model: A Holistic Approach towards Sustainable Development Goals

by Gabriella D’Amore, Assunta Di Vaio, Daniel Balsalobre-Lorente and Flavio Boccia

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 867; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020867 - 13 Jan 2022

Cited by 47 | Viewed by 6942

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the Water–Energy–Food (WEF) nexus under the lens of institutional, stakeholder, and innovation theories. Specifically, this study focuses on AI as the technology adopted by companies to promote Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). [...] Read more.

This study aims to analyze the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the Water–Energy–Food (WEF) nexus under the lens of institutional, stakeholder, and innovation theories. Specifically, this study focuses on AI as the technology adopted by companies to promote Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). A structured literature review has been conducted on 94 articles published from 1990 to 2021 in ISI Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar. This study develops an in-depth review of the literature on the main articles arguing about these issues. The findings highlight the increasing relevance of AI in the water, energy, and food industries individually considered, but the study of AI as a connector between water, energy, and food to achieve SDGs is still under investigation. Research on AI for WEF nexus management has adopted mostly a technical perspective, neglecting the relevance of management tools and the business model concept. Most of the articles did not adopt a specific theoretical lens, but scholars recognize the need to adopt a multi-stakeholder approach and the important role played by AI and other digital technologies to address the WEF nexus challenge. This study proposes an integrated approach for managing the nexus through AI technologies to meet sustainable and responsible business models. The gap between research and policy making could be filled by combining scientific data and policy needs with inclusive tools that are technically viable for sustainable resource utilization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management and Innovation for Environmental Sustainability)

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18 pages, 8457 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Statistical Framework for Evaluating the Effectiveness of Vegetation Management in Reducing Power Outages Caused during Storms in Distribution Networks

by William O. Taylor, Peter L. Watson, Diego Cerrai and Emmanouil Anagnostou

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 904; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020904 - 13 Jan 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3454

Abstract

This paper develops a statistical framework to analyze the effectiveness of vegetation management at reducing power outages during storms of varying severity levels. The framework was applied on the Eversource Energy distribution grid in Connecticut, USA based on 173 rain and wind events [...] Read more.

This paper develops a statistical framework to analyze the effectiveness of vegetation management at reducing power outages during storms of varying severity levels. The framework was applied on the Eversource Energy distribution grid in Connecticut, USA based on 173 rain and wind events from 2005–2020, including Hurricane Irene, Hurricane Sandy, and Tropical Storm Isaias. The data were binned by storm severity (high/low) and vegetation management levels, where a maximum applicable length of vegetation management for each circuit was determined, and the data were divided into four bins based on the actual length of vegetation management performed divided by the maximum applicable value (0–25%, 25–50%, 50–75%, and 75–100%). Then, weather and overhead line length normalized outage statistics were taken for each group. The statistics were used to determine the effectiveness of vegetation management and its dependence on storm severity. The results demonstrate a higher reduction in damages for lower-severity storms, with a reduction in normalized outages between 45.8% and 63.8%. For high-severity events, there is a large increase in effectiveness between the highest level of vegetation management and the two lower levels, with 75–100% vegetation management leading to a 37.3% reduction in trouble spots. Yet, when evaluating system reliability, it is important to look at all storms combined, and the results of this study provide useful information on total annual trouble spots and allow for analysis of how various vegetation management scenarios would impact trouble spots in the electric grid. This framework can also be used to better understand how more rigorous vegetation management standards (applying ETT) help reduce outages at an individual event level. In future work, a similar framework may be used to evaluate other resilience improvements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Risk, Resilience and Reliability Analysis for ‎Sustainable Management)

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14 pages, 704 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Differences in Physical Activity Preferences and Practices among High versus Low Active Adolescents in Secondary Schools

by Karel Frömel, Dorota Groffik, Michal Kudláček, Michal Šafář, Anna Zwierzchowska and Josef Mitáš

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 891; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020891 - 13 Jan 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2373

Abstract

This study aimed to (a) identify the differences in the preferred, practiced, and organized physical activity (PA) between high and low physically active Czech and Polish boys and girls and to (b) identify which types of PA are likely to be recommended by [...] Read more.

This study aimed to (a) identify the differences in the preferred, practiced, and organized physical activity (PA) between high and low physically active Czech and Polish boys and girls and to (b) identify which types of PA are likely to be recommended by low active boys and girls. The research was carried out between 2010 and 2019 in the Czech Republic and Poland and included 6619 participants aged 15 to 19 years. The preferences and practices of the different types of PA and participation in organized PA were identified using a PA preference questionnaire and weekly PA was identified using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-long form. Czech and Polish boys and girls who were low active preferred less physically demanding and more health-oriented PA compared with high active individuals. Power exercises and participation in organized PA are the most significant predictors of achieving at least 3 × 20 min of vigorous PA per week among low active individuals in both countries. Monitoring the trends in the preferred and practiced types of PA among boys and girls is crucial for the effective promotion of PA to low active boys and girls and positive changes in physical education and school health policy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Physical Activity and Sustainable Health)

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21 pages, 7984 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Reliability as a Key Driver for a Sustainable Design of Adaptive Load-Bearing Structures

by Dshamil Efinger, Andreas Ostertag, Martin Dazer, David Borschewski, Stefan Albrecht and Bernd Bertsche

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 895; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020895 - 13 Jan 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3732

Abstract

The consumption of construction materials and the pollution caused by their production can be reduced by the use of reliable adaptive load-bearing structures. Adaptive load-bearing structures are able to adapt to different load cases by specifically manipulating internal stresses using actuators installed in [...] Read more.

The consumption of construction materials and the pollution caused by their production can be reduced by the use of reliable adaptive load-bearing structures. Adaptive load-bearing structures are able to adapt to different load cases by specifically manipulating internal stresses using actuators installed in the structure. One main aspect of quality is reliability. A verification of reliability, and thus the safety of conventional structures, was a design issue. When it comes to adaptive load-bearing structures, the material savings reduce the stiffness of the structure, whereby integrated actuators with sensors and a control take over the stiffening. This article explains why the conventional design process is not sufficient for adaptive load-bearing structures and proposes a method for demonstrating improved reliability and environmental sustainability. For this purpose, an exemplary adaptive load-bearing structure is introduced. A linear elastic model, simulating tension in the elements of the adaptive load-bearing structure, supports the analysis. By means of a representative local load-spectrum, the operating life is estimated based on Woehler curves given by the Eurocode for the critical notches. Environmental sustainability is increased by including reliability and sustainability in design. For an exemplary high-rise adaptive load-bearing structure, this increase is more than 50%. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quality as Driver for Sustainable Construction)

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15 pages, 1849 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

What Can We Learn from Urban Crisis?

by Kristian Hoelscher, Hanne Cecilie Geirbo, Lisbet Harboe and Sobah Abbas Petersen

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 898; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020898 - 13 Jan 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2417

Abstract

The irreversible transition towards urban living entails complex challenges and vulnerabilities for citizens, civic authorities, and the management of global commons. Many cities remain beset by political, infrastructural, social, or economic fragility, with crisis arguably becoming an increasingly present condition of urban life. [...] Read more.

The irreversible transition towards urban living entails complex challenges and vulnerabilities for citizens, civic authorities, and the management of global commons. Many cities remain beset by political, infrastructural, social, or economic fragility, with crisis arguably becoming an increasingly present condition of urban life. While acknowledging the intense vulnerabilities that cities can face, this article contends that innovative, flexible, and often ground-breaking policies, practices, and activities designed to manage and overcome fragility can emerge in cities beset by crisis. We argue that a deeper understanding of such practices and the knowledge emerging from contexts of urban crisis may offer important insights to support urban resilience and sustainable development. We outline a simple conceptual representation of the interrelationships between urban crisis and knowledge production, situate this in the context of literature on resilience, sustainability, and crisis, and present illustrative examples of real-world practices. In discussing these perspectives, we reflect on how we may better value, use, and exchange knowledge and practice in order to address current and future urban challenges. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Renewal, Governance and Sustainable Development: More of the Same or New Paths?)

