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Editor’s Choice Articles

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

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28 pages, 3686 KiB  
Review
Contributions of Smart City Solutions and Technologies to Resilience against the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Literature Review
by Ayyoob Sharifi, Amir Reza Khavarian-Garmsir and Rama Krishna Reddy Kummitha
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 8018; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13148018 - 18 Jul 2021
Cited by 124 | Viewed by 12328
Abstract
Since its emergence in late 2019, the COVID-19 pandemic has swept through many cities around the world, claiming millions of lives and causing major socio-economic impacts. The pandemic occurred at an important historical juncture when smart solutions and technologies have become ubiquitous in [...] Read more.
Since its emergence in late 2019, the COVID-19 pandemic has swept through many cities around the world, claiming millions of lives and causing major socio-economic impacts. The pandemic occurred at an important historical juncture when smart solutions and technologies have become ubiquitous in many cities. Against this background, in this review, we examine how smart city solutions and technologies have contributed to resilience by enhancing planning, absorption, recovery, and adaptation abilities. For this purpose, we reviewed 147 studies that have discussed issues related to the use of smart solutions and technologies during the pandemic. The results were synthesized under four themes, namely, planning and preparation, absorption, recovery, and adaptation. This review shows that investment in smart city initiatives can enhance the planning and preparation ability. In addition, the adoption of smart solutions and technologies can, among other things, enhance the capacity of cities to predict pandemic patterns, facilitate an integrated and timely response, minimize or postpone transmission of the virus, provide support to overstretched sectors, minimize supply chain disruption, ensure continuity of basic services, and offer solutions for optimizing city operations. These are promising results that demonstrate the utility of smart solutions for enhancing resilience. However, it should be noted that realizing this potential hinges on careful attention to important issues and challenges related to privacy and security, access to open-source data, technological affordance, legal barriers, technological feasibility, and citizen engagement. Despite this, this review shows that further development of smart city initiatives can provide unprecedented opportunities for enhancing resilience to the pandemic and similar future events. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Urban and Rural Development)
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18 pages, 2675 KiB  
Article
Adoption of Satellite Offices in Response to a Pandemic: Sustainability and Infection Control
by Seungbeom Kim, Yooneun Lee and Byungchul Choi
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 8008; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13148008 - 17 Jul 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4007
Abstract
The office environment has changed rapidly due to the recent COVID-19 outbreak. Companies consider various types of remote work environments to contain the spread of the virus. Among them, a satellite office is a type of remote work environment where a number of [...] Read more.
The office environment has changed rapidly due to the recent COVID-19 outbreak. Companies consider various types of remote work environments to contain the spread of the virus. Among them, a satellite office is a type of remote work environment where a number of employees are allocated to their nearest office. The benefits from satellite offices are twofold: The significant reduction of travel distance also reduces the amount of carbon emission and fuel consumption. In addition, dividing employees into smaller groups significantly reduces the potential risks of infection in the office. This paper addresses a satellite office allocation problem that considers social and environmental sustainability and infection control at work. In order to evaluate the effect of different satellite office allocation, quantitative measures are developed for the following three criteria: carbon emission, fuel consumption, and the probability of infection occurrence at work. Simulation experiments are conducted to investigate different scenarios of regional infection rate and modes of transportation. The results show that adopting satellite offices not only reduces carbon emission and fuel consumption, but also mitigates business disruption in the pandemic. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Future of Facilities Management and Sustainable Development)
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25 pages, 5844 KiB  
Article
Development of an Integrated Design Strategy for Blue-Green Architecture
by Friederike Well and Ferdinand Ludwig
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7944; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147944 - 16 Jul 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4670
Abstract
Blue-green architecture entails buildings that contribute to improving the urban climate through the synergetic combination of water management and vegetation. They are part of an urban blue-green infrastructure network that combines ecosystem services in a multifunctional way. Projects implemented in an interdisciplinary manner [...] Read more.
