Sustainability

22 pages, 1200 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Smart and Sustainable Bioeconomy Platform: A New Approach towards Sustainability

by Gaspare D’Amico, Katarzyna Szopik-Depczyńska, Riccardo Beltramo, Idiano D’Adamo and Giuseppe Ioppolo

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 466; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010466 - 2 Jan 2022

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 14504

Abstract

The smart and sustainable bioeconomy represents a comprehensive perspective, in which economic, social, environmental, and technological dimensions are considered simultaneously in the planning, monitoring, evaluating, and redefining of processes and operations. In this context of profound transformation driven by rapid urbanization and digitalization, [...] Read more.

The smart and sustainable bioeconomy represents a comprehensive perspective, in which economic, social, environmental, and technological dimensions are considered simultaneously in the planning, monitoring, evaluating, and redefining of processes and operations. In this context of profound transformation driven by rapid urbanization and digitalization, participatory and interactive strategies and practices have become fundamental to support policymakers, entrepreneurs, and citizens in the transition towards a smart and sustainable bioeconomy. This approach is applied by numerous countries around the world in order to redefine their strategy of sustainable and technology-assisted development. Specifically, real-time monitoring stations, sensors, Internet of Things (IoT), smart grids, GPS tracking systems, and Blockchain aim to develop and strengthen the quality and efficiency of the circularity of economic, social, and environmental resources. In this sense, this study proposes a systematic review of the literature of smart and sustainable bioeconomy strategies and practices implemented worldwide in order to develop a platform capable of integrating holistically the following phases: (1) planning and stakeholder management; (2) identification of social, economic, environmental, and technological dimensions; and (3) goals. The results of this analysis emphasise an innovative and under-treated perspective, further stimulating knowledge in the theoretical and managerial debate on the smart and sustainable aspects of the bioeconomy, which mainly concern the following: (a) the proactive involvement of stakeholders in planning; (b) the improvement of efficiency and quality of economic, social, environmental, and technological flows; and (c) the reinforcement of the integration between smartness and sustainability. Full article

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

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17 pages, 5969 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Hydrothermal Carbonization of Residual Algal Biomass for Production of Hydrochar as a Biobased Metal Adsorbent

by Magdalini Tsarpali, John N. Kuhn and George P. Philippidis

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 455; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010455 - 1 Jan 2022

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3006

Abstract

Conversion of residual algal biomass to value-added products is essential for enhancing the economics of algae cultivation. Algal hydrochar produced via hydrothermal carbonization of lipid-extracted Picochlorum oculatum is a material rich in oxygen functional groups and carbon (up to 67.3%) and hence a [...] Read more.

Conversion of residual algal biomass to value-added products is essential for enhancing the economics of algae cultivation. Algal hydrochar produced via hydrothermal carbonization of lipid-extracted Picochlorum oculatum is a material rich in oxygen functional groups and carbon (up to 67.3%) and hence a promising candidate for remediation of wastewaters. The hydrothermal carbonization conditions were optimized and the adsorption capacity of the hydrochar was tested for metal removal. By the end of the remediation process, cumulative removal of Al³⁺, Cu²⁺, Fe²⁺, Mg²⁺, Mn²⁺, and Pb²⁺ reached 89, 98, 75, 88, 75, and 100%, respectively. The adsorption of all metals was found to follow pseudo second-order kinetics and the Langmuir isotherm. Overall, when hydrothermal carbonization is applied to lipid-extracted algae, it generates a promising biobased adsorbent with value-added potential in metal remediation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Advances in Microalgal Biotechnology)

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10 pages, 240 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Good Life and Climate Adaptation

by Udo Pesch

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 456; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010456 - 1 Jan 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1880

Abstract

The need to adapt to climate change brings about moral concerns that according to ‘eco-centric’ critiques cannot be resolved by modernist ethics, as this takes humans as the only beings capable of intentionality and rationality. However, if intentionality and rationality are reconsidered as [...] Read more.

The need to adapt to climate change brings about moral concerns that according to ‘eco-centric’ critiques cannot be resolved by modernist ethics, as this takes humans as the only beings capable of intentionality and rationality. However, if intentionality and rationality are reconsidered as ‘counterfactual hypotheses’ it becomes possible to align modernist ethics with the eco-centric approaches. These counterfactual hypotheses guide the development of institutions, so as to allow the pursuit of a ‘good life’. This mean that society should be organized as if humans are intentional and, following Habermas’s idea of ‘communicative rationality’, as if humans are capable of collective deliberation. Given the ecological challenges, the question becomes how to give ecological concerns a voice in deliberative processes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ethics of Climate Adaptation)

14 pages, 1455 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Exploring the Potential of Internet News for Supply Risk Assessment of Metals

by Shinsuke Murakami and Shunya Muraoka

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 409; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010409 - 31 Dec 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2167

Abstract

The growth in demand for material resources is inevitable to maintain sustainable development. Especially for metallic minerals, this growth in demand increases the supply risk; therefore, its evaluation is essential to keep the resource supply stable. Supply risk assessment has a long history [...] Read more.

The growth in demand for material resources is inevitable to maintain sustainable development. Especially for metallic minerals, this growth in demand increases the supply risk; therefore, its evaluation is essential to keep the resource supply stable. Supply risk assessment has a long history in both academic and practical studies, but there is no existing study using internet news as its main information source. In this study, we obtained related news articles from S&P Global Market Intelligence (SPG) and used them for the supply risk analysis. Using already topic-labeled articles and a gradient boosting framework, non-labeled articles are also labeled and categorized by topic. The articles were assigned to metallic minerals by SPG. We also scored each article using simple sentiment analysis. In short, we found significant potential in internet news articles as information for complementary assessments to existing methods, by providing in-depth information on regulatory or corporate financial activities, which are difficult to cover using the existing numerical indices. While it is useful, it should be noted that the volume of news articles depends on the interests of their readers, and many articles capture changes rather than states. As long as they are used with these caveats in mind, news articles can be very useful as a complementary source of information to existing analytical methods, especially for short-term supply risk assessment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Resources and Sustainable Utilization)

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24 pages, 2491 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Comprehensive PED-Database for Mapping and Comparing Positive Energy Districts Experiences at European Level

by Giulia Turci, Beril Alpagut, Paolo Civiero, Michal Kuzmic, Serena Pagliula, Gilda Massa, Vicky Albert-Seifried, Oscar Seco and Silvia Soutullo

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 427; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010427 - 31 Dec 2021

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3776

Abstract

Positive Energy Districts (PEDs) are considered as one of the pioneer strategies to guide cities in their energy planning process towards climate neutrality in an attractive, innovative and human-centered way. The concept of PED is the result of a long co-creation process and [...] Read more.

Positive Energy Districts (PEDs) are considered as one of the pioneer strategies to guide cities in their energy planning process towards climate neutrality in an attractive, innovative and human-centered way. The concept of PED is the result of a long co-creation process and integrates several multidimensional features, aiming to promote the sustainable development of urban areas and the transition of cities towards a climate neutral energy system. The paper provides an overview of the first outcomes of WG1 “PED Mapping, Characterization and Learning”, in the research COST Action CA19126 “Positive Energy Districts European Network” (PED-EU-NET). This study describes activities that focus on creating a comprehensive PED-Database by mapping existing concepts, strategies, projects, technological and non-technological solutions related to PEDs in Europe. The main objective of the Database is to support municipalities through the decision-making process by providing strategies for building and running a successful PED that can provide alternatives to consider, and is powered by an interactive web-based map. The design of the Database framework is supported by a step-by-step methodology adopted in the framework of the CA19126 in order to develop the PED-Database as an interactive, updatable and user-friendly tool. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Building Renovation—Towards a Decarbonized Building Stock 2050)

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24 pages, 2127 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Air-Travelers’ Perceptions of Service Quality during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Evidence from Tripadvisor Sites

by Deniz Sulu, Huseyin Arasli and Mehmet Bahri Saydam

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 435; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010435 - 31 Dec 2021

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 6724

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted both healthcare and the economy on a global scale. This pandemic has changed consumer habits and behaviors significantly, primarily because of confinement-related issues. While numerous research has been undertaken to study customer satisfaction using surveys and online passenger [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted both healthcare and the economy on a global scale. This pandemic has changed consumer habits and behaviors significantly, primarily because of confinement-related issues. While numerous research has been undertaken to study customer satisfaction using surveys and online passenger ratings, the effect of COVID-19 on passenger satisfaction has not been explored. It is vital to assess satisfaction indicators gathered from online consumer reviews to ascertain consumers’ preferences for airline services during the COVID-19 pandemic. The goal of this study is to determine the primary themes that emerged from airline travelers’ internet reviews during the COVID-19 outbreak. Additionally, it attempts to determine which of these themes relate to higher and lower passenger satisfaction. The article uses qualitative (i.e., narratives) analyses to examine the main components of passengers’ subjective experiences of the airline. Data are represented by passenger reviews posted on the TripAdvisor website. The analyses revealed ten themes in descriptions of airline travel experiences. These include “flight”, “service”, “staff”, “food”, “check-in”, “cancellation”, “COVID-19”, “airport”, “class”, and “luggage”. Dissatisfying concepts are linked with the “cancellation”, “check-in”, “refund”, and “airport” concepts. Full article

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

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21 pages, 5050 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Tension-Stiffening Effect Consideration for Modeling Deflection of Cracked Reinforced UHPC Beams

by Le Teng, Rongling Zhang and Kamal Henri Khayat

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 415; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010415 - 31 Dec 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2002

Abstract

Tension-stiffening effects can significantly influence the flexural performance of cracked reinforced concrete specimens. Such effect is amplified for fiber-reinforced concrete, given the fact that fibers can bridge the cracks. The objective of this study was to develop a model to predict the deflection [...] Read more.