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19 pages, 2847 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Experimental Research of Gaseous Emissions Impact on the Performance of New-Design Cylindrical Multi-Channel Cyclone with Adjustable Half-Rings

by Aleksandras Chlebnikovas, Dainius Paliulis, Kristina Kilikevičienė and Artūras Kilikevičius

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 902; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020902 - 13 Jan 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2016

Abstract

Cyclones are widely used for separating particles from gas in energy production objects. The efficiency of conventional centrifugal air cleaning devices ranges from 85 to 90%, but the weakness of many cyclones is the low collection efficiency of particles less than 10 μm [...] Read more.

Cyclones are widely used for separating particles from gas in energy production objects. The efficiency of conventional centrifugal air cleaning devices ranges from 85 to 90%, but the weakness of many cyclones is the low collection efficiency of particles less than 10 μm in diameter. The novelty of this work is the research of the channel-type treatment device, with few levels adapted for precipitation of fine particulate matter, acting by a centrifugal and filtration principle. Many factors have an impact on cyclone efficiency—humidity, temperature, gas (air) composition, airflow velocity and etc. Many scientists evaluated only the effect of origin and size of PM on cyclone efficiency. The effect of gas (air) composition and temperature, and humidity on the multi-channel cyclone-separator efficiency still demands contributions. Complex theoretical and experimental research on air flow parameters and the efficiency of a cylindrical eight-channel system with adjustable half-rings for removing fine-dispersive particles (<20 μm) was carried out. The impact of air humidity and temperature on air flow, and gaseous smoke components on the removal of wood ashes was analyzed. The dusty gas flow was regulated. During the experiment, the average velocity of the cyclone was 16 m/s, and the temperature was 20–50 °C. The current paper presents experimental research results of wood ash removal in an eight-channel cyclone and theoretical methodology for the calculation of airflow parameters and cyclone effectiveness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Efficiency Assessment and Resource Optimization)

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15 pages, 273 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Who Walks the Walk and Talks the Talk? Understanding What Influences Sustainability Behaviour in Business and Leisure Travellers

by Rachel Dodds and Mark Robert Holmes

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 883; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020883 - 13 Jan 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2243

Abstract

While there is considerable research into what drives tourists to travel sustainably, little has been done to examine business travellers and how they differ from leisure travellers. The purpose of this paper is to fill this gap by looking to understand these differences [...] Read more.

While there is considerable research into what drives tourists to travel sustainably, little has been done to examine business travellers and how they differ from leisure travellers. The purpose of this paper is to fill this gap by looking to understand these differences and what drives them. Specifically, this paper looked to understand the influence that demographics, travel characteristics, and everyday behaviour (pro-ecological actions, frugal consumption patterns, and altruistic behaviours) have on sustainable travel behaviour, and if these influences held true for both business and leisure travellers. To facilitate this investigation, a quantitative study of 869 Canadian travellers in March of 2020 was undertaken. This research found that demographics and travel characteristics to contribute to the prediction of sustainable travel behaviour, but the greatest prediction power came from everyday behaviour. Beyond confirming that everyday behaviour is still the greatest indicator of sustainable travel domestically or abroad, this research found that this influence does not change whether the travel is for business or leisure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Tourism and Tourist Satisfaction)

19 pages, 1032 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Taking Responsibility for Industrial Digitalization: Navigating Organizational Challenges

by Linnéa Carlsson, Anna Karin Olsson and Kristina Eriksson

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 866; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020866 - 13 Jan 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2942

Abstract

In this article, an employee perspective has been applied in aiming to explore how organizations face challenges and take responsibility for industrial digitalization, thus extending the research on the human-centric perspective in relation to Industry 4.0 technologies. To give emphasis to the human-centric [...] Read more.

In this article, an employee perspective has been applied in aiming to explore how organizations face challenges and take responsibility for industrial digitalization, thus extending the research on the human-centric perspective in relation to Industry 4.0 technologies. To give emphasis to the human-centric perspective, the co-workership wheel was applied to identify and analyze data. The findings of an explorative longitudinal qualitative case study consisting of 35 in-depth interviews with informants from a manufacturing company were used. Additional data collection consisted of documents and project meetings. By applying a human-centric perspective, llessons learned from this case study show that taking responsibility for industrial digitalization is challenging and the importance of an adaptive organizational culture and a focus on learning and competence are crucial. We argue that the findings give useful implications for manufacturing organizations navigating the challenges of industrial digitalization to sense and seize the benefits of Industry 4.0 technologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Digitalization and Industry 4.0 Technologies for Product and Production Development in the Manufacturing Industry)

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21 pages, 5702 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Place-Specific Corona Dashboards for Health Policy: Design and Application of a ‘Dutchboard’

by Peter Nijkamp and Karima Kourtit

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 836; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020836 - 12 Jan 2022

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2624

Abstract

Since the outbreak of the corona virus in the end of 2019, many worldwide attempts have been made to monitor and control the COVID-19 pandemic. A wealth of empirical data has been collected and used by national health authorities to understand and mitigate [...] Read more.

Since the outbreak of the corona virus in the end of 2019, many worldwide attempts have been made to monitor and control the COVID-19 pandemic. A wealth of empirical data has been collected and used by national health authorities to understand and mitigate the spread and impacts of the corona virus. In various countries this serious health concern has led to the development of corona dashboards monitoring the COVID-19 evolution. The present study aims to design and test an extended corona dashboard, in which—beside up-to-date daily core data on infections, hospital and intensive care admissions, and numbers of deceased people—also the evolution of vaccinations in a country is mapped out. This dashboard system is next extended with time-dependent contextual information on lockdown and policy stringency measures, while disaggregate information on the geographic spread of the COVID-19 disease is provided by means of big data on contact intensity and mobility motives based on detailed Google Mobility data. Finally, this context-specific corona dashboard, named ‘Dutchboard’, is further extended towards the regional and local level so as to allow also for space-specific ‘health checks’ and assessments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Social Capital, Infrastructural Capital and Resilience Capacity in Urban Systems)

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26 pages, 2646 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Recycling of Post-Consumer Packaging Materials into New Food Packaging Applications—Critical Review of the European Approach and Future Perspectives

by Roland Franz and Frank Welle

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 824; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020824 - 12 Jan 2022

Cited by 44 | Viewed by 10573

Abstract

The European strategy for plastics, as part of the EU’s circular economy action plan, should support the reduction in plastic waste. One key element in this action plan is the improvement of the economics and quality of recycled plastics. In addition, an important [...] Read more.

The European strategy for plastics, as part of the EU’s circular economy action plan, should support the reduction in plastic waste. One key element in this action plan is the improvement of the economics and quality of recycled plastics. In addition, an important goal is that by 2030, all plastics packaging placed on the EU market must either be reusable or can be recycled in a cost-effective manner. This means that, at the end, a closed-loop recycling of food packaging materials should be established. However, the use of recyclates must not result in less severe preventive consumer protection of food packaging materials. This may lead to a conservative evaluation of authorities on post-consumer recyclates in food packaging applications. On the other hand, over-conservatism might over-protect the consumer and generate insurmountable barriers to the application of post-consumer recyclates for food packaging and, hence, counteract the targets of circular economy. The objective of this review is to provide an insight into the evaluation of post-consumer recyclates applied in direct contact to food. Safety assessment criteria as developed by the European Food Safety Authority EFSA will be presented, explained, and critically discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Sustainability of Packaging)

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8 pages, 425 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Cognitive Functioning Mediates the Association of Cognitive Reserve with Health-Related Quality of Life

by Andreas Ihle, Élvio R. Gouveia, Bruna R. Gouveia, Adilson Marques, Priscila Marconcin, Marcelo de Maio Nascimento, Jefferson Jurema, Maria A. Tinôco and Matthias Kliegel

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 826; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020826 - 12 Jan 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1829

Abstract

We investigated whether the relations of the cognitive reserve markers education and cognitive level of work to the physical and the mental component of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) were mediated via cognitive functioning in a large sample of 701 older adults (mean [...] Read more.