Blue-green architecture entails buildings that contribute to improving the urban climate through the synergetic combination of water management and vegetation. They are part of an urban blue-green infrastructure network that combines ecosystem services in a multifunctional way. Projects implemented in an interdisciplinary manner create synergies with regard to the combination of water-related and vegetation-related objectives. However, applicable design strategies for this approach are currently lacking in practice. This paper investigates the approach of a blue-green architectural project in Stuttgart (the so called “Impulse Project”) and derives insights for an integrated design strategy. The analysis and transfer of the research is carried out by using the research by design methodology. For this purpose, the interdisciplinary design process is divided into three phases (pre-design, design, post-design) and described in detail. Reflection on the documented design reveals the knowledge gained and enables the transfer of the findings to future projects by means of the integrated design strategy for blue-green architecture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Green Infrastructure (UGI): Biodiversity, Ecosystem Services and Human Well-Being)
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22 pages, 10567 KiB  
Article
The Role of Embodied Carbon Databases in the Accuracy of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) Calculations for the Embodied Carbon of Buildings
by Golnaz Mohebbi, Ali Bahadori-Jahromi, Marco Ferri and Anastasia Mylona
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7988; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147988 - 16 Jul 2021
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5284
Abstract
Studies conducted by major national and international scientific bodies have indisputably concluded that the increase in anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) since the mid-20th century has led to irreversible changes in the climate. Data has shown that the contribution of the building sector [...] Read more.
Studies conducted by major national and international scientific bodies have indisputably concluded that the increase in anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) since the mid-20th century has led to irreversible changes in the climate. Data has shown that the contribution of the building sector accounts for 39% of these emissions. Reducing GHG emissions associated with the construction phase of buildings, or embodied carbon (EC), will prevent GHG emissions from entering the atmosphere earlier, reducing the negative impacts. However, to achieve any meaningful reduction, there is a need for consistency and accuracy in the calculations. The accuracy of these calculations is primarily tied to the accuracy of embodied carbon factors (ECF) used in the calculations, values determining the environmental impact of a product or procedure per unit weight. The emissions of any product can be calculated by performing a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). While the requirements for carrying out an LCA have been standardised in ISO14044, the lack of a definitive national ECF database in the UK means that EC calculations can vary drastically based on the chosen database. An LCA has been carried out on a standard Lidl supermarket design within the A1–A3 boundary. For the calculation, the ECFs were sourced from two different databases, using the GHG conversion factor data published in 2020 by the UK Department of Energy & Climate Change and data published in 2019 by the Inventory of Carbon and Energy (ICE). The latter is currently accepted as the most consistent database for carbon factors in the UK. This study showed that using a more detailed database compared to using a more general database could result in a 35.2% reduction of embodied carbon, while using more detailed data from a single database can reduce it by a further 5.5%. It is necessary to establish the most accurate baseline for embodied carbon so that any carbon reduction attempts can be as effective as possible. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Building Carbon Emissions and Their Impact on the Climate Change)
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16 pages, 4733 KiB  
Article
Changes in Passengers’ Travel Behavior Due to COVID-19
by Dong-Gyun Ku, Jung-Sik Um, Young-Ji Byon, Joo-Young Kim and Seung-Jae Lee
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7974; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147974 - 16 Jul 2021
Cited by 39 | Viewed by 4615
Abstract
The COVID-19 outbreak in 2020 has changed the way people travel due to its highly contagious nature. In this study, changes in the travel behavior of passengers due to COVID-19 in the first half of 2020 were examined. To determine whether COVID-19 has [...] Read more.