Tension-stiffening effects can significantly influence the flexural performance of cracked reinforced concrete specimens. Such effect is amplified for fiber-reinforced concrete, given the fact that fibers can bridge the cracks. The objective of this study was to develop a model to predict the deflection of cracked reinforced ultra-high performance concrete (R-UHPC) beam elements. The modeling approach characterized the average bending moment of inertia by combining the existing model used for conventional reinforced concrete and the analytical model of stress distribution of UHPC along the cross-section. The finite element analysis (FEA) was employed to evaluate the flexural deflection based on the average bending moment of inertia. The calculated load-deflection relationships have been compared to experimental results. The results indicated that the relative errors of deflection between predicted and experimental results can be controlled within 15%, compared to values ranging from 5% to 50% calculated by neglecting the tensile properties of cracked UHPC and values ranging from 5% to 30% calculated by effective inertia of bending moment of ACI code. Therefore, the developed model can be used in practice because it can secure the accuracy of deflection prediction of the R-UHPC beams. Such a simplified model also has higher sustainability compared to FEA using solid elements since it is easier and time-saving to be established and calculated. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Use of Ultra-High-Performance Concrete to Promote Sustainability in Pavement and Bridge Construction)

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19 pages, 1381 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The INTERREG Italy-Croatia Joint_SECAP Project: A Collaborative Approach for Adaptation Planning

by Timothy Daniel Brownlee, Chiara Camaioni, Stefano Magaudda, Stefano Mugnoz and Piera Pellegrino

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 404; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010404 - 31 Dec 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2534

Abstract

With regard to the scientific debate which highlights the potential of joint climate planning, there are few concrete experiences in Europe where this approach has been applied. This contribution focuses on critical methodological and application aspects of the processes underlying the development of [...] Read more.

With regard to the scientific debate which highlights the potential of joint climate planning, there are few concrete experiences in Europe where this approach has been applied. This contribution focuses on critical methodological and application aspects of the processes underlying the development of Joint Plans for Sustainable Energy and Climate in the supra-municipal area as emerged from the direct participation of the authors in the Joint_SECAP project funded by the Interreg Italia-Croatia programme. This paper presents a comparative analysis of nine case studies in Italy and Croatia with a focus on fundamental aspects of the planning process: the governance model, shared knowledge framework, risk and vulnerability assessment, and participatory process. The analysis and comparison of the Joint_SECAP experiences confirm that joint climate planning, developed in the framework of the European Covenant of Mayors (CoM) initiative, is effective for creating synergy between local authorities and for defining and implementing strategies and actions for adaptation to the territorial scale. Finally, the research indicates some recommendations to overcome the barriers that impede the spread and effectiveness of this approach to climate planning. In particular, it highlights the need to enhance collaboration between local authorities, regions, and CoM coordinators. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Health and Quality of Life in Urban Areas)

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23 pages, 7524 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Investigating the Relationship between Human Activity and the Urban Heat Island Effect in Melbourne and Four Other International Cities Impacted by COVID-19

by Cheuk Yin Wai, Nitin Muttil, Muhammad Atiq Ur Rehman Tariq, Prudvireddy Paresi, Raphael Chukwuka Nnachi and Anne W. M. Ng

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 378; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010378 - 30 Dec 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4883

Abstract

Climate change is one of the biggest challenges of our times, even before the onset of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. One of the main contributors to climate change is greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, which are mostly caused by human activities such as the [...] Read more.

Climate change is one of the biggest challenges of our times, even before the onset of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. One of the main contributors to climate change is greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, which are mostly caused by human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels. As the lockdown due to the pandemic has minimised human activity in major cities, GHG emissions have been reduced. This, in turn, is expected to lead to a reduction in the urban heat island (UHI) effect in the cities. The aim of this paper is to understand the relationship between human activity and the UHI intensity and to provide recommendations towards developing a sustainable approach to minimise the UHI effect and improve urban resilience. In this study, historical records of the monthly mean of daily maximum surface air temperatures collected from official weather stations in Melbourne, New York City, Tokyo, Dublin, and Oslo were used to estimate the UHI intensity in these cities. The results showed that factors such as global climate and geographic features could dominate the overall temperature. However, a direct relationship between COVID-19 lockdown timelines and the UHI intensity was observed, which suggests that a reduction in human activity can diminish the UHI intensity. As lockdowns due to COVID-19 are only temporary events, this study also provides recommendations to urban planners towards long-term measures to mitigate the UHI effect, which can be implemented when human activity returns to normal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Thermal Comfort and Adaptation in Urban Areas)

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12 pages, 2609 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Potential for Hydrolysed Sheep Wool as a Sustainable Source of Fertiliser for Irish Agriculture

by Gary D. Gillespie, Oyinlola Dada and Kevin P. McDonnell

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 365; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010365 - 30 Dec 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3922

Abstract

Suppressed wool prices in Ireland over the last number of years has led to situations where the cost of shearing animals is greater than the wools’ value, leading to net losses per animal for farmers. Populations of sheep in Ireland and nutrient values [...] Read more.

Suppressed wool prices in Ireland over the last number of years has led to situations where the cost of shearing animals is greater than the wools’ value, leading to net losses per animal for farmers. Populations of sheep in Ireland and nutrient values of wool from literature sources were used to determine the quantity of nutrients that could be produced on an annual basis using hydrolysis techniques. Results of this study suggest that up to 15.8% of the nitrogen required to produce Ireland’s cereal crops can be met annually using hydrolysed sheep wool in an economically feasible manner along with considerable amounts of sulphur, zinc, and copper. Most of the cost associated with the process is the purchasing of wool from farmers at an economically favourable level for farmers. Based on the spatial distribution of these animals, the town of Athlone is the most suitable location for a processing facility. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Agriculture)

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13 pages, 1806 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Soil Communities: Who Responds and How Quickly to a Change in Agricultural System?

by Emanuela Coller, Claudia Maria Oliveira Longa, Raffaella Morelli, Sara Zanoni, Marco Cristiano Cersosimo Ippolito, Massimo Pindo, Cristina Cappelletti, Francesca Ciutti, Cristina Menta, Roberto Zanzotti and Claudio Ioriatti

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 383; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010383 - 30 Dec 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2174

Abstract

The use of conservation and sustainable practices could restore the abundance and richness of soil organisms in agroecosystems. Fitting in this context, this study aimed to highlight whether and how different soil living communities reacted to the conversion from an integrated to an [...] Read more.

The use of conservation and sustainable practices could restore the abundance and richness of soil organisms in agroecosystems. Fitting in this context, this study aimed to highlight whether and how different soil living communities reacted to the conversion from an integrated to an organic orchard. The metataxonomic approach for fungi and bacteria and the determination of biological forms of diatoms and microarthropods were applied. Soil analyses were carried out in order to evaluate the effect of soil chemical features on four major soil living communities. Our results showed that the different taxa reacted with different speeds to the management changes. Fungi responded quickly to the changes, suggesting that modification in agricultural practices had a greater impact on fungal communities. Bacteria and microarthropods were more affected by abiotic parameters and less by the management. The diatom composition seemed to be affected by seasonality but the highest H’ (Shannon index) value was measured in the organic system. Fungi, but also diatoms, seemed to be promising for monitoring changes in the soil since they were sensitive to both the soil features and the anthropic impact. Our study showed that soil biodiversity could be affected by the conversion to sustainable management practices from the early years of an orchard onwards. Therefore, better ecological orchard management may strengthen soil sustainability and resilience in historically agricultural regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Agroecological Approaches for Soil Health and Water Management)

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21 pages, 613 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Impact of Sustainability and Leadership on the Innovation Management of Michelin-Starred Chefs

by Natascha Mrusek, Michael C. Ottenbacher and Robert J. Harrington

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 330; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010330 - 29 Dec 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4935

Abstract

This study considers relationships among leadership styles and skills (sustainability leadership, innovation leadership and sustainable innovation) as drivers of sustainable innovation capability in the Michelin-starred restaurant context. The study used semi-structured qualitative interviews with a sample of nine chefs in Germany. The purpose [...] Read more.

This study considers relationships among leadership styles and skills (sustainability leadership, innovation leadership and sustainable innovation) as drivers of sustainable innovation capability in the Michelin-starred restaurant context. The study used semi-structured qualitative interviews with a sample of nine chefs in Germany. The purpose was to examine the impact of sustainability and leadership on the innovation management of Michelin-starred chefs and to determine crucial aspects impacting haute cuisine innovations. Following earlier research, the findings indicate that a holistic view of sustainability is held by high-end chefs in this sector with considerations for the four main pillars (environmental, social, economic, cultural). Leadership style was seen as key to innovation management in the haute cuisine context. However, the interviews revealed that the issue of environmental sustainability was perceived to be of lessor significance when considering innovations in haute cuisine, due to customer expectations and insufficient legislation or government incentives. The external factors of market demand, involvement by a variety of stakeholders, and guest values/needs were viewed as key determinants of innovation type, success and directions. The internal factors of fitting with the business vision, brand loyalty of consumers, and employee skills and engagement were identified as key drivers of innovation decisions and success. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Tourism Development through Service Innovation and Design)

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23 pages, 6427 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Modeling Urban Road Scenarios to Evaluate Intersection Visibility

by Keila González-Gómez, Derrick K. Rollins and María Castro

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 354; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010354 - 29 Dec 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2627

Abstract

Road safety is key to sustainable mobility. Rapid technological advances have allowed several road safety-related analyses, previously performed in situ, to be conducted virtually. These virtual analyses benefit understanding of how roads operate and how users perceive them. Additionally, they facilitate the assessment [...] Read more.

Road safety is key to sustainable mobility. Rapid technological advances have allowed several road safety-related analyses, previously performed in situ, to be conducted virtually. These virtual analyses benefit understanding of how roads operate and how users perceive them. Additionally, they facilitate the assessment of several parameters that are fundamental to road design and operation. The available sight distance (ASD) is one of these parameters that, if not provided adequately, could alter the proper functioning of roads. This study presents a framework to assess the impact of certain features on visibility. First, the ASD is estimated using a geographic information system (GIS)-based procedure with LiDAR-derived three-dimensional (3D) models. Afterward, obstructions are detected and categorized. If the obstruction cannot be removed, their redesign or relocation is simulated to re-run the analysis. These simulations are performed using 3D city objects, and their results are statistically evaluated, providing evidence as to their effects on visibility. The results proved that the procedure helped achieve the efficient use of roadside space, while including safety concerns. Additionally, this study reflects the need for more inspections on the impact of on-street parking on drivers’ fields of view. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Highway Models and Sustainability)

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16 pages, 801 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

The State-of-the-Art Estimation of Groundwater Recharge and Water Balance with a Special Emphasis on India: A Critical Review

by Pazhuparambil Jayarajan Sajil Kumar, Michael Schneider and Lakshmanan Elango

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 340; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010340 - 29 Dec 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4114

Abstract

Groundwater recharge estimation is essential for sustainable water management and water supply schemes. In this paper, we review groundwater recharge estimation techniques and identify the appropriate methods by considering India’s hydrological and climatic conditions. Significant components of recharge, factors affecting groundwater recharge, aquifer [...] Read more.