We investigated whether the relations of the cognitive reserve markers education and cognitive level of work to the physical and the mental component of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) were mediated via cognitive functioning in a large sample of 701 older adults (mean age = 70.36 years, SD = 6.87). HRQoL was measured with the 12-item Short-Form Health Survey. To measure cognitive functioning, we used the COGTEL, which is a cognitive test battery assessing prospective memory, verbal short-term memory, verbal long-term memory, working memory, verbal fluency, and inductive reasoning, combined into a composite score. Individuals reported information on their education and their main profession during their working life. Mediation analyses showed that better cognitive functioning mediated the association of higher values in the cognitive reserve markers (longer education and a high cognitive level of work) with higher HRQoL. In conclusion, the present study suggests that the sustainability of cognitive functioning in old age with the help of cognitive reserve is fundamental for the sustainability of quality of life, presumably particularly for the mental HRQoL component. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biology Education and Health Education in Sustainability)

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12 pages, 2074 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Human Health and Ecosystem Quality Benefits with Life Cycle Assessment Due to Fungicides Elimination in Agriculture

by Georgios Archimidis Tsalidis

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 846; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020846 - 12 Jan 2022

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 3623

Abstract

Industrial agriculture results in environmental burdens due to the overuse of fertilizers and pesticides. Fungicides is a class of pesticides whose application contributes (among others) to human toxicity and ecotoxicity. The European Union aims to increase organic agriculture. For this reason, this work [...] Read more.

Industrial agriculture results in environmental burdens due to the overuse of fertilizers and pesticides. Fungicides is a class of pesticides whose application contributes (among others) to human toxicity and ecotoxicity. The European Union aims to increase organic agriculture. For this reason, this work aims to analyze climate change, freshwater ecotoxicity, terrestrial ecotoxicity, human toxicity, (terrestrial) acidification, and freshwater eutrophication impacts of fungicides and calculate expected benefits to human health (per European citizen) and ecosystem quality (terrestrial) with life cycle assessment (LCA) during crop production. The Scopus database was searched for LCA studies that considered the application of fungicides to specific crops. The analysis shows how many systemic and contact fungicides were considered by LCA studies and what was the applied dosage. Furthermore, it shows that fungicides highly contribute to freshwater ecotoxicity, terrestrial ecotoxicity, human toxicity, and freshwater eutrophication for fruits and vegetables, but to a low extent compared to all considered environmental impacts in the case of cereals and rapeseed. Expected benefits to human health and ecosystem quality after fungicides elimination are greater for fruits and vegetables, ranging between 0 to 47 min per European citizen in a year and 0 to 90 species per year, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Bioeconomy of Sustainability)

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17 pages, 3823 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Environmental Protection, Industrial Structure and Urbanization: Spatiotemporal Evidence from Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei, China

by Shaojun Ma, Lei Li, Huimin Ke and Yilin Zheng

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 795; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020795 - 11 Jan 2022

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 2713

Abstract

The Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei urban agglomeration (BTH) is striving to realize the transformation process from a low-efficiency to a high-quality development mode; however, it still has problems regarding reducing energy consumption and ecological environment pressure. Based on panel data from 2013 to 2017, this paper [...] Read more.

The Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei urban agglomeration (BTH) is striving to realize the transformation process from a low-efficiency to a high-quality development mode; however, it still has problems regarding reducing energy consumption and ecological environment pressure. Based on panel data from 2013 to 2017, this paper proposes an evaluation index system based on BTH’s “environmental protection–industrial structure–urbanization” system. In the course of applying the coupling degree model (CDM) and the coupling coordination degree model (CCDM) with exploratory spatial data analysis (ESDA) methods, this paper discusses the spatiotemporal process, development level, and spatial agglomeration characteristics of the environmental protection–industrial structure–urbanization system in each city of the BTH area. The findings reveal that the coupling degree of the BTH system is gradually increasing, and that the development level of the BTH subsystem is unbalanced: the coupling coordination level of BTH shows a positive evolution process; however, it is in a stage of low-level collaborative development, and there are obvious differences in the level of BTH coupling coordination in space, revealing the convergence of low–high and high–low types. This paper concludes by putting forward the strategy of optimizing the regional spatial pattern of urban agglomeration and implementing integrated development in order to achieve the desired coupling and coordination effects. Full article

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

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28 pages, 13450 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Land Take and Value Capture: Towards More Efficient Land Use

by Francesco Botticini, Armands Auzins, Peter Lacoere, Odette Lewis and Michela Tiboni

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 778; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020778 - 11 Jan 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3482

Abstract

The paper aims to explore the possibilities to enhance the efficiency of land use, considering the evolution of land take (LT), and proposes the use of public value capture (PVC) instruments in selected differently experienced countries. This answers two fundamental questions. [...] Read more.

The paper aims to explore the possibilities to enhance the efficiency of land use, considering the evolution of land take (LT), and proposes the use of public value capture (PVC) instruments in selected differently experienced countries. This answers two fundamental questions. How is the concept of LT positioned in relation to the environmental policy of Europe? Which PVC instruments could stimulate more efficient land use? The aim of this article is to identify which tools can guide the transformations of the urban environment by promoting more efficient land use. These tools have been identified in the mechanisms for capturing value as they can pursue the goal of a more attractive net LT. For these reasons, the article initially analyzes the spread of the problem of land consumption, at a European level, showing how this phenomenon is very diversified not only between individual states, but also within each nation. In addition, the knowledge system to define the main initiatives and actions aimed at orienting urban development in the direction of reducing land consumption is highlighted. Subsequently, the theoretical framework concerning the issues relating to the capture of public value in urban planning operations is illustrated. The case studies representing the various European contexts are then introduced, and for each case the dynamics of urban development were analyzed. It has been done in relation to the evolution of the regulatory apparatus of territorial governance and its transformations. On the basis of this analysis, indicators have been defined. Their goal is to allow comparing the results that emerged from the case study analysis, which would otherwise have been inconsistent. In this way, it is possible to demonstrate how land use is more efficient in countries where PVC tools are used systemically and how these tools make it easier to guide urban transformations in line with the principles of sustainable development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Value Capture)

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16 pages, 2015 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Investigation of Pressed Solid Biofuel Produced from Multi-Crop Biomass

by Rita Petlickaitė, Algirdas Jasinskas, Ramūnas Mieldažys, Kęstutis Romaneckas, Marius Praspaliauskas and Jovita Balandaitė

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 799; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020799 - 11 Jan 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3237

Abstract

The paper presents the preparation and use of pressed solid biofuel of multi-crop plants (fibrous hemp (Cannabis sativa L.), maize (Zea mays L.) and faba bean (Vicia faba L.)) as mono, binary and trinomial crops. The results of the investigation [...] Read more.