The COVID-19 outbreak in 2020 has changed the way people travel due to its highly contagious nature. In this study, changes in the travel behavior of passengers due to COVID-19 in the first half of 2020 were examined. To determine whether COVID-19 has affected the use of transportation by passengers, paired t-tests were conducted between the passenger volume of private vehicles in Seoul prior to and after the pandemic. Additionally, the passenger occupancy rate of different modes of transportation during the similar time periods were compared and analyzed to identify the changes in monthly usage rate for each mode. In the case of private vehicles and public bicycles, the usage rates have recovered or increased when compared to those of before the pandemic. Conversely, bus and rail passenger service rates have decreased from the previous year before the pandemic. Furthermore, it is found that existing bus and rail users have switched to the private auto mode due to COVID-19. Based on the results, traffic patterns of travelers after the outbreak and implications responding to the pandemic are discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Travel Behavior Research and Sustainable Urban and Transportation Planning)
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15 pages, 1295 KiB  
Article
The Effects of Tunnel Technology on Crop Productivity and Livelihood of Smallholder Farmers in Nepal
by Diwakar KC, Dinesh Jamarkattel, Tek Maraseni, Dilip Nandwani and Pratibha Karki
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7935; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147935 - 16 Jul 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 5067
Abstract
Technologies-based production practices are critical for agricultural growth and sustainable development in low-income countries like Nepal. In the last few years, tunnel house has been increasingly promoted as tools to enhance smallholder farmers’ livelihood and tackle climate adversaries. However, little is known about [...] Read more.
Technologies-based production practices are critical for agricultural growth and sustainable development in low-income countries like Nepal. In the last few years, tunnel house has been increasingly promoted as tools to enhance smallholder farmers’ livelihood and tackle climate adversaries. However, little is known about what factor determines its adoption and whether it helps smallholders adapt to climate change and experience better livelihood. We address these gaps using the cross-sectional survey data collected from 62 adopters and 92 non-adopters in three municipalities of Bagmati Province. We employed descriptive analysis and probit model and found out that age, farm size, and ethnicity strongly influence the technology adoption amongst smallholder farmers. Additionally, treatment model and ordinary least square (OLS) regression were utilized to examine tunnel technology’s effect. Our study shows that tunnel significantly increases production by 32 tons/year/hectare and protects crops from climate change effects such as heavy rainfall and temperature change. Likewise, tunnel technology increases the net crop income by $1700/year/hectare. However, the economic benefit is not substantial compared to technology’s adoption cost as adopters incur enormous costs of $12,000/year/hectare on equipment, labor and resources. These results suggest policymakers should concentrate on reducing the technology’s cost, which could be achieved through subsidies, financial support, or price control mechanisms. Ensuring technology’s affordability can contribute to smallholder farmers’ sustainable livelihood in Nepal and countries with similar contexts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Agricultural Economics and Sustainable Food Consumption)
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16 pages, 924 KiB  
Article
Sustainable Tourism Product Development: An Application of Product Design Concepts
by Marco Haid and Julia N. Albrecht
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7957; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147957 - 16 Jul 2021
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 10705
Abstract
This study examines sustainable tourism products in tourism destinations. Based on concepts of sustainable product design, our study proposes a framework for sustainable tourism products by adapting an existing Design for Sustainability Framework to consider and analyze the characteristics and themes of sustainable [...] Read more.
This study examines sustainable tourism products in tourism destinations. Based on concepts of sustainable product design, our study proposes a framework for sustainable tourism products by adapting an existing Design for Sustainability Framework to consider and analyze the characteristics and themes of sustainable (tourism) products as well as their impact and scope. Using a pragmatic qualitative approach, 15 semi-structured interviews with destination managers from the German-speaking Alpine region formed the empirical basis of the study. The results emphasize key themes and multiple characteristics associated with sustainable tourism products in tourist destinations, addressing all sustainability components and design innovation levels. This study is the first to apply existing sustainable product design concepts to destination contexts and discuss their applicability for sustainable tourism products. For practitioners, this study provides support for the development of sustainable tourism products and contributes to a better understanding of the effects and levels of these products as well as sustainability marketing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Product Development for Sustainable Tourism)
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23 pages, 10794 KiB  
Review
Lattice Boltzmann Method in Modeling Biofilm Formation, Growth and Detachment
by Mojtaba Aghajani Delavar and Junye Wang
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7968; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147968 - 16 Jul 2021
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3530
Abstract
Biofilms are a complex and heterogeneous aggregation of multiple populations of microorganisms linked together by their excretion of extracellular polymer substances (EPS). Biofilms can cause many serious problems, such as chronic infections, food contamination and equipment corrosion, although they can be useful for [...] Read more.