Groundwater recharge estimation is essential for sustainable water management and water supply schemes. In this paper, we review groundwater recharge estimation techniques and identify the appropriate methods by considering India’s hydrological and climatic conditions. Significant components of recharge, factors affecting groundwater recharge, aquifer systems of India, and historical groundwater recharge estimation practices are reviewed. Currently used recharge estimation methods are assessed based on case studies. The most popular estimation methods are studied and compared based on their application in various regions. It is observed that the accuracy of the recharge estimates is largely influenced by false assumptions, the possibility of erroneous measurements, a potential lack of reliable data, and a variety of problems associated with parameter estimation. The suitability of different methods for a region is found to depend on time and space considerations, the objective of the study, hydrogeological condition, and availability of data. In Indian conditions, it is suggested to use water table fluctuation and water balance methods for the recharge estimation, provided that accurate water level measurements are assured. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Groundwater Management–the Role of Hydrogeology, Remediation, Risk Assessment, and Climate Change)

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14 pages, 3592 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Metal Rod Surfaces after Exposure to Used Cooking Oils

by Nina Bruun, Juho Lehmusto, Jarl Hemming, Fiseha Tesfaye and Leena Hupa

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 355; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010355 - 29 Dec 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2747

Abstract

Used cooking oils (UCOs) have a high potential as renewable fuels for the maritime shipping industry. However, their corrosiveness during storage and usage are some of the concerns yet to be investigated for addressing compatibility issues. Thus, the corrosion of steels and copper [...] Read more.

Used cooking oils (UCOs) have a high potential as renewable fuels for the maritime shipping industry. However, their corrosiveness during storage and usage are some of the concerns yet to be investigated for addressing compatibility issues. Thus, the corrosion of steels and copper exposed to the UCOs was studied through the immersion of metal rods for different periods. The changes on the rod surfaces were analyzed with a scanning electron microscope (SEM). After the immersion, the copper concentration dissolved in the bio-oils was measured using inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). The free fatty acids and glycerides were analyzed using gas chromatography with flame ionization detection (GC-FID). The acid number (AN), water concentration, as well as density and kinematic viscosity of the bio-oils were determined with standard methods. The UCOs with the highest water content were corrosive, while the oils with lower water concentrations but higher ANs induced lower corrosion. After mixing two different UCOs, the metal corrosion decreased with an increasing concentration of the oil with lower corrosive properties. The lower corrosion properties were most likely due to the monounsaturated fatty acids, e.g., oleic acid in oils. These acids formed a barrier layer on the rod surfaces, thereby inhibiting the permeation of oxygen and water to the surface. Even adding 0.025 wt% of tert-butylamine decreased the corrosivity of UCO against polished steel rod. The results suggested that mixing several oil batches and adding a suitable inhibitor reduces the potential corrosive properties of UCOs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clever Fuel Usage: Consumption, Emissions and Sustainability)

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15 pages, 1031 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

A Review of the Literature on Food Values and Their Potential Implications for Consumers’ Food Decision Processes

by Opeyemi Afolabi Femi-Oladunni, Pablo Ruiz-Palomino, María Pilar Martínez-Ruiz and Ana Isabel Muro-Rodríguez

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 271; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010271 - 28 Dec 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 12639

Abstract

This article offers a semi-systematic literature review on the concept of food values. Specifically, 36 relevant research articles were analyzed. The results underscore the novelty and rapid popularity of this concept in different professional, scientific, and academic fields. Among the findings, the article [...] Read more.

This article offers a semi-systematic literature review on the concept of food values. Specifically, 36 relevant research articles were analyzed. The results underscore the novelty and rapid popularity of this concept in different professional, scientific, and academic fields. Among the findings, the article highlights how the concept of food values has evolved to accommodate the features and behaviors of specific markets. Nonetheless, one can group food values into three distinct clusters. This article expands our understanding on the evolution of food values along different dimensions (various clusters and segments related to geographic regions and social classes). It also identifies several research gaps and translates them into different research proposals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Food Management and Marketing)

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23 pages, 18924 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Sustainable Biodiesel Production by Transesterification of Waste Cooking Oil and Recycling of Wastewater Rich in Glycerol as a Feed to Microalgae

by Ombretta Paladino and Matteo Neviani

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 273; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010273 - 28 Dec 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5226

Abstract

The amount of solid and liquid organic waste and wastewater is continuously increasing all over the world. The necessity of their reuse and recycling is, therefore, becoming more and more pressing. Furthermore, the limited fossil fuel resources, in conjunction with the need to [...] Read more.

The amount of solid and liquid organic waste and wastewater is continuously increasing all over the world. The necessity of their reuse and recycling is, therefore, becoming more and more pressing. Furthermore, the limited fossil fuel resources, in conjunction with the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, advocate the production of renewable fuels. In this work, we analyze a sustainable second-generation process to produce biodiesel by transesterification of waste cooking oil, coupled with a third-generation process in cascade for recycling the incoming wastewater. Since this latter is rich in glycerol, it is used as a feed for microalgae, from which oil can be extracted and added to the waste cooking oil to further produce biodiesel and close the cycle. We studied the influence of different factors like temperature, catalyst load, and reactants ratio on the kinetics of transesterification of the waste oil and estimated the kinetic parameters by different kinetic schemes. The obtained values of activation energies and pre-exponential factors at chosen conditions of

T

= 60 °C and catalyst load of 0.6% w/w in methanol are:

E_{a, direct}

= 35,661 J mol⁻¹,

E_{a, reverse}

= 72,989 J mol⁻¹,

k_{0, direct}

= 9.7708 [dm³ mol⁻¹]³ min⁻¹, and

k_{0, reverse}

= 24,810 [dm³ mol⁻¹]³ min⁻¹ for the global fourth-order reversible reaction scheme and

E_{a}

= 67,348 J mol⁻¹ and

k_{0}

= 2.157 × 10⁹ min⁻¹ for the simplified pseudo-first-order irreversible reaction scheme; both in strong agreement with literature data. Furthermore, we designed very efficient conditions for discontinuous and continuous operating mode, both at lab-scale and pilot-scale. The quality of the biodiesel produced from waste cooking sunflower oil is compared with that of biodiesel produced by different kinds of virgin vegetable oils, showing that the former possesses acceptable quality standards (Cetane number = 48 and LHV = 36,600 kJ kg⁻¹). Finally, the recycling of wastewater rich in glycerol as a nutrient for mixotrophic microalgae nurturing is discussed, and microalgae growing kinetics are evaluated (k₁ about 0.5 day⁻¹), endorsing the possibility of algae extraction each 4–5 days in a semi-continuous operating mode. The experimental results at the pilot scale finally confirm the quality of biodiesel, and the obtained yields for a two-stage process prove the competitiveness of this sustainable process on the global market. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Solid-Waste and Waste-Water Treatment Processes)

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16 pages, 2090 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Analysis of the Window Views of the Nearby Façades

by Samo Drobne, Martina Zbašnik-Senegačnik, Živa Kristl, Ljudmila Koprivec and Alenka Fikfak

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 269; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010269 - 27 Dec 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3040

Abstract

The view from the window is an important parameter of living comfort. Previous studies have defined several important characteristics of views, but there are very few studies that addressed window views in dense urban environments and their influence on the perceptual elements of [...] Read more.

The view from the window is an important parameter of living comfort. Previous studies have defined several important characteristics of views, but there are very few studies that addressed window views in dense urban environments and their influence on the perceptual elements of the view. The scope of the study was to define the influence of design elements in window views that can trigger negative reactions from viewers. In our study the questionnaire survey was used as a method for obtaining the research data. A group of architecture students who participated as respondents selected different reactions to views and reasons for such responses. Only the window views that received poor responses were further investigated. The results were statistically analyzed according to the most frequent responses and the variability of responses. The homogeneity of the groups of responses as well as the groups of reasons was tested using the Fischer-Snedercor test. The analysis showed that the negative response to a window view depends not only on the short distance between the buildings, but also on the visual aesthetics, especially the composition quality, the surface characteristics and the maintenance of the observed building. The results show that interventions, especially natural elements such as vegetation, can increase the dynamics of the window view. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Frontiers in Design and Planning for Healthy Built Environments)

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21 pages, 5252 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Analysis of Sea Pollution by Sewage from Vessels

by Žarko Koboević, Darijo Mišković, Romana Capor Hrošik and Nikša Koboević

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 263; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010263 - 27 Dec 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3417

Abstract

In this study, we analysed the sea pollution caused by sewage from vessels. The Dubrovnik aquatorium was chosen as a typical sea area that accommodates a variety of vessels in different locations. We sampled the sea at eight different coastal locations over 14 [...] Read more.

In this study, we analysed the sea pollution caused by sewage from vessels. The Dubrovnik aquatorium was chosen as a typical sea area that accommodates a variety of vessels in different locations. We sampled the sea at eight different coastal locations over 14 months and then analysed the samples to determine the presence of the indicators of fecal pollution. Simultaneous with the sampling of the sea, we recorded the number and type of vessels accommodated at the port. These data were applied in chi-square tests, which were used to determine the existence of the relationship of certain types of vessels with fecal coliform bacteria in the sea for each location. The correlation was determined between smaller vessels such as boats, yachts, megayachts, and smaller cruise ships in national navigation with bacteria at sea at the sampling locations. The results can provide an improved understanding of sea pollution due to sewage from vessels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Maritime Transportation: Risks, Health and Environmental Protections)

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29 pages, 7054 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Systematic Methodology for Design of Sustainable Urban Neighborhood Energy Infrastructure

by Amir Hillman, Uriyel Fisher and Michael Shapiro

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 259; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010259 - 27 Dec 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2918

Abstract

The growing share of global energy consumption by cities (currently over 65%) raises the requirements for a systematic holistic approach for designing urban energy infrastructure in order to ensure its sustainability. A literature review of state-of-the-art modeling of urban energy infrastructure design emphasized [...] Read more.