The paper presents the preparation and use of pressed solid biofuel of multi-crop plants (fibrous hemp (Cannabis sativa L.), maize (Zea mays L.) and faba bean (Vicia faba L.)) as mono, binary and trinomial crops. The results of the investigation show that three main chemical elements (carbon, oxygen and hydrogen) accounted for 93.1 to 94.9% of the biomass pellet content. The moisture content varied from 3.9 to 8.8%, ash content from 4.5 to 6.8% and calorific value from 16.8 to 17.1 MJ·kg⁻¹. It was found that the density (DM) of all variants of pellets was very similar; the faba bean biomass pellets had the highest density of 1195.8 kg·m⁻³ DM. The initial ash deformation temperature (DT) of burning biomass pellets was detected, which varied from 976 to 1322 °C. High potassium (K), calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) concentrations were found in all types of biomass ash. The quantities of heavy metals in pellet ash were not large and did not exceed the permissible values according to Lithuanian legislation. These chemical properties of multi-crop biomass ash allow them to be used in agriculture for plant fertilization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy and Environmental Evaluation of Biofuel and Forage Processing and Utilization Technologies)

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18 pages, 1183 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Greenhouse Gas Emissions of the Forest Supply Chain in Austria in the Year 2018

by Martin Kühmaier, Iris Kral and Christian Kanzian

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 792; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020792 - 11 Jan 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2631

Abstract

Wood is a renewable product, but for the supply of wood non-renewable materials are also necessary, which can have negative environmental impacts. The objective of this study was to analyze the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions caused by the forest supply chain in Austria [...] Read more.

Wood is a renewable product, but for the supply of wood non-renewable materials are also necessary, which can have negative environmental impacts. The objective of this study was to analyze the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions caused by the forest supply chain in Austria using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methods. The forest supply chain consists of several processes like site preparation and tending, harvesting, and transport. In total, 30 relevant forest processes from seedling production until delivery of wood to the plant gate were considered. Results show that in the year 2018, a total of 492,096 t of CO₂ eq. were emitted in Austria for harvesting and transportation of 19.2 hm³ of timber. This corresponds to 25.63 kg CO₂ eq. per m³. At 77%, transport accounts for the largest share of emissions within the supply chain. Extraction causes 14% of emissions, felling and processing cause 5%, and chipping causes 4%. GHG emissions for felling, delimbing, and crosscutting are much lower when using a chainsaw compared to harvester. The high numbers for the transport can be explained by the high transportation distances. Especially for the transportation of wood, it is necessary to find more climate-friendly solutions from a technical and organizational point of view. The provision of wood is climate-friendly, and its use enables the substitution of fossil fuels or materials with higher negative effects on climate change such as aluminum, steel, or concrete. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of Forest Industry Operations and Comparison of Greenhouse Carbon Emissions)

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16 pages, 29993 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Particulate Matter in an Urban–Industrial Environment: Comparing Data of Dispersion Modeling with Tree Leaves Deposition

by Gregorio Sgrigna, Hélder Relvas, Ana Isabel Miranda and Carlo Calfapietra

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 793; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020793 - 11 Jan 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2025

Abstract

Particulate matter represents a serious hazard to human health, and air quality models contribute to the understanding of its dispersion. This study describes particulate matter with a ≤10 μm diameter (PM10) dynamics in an urban–industrial area, through the comparison of three datasets: modeled [...] Read more.

Particulate matter represents a serious hazard to human health, and air quality models contribute to the understanding of its dispersion. This study describes particulate matter with a ≤10 μm diameter (PM10) dynamics in an urban–industrial area, through the comparison of three datasets: modeled (TAPM—The Air Pollution Model), measured concentration (environmental control stations—ECS), and leaf deposition values. Results showed a good agreement between ECS and TAPM data. A steel plant area was used as a PM10 emissions reference source, in relation to the four sampling areas, and a distance/wind-based factor was introduced (Steel Factor, SF). Through SF, the three datasets were compared. The SF was able to describe the PM10 dispersion values for ECS and leaf deposition (r² = 0.61–0.94 for ECS; r² = 0.45–0.70 for leaf); no relationship was found for TAPM results. Differences between measured and modeled data can be due to discrepancies in one district and explained by a lack of PM10 inventory for the steel plant emissions. The study suggests the use of TAPM as a suitable tool for PM10 modeling at the urban scale. Moreover, tree leaves are a low-cost tool to evaluate the urban environmental quality, by providing information on whether and when data from leaf deposition can be used as a proxy for air pollution concentration. Further studies to include the re-suspension of particles as a PM10 source within emission inventories are suggested. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Air Pollution: Monitoring, Impact, and Mitigation)

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20 pages, 9799 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Implementation of Barcode Technology to Logistics Processes of a Company

by Jaroslava Kubáňová, Iveta Kubasáková, Kristián Čulík and Lukáš Štítik

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 790; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020790 - 11 Jan 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 7051

Abstract

The article focuses on expanding the use of barcodes in selected logistics activities in a company. Our study discusses the application of barcode technology to selected logistics activities in the company in order to address the error rate in these activities and to [...] Read more.

The article focuses on expanding the use of barcodes in selected logistics activities in a company. Our study discusses the application of barcode technology to selected logistics activities in the company in order to address the error rate in these activities and to control ownership of this technology in other logistics activities within the company during the COVID-19. The priority of the testing phase was to point out the elimination of errors in the original versus the newly proposed solution for the company on 10 products. In the test phase, the 10 products with the highest turnover in the company were used to point out the elimination of errors in various logistics activities, especially the time saved compared to the work of human personnel in the company. The company has this technology at its disposal, in the parent company as well as in the subsidiary. It was only a matter of expanding the use and applicability of this technology as well as other possibilities for research hypotheses, which we outlined at the end of the article. In this article, we focus on RFID and barcode technologies, since the company initially considered using RFID technology, however, chose the use of barcodes because it was an already known work technology. The current situation affected with COVID-19 disease requires many advantages and disadvantages of both technologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative and Sustainable Management of International Shipment Flow: Opportunities and Challenges)

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14 pages, 2608 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Smart Urban Mobility System Evaluation Model Adaptation to Vilnius, Montreal and Weimar Cities

by Simona Zapolskytė, Martin Trépanier, Marija Burinskienė and Oksana Survilė

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 715; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020715 - 10 Jan 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3787

Abstract

To date, there is no developed and validated way to assess urban smartness. When evaluating smart city mobility systems, different authors distinguish different indicators. After analysing the evaluation indicators of the transport system presented in the scientific articles, the most relevant and influential [...] Read more.

To date, there is no developed and validated way to assess urban smartness. When evaluating smart city mobility systems, different authors distinguish different indicators. After analysing the evaluation indicators of the transport system presented in the scientific articles, the most relevant and influential indicators were selected. This article develops a hierarchical evaluation model for evaluating a smart city transportation system. The indicators are divided into five groups called “factors”. Several indicators are assigned to each of the listed groups. A hybrid multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) method was used to calculate the significance of the selected indicators and to compare urban mobility systems. The applied multi-criteria evaluation methods were simple additive weighting (SAW), complex proportional assessment (COPRAS), and technique for order preference by similiarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS). The significance of factors and indicators was determined by expert evaluation methods: the analytic hierarchy process (AHP), direct, when experts evaluate the criteria as a percentage (sum of evaluations of all criteria 100%) and ranking (prioritisation). The evaluation and comparison of mobility systems were performed in two stages: when the multi-criteria evaluation is performed according to the indicators of each factor separately and when performing a comprehensive assessment of the smart mobility system according to the integrated significance of the indicators. A leading city is identified and ranked according to the smartness level. The aim of this article is to create a hierarchical evaluation model of the smart mobility systems, to compare the smartness level of Vilnius, Montreal, and Weimar mobility systems, and to create a ranking. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart Cities 3.0: Citizens, Space and Sustainable Mobility for the Future City)

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16 pages, 7761 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Assessment of Indoor Air Quality in Residential Buildings of New England through Actual Data

by Fernando del Ama Gonzalo, Matthew Griffin, Jacob Laskosky, Peter Yost and Roberto Alonso González-Lezcano

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 739; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020739 - 10 Jan 2022

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 3922

Abstract

Several studies on indoor air quality (IAQ) and sick building syndromes have been completed over the last decade, especially in cold countries. Efforts to make homes airtight to improve energy efficiency have created buildings with low ventilation rates, resulting in the build-up of [...] Read more.