Biofilms are a complex and heterogeneous aggregation of multiple populations of microorganisms linked together by their excretion of extracellular polymer substances (EPS). Biofilms can cause many serious problems, such as chronic infections, food contamination and equipment corrosion, although they can be useful for constructive purposes, such as in wastewater treatment, heavy metal removal from hazardous waste sites, biofuel production, power generation through microbial fuel cells and microbially enhanced oil recovery; however, biofilm formation and growth are complex due to interactions among physicochemical and biological processes under operational and environmental conditions. Advanced numerical modeling techniques using the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) are enabling the prediction of biofilm formation and growth and microbial community structures. This study is the first attempt to perform a general review on major contributions to LBM-based biofilm models, ranging from pioneering efforts to more recent progress. We present our understanding of the modeling of biofilm formation, growth and detachment using LBM-based models and present the fundamental aspects of various LBM-based biofilm models. We describe how the LBM couples with cellular automata (CA) and individual-based model (IbM) approaches and discuss their applications in assessing the spatiotemporal distribution of biofilms and their associated parameters and evaluating bioconversion efficiency. Finally, we discuss the main features and drawbacks of LBM-based biofilm models from ecological and biotechnological perspectives and identify current knowledge gaps and future research priorities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wastewater Based Microbial Biorefinery for Bioenergy Production)
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21 pages, 783 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Socially Responsible HRM on Organizational Citizenship Behavior for the Environment: A Proactive Motivation Model
by Junqian He and Hyosun Kim
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7958; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147958 - 16 Jul 2021
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4660
Abstract
Many organizations face the important challenges of motivating employees effectively to participate in corporate social responsibility initiatives and maintaining socially responsible human resource management practices. We examine whether socially responsible human resource management (SRHRM) practices can affect employees’ social responsibility-related behaviors, such as [...] Read more.
Many organizations face the important challenges of motivating employees effectively to participate in corporate social responsibility initiatives and maintaining socially responsible human resource management practices. We examine whether socially responsible human resource management (SRHRM) practices can affect employees’ social responsibility-related behaviors, such as organizational citizenship behavior for the environment (OCBE). Based on proactive motivation theory, we propose a multiple-mediation model, selecting moral efficacy, felt obligation, and empathy as the mediators. We analyzed data from a sample of 535 employees from 23 manufacturing companies in China. The results show that SRHRM practices have a significant positive effect on OCBE. We also found that moral efficacy, felt obligation, and empathy significantly mediate the effect of SRHRM practices on OCBE and that there is no significant difference among the three mediation paths. Our study suggests that organizational pursuit of the socially responsible human resource management practices is an effective pathway to make employees feel more responsible toward global sustainability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability and Human Resources Management)
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21 pages, 3090 KiB  
Review
Life Cycle Assessment and Material Flow Analysis: Two Under-Utilized Tools for Informing E-Waste Management
by Sohani Vihanga Withanage and Komal Habib
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7939; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147939 - 16 Jul 2021
Cited by 28 | Viewed by 7526
Abstract
The unprecedented technological development and economic growth over the past two decades has resulted in streams of rapidly growing electronic waste (e-waste) around the world. As the potential source of secondary raw materials including precious and critical materials, e-waste has recently gained significant [...] Read more.