The growing share of global energy consumption by cities (currently over 65%) raises the requirements for a systematic holistic approach for designing urban energy infrastructure in order to ensure its sustainability. A literature review of state-of-the-art modeling of urban energy infrastructure design emphasized the incomprehensive sustainability of the performed evaluations, as they accounted for several aspects of sustainability but missed others. Omitting important aspects can have significant implications which can put the sustainability of the energy infrastructure at risk. In this study, we attempted to develop a comprehensive model for designing sustainable energy infrastructure for urban districts, which accounts for the four aspects of sustainability: social, technical, environmental, and economic. The model is based on a four-step methodology: district characterization, a technological survey for distributed generation and energy storage, selecting suitable technologies according to social and technical criteria, and simulations of different energy infrastructure configurations to find the most suitable configurations basing on economic and environmental criteria. The research includes a case study in which the model was implemented for the Technion campus in Haifa. The developed model proved to be a comprehensive, efficient, and versatile tool for designing urban energy infrastructure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)

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15 pages, 11014 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

COVID-19 Face Masks as a Long-Term Source of Microplastics in Recycled Urban Green Waste

by Dirk H. R. Spennemann

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 207; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010207 - 26 Dec 2021

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 4864

Abstract

Following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, many governments recommended or mandated the wearing of fitted face masks to limit the transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus via aerosols. Concomitant with the extensive use of non-sterile, surgical-type single-use face masks (SUM) [...] Read more.

Following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, many governments recommended or mandated the wearing of fitted face masks to limit the transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus via aerosols. Concomitant with the extensive use of non-sterile, surgical-type single-use face masks (SUM) was an increase of such masks, either lost or discarded, in various environmental settings. With their low tensile strength, the spunbond and melt-blown fabrics of the SUM are prone to shredding into small pieces when impacted by lawn cutting equipment. Observations highlight the absence of smaller pieces, which are either wind-dispersed or collected by the mower’s leaf catcher and disposed together with the green waste and then enter the municipal waste stream. As proof-of-concept, experiments using a domestic lawn-mower with different height settings and different grass heights, show that 75% of all pieces of SUM fabric caught in the catcher belonged to sizes below 10 mm², which under the influence of UV light will decay into microfibers. The implications of SUM generated microplastics are discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pandemic and the City: Urban Issues in the Context of COVID-19)

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17 pages, 1701 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Understanding the Social Licence of Carbon Farming in the Australian Rangelands

by Alex Baumber, Rebecca Cross, Cathy Waters, Graciela Metternicht and Hermann Kam

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 174; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010174 - 24 Dec 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3928

Abstract

Carbon farming has expanded in Australia’s rangelands over recent years, incentivised under the Australian Government’s Emissions Reduction Fund. While this has largely been driven by economic benefits for landholders, the long-term viability of the carbon farming industry depends on its ability to obtain [...] Read more.

Carbon farming has expanded in Australia’s rangelands over recent years, incentivised under the Australian Government’s Emissions Reduction Fund. While this has largely been driven by economic benefits for landholders, the long-term viability of the carbon farming industry depends on its ability to obtain and maintain a social licence to operate in affected communities. Using a combination of survey, interview and focus group methods, involving key stakeholders in far-western New South Wales (NSW), this study reveals that the greatest threat to the social licence of carbon farming is the lack of confidence in governance related to policy complexity and uncertainty. Procedural fairness is a relative strength because of the involvement of trusted community members, and the trust-building strategies employed by the aggregators who recruit landholders to carbon farming. Perceptions of distributional fairness are strengthened by the benefits beginning to flow through rangeland communities, but are weakened by concerns around the equity of eligibility and the land management rules. A focus on participatory policy development, aligning rules with local values and local-scale trust building, is required in order to enhance the social licence for carbon farming in the NSW rangelands. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Soil and Water Management Challenges & Solutions for Sustainable Agriculture under Climate Change)

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16 pages, 2370 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Commoning Adaptive Heritage Reuse as a Driver of Social Innovation: Naples and the Scugnizzo Liberato Case Study

by Federica Fava

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 191; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010191 - 24 Dec 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3745

Abstract

The adaptive reuse of cultural heritage assets is often problematic. What emerges is the urgency of a thoughtful negotiation between built forms and emerging needs and requests. In this view, a fruitful trajectory of development arises in commoning heritage by means of adaptive [...] Read more.

The adaptive reuse of cultural heritage assets is often problematic. What emerges is the urgency of a thoughtful negotiation between built forms and emerging needs and requests. In this view, a fruitful trajectory of development arises in commoning heritage by means of adaptive reuse. Hence, the purpose of this article is to investigate how community-led adaptive heritage re-use practices contribute to social innovation in terms of new successful model of urban governance, by providing a specific focus on innovative aspects that emerge in both heritage and planning sectors. Therefore, it also aims to improve the knowledge in the innovative power of heritage when conceptualized as performative practice. To this end, the paper presents the adaptation process of a former church complex located in Naples, today Scugnizzo Liberato, one of the bottom-up initiatives recognized by the Municipality of Naples as part of the urban commons network of the city. The research results are based on desk research, a literature review, and interviews with experts and activists, conducted as part of the OpenHeritage project (Horizon 2020). Initial evidence shows that profound citizen involvement throughout the whole heritage-making process might generate innovative perspectives in urban governance as well as conservation planning practice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Social Innovation in Sustainable Urban Development)

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16 pages, 552 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Competencies for Agricultural Advisors in Innovation Support

by Charlotte Lybaert, Lies Debruyne, Eva Kyndt and Fleur Marchand

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 182; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010182 - 24 Dec 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4194

Abstract

The expectation that agricultural advisors will facilitate Interactive Innovation is accompanied by novel expectations for their competency profile. In addition to their traditional technical basis, advisors are now expected to organise multi-actor processes, facilitate learning, mediate conflict, etc. Innovation support services are inherently [...] Read more.

The expectation that agricultural advisors will facilitate Interactive Innovation is accompanied by novel expectations for their competency profile. In addition to their traditional technical basis, advisors are now expected to organise multi-actor processes, facilitate learning, mediate conflict, etc. Innovation support services are inherently diverse. To date, no precise list of competencies required by agricultural advisors to support Interactive Innovation has been defined. To form the basis for a competency profile, we examine the competencies currently being expected from an agricultural advisor. This suggested profile, developed in the context of the H2020 i2connect project, is based on a literature review, semi-structured interviews with co-creation experts, and an online validation workshop. We explore five themes: (a) basic disposition and attitude, (b) content competence, (c) methodological competence, (d) organisational competence, and (e) reflection, learning, and personal development. In practice, the profile can be used as either a tool for setting up co-creation processes or as the foundation for the development of new training materials. We conclude with a recommendation to create teams of advisors rather than relying on individuals, as a team is more likely to comprise the diversity of required competencies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Sustaining Rural Innovation: Reflexivity, Diversity and Co-creation)

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19 pages, 1066 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Understandings of Food Insecurity in Aotearoa New Zealand: Considering Practitioners’ Perspectives in a Neoliberal Context Using Q Methodology

by David Reynolds and Miranda Mirosa

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 178; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010178 - 24 Dec 2021

Viewed by 2868

Abstract

Food insecurity in advanced capitalist nations has persisted over decades despite excess food production, welfare systems, and charitable responses. This research examines the perspectives of practitioners who engage with food insecurity in Aotearoa New Zealand using a Q methodology study to synthesise and [...] Read more.

Food insecurity in advanced capitalist nations has persisted over decades despite excess food production, welfare systems, and charitable responses. This research examines the perspectives of practitioners who engage with food insecurity in Aotearoa New Zealand using a Q methodology study to synthesise and characterise three typical subjective positions. Consensus across the three positions includes the state’s responsibility for the food security of citizens, while points of contention include the role of poverty as a cause of food insecurity and the significance of a human right to food. The research contributes to research into food insecurity in advanced capitalist nations by identifying areas of consensus and contention among food insecurity practitioners, identifying the significance of children and moral failure in perceptions of food insecurity, and comparing practitioners’ perspectives to existing approaches to researching food insecurity in advanced capitalist nations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Insecurity in Advanced Capitalist Nations)

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12 pages, 4146 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Performance of Concrete Pavement Incorporating Portland Limestone Cement in Cold Weather

by Ahmed Yasien, Ahmed Ghazy and Mohamed Bassuoni

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 183; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010183 - 24 Dec 2021

Viewed by 2834

Abstract

The City of Winnipeg (COW) and the University of Manitoba (UM), Canada, have partnered since 2015 to conduct research on the use of portland limestone cement (PLC), comprising up to 15% limestone filler, in transportation infrastructure such as pavements and bridges. Laboratory tests [...] Read more.

The City of Winnipeg (COW) and the University of Manitoba (UM), Canada, have partnered since 2015 to conduct research on the use of portland limestone cement (PLC), comprising up to 15% limestone filler, in transportation infrastructure such as pavements and bridges. Laboratory tests have substantiated the equivalent or superior resistance of concrete made from PLC, relative to that made from general use (GU) cement (Type I) to durability exposures including acids, sulfate salts and chloride-based deicing salts. Subsequently, a field trial was done in 2018, which involved casting two concrete pavement sections made from PLC and GU cement in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. The current paper reports on the construction and long-term (three years/winter seasons) properties of these pavement sections including fresh properties, strength, absorption and chloride ions penetrability, as well as microstructural features. Cores were taken from mid-slabs and at joints, which are the most vulnerable locations to damage in concrete pavements. The field trial results showed that concrete pavement sections made with PLC had equivalent or superior performance compared with those made of GU in terms of fresh, hardened and durability properties. Thus, it presents a viable option for sustainable construction of concrete flatwork in cold regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability and Green Construction)

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21 pages, 1134 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Challenges in Land Use and Transport Planning Integration in Helsinki Metropolitan Region—A Historical-Institutional Perspective

by Oya Duman, Raine Mäntysalo, Kaisa Granqvist, Emily Johnson and Niko-Matti Ronikonmäki

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 146; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010146 - 23 Dec 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4483

Abstract

Land use and transport integration has been considered a must-have approach in achieving sustainable urban development. However, successful applications of the concept have been few, as institutional reforms to support land use and transport integration have lagged behind. Accordingly, this article argues that [...] Read more.