Several studies on indoor air quality (IAQ) and sick building syndromes have been completed over the last decade, especially in cold countries. Efforts to make homes airtight to improve energy efficiency have created buildings with low ventilation rates, resulting in the build-up of indoor pollutants to harmful levels that would be otherwise unacceptable outdoors. This paper analyzed the infiltration rates, indoor temperatures, and variations in CO₂, 2.5 μm particulate matter (PM_2.5), and total volatile organic compound (TVOC) concentrations over the fall of 2021 in several homes in New England, USA. A relationship between outdoor and indoor conditions and ventilation strategies has been set using the results from blower door tests and actual indoor air quality data. Although all case studies lacked mechanical ventilation devices, such as those required by ASHRAE Standard 62.2, natural ventilation and air leakage have been enough to keep VOCs and PM_2.5 concentration levels at acceptable values most of the studied time. However, results revealed that 25% of a specific timeframe, the occupants have been exposed to concentration levels of CO₂ above 1000 parts per million (ppm), which are considered potentially hazardous conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Air Pollution: Monitoring, Impact, and Mitigation)

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14 pages, 1152 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Social Dimension of Shopping Centers Operation: Managerial Perspectives

by Josef Kunc, František Križan, Markéta Novotná and Kristína Bilková

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 709; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020709 - 9 Jan 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3525

Abstract

Shopping centers do not operate in a vacuum but in a society of diverse stakeholders who influence their profit and growth. Therefore, shopping centers management addresses the problem of incorporating social dimensions in their management. The paper aims to identify and evaluate managerial [...] Read more.

Shopping centers do not operate in a vacuum but in a society of diverse stakeholders who influence their profit and growth. Therefore, shopping centers management addresses the problem of incorporating social dimensions in their management. The paper aims to identify and evaluate managerial approaches and marketing strategies of shopping centers in the Czech Republic in the context of social dimensions leading to sustainable operation. The research builds methodologically on an online questionnaire survey with top management of shopping centers. It took place at the turn of the years 2019/2020. Out of 88 Czech existing shopping centers, 30 completed responses were received (response rate 34%). The managerial approaches and marketing activities of shopping centers aimed at customers, internal employees, and tenants of the shopping centers were assessed. In addition to profit, the main social aspect on which the management of shopping centers places an emphasis is also loyalty. A properly set working environment and working conditions are essential to achieve higher employee productivity and consequently higher profits. The shopping centers should increase their social roles to preserve the well-being of their employees and enhance customer satisfaction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cities and Retail: Sustainable Transformation of Retail in Urban Environments)

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16 pages, 5461 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Climate Data to Predict Geometry of Cracks in Expansive Soils in a Tropical Semiarid Region

by Jacques Carvalho Ribeiro Filho, Eunice Maia de Andrade, Maria Simas Guerreiro, Helba Araujo de Queiroz Palácio and José Bandeira Brasil

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 675; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020675 - 8 Jan 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3371

Abstract

The nonlinear dynamics of the determining factors of the morphometric characteristics of cracks in expansive soils make their typification a challenge, especially under field conditions. To overcome this difficulty, we used artificial neural networks to estimate crack characteristics in a Vertisol under field [...] Read more.

The nonlinear dynamics of the determining factors of the morphometric characteristics of cracks in expansive soils make their typification a challenge, especially under field conditions. To overcome this difficulty, we used artificial neural networks to estimate crack characteristics in a Vertisol under field conditions. From July 2019 to June 2020, the morphometric characteristics of soil cracks (area, depth and volume), and environmental factors (soil moisture, rainfall, potential evapotranspiration and water balance) were monitored and evaluated in six experimental plots in a tropical semiarid region. Sixty-six events were measured in each plot to calibrate and validate two sets of inputs in the multilayer neural network model. One set was comprised of environmental factors with significant correlations with the morphometric characteristics of cracks in the soil. The other included only those with a significant high and very high correlation, reducing the number of variables by 35%. The set with the significant high and very high correlations showed greater accuracy in predicting crack characteristics, implying that it is preferable to have fewer variables with a higher correlation than to have more variables of lower correlation in the model. Both sets of data showed a good performance in predicting area and depth of cracks in the soils with a clay content above 30%. The highest dispersion of modeled over predicted values for all morphometric characteristics was in soils with a sand content above 40%. The model was successful in evaluating crack characteristics from environmental factors within its limitations and may support decisions on watershed management in view of climate-change scenarios. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydrology of Semi-Arid Regions, Natural Resources and their Sustainability)

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17 pages, 6158 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Machine Learning Framework for the Sustainable Maintenance of Building Facilities

by Valentina Villa, Giulia Bruno, Khurshid Aliev, Paolo Piantanida, Alessandra Corneli and Dario Antonelli

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 681; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020681 - 8 Jan 2022

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3178

Abstract

The importance of sustainable building maintenance is growing as part of the Sustainable Building concept. The integration and implementation of new technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), smart sensors, and information and communication technology (ICT) into building facilities generate a large [...] Read more.

The importance of sustainable building maintenance is growing as part of the Sustainable Building concept. The integration and implementation of new technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), smart sensors, and information and communication technology (ICT) into building facilities generate a large amount of data that will be utilized to better manage the sustainable building maintenance and staff. Anomaly prediction models assist facility managers in informing operators to perform scheduled maintenance and visualizing predicted facility anomalies on building information models (BIM). This study proposes a Machine Learning (ML) anomaly prediction model for sustainable building facility maintenance using an IoT sensor network and a BIM model. The suggested framework shows the data management technique of the anomaly prediction model in the 3D building model. The case study demonstrated the framework’s competence to predict anomalies in the heating ventilation air conditioning (HVAC) system. Furthermore, data collected from various simulated conditions of the building facilities was utilized to monitor and forecast anomalies in the 3D model of the fan coil. The faults were then predicted using a classification model, and the results of the models are introduced. Finally, the IoT data from the building facility and the predicted values of the ML models are visualized in the building facility’s BIM model and the real-time monitoring dashboard, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integration of BIM and ICT for Sustainable Building Projects)

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20 pages, 1765 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Polarization of Living Standards among Administrative Units Engaged in Cross-Border Cooperation—The Example of Polish Municipalities of Euroregion Baltic

by Marcin Janusz

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 680; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020680 - 8 Jan 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1767

Abstract

The present work examines the standard of living among the Polish municipalities of the Euroregion Baltic—an institution engaged in cross-border cooperation which is striving to improve the standard of living in border areas. The time span of the study extended to the first [...] Read more.

The present work examines the standard of living among the Polish municipalities of the Euroregion Baltic—an institution engaged in cross-border cooperation which is striving to improve the standard of living in border areas. The time span of the study extended to the first full year after Poland’s EU accession (2004), and to the 15th anniversary of the accession and the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the Euroregion Baltic (2019 in both cases). All 38 Polish municipalities (NUTS 5) of the Euroregion were covered by the study. Using a synthetic index of standard of living based on Hellwig’s development pattern method, the municipalities were grouped into four classes according to their index value. Hierarchical methods were used to identify which municipalities had the most similar standards of living. The highest standard of living was recorded for the small, tourism-oriented town of Jastarnia and for strong urban centers (Gdańsk, Gdynia, Olsztyn, and Elbląg). Rural municipalities, especially those situated near the Polish-Russian border (Kaliningrad Oblast), had lower standards of living. The results show a progressing polarization in the standard of living, manifested by a widening gap between first-class municipalities and the other classes. This stratification was attributed to multiple factors, including the endogenous potential of the communities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Indicators of Social Sustainability and Wellbeing)

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17 pages, 972 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Conserve My Village—Finnish, Norwegian and Swedish Students’ Valued Landscapes and Well-Being

by Eija Yli-Panula, Eila Jeronen, Eila Matikainen and Christel Persson

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 671; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020671 - 7 Jan 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2116

Abstract

In the context of landscape, both the natural environment and the built environment can be linked with human health and well-being. This connection has been studied among adults, but no research has been conducted on young people. To fill this gap, this case [...] Read more.

In the context of landscape, both the natural environment and the built environment can be linked with human health and well-being. This connection has been studied among adults, but no research has been conducted on young people. To fill this gap, this case study aimed to elucidate students’ views on landscapes worth conserving and the landscapes that affect and support their well-being. The participants (n = 538) were Finnish, Norwegian and Swedish students from grades 3–6. The students drew the landscapes they wanted to conserve. The drawn landscapes and the welfare-supporting features they contained were analysed using inductive and abductive content analyses. The students from all three countries preferred water, forest and yard landscapes. In the drawings of natural landscapes, the most recurring themes were sunrise or sunset, forest, beach and mountain landscapes. Physical well-being was manifested in the opportunity to jog and walk. Social well-being was reflected in the presence of friends, relatives and animals. Therapeutically important well-being-related spaces—the so-called green (natural areas), blue (aquatic environments) and white (e.g., snow) areas—were also depicted in the participants’ drawings. It can be concluded that the drawn landscapes reflect several values that promote students’ well-being. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Biology, Geography and Interdisciplinary Studies and Sustainable Pedagogies)

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18 pages, 3333 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Review on Global E-Waste Management: Urban Mining towards a Sustainable Future and Circular Economy

by Venkatesha Murthy and Seeram Ramakrishna

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 647; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020647 - 7 Jan 2022

Cited by 126 | Viewed by 19281

Abstract

The trending need for smarter electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) is surging globally by the year and is giving rise to huge amounts of outdated EEE going into landfills. This has caused enormous threats to our environment and the health of living beings [...] Read more.

The trending need for smarter electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) is surging globally by the year and is giving rise to huge amounts of outdated EEE going into landfills. This has caused enormous threats to our environment and the health of living beings due to its unsustainable ways of collection, treatment and disposal of waste EEE or E-waste. With increasing E-waste, the formal sectors lack infrastructure, technology and expertise required to collect and process the E-waste in an environmentally sound manner. This article is intended to bring out the global best practices in the field of E-waste management, to shed light on the importance of policy implementation, technology requirement and social awareness to arrive at a sustainable and circular economy. Although about 71% of the world’s populace has incorporated E-waste legislation, there is a need to enforce and implement a common legal framework across the globe. The article explains the gap created among the stakeholders and their knowledge on the roles and responsibilities towards a legalized E-waste management. It further explains the lack of awareness on extended producer responsibility (EPR) and producer responsibility schemes. Despite various legislations in force, numerous illegal practices such as acid leaching, open incineration, illegal dumping carried out by the informal sector are causing harm to the environment, natural resources and the safety of unorganized and unskilled labor. The article discusses the crucial need for awareness amongst stakeholders, consumer behavior and the global challenges and opportunities in this field to achieve a low-carbon, circular economy. To conclude, the article highlights the importance of common legal framework, EPR and licenses, transformation of the informal sector, benchmark technologies, responsibilities of various stakeholders and entrepreneurial opportunities to enhance the formal capacity. The article wholly advocates for transparency, accountability and traceability in the E-waste recycling chain, thus creating a greener environment and protecting our planet and natural resources for future generations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable and Advanced Remanufacturing Processes)

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28 pages, 35139 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Application and Evaluation of a Non-Accident-Based Approach to Road Safety Analysis Based on Infrastructure-Related Human Factors

by Lorenzo Domenichini, Andrea Paliotto, Monica Meocci and Valentina Branzi

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 662; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020662 - 7 Jan 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2286

Abstract

Too often the identification of critical road sites is made by “accident-based” methods that consider the occurred accidents’ number. Nevertheless, such a procedure may encounter some difficulties when an agency does not have reliable and complete crash data at the site level (e.g., [...] Read more.

Too often the identification of critical road sites is made by “accident-based” methods that consider the occurred accidents’ number. Nevertheless, such a procedure may encounter some difficulties when an agency does not have reliable and complete crash data at the site level (e.g., accidents contributing factors not clear or approximate accident location) or when crashes are underreported. Furthermore, relying on accident data means waiting for them to occur with the related consequences (possible deaths and injuries). A non-accident-based approach has been proposed by PIARC. This approach involves the application of the Human Factors Evaluation Tool (HFET), which is based on the principles of Human Factors (HF). The HFET can be applied to road segments by on-site inspections and provides a numerical performance measure named Human Factors Scores (HFS). This paper analyses which relationship exists between the results of the standard accident-based methods and those obtainable with HFET, based on the analysis of self-explaining and ergonomic features of the infrastructure. The study carried out for this purpose considered 23 km of two-way two-lane roads in Italy. A good correspondence was obtained, meaning that high risky road segments identified by the HFS correspond to road segments already burdened by a high number of accidents. The results demonstrated that the HFET allows for identifying of road segments requiring safety improvements even if accident data are unavailable. It allows for improving a proactive NSS, avoiding waiting for accidents to occur. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Traffic Flow, Road Safety, and Sustainable Transportation)

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14 pages, 3210 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Global Forest Types Based on Climatic and Vegetation Data

by Chen Xu, Xianliang Zhang, Rocío Hernandez-Clemente, Wei Lu and Rubén D. Manzanedo

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 634; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020634 - 7 Jan 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 5030

Abstract

Forest types are generally identified using vegetation or land-use types. However, vegetation classifications less frequently consider the actual forest attributes within each type. To address this in an objective way across different regions and to link forest attributes with their climate, we aimed [...] Read more.

Forest types are generally identified using vegetation or land-use types. However, vegetation classifications less frequently consider the actual forest attributes within each type. To address this in an objective way across different regions and to link forest attributes with their climate, we aimed to improve the distribution of forest types to be more realistic and useful for biodiversity preservation, forest management, and ecological and forestry research. The forest types were classified using an unsupervised cluster analysis method by combining climate variables with normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) data. Unforested regions were masked out to constrict our study to forest type distributions, using a 20% tree cover threshold. Descriptive names were given to the defined forest types based on annual temperature, precipitation, and NDVI values. Forest types had distinct climate and vegetation characteristics. Regions with similar NDVI values, but with different climate characteristics, which would be merged in previous classifications, could be clearly distinguished. However, small-range forest types, such as montane forests, were challenging to differentiate. At macroscale, the resulting forest types are largely consistent with land-cover types or vegetation types defined in previous studies. However, considering both potential and current vegetation data allowed us to create a more realistic type distribution that differentiates actual vegetation types and thus can be more informative for forest managers, conservationists, and forest ecologists. The newly generated forest type distribution is freely available to download and use for non-commercial purposes as a GeoTIFF file via doi: 10.13140/RG.2.2.19197.90082). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability with Changing Climate and Extremes)

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27 pages, 2539 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Bringing Transition Management to Cities: Building Skills for Transformative Urban Governance

by Niki Frantzeskaki

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 650; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020650 - 7 Jan 2022

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4246

Abstract

Cities are open to trialing new approaches for advancing their planning and urban governance practice. Evidence from urban research and practice shows that transition management has been widely and diversely applied for strategic planning for climate mitigation and adaptation, regeneration, as well as [...] Read more.