Land use and transport integration has been considered a must-have approach in achieving sustainable urban development. However, successful applications of the concept have been few, as institutional reforms to support land use and transport integration have lagged behind. Accordingly, this article argues that understanding difficulties in land use and transport integration requires an analysis of the long-term evolution of formal and informal institutional frameworks in planning practices. For this purpose, this article presents a case study of land use and transport planning in Finland’s Helsinki Metropolitan Region, which combines interview research on planners’ perceptions with a document analysis of the historical trajectories of the region’s plans, policy documents and related institutional and organizational changes. The historical-institutional approach of the article draws on discursive institutionalism as a novel analytical approach for studying how land use and transport integration is institutionally conditioned. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cultural, Legal and Political Dimensions of Public Norms in Sustainable Metropolitan Spaces)

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17 pages, 3174 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Organic Cocoa Value Chain Sustainability: The Perception of São Tomé and Príncipe’s Stakeholders

by Ibrahim Prazeres, Maria Raquel Lucas and Ana Marta-Costa

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 136; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010136 - 23 Dec 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3653

Abstract

Cocoa farming in São Tomé and Príncipe (STP) faces several challenges due to its poor socioeconomic context, the adverse impact of climate changes, the complex and limited access to global value chains, and worldwide demand pressure for higher cocoa quality and productivity. This [...] Read more.

Cocoa farming in São Tomé and Príncipe (STP) faces several challenges due to its poor socioeconomic context, the adverse impact of climate changes, the complex and limited access to global value chains, and worldwide demand pressure for higher cocoa quality and productivity. This exploratory research investigates potential pathways to a more sustainable organic cocoa (OC) production in STP by mapping the perceptions of the stakeholders involved in its value chain. Qualitative interviews, field observation, and focus group discussions were applied to understand how sustainability dimensions, drivers, impacts, and challenges of OC are perceived and how these three dimensions can be improved and balanced. The gathered perceptions are rather diverse, reflecting the stakeholders’ position and knowledge of the specific contexts and processes. Producers do not perceive how governance is adopting new organizational structures or practices that allow for an effective sustainability improvement. Most stakeholders recognize that market-related factors drive the sustainability adoption and that financing-related constraints challenge their wide implementation. There are trade-offs and power asymmetries in the OC value chain, which manifest differently, due to the governance approaches, processes, overall regulations, and training of producers. An alignment of perceptions and activities as well as a stronger cooperation between cooperatives, private firms, and public institutions is strongly recommended. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agri-Food Networks)

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17 pages, 2194 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Priority Given to Sustainability by Industrial Designers within an Industry 4.0 Paradigm

by Blair Kuys, Christoph Koch and Gianni Renda

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010076 - 22 Dec 2021

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3988

Abstract

Industrial design is intrinsically linked to manufacturing; however, what is required of industrial design to adapt to new changes brought on by Industry 4.0 in manufacturing is unknown. Current literature gives little insight into how industrial designers need to evolve to the current [...] Read more.

Industrial design is intrinsically linked to manufacturing; however, what is required of industrial design to adapt to new changes brought on by Industry 4.0 in manufacturing is unknown. Current literature gives little insight into how industrial designers need to evolve to the current developments in manufacturing to remain value drivers in an Industry 4.0 paradigm. There is minimal research describing the link between industrial design, Industry 4.0 and the effect this will have on sustainability. We conducted an extensive survey of 190 respondents from 53 countries to establish the present state of industrial design practice globally and to better understand the priority sustainability is given by practicing industrial designers. Qualitative data showed a desire for improved sustainable processes; however, quantitative data contradicted this, showing “sustainability” as one of the lowest ranked areas of importance in design practice for industrial designers. While sustainability—especially in manufacturing—demands more prominent change as industrial design adapts to an Industry 4.0 manufacturing paradigm, it seems that junior industrial designers do not currently see this as a priority. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Industrial Design Engineering for Industry 4.0)

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19 pages, 3477 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Transformation and Sustainable Development of Shopping Centers: Case of Czech and Slovak Cities

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

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 62; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010062 - 22 Dec 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 5294

Abstract

The aim of the paper is to critically evaluate the similarities and differences in the development of the temporal and spatial structure of shopping centers in the Czech and Slovak republics. We focused on the retail transformation and sustainable manifestations of the location [...] Read more.

The aim of the paper is to critically evaluate the similarities and differences in the development of the temporal and spatial structure of shopping centers in the Czech and Slovak republics. We focused on the retail transformation and sustainable manifestations of the location and construction of shopping centers. We classified shopping centers according to their genesis, location in the city, and size of the gross leasable area. To analyze migration trends and geographic distribution characteristics of shopping centers in the capital cities of both countries (local level of analysis), we used spatial gravity and standard deviational ellipse. Generally, there is an analogous trend in the development of shopping centers in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, with a particular two- to four-year lag in Slovakia (west–east gradient). Despite this, we still perceive the demand for shopping centers in both countries as above average, and it is not declining. The construction of shopping centers, mainly in small towns, also indicates this trend. In Prague and Bratislava, the pattern of spatial expansion of shopping centers differs. Prague probably represents a more advanced phase of shopping center agglomeration. However, neither country has reached the state of clustering. Full article

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

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11 pages, 1368 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Reducing GHG Emissions and Improving Cost Effectiveness via Energy Efficiency Enhancements: A Case Study in a Biscuit Industry

by Valentina Stojceska, Nicholas Parker and Savvas A. Tassou

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010069 - 22 Dec 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3150

Abstract

As the new climate change driven regulations are brought into the force and energy prices and sustainability awareness increased, many companies are looking for the most efficient way to reduce their energy consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In this context, the food [...] Read more.

As the new climate change driven regulations are brought into the force and energy prices and sustainability awareness increased, many companies are looking for the most efficient way to reduce their energy consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In this context, the food industry as one of the main energy consumers within the industry sector plays a significant role. This paper analyses the current energy consumption in a biscuit manufacturing company and considers a number of possible solutions for the energy efficiency improvements. The company uses modern and automated production processes and has signed a Climate Change Agreement. The experimental part involves identification of the energy users, as well as analysis of the energy bills, operation times, production schedule and on-site measurements of energy consumption. The opportunities for energy efficiency improvements, GHG emissions and costs reduction are investigated and additional information about the investments and payback period of the proposed improvements discussed. A number of opportunities for improvement are identified within the production area with a potential savings of 23%, which corresponds to EUR 40,534.00 and 190 tCO₂, annually. It was found that the significant savings could be achieved by better managing the production lines and reducing operational hours from equipment, with no impact on productivity and no capital investment required. Further savings can be achieved through technical improvements requiring capital investments. All those improvements and savings make a significant contribution in accomplishing environmental targets set out by the FDF1 agreement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)

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20 pages, 1345 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Multicriteria Approach to Modelling Pandemic Response under Strong Uncertainty: A Case Study in Jordan

by Love Ekenberg, Adriana Mihai, Tobias Fasth, Nadejda Komendantova, Mats Danielson and Ahmed Al-Salaymeh

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010081 - 22 Dec 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2767

Abstract

In responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, evidence-based policymaking and risk mitigation have been confronted with limited decision-making mechanisms under conditions of increased uncertainty. Such methods are particularly called for in contexts where reliable data to a large extent are missing and where the [...] Read more.

In responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, evidence-based policymaking and risk mitigation have been confronted with limited decision-making mechanisms under conditions of increased uncertainty. Such methods are particularly called for in contexts where reliable data to a large extent are missing and where the chosen policy would impact a variety of sectors. In this paper, we present an application of an integrated decision-making framework under ambiguity on how to contain the COVID-19 virus spread from a national policy point of view. The framework was applied in Jordan and considered both local epidemiologic and socioeconomic estimates in a multistakeholder multicriteria context. In particular, the cocreation process for eliciting attitudes, perceptions, and preferences amongst relevant stakeholder groups has often been missing from policy response to the pandemic, even though the containment measures’ efficiency largely depends on their acceptance by the impacted groups. For this, there exist several methods attempting to elicit criteria weights, values, and probabilities ranging from direct rating and point allocation methods to more elaborated ones. To facilitate the elicitation, some of the approaches utilise elicitation methods whereby prospects are ranked using ordinal importance information, while others use cardinal information. Methods are sometimes assessed in case studies or more formally by utilising systematic simulations. Furthermore, the treatment of corresponding methods for the handling of the alternative’s values has sometimes been neglected. We demonstrate in our paper an approach for cardinal ranking in policy decision making in combination with imprecise or incomplete information concerning probabilities, weights, and consequences or alternative values. The results of our cocreation process are aggregated in the evaluation of alternative mitigation measures for Jordan, showcasing how a multistakeholder multicriteria decision mechanism can be employed in current or future challenges of pandemic situations, to facilitate management and mitigation of similar crises in the future, in any region. Full article

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

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19 pages, 1565 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Development of Biorefineries in the Bioeconomy: A Fuzzy-Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis among European Countries

by Zhengqiu Ding and Philipp Grundmann

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 90; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010090 - 22 Dec 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3503

Abstract

This study aims to identify the configurational conditions that characterize the establishment of biorefineries in 20 European countries. After determining the conditions which support a bioeconomy transition, secondary data from national sources are used to represent their existing conditions within respective countries. Then, [...] Read more.

This study aims to identify the configurational conditions that characterize the establishment of biorefineries in 20 European countries. After determining the conditions which support a bioeconomy transition, secondary data from national sources are used to represent their existing conditions within respective countries. Then, a fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis is employed to compare and contrast the effect of varying combinations of the selected conditions on the development of biorefineries. The conditions chosen include coherent bioeconomy strategies, network intensity of regional bioclusters, intellectual capital, and natural resource availability. Our results reveal that the configuration of a coherent bioeconomy strategy, sizable public spending on R&D, abundant biomass supply, and a high level of network intensity is sufficient to explain the pronounced biorefineries development among some European countries. We recommend that countries with fragmented approaches review and redesign the policy and regulatory framework to create a holistic and consistent bioeconomy strategy, taking into account the configurations of conditions as an important prerequisite. In particular, factors such as the lack of best practice examples, the low level of public spending on research and development, the economic capacities for a skilled workforce in addition to the sustainable supply of raw materials should be addressed as focal points. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Climate Change and Circular Bioeconomy: Old Challenges and New Opportunities for Environmental Biotechnology)

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25 pages, 6895 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Factors Influencing the Intrinsic Seismic Risk of Open Spaces in Existing Built Environments: A Systematic Review

by Martina Russo, Marco Angelosanti, Gabriele Bernardini, Laura Severi, Enrico Quagliarini and Edoardo Currà

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010042 - 21 Dec 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3521

Abstract

Open spaces (OSs), such as streets, squares, and green areas, in existing built environments (BEs) are key places in disaster risk management. The seismic risk in the OSs is strictly related to BE characteristics. Scientific literature mainly focuses on extrinsic factors affecting risk, [...] Read more.

Open spaces (OSs), such as streets, squares, and green areas, in existing built environments (BEs) are key places in disaster risk management. The seismic risk in the OSs is strictly related to BE characteristics. Scientific literature mainly focuses on extrinsic factors affecting risk, which are related to BE elements on the OSs frontier (e.g., buildings) that could cause indirect effects on the OSs. Conversely, just a few risk assessment studies consider intrinsic factors, which are related to OS elements that could suffer direct effects. Moreover, synoptic studies on such factors are still missing. Through literature-based research, the paper identifies specific factors influencing seismic risk in the OSs, focusing notably on intrinsic vulnerability. The literature review methodology includes both a systematic review from Scopus databases and a traditional bibliographic search using snowball analysis. According to the final selected papers, risk factors are classified into five categories of OS characteristics: morpho-typology; physical; construction; use and users; and context. Statistical analysis of the categories’ recurrence in the final papers firstly allows current literature gaps to be defined. The results also provide a preliminary OSs risk index weighting each category in terms of such recurrences, thus representing a first useful step to support non-expert stakeholders in a preliminary assessment of priorities to define the seismic risk of Oss. Full article

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

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15 pages, 1635 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Conceptual Framework for Heritage Impact Assessment: A Review and Perspective

by Baharak Ashrafi, Carola Neugebauer and Michael Kloos

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010027 - 21 Dec 2021

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 8243

Abstract

Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) has recently emerged as a conflict-solving tool to improve World Heritage (WH) conservation in line with sustainable development policies. The increasing number of requested HIAs for affected WH properties over the last years reveals that more attention is being [...] Read more.

Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) has recently emerged as a conflict-solving tool to improve World Heritage (WH) conservation in line with sustainable development policies. The increasing number of requested HIAs for affected WH properties over the last years reveals that more attention is being paid to HIA as a practical tool to adequately support the protection and management of historic monuments and sites against new constructions and development. However, the application of integrated and systematic impact assessment methods within HIA still remains a key challenge in different HIA projects. Therefore, this paper contributes to the further development of a transparent and systematic procedure of HIA in accordance with Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). It also explores different standard methods of impact assessment in EIA and discusses their applicability to cultural World Heritage properties. Finally, the paper emphasizes a need for developing integrated impact assessment methods to address the multiple impacts of development projects. Such methodological enhancement can further contribute to mitigation strategies and decision-making to protect World Heritage properties within the context of sustainable development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Development)

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20 pages, 2090 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Efficiency of Governmental Policy and Programs to Stimulate the Use of Low-Emission and Electric Vehicles: The Case of Romania

by Ioana C. Sechel and Florin Mariasiu

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 45; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010045 - 21 Dec 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3493

Abstract

The contemporary demands for massive reductions in industrial pollution caused by the transport sector, especially in large urban agglomerations, compel local and national authorities to propose, develop, and implement programs and policies that have the ultimate goal of significantly reducing (or eliminating) pollution. [...] Read more.

The contemporary demands for massive reductions in industrial pollution caused by the transport sector, especially in large urban agglomerations, compel local and national authorities to propose, develop, and implement programs and policies that have the ultimate goal of significantly reducing (or eliminating) pollution. The aim of this article is to provide a primary analysis of the effectiveness of Romanian government policies in terms of reducing pollution (CO₂ emissions) caused by transportation (due to the “Rabla Plus” (RP) program, through which financial subsidies are granted for the purchase of a new plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) or battery electric vehicle (BEVs)). After analyzing the justification for the use of low-emission and electric vehicles in traffic (as a major solution to eliminate pollution), a comparative analysis of energy-efficient transport for Romania and Europe is presented in order to identify the directions in which it is necessary to develop and implement government policies specifically in Romania, considering a series of indicators chosen and considered by the authors to be important, including CO₂ emissions compared with the size of the road infrastructure, the number of registered vehicles, the number of passengers transported, and the quantity of goods transported. With the identification of the ability of government programs to encourage the acquisition and use of low-emission and electric vehicles in traffic, the efficiency achieved is calculated in terms of the net CO₂ emissions eliminated (average values of 1949.23 CO₂ tons/year and 1.71 CO₂ tons/vehicle). Furthermore, this aspect is also beneficial for analyses in terms of the economic costs involved (the associated costs are estimated to be 7034.17 EUR/ton of CO₂ eliminated from the transportation sector), identifying new directions of action that are more cost-effective and sustainable and on which government policies should focus in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Potential Diffusion and Impacts of Autonomous Electric Vehicles: Evidence and Modelling Approaches)

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36 pages, 6439 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The SDGs, Ecosystem Services and Cities: A Network Analysis of Current Research Innovation for Implementing Urban Sustainability

by Scott Hawken, Homa Rahmat, Samad M. E. Sepasgozar and Kefeng Zhang

Sustainability 2021, 13(24), 14057; https://doi.org/10.3390/su132414057 - 20 Dec 2021

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 5330

Abstract

Ecosystem services are essential for cities and are key factors in achieving many of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Such services are best delivered through green infrastructure, which works in resourceful, multifunctional, synergistic, and environmentally sensitive ways to deliver ecosystem services and provide [...] Read more.

Ecosystem services are essential for cities and are key factors in achieving many of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Such services are best delivered through green infrastructure, which works in resourceful, multifunctional, synergistic, and environmentally sensitive ways to deliver ecosystem services and provide alternative cleaner pathways for the delivery of multiple urban services. It is unclear if current research supports the necessary linkages between ecosystem services, cities, and green infrastructure in order to achieve the SDGs. To answer this question, we conducted a systematic review analysing 3392 studies on the SDGs from the WoS database. The contents of 66 of those with relevance to ecosystem services and urban research were reviewed in depth. We applied network-analytic methods to map the relationships of different knowledge clusters of SDGs research (1) across time, (2) across disciplines, and (3) in relation to ecosystem services and cities. The results of our analysis show that research on the SDGs have developed stronger networks from 2010–2018, but this research has not been sustained. Further, whilst research on cities now occupies a central place in the SDGs literature, research on ecosystem services only shows tentative links to both green-infrastructure research and SDGs research. Such literature on urban green infrastructure remains peripheral to the central challenge of sustainable urban transitions. We conclude that when it comes to the SDGs, research articles typically consider urban services independently of green infrastructure. Further, it suggests that green infrastructure is not generally considered as a sustainable alternative to conventional urban infrastructures. To address this serious shortcoming, we recommend transdisciplinary approaches to link urban ecosystem and urban green infrastructure research to the 2030 global sustainability agenda. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spatial Big Data, BIM and GIS Visualization: Sustainable, Resilience and Smart Cities)

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19 pages, 1060 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Urban Esthetic Benefits of Undergrounding Utility Lines in Consideration of the Three-Dimensional Landscape

by Shota Ishigooka, Tatsuhito Kono and Hajime Seya

Sustainability 2021, 13(24), 14023; https://doi.org/10.3390/su132414023 - 19 Dec 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2353

Abstract

Since the relative weight of form to function has been increasing in urban planning, from the esthetic viewpoint, many cities in the world have been actively pursuing the undergrounding of overhead utility lines. Esthetic factors are urban externalities in the sense that they [...] Read more.

Since the relative weight of form to function has been increasing in urban planning, from the esthetic viewpoint, many cities in the world have been actively pursuing the undergrounding of overhead utility lines. Esthetic factors are urban externalities in the sense that they are not directly traded in markets. Therefore, we need to control them optimally based on their benefits. In this study, we appraise the benefits of undergrounding utility lines in Japan and clarify the dependency of the residents’ willingness to pay (WTP) on the road width and building height. Our results show that the WTP for undergrounding utility lines is lower as the road becomes wider and the buildings along the road become higher. However, when the road is wide, the WTP does not change much regardless of the height of the buildings. In addition, the average value of the benefit–cost ratios of previous undergrounding projects is from approximately 2.27 to 2.65. However, 3–17% of these projects have benefit–cost ratios of less than 1. Full article

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

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17 pages, 6670 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Quantifying Crack Self-Healing in Concrete with Superabsorbent Polymers under Varying Temperature and Relative Humidity

by Ahmed R. Suleiman, Lei V. Zhang and Moncef L. Nehdi

Sustainability 2021, 13(24), 13999; https://doi.org/10.3390/su132413999 - 18 Dec 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2371

Abstract

During their service life, concrete structures are subjected to combined fluctuations of temperature and relative humidity, which can influence their durability and service life performance. Self-healing has in recent years attracted great interest to mitigate the effects of such environmental exposure on concrete [...] Read more.