Cities are open to trialing new approaches for advancing their planning and urban governance practice. Evidence from urban research and practice shows that transition management has been widely and diversely applied for strategic planning for climate mitigation and adaptation, regeneration, as well as sectoral (energy, water, waste) and social cohesion agendas. Despite the amounting evidence of the applications of transition management, the research has not identified what it is required in terms of skills to apply such a governance framework for participatory governance in cities. In this paper, we respond to this gap by providing evidence from 11 cities across Europe that applied transition management as an approach to participatory urban governance for unpacking what transformative actions are required to strengthen urban resilience in deprived neighborhoods. Our multi-case study research and analysis reveals that a multitude of vocational and academic skills are required for the application of transition management approach including systems thinking, creativity, theory-to-practice application skills, diplomatic skills for forging partnerships and learning alliances and openness to learning-by-doing during experimentation. Transition management application in cities in the Resilient Europe project brought about positive outcomes in terms of developing new skills, embedding new knowledge about urban resilience and transition management in planning. Full article

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

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14 pages, 6090 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Retrofitting Existing Buildings to Improve Energy Performance

by Sunil Kumar Sharma, Swati Mohapatra, Rakesh Chandmal Sharma, Sinem Alturjman, Chadi Altrjman, Leonardo Mostarda and Thompson Stephan

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 666; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020666 - 7 Jan 2022

Cited by 43 | Viewed by 5841

Abstract

Energy-efficient retrofits embrace enhancement of the building envelope through climate control strategies, employment of building-integrated renewable energy technologies, and insulation for a sustainable city. Building envelope improvements with insulation is a common approach, yet decision-making plays an important role in determining the most [...] Read more.

Energy-efficient retrofits embrace enhancement of the building envelope through climate control strategies, employment of building-integrated renewable energy technologies, and insulation for a sustainable city. Building envelope improvements with insulation is a common approach, yet decision-making plays an important role in determining the most appropriate envelope retrofit strategy. In this paper, the main objective is to evaluate different retrofit strategies (RS) through a calibrated simulation approach. Based on an energy performance audit and monitoring, an existing building is evaluated on performance levels and improvement potentials with basic energy conservation measures. The considered building is experimentally monitored for a full year, and monitoring data are used in calibrating the simulation model. The validation of the base model is done by comparing the simulation analysis with the experimental investigation, and good agreement is found. Three different retrofit strategies based on Intervention of minor (RS1), Moderate (RS2), and Major (RS3) are analyzed and juxtaposed with the base model to identify the optimal strategy of minimizing energy consumption. The result shows that total energy intensity in terms of the percentage reduction index is about 16.7% for RS1, 19.87 for RS2, and 24.12% for RS3. Hence, RS3 is considered the optimal retrofit strategy and is further simulated for a reduction in carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions and payback investigation. It was found that the annual reduction in CO₂ emissions of the building was 18.56%, and the payback period for the investment was 10.6 years. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role and Impact of the Internet of Things (IoT) in Sustainable Smart Cities)

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23 pages, 4532 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Equipping Property Graduates for the Digital Age

by Rotimi Abidoye, Benson Teck Heng Lim, Yu-Cheng Lin and Junge Ma

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 640; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020640 - 7 Jan 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2370

Abstract

Bridging the gaps between property graduates’ attributes and industry expectations has been touted to be the key driver of sustainable development for the next generation of the workforce. This study investigated property-related knowledge and skills from the perspective of property employers and graduates [...] Read more.

Bridging the gaps between property graduates’ attributes and industry expectations has been touted to be the key driver of sustainable development for the next generation of the workforce. This study investigated property-related knowledge and skills from the perspective of property employers and graduates in Australia in the digital age by (1) identifying the most and least important knowledge and skillsets in the property sector; (2) examining the strategies used to develop the required knowledge and skillsets; and (3) ascertaining if there are differences in the knowledge and skillsets perceived to be necessary between employers and graduates. A questionnaire survey was undertaken across property employers affiliated with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and graduates of an Australian university. The results showed that problem solving and time management are the most important knowledge and skills for property employers and graduates, respectively. Notably, there were statistically significant differences in the perceived importance of course directors maintaining close communication with employers, real-life case study-based school assessment, the use of various course delivery methods, inviting guest speakers, and internship training while studying between employers and graduates. This finding implies that Australian property professionals are yet to fully embrace technology in the digital age. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Education and Approaches)

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15 pages, 4488 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The New Boundaries of 3D-Printed Clay Bricks Design: Printability of Complex Internal Geometries

by Valentino Sangiorgio, Fabio Parisi, Francesco Fieni and Nicola Parisi

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 598; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020598 - 6 Jan 2022

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 6119

Abstract

The building construction sector is undergoing one of the most profound transformations towards the digital transition of production. In recent decades, the advent of a novel technology for the 3D printing of clay opened up new sustainable possibilities in construction. Some architectural applications [...] Read more.

The building construction sector is undergoing one of the most profound transformations towards the digital transition of production. In recent decades, the advent of a novel technology for the 3D printing of clay opened up new sustainable possibilities in construction. Some architectural applications of 3D-printed clay bricks with simple internal configurations are being developed around the world. On the other hand, the full potential of 3D-printed bricks for building production is still unknown. Scientific studies about the design and printability of 3D-printed bricks exploiting complex internal geometries are completely missing in the related literature. This paper explores the new boundaries of 3D-printed clay bricks realized with a sustainable extrusion-based 3D clay printing process by proposing a novel conception, design, and analysis. In particular, the proposed methodological approach includes: (i) conception and design; (ii) parametric modeling; (iii) simulation of printability; and (iv) prototyping. The new design and conception aim to fully exploit the potential of 3D printing to realize complex internal geometry in a 3D-printed brick. To this aim, the research investigates the printability of internal configuration generated by using geometries with well-known remarkable mechanical properties, such as periodic minimal surfaces. In conclusion, the results are validated by a wide prototyping campaign. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Green Building)

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14 pages, 1251 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Shock and Conflict in Social-Ecological Systems: Implications for Environmental Governance

by Kristof Van Assche, Monica Gruezmacher and Raoul Beunen

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 610; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020610 - 6 Jan 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4468

Abstract

In this paper, we present a framework for the analysis of shock and conflict in social-ecological systems and investigate the implications of this perspective for the understanding of environmental governance, particularly its evolutionary patterns and drivers. We dwell on the distinction between shock [...] Read more.

In this paper, we present a framework for the analysis of shock and conflict in social-ecological systems and investigate the implications of this perspective for the understanding of environmental governance, particularly its evolutionary patterns and drivers. We dwell on the distinction between shock and conflict. In mapping the relation between shock and conflict, we invoke a different potentiality for altering rigidity and flexibility in governance; different possibilities for recall, revival and trauma; and different pathways for restructuring the relation between governance, community and environment. Shock and conflict can be both productive and eroding, and for each, one can observe that productivity can be positive or negative. These different effects in governance can be analyzed in terms of object and subject creation, path creation and in terms of the dependencies recognized by evolutionary governance theory: path, inter-, goal and material dependencies. Thus, shock and conflict are mapped in their potential consequences to not only shift a path of governance, but also to transform the pattern of self-transformation in such path. Finally, we reflect on what this means for the interpretation of adaptive governance of social-ecological systems. Full article

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

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16 pages, 2676 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Resilience of Social-Infrastructural Systems: Functional Interdependencies Analysis

by Zhuyu Yang, Maria Fabrizia Clemente, Katia Laffréchine, Charlotte Heinzlef, Damien Serre and Bruno Barroca

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 606; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020606 - 6 Jan 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3373

Abstract

Critical infrastructures serve human activities and play an essential role in societies. Infrastructural systems are not isolated but are interdependent with regard to social systems, including those of public health and economic and sustainable development. In recent years, both social and infrastructural systems [...] Read more.