During their service life, concrete structures are subjected to combined fluctuations of temperature and relative humidity, which can influence their durability and service life performance. Self-healing has in recent years attracted great interest to mitigate the effects of such environmental exposure on concrete structures. Several studies have explored the autogenous crack self-healing in concrete incorporating superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) and exposed to different environments. However, none of the published studies to date has investigated the self-healing in concrete incorporating SAPs under a combined change in temperature and relative humidity. In the present study, the crack width changes due to self-healing of cement mortars incorporating SAPs under a combined change of temperature and relative humidity were investigated and quantified using micro-computed tomography and three-dimensional image analysis. A varying dosage of SAPs expressed as a percentage (0.5%, 1% and 2%) of the cement mass was incorporated in the mortar mixtures. In addition, the influence of other environments such as continuous water submersion and cyclic wetting and drying was studied and quantified. The results of segmentation and quantification analysis of X-ray µCT scans showed that mortar specimens incorporating 1% SAPs and exposed to environments with a combined change in temperature and relative humidity exhibited less self-healing (around 6.58% of healing efficiency). Conversely, when specimens were subjected to cyclic wetting and drying or water submersion, the healing efficiency increased to 19.11% and 26.32%, respectively. It appears that to achieve sustained self-healing of cracks, novel engineered systems that can assure an internal supply of moisture are needed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Materials and Structural Optimization for Resilient Infrastructure)

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12 pages, 1356 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Exploring Temporal Trends of Plant Invasion in Mediterranean Coastal Dunes

by Silvia Cascone, Marta Gaia Sperandii, Luigi Cao Pinna, Flavio Marzialetti, Maria Laura Carranza and Alicia Teresa Rosario Acosta

Sustainability 2021, 13(24), 13946; https://doi.org/10.3390/su132413946 - 17 Dec 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2616

Abstract

Alien plants represent a significant threat to species diversity and composition in natural habitats. Nevertheless, little is known about the dynamic of the invasion process and how its effects on native species change over time. In this study, we explored vegetation changes that [...] Read more.

Alien plants represent a significant threat to species diversity and composition in natural habitats. Nevertheless, little is known about the dynamic of the invasion process and how its effects on native species change over time. In this study, we explored vegetation changes that occurred in invaded coastal dune habitats over the last 10–15 years (2005–2020), particularly addressing impacts on alien and diagnostic species. To monitor temporal trends, we used data resulting from a revisitation study. After detecting overall changes in alien species occurrence and cover over time, 127 total plots were grouped into plots experiencing colonization, loss, or persistence of alien species. For these three categories, we compared historical and resurveyed plots to quantify changes in native species composition (using the Jaccard dissimilarity index) and to measure variations in diagnostic species cover. The number of alien species doubled over time (from 6 to 12) and two species, Yucca gloriosa and Agave americana, strongly increased their cover (+5.3% and +11.4%, respectively). Furthermore, plots newly invaded appeared to record the greatest changes in both native and diagnostic species. Our results suggest the need for regular monitoring actions to better understand invasion processes over time and to implement effective management strategies in invaded coastal dune habitats. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecology and Conservation of Coastal Plant Communities)

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26 pages, 9401 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Diachronic Analysis of a Changing Landscape on the Duero River Borderlands of Spain and Portugal Combining Remote Sensing and Ethnographic Approaches

by Kyle P. Hearn and Jesús Álvarez-Mozos

Sustainability 2021, 13(24), 13962; https://doi.org/10.3390/su132413962 - 17 Dec 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1932

Abstract

The Arribes del Duero region spans the border of both Spain and Portugal along the Duero River. On both sides of the border, the region boasts unique human-influenced ecosystems. The borderland landscape is dotted with numerous villages that have a history of maintaining [...] Read more.

The Arribes del Duero region spans the border of both Spain and Portugal along the Duero River. On both sides of the border, the region boasts unique human-influenced ecosystems. The borderland landscape is dotted with numerous villages that have a history of maintaining and managing an agrosilvopastoral use of the land. Unfortunately, the region in recent decades has suffered from massive outmigration, resulting in significant rural abandonment. Consequently, the once-maintained landscape is evolving into a more homogenous vegetative one, resulting in a greater propensity for wildfires. This study utilizes an interdisciplinary, integrated approach of “bottom up” ethnography and “top down” remote sensing data from Landsat imagery, to characterize and document the diachronic vegetative changes on the landscape, as they are perceived by stakeholders and satellite spectral analysis. In both countries, stakeholders perceived the current changes and threats facing the landscape. Remote sensing analysis revealed an increase in forest cover throughout the region, and more advanced, drastic change on the Spanish side of the study area marked by wildfire and a rapidly declining population. Understanding the evolution and history of this rural landscape can provide more effective management and its sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-Temporal Analysis of Landscapes and Urban Areas)

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22 pages, 3268 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Exploring Social Media Data to Understand How Stakeholders Value Local Food: A Canadian Study Using Twitter

by Marilyne Chicoine, Francine Rodier, Fabien Durif, Sandra Schillo and Laurette Dubé

Sustainability 2021, 13(24), 13920; https://doi.org/10.3390/su132413920 - 16 Dec 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3274

Abstract

The consumption of local food, a major trend in industrialized countries around the world has experienced an unprecedented craze in the pandemic context that we are experiencing. Since the beginning of the crisis and in various media, communication about local food seems inconsistent. [...] Read more.

The consumption of local food, a major trend in industrialized countries around the world has experienced an unprecedented craze in the pandemic context that we are experiencing. Since the beginning of the crisis and in various media, communication about local food seems inconsistent. However, companies would have every interest in better communicating the multifaceted areas of the locality that customers value or adopting the same language if they wish to collaborate with each other. This research aims to identify and evaluate the “fit” or the “gap” of the different local food’ meanings of Canadian agri-food stakeholders through data mining of one of their communication media: Twitter. Using tweets by over 1300 Twitter accounts from Canadian agri-food companies and a popular hashtag, we analyze a sample of their tweets in 2019 and 2020 by creating and using a local food’ keyword dictionary based on the concept of proximity. Term frequency and multivariate analysis of variance of 16,585 tweets about local food show significant differences in dimensions of proximity used in communications. This study shows the interest of using the concept of proximity to better define and understand the valuation of local food products. In addition, it offers a methodology capable of distinguishing the nuances of meaning of the locality of products using natural data that is accessible via social media. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Smart & Connected Regional Food Systems)

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18 pages, 16259 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Understanding the Heterogeneity of Human Mobility Patterns: User Characteristics and Modal Preferences

by Laiyun Wu, Samiul Hasan, Younshik Chung and Jee Eun Kang

Sustainability 2021, 13(24), 13921; https://doi.org/10.3390/su132413921 - 16 Dec 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2313

Abstract

Characterizing individual mobility is critical to understand urban dynamics and to develop high-resolution mobility models. Previously, large-scale trajectory datasets have been used to characterize universal mobility patterns. However, due to the limitations of the underlying datasets, these studies could not investigate how mobility [...] Read more.

Characterizing individual mobility is critical to understand urban dynamics and to develop high-resolution mobility models. Previously, large-scale trajectory datasets have been used to characterize universal mobility patterns. However, due to the limitations of the underlying datasets, these studies could not investigate how mobility patterns differ over user characteristics among demographic groups. In this study, we analyzed a large-scale Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) dataset of the transit system of Seoul, South Korea and investigated how mobility patterns vary over user characteristics and modal preferences. We identified users’ commuting locations and estimated the statistical distributions required to characterize their spatio-temporal mobility patterns. Our findings show the heterogeneity of mobility patterns across demographic user groups. This result will significantly impact future mobility models based on trajectory datasets. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart Cities, Connected Communities, and Environmental Sustainability)

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27 pages, 1117 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

High-Pressure Processing for Sustainable Food Supply

by Brera Ghulam Nabi, Kinza Mukhtar, Rai Naveed Arshad, Emanuele Radicetti, Paola Tedeschi, Muhammad Umar Shahbaz, Noman Walayat, Asad Nawaz, Muhammad Inam-Ur-Raheem and Rana Muhammad Aadil

Sustainability 2021, 13(24), 13908; https://doi.org/10.3390/su132413908 - 16 Dec 2021

Cited by 47 | Viewed by 6734

Abstract

Sustainable food supply has gained considerable consumer concern due to the high percentage of spoilage microorganisms. Food industries need to expand advanced technologies that can maintain the nutritive content of foods, enhance the bio-availability of bioactive compounds, provide environmental and economic sustainability, and [...] Read more.

Sustainable food supply has gained considerable consumer concern due to the high percentage of spoilage microorganisms. Food industries need to expand advanced technologies that can maintain the nutritive content of foods, enhance the bio-availability of bioactive compounds, provide environmental and economic sustainability, and fulfill consumers’ requirements of sensory characteristics. Heat treatment negatively affects food samples’ nutritional and sensory properties as bioactives are sensitive to high-temperature processing. The need arises for non-thermal processes to reduce food losses, and sustainable developments in preservation, nutritional security, and food safety are crucial parameters for the upcoming era. Non-thermal processes have been successfully approved because they increase food quality, reduce water utilization, decrease emissions, improve energy efficiency, assure clean labeling, and utilize by-products from waste food. These processes include pulsed electric field (PEF), sonication, high-pressure processing (HPP), cold plasma, and pulsed light. This review describes the use of HPP in various processes for sustainable food processing. The influence of this technique on microbial, physicochemical, and nutritional properties of foods for sustainable food supply is discussed. This approach also emphasizes the limitations of this emerging technique. HPP has been successfully analyzed to meet the global requirements. A limited global food source must have a balanced approach to the raw content, water, energy, and nutrient content. HPP showed positive results in reducing microbial spoilage and, at the same time, retains the nutritional value. HPP technology meets the essential requirements for sustainable and clean labeled food production. It requires limited resources to produce nutritionally suitable foods for consumers’ health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future Foods in the Face of Hunger and Surplus: From Sustainable Production to Responsible Consumption)

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14 pages, 2938 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Smart Technologies for Sustainable Water Management: An Urban Analysis

by Eirini Aivazidou, Georgios Banias, Maria Lampridi, Giorgos Vasileiadis, Athanasios Anagnostis, Elpiniki Papageorgiou and Dionysis Bochtis

Sustainability 2021, 13(24), 13940; https://doi.org/10.3390/su132413940 - 16 Dec 2021

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 8336

Abstract

As projections highlight that half of the global population will be living in regions facing severe water scarcity by 2050, sustainable water management policies and practices are more imperative than ever. Following the Sustainable Development Goals for equitable water access and prudent use [...] Read more.

As projections highlight that half of the global population will be living in regions facing severe water scarcity by 2050, sustainable water management policies and practices are more imperative than ever. Following the Sustainable Development Goals for equitable water access and prudent use of natural resources, emerging digital technologies may foster efficient monitoring, control, optimization, and forecasting of freshwater consumption and pollution. Indicatively, the use of sensors, Internet of Things, machine learning, and big data analytics has been catalyzing smart water management. With two-thirds of the global population to be living in urban areas by 2050, this research focuses on the impact of digitization on sustainable urban water management. More specifically, existing scientific literature studies were explored for providing meaningful insights on smart water technologies implemented in urban contexts, emphasizing supply and distribution networks. The review analysis outcomes were classified according to three main pillars identified: (i) level of analysis (i.e., municipal or residential/industrial); (ii) technology used (e.g., sensors, algorithms); and (iii) research scope/focus (e.g., monitoring, optimization), with the use of a systematic approach. Overall, this study is expected to act as a methodological tool and guiding map of the most pertinent state-of-the-art research efforts to integrate digitalization in the field of water stewardship and improve urban sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Water Management in Agriculture and Industry: Challenges, Trends and Opportunities)

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15 pages, 1191 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Extended Theory of Planned Behavior for Predicting the Willingness to Pay for Municipal Solid Waste Management in Beijing

by Jiahao He, Zhefan Yu and Hiroatsu Fukuda

Sustainability 2021, 13(24), 13902; https://doi.org/10.3390/su132413902 - 16 Dec 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3514

Abstract

Municipal solid waste (MSW) management has become a problem in China, mainly since there is no uniform standard for MSW management charges, causing conflict between local residents and the government. An intelligent garbage sorting system (IGSS) is an effective sorting approach for MSW [...] Read more.

Municipal solid waste (MSW) management has become a problem in China, mainly since there is no uniform standard for MSW management charges, causing conflict between local residents and the government. An intelligent garbage sorting system (IGSS) is an effective sorting approach for MSW management. To explore the predictors of local residents’ willingness to pay (WTP) for the IGSS, this study applied an extended theory of planned behavior (TPB) model by adding an antecedent environmental concern (EC) prior to the main predictors of the TPB model (attitudes, subject norms, perceived behavioral control). The WTP of Beijing residents for MSW management and the determinants of WTP were analyzed. The specific amount of WTP was predicted by a contingent valuation method (CVM) in an online questionnaire, and the mean WTP was estimated to be USD 49.93 per household per year. The results showed a positive connection between EC and residents’ WTP, and most of the participants were willing to pay for the IGSS for MSW management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Solid Waste Management and Resource Recycling)

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13 pages, 7869 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Urban Flood Risk and Economic Viability Analyses of a Smart Sustainable Drainage System

by Helena M. Ramos and Mohsen Besharat

Sustainability 2021, 13(24), 13889; https://doi.org/10.3390/su132413889 - 15 Dec 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3374

Abstract

Urban drainage systems are in transition from functioning simply as a transport system to becoming an important element of urban flood protection measures providing considerable influence on urban infrastructure sustainability. Rapid urbanization combined with the implications of climate change is one of the [...] Read more.

Urban drainage systems are in transition from functioning simply as a transport system to becoming an important element of urban flood protection measures providing considerable influence on urban infrastructure sustainability. Rapid urbanization combined with the implications of climate change is one of the major emerging challenges. The increased concerns with water security and the ageing of existing drainage infrastructure are new challenges in improving urban water management. This study carried out in the Seixal area in Portugal examines flood risk analyses and mitigation techniques performed by computational modelling using MIKE SHE from the Danish Hydraulic Institute (DHI). Several scenarios were compared regarding flood risk and sustainable urban drainage systems (SuDS) efficiency. To obtain a more accurate analysis, the economic viability of each technique was analyzed as well through (i) life cost analysis and (ii) taking into account the damages caused by a certain type of flood. The results present that the best scenario is the one that will minimize the effects of great urbanization and consequently the flood risk, which combines two different measures: permeable pavement and detention basin. This alternative allows us to fully explore the mitigation capacity of each viable technique, demonstrating a very important improvement in the flood mitigation system in Seixal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Improving the Sustainability of Water Infrastructures towards a Net-Zero Status)

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34 pages, 942 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

A Regional Review of Marine and Coastal Impacts of Climate Change on the ROPME Sea Area

by Susana Lincoln, Paul Buckley, Ella L. Howes, Katherine M. Maltby, John K. Pinnegar, Thamer S. Ali, Yousef Alosairi, Alanoud Al-Ragum, Alastair Baglee, Chiden Oseo Balmes, Radhouane Ben Hamadou, John A. Burt, Michel Claereboudt, Jane Glavan, Rusyan Jill Mamiit, Humood A. Naser, Omid Sedighi, Mohammad Reza Shokri, Bassam Shuhaibar, Colette C. C. Wabnitz and Will J. F. Le Quesne Show full author list Hide full author list

Sustainability 2021, 13(24), 13810; https://doi.org/10.3390/su132413810 - 14 Dec 2021

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 6867

Abstract

The Regional Organization for the Protection of the Marine Environment (ROPME) Sea Area (RSA) in the northern Indian Ocean, which comprises the Gulf, the Gulf of Oman and the northern Arabian Sea, already experiences naturally extreme environmental conditions and incorporates one of the [...] Read more.

The Regional Organization for the Protection of the Marine Environment (ROPME) Sea Area (RSA) in the northern Indian Ocean, which comprises the Gulf, the Gulf of Oman and the northern Arabian Sea, already experiences naturally extreme environmental conditions and incorporates one of the world’s warmest seas. There is growing evidence that climate change is already affecting the environmental conditions of the RSA, in areas including sea temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, pH, and sea level, which are set to continue changing over time. The cumulative impacts of these changes on coastal and marine ecosystems and dependent societies are less well documented, but are likely to be significant, especially in the context of other human stressors. This review represents the first regional synthesis of observed and predicted climate change impacts on marine and coastal ecosystems across the ROPME Sea Area and their implications for dependent societies. Climate-driven ecological changes include loss of coral reefs due to bleaching and the decline of fish populations, while socio-economic impacts include physical impacts from sea-level rise and cyclones, risk to commercial wild capture fisheries, disruption to desalination systems and loss of tourism. The compilation of this review is aimed to support the development of targeted adaptation actions and to direct future research within the RSA. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Ecosystems Responses and Sustainability in a Changing Climate)

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15 pages, 4987 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Analysis of Land Use and Land Cover Using Machine Learning Algorithms on Google Earth Engine for Munneru River Basin, India

by Kotapati Narayana Loukika, Venkata Reddy Keesara and Venkataramana Sridhar

Sustainability 2021, 13(24), 13758; https://doi.org/10.3390/su132413758 - 13 Dec 2021

Cited by 74 | Viewed by 7188

Abstract

The growing human population accelerates alterations in land use and land cover (LULC) over time, putting tremendous strain on natural resources. Monitoring and assessing LULC change over large areas is critical in a variety of fields, including natural resource management and climate change [...] Read more.

The growing human population accelerates alterations in land use and land cover (LULC) over time, putting tremendous strain on natural resources. Monitoring and assessing LULC change over large areas is critical in a variety of fields, including natural resource management and climate change research. LULC change has emerged as a critical concern for policymakers and environmentalists. As the need for the reliable estimation of LULC maps from remote sensing data grows, it is critical to comprehend how different machine learning classifiers perform. The primary goal of the present study was to classify LULC on the Google Earth Engine platform using three different machine learning algorithms—namely, support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF), and classification and regression trees (CART)—and to compare their performance using accuracy assessments. The LULC of the study area was classified via supervised classification. For improved classification accuracy, NDVI (normalized difference vegetation index) and NDWI (normalized difference water index) indices were also derived and included. For the years 2016, 2018, and 2020, multitemporal Sentinel-2 and Landsat-8 data with spatial resolutions of 10 m and 30 m were used for the LULC classification. ‘Water bodies’, ‘forest’, ‘barren land’, ‘vegetation’, and ‘built-up’ were the major land use classes. The average overall accuracy of SVM, RF, and CART classifiers for Landsat-8 images was 90.88%, 94.85%, and 82.88%, respectively, and 93.8%, 95.8%, and 86.4% for Sentinel-2 images. These results indicate that RF classifiers outperform both SVM and CART classifiers in terms of accuracy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Water Management)

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14 pages, 11695 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Comparative Study of Factors Contributing to Land Surface Temperature in High-Density Built Environments in Megacities Using Satellite Imagery

by Frankie Fanjie Zeng, Jiajun Feng, Yuanzhi Zhang, Jin Yeu Tsou, Tengfei Xue, Yu Li and Rita Yi Man Li

Sustainability 2021, 13(24), 13706; https://doi.org/10.3390/su132413706 - 12 Dec 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3769

Abstract

In this study, the root sources contributing to the urban heat island (UHI) effect between megacities, such as Hong Kong and Shenzhen, were integrated and compared using satellite remote sensing data. Classification and multilayer perceptron regression tree (CARTMLP) algorithms were used to classify [...] Read more.

In this study, the root sources contributing to the urban heat island (UHI) effect between megacities, such as Hong Kong and Shenzhen, were integrated and compared using satellite remote sensing data. Classification and multilayer perceptron regression tree (CARTMLP) algorithms were used to classify land use. The radiative transfer equation method was applied to retrieve the land surface temperatures (LSTs) in the study area. Multiple linear regression analysis was applied to determine the relationship between land-use types and UHIs. The experimental results show a large area of relatively high temperature dispersed within Shenzhen, and comparatively small areas highly centralized in Hong Kong, with the retrieved LST in Hong Kong lower than that in Shenzhen. In addition, the surface temperature of large complex buildings decorated with high-albedo materials in Hong Kong was higher than in Shenzhen (e.g., Hong Kong International Airport, 25.12 °C; Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport, 23.38 °C), with artificial heat being an important contributor to these differences. These results also imply that high-albedo materials are sufficient to alleviate high temperatures. These findings are integrated to propose an organic combination strategy for reducing UHI effects in urban areas in megacities worldwide, such as Hong Kong and Shenzhen in China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Adaptive Cities: Urban Planning and Design Contribution for Achieving Climate Resilient Cities)

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