Critical infrastructures serve human activities and play an essential role in societies. Infrastructural systems are not isolated but are interdependent with regard to social systems, including those of public health and economic and sustainable development. In recent years, both social and infrastructural systems have frequently been in dysfunction due to increasing natural or human-made disasters and due to the internal and external dependencies between system components. The interconnectedness between social-infrastructural systems (socio-economic systems and technical-infrastructural systems), implies that the damage to one single system can extend beyond its scope. For that reason, cascading dysfunction can occur and increase system vulnerability. This article aims to study the functional interdependencies between social-infrastructural systems and to propose a methodology to analyse and improve the resilience of these systems. Combining Actor Network Theory and the Functional Models approach, the social-infrastructural Interdependence Resilience (SIIR) framework was proposed. To assess the applicability of the approach, the framework was applied to study the interdependence of a social-infrastructural system in the Nantes Metropolis. The studied system was composed of the local Highway Infrastructure (an infrastructural system) and the Emergency Medical Service (a social system). The results (1) show the feasibility of SIIR for investigating the interdependencies of two urban systems, and (2) provide a guideline for decision-makers to improve the functional interdependencies of urban systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Hazards: Assessing Risk and Reducing Disaster)

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17 pages, 2599 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Long-Term Assessment of Temperature Management in an Industrial Scale Biogas Plant

by Senem Onen Cinar, Abdullah Nsair, Nils Wieczorek and Kerstin Kuchta

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 612; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020612 - 6 Jan 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1857

Abstract

Temperature management is one of the primary considerations of biogas plant operation, and influences physical and biochemical processes. An increase in the temperature leads to an increase in the hydrolysis rate of the feedstock, while it can inhibit microorganisms taking part in different [...] Read more.

Temperature management is one of the primary considerations of biogas plant operation, and influences physical and biochemical processes. An increase in the temperature leads to an increase in the hydrolysis rate of the feedstock, while it can inhibit microorganisms taking part in different stages of anaerobic digestion. Because of the complexity of the biochemical processes within the anaerobic digestion process, there is a lack of knowledge about the effects of temperature and temperature change on efficiency. Moreover, the impact of stirring directly affects the temperature distribution in the anaerobic digestion reactors. In this study, the temperature management in an industrial-scale biogas plant was examined, and the effect of small temperature changes (from the operation temperature 42 °C) on the efficiency was studied in a laboratory under two different conditions: with stirring (at 40 and 44 °C) and without stirring (at 40 and 44 °C). The examination results from the biogas plant showed that heat transfer in the reactor was not sufficient at the bottom of the digester. Adaptation of the post-digester samples to the temperature changes was more challenging than that of the digester samples. From digestate samples, higher biomethane generation could be obtained, resulting from sufficient contact between microorganisms, enzymes, and substrates. Overall, differences between these changing conditions (approx. 6 NmL CH₄ g VS⁻¹) were not significant and could be adapted by the process. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioenergy and Environment)

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22 pages, 2732 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Investigating Business Potential and Users’ Acceptance of Circular Economy: A Survey and an Evaluation Model

by Gianmarco Bressanelli, Nicola Saccani and Marco Perona

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 609; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020609 - 6 Jan 2022

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 2820

Abstract

Circular economy is gaining attention in business and society to advance sustainability. This paradigm is particularly relevant for energy-consuming products such as washing machines, where alternatives to linear economy such as pay-per-use and refurbishment are gaining ground. To succeed, these business models should [...] Read more.

Circular economy is gaining attention in business and society to advance sustainability. This paradigm is particularly relevant for energy-consuming products such as washing machines, where alternatives to linear economy such as pay-per-use and refurbishment are gaining ground. To succeed, these business models should achieve consensus and acceptance among users. However, little attention has been paid to customers’ interest for circular economy business models so far. This paper aims to compare the economic and environmental impacts of pay-per wash and refurbishment business models, while investigating the degree of users’ acceptance and factors influencing it. A survey has been designed to collect users’ data regarding washing machine consumption patterns and acceptance rates of the circular business models. An evaluation model was developed to assess the economic and environmental impacts of pay-per-wash and refurbishment against a traditional linear model, fed with data from 279 Italian households collected through the survey. Finally, logistic regressions were carried out to investigate the influence of different customer, product, and usage factors on the acceptance rates of the two circular business models. Results show that, on average, pay-per-wash business models and washing machine refurbishment can guarantee environmental savings. However, only refurbishment generates economic savings for users. Moreover, only around half of the users’ sample shows a positive degree of acceptance of such alternatives. Respondent age has been found as a significant factor influencing the interest towards a refurbishment model, while the washing machine failures experienced by users and the relevance of the environmental gains achievable influence the acceptance rate of pay-per-wash models. Thus, when offering pay-per-wash schemes, suppliers should emphasize the information on the environmental benefits of this alternative, and that with such models they take over the responsibility and costs for maintenance and repair. On the other hand, providers of refurbished products should target younger consumers, who are less affected by a bias against second-hand goods. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development of Manufacturing Based on Sustainability Goals and Circular Economy)

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25 pages, 9493 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

One Billion Years of Earth History: Challenges of Valorizing the Outstanding Geodiversity of Southwest Germany for Sustainable Geotourism

by Heidi Elisabeth Megerle

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 559; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010559 - 5 Jan 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2664

Abstract

The German state of Baden-Württemberg boasts outstanding geo-, bio-, and archaeological diversity, and hosts two of the world’s oldest geoparks. Based on this case study, we explore why the outstanding geoheritage has not been valorized to a greater extent for a lay audience [...] Read more.

The German state of Baden-Württemberg boasts outstanding geo-, bio-, and archaeological diversity, and hosts two of the world’s oldest geoparks. Based on this case study, we explore why the outstanding geoheritage has not been valorized to a greater extent for a lay audience and where best to strike the balance between valorization and protection, with a particular focus on recent developments including the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our results show that the valorizing of the geopotentials is still insufficient. Better marketing can make an important contribution to regional added value, as well as—in combination with professional geo-education—a relevant contribution to raising awareness of the state’s natural assets. Adequate measures to protect geotopes in a sustainable manner are crucial, notably in light of problems arising from overtourism, as thrown into sharp relief during the COVID-19 pandemic. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue (A)Biotic Heritage and Sustainable Tourism)

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18 pages, 1639 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Expression of Behavior and Attitudes toward Sustainable Tourism in the Youth Population: A Search for Statistical Types

by Diana Šaparnienė, Oksana Mejerė, Jurgita Raišutienė, Vita Juknevičienė and Rasa Rupulevičienė

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 473; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010473 - 2 Jan 2022

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 5469

Abstract

Youth attitudes and behavior in tourism activities are crucial for sustainable tourism development. This study aims to identify the statistical types of youth according to their expressed behavior in sustainability and attitudes toward sustainable tourism development. Survey data were collected from 1085 respondents [...] Read more.

Youth attitudes and behavior in tourism activities are crucial for sustainable tourism development. This study aims to identify the statistical types of youth according to their expressed behavior in sustainability and attitudes toward sustainable tourism development. Survey data were collected from 1085 respondents representing different Baltic Sea countries—Latvia, Lithuania, and Russia. A unique research instrument, constructed by the authors, was developed for the empirical research, responding to the latest theoretical insights and models and was empirically validated by statistical methods (the factor validity of the scales was tested with Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, etc.). Attitudes towards sustainable tourism development were measured with the SUS-TAS scale. The factor clustering method used in the study identified the statistical types of the youth included, according to the expression of sustainable behavior and the attitudes toward sustainable tourism development. The results indicated that the majority of youth belong to the “oriented toward sustainable behavior” type (50.6%), while the analysis of youth attitudes showed that 71.5% belong to the socioeconomic type, indicating that young people prioritize the long-term socioeconomic wellbeing of the region, which can be achieved through efficient management, tourism planning, and active public participation in the implementation of tourism policies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Economic and Social Consequences of the COVID-19 Pandemic)

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