The unprecedented technological development and economic growth over the past two decades has resulted in streams of rapidly growing electronic waste (e-waste) around the world. As the potential source of secondary raw materials including precious and critical materials, e-waste has recently gained significant attention across the board, ranging from governments and industry, to academia and civil society organizations. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of the last decade of e-waste literature followed by an in-depth analysis of the application of material flow analysis (MFA) and life cycle assessment (LCA), i.e., two less commonly used strategic tools to guide the relevant stakeholders in efficient management of e-waste. Through a keyword search on two main online search databases, Scopus and Web of Science, 1835 peer-reviewed publications were selected and subjected to a bibliographic network analysis to identify and visualize major research themes across the selected literature. The selected 1835 studies were classified into ten different categories based on research area, such as environmental and human health impacts, recycling and recovery technologies, associated social aspects, etc. With this selected literature in mind, the review process revealed the two least explored research areas over the past decade: MFA and LCA with 33 and 31 studies, respectively. A further in-depth analysis was conducted for these two areas regarding their application to various systems with numerous scopes and different stages of e-waste life cycle. The study provides a detailed discussion regarding their applicability, and highlights challenges and opportunities for further research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Municipal Solid Waste Management)
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32 pages, 7950 KiB  
Review
Infrastructure Elements for Smart Campuses: A Bibliometric Analysis
by Temitope Omotayo, Alireza Moghayedi, Bankole Awuzie and Saheed Ajayi
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7960; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147960 - 16 Jul 2021
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3908
Abstract
Sustainable development can be attained at a microlevel and having smart campuses around the world presents an opportunity to achieve city-wide smartness. In the process of attaining smartness on campuses, the elements requiring attention must be investigated. There are many publications on smart [...] Read more.
Sustainable development can be attained at a microlevel and having smart campuses around the world presents an opportunity to achieve city-wide smartness. In the process of attaining smartness on campuses, the elements requiring attention must be investigated. There are many publications on smart campuses, and this investigation used the bibliometric analysis method to identify such publications produced over the last decade. A matrix of 578 nodes and 3217 edges was developed from 285 publications on smart campus construction and procurement. Fifteen cluster themes were produced from the bibliometric analysis. The findings revealed that China contributed 48.4% of all published articles on the smart campus. The findings presented a framework from the cluster themes under the four broad infrastructure areas of building construction or repurposing, technology and IT network, continuous improvement, and smart learning and teaching management. The implications of the findings identified that IT project management, traditional procurement strategy, and standard forms of contracts such as the New Engineering Contract (NEC) and the Joint Contract Tribunal (JCT) are applicable in the procurement of smart cities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart City Development and Sustainability)
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18 pages, 1449 KiB  
Article
Economic Viability and Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Budget of the Biomethane Retrofit of Manure-Operated Biogas Plants: A Case Study from Piedmont, Italy
by Alessandro Casasso, Marta Puleo, Deborah Panepinto and Mariachiara Zanetti
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7979; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147979 - 16 Jul 2021
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2856
Abstract
The management of livestock manures and slurries noticeably improved since the massive introduction of anaerobic digestion (AD) plants in Italy and other European Union (EU) countries. However, these plants heavily rely on incentives, and the recent switch of European biogas policies from electricity [...] Read more.
The management of livestock manures and slurries noticeably improved since the massive introduction of anaerobic digestion (AD) plants in Italy and other European Union (EU) countries. However, these plants heavily rely on incentives, and the recent switch of European biogas policies from electricity to biomethane potentially threatens the economic viability of manure AD. In this study, three retrofit options are analyzed for an installation in Piedmont (NW Italy) that is currently producing 999 kWel through combined heat and power (CHP). The techno-economic feasibility and the greenhouse gas (GHG) budget is analyzed for each solution. Results show that exploiting current incentives on electricity is vital to fund the retrofit of CHP plants to biomethane. Energy crop and electricity prices, the sale price of biomethane certificates after the end of incentives, and biogas productivity are the critical parameters for the economic profitability of manure AD plants, along with the possibility to deliver biomethane directly to the pipeline grid. This study provides insight to the reconversion of manure AD plants, addressing issues that affect hundreds of installations in Italy and other EU countries. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development of Biogas, Potential Benefits and Challenges)
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23 pages, 3492 KiB  
Article
Mobility Trends before and after the Pandemic Outbreak: Analyzing the Metropolitan Area of Barcelona through the Lens of Equality and Sustainability
by Lucía Mejía-Dorantes, Lídia Montero and Jaume Barceló
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7908; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147908 - 15 Jul 2021
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4473
Abstract
The spatial arrangement of a metropolis is of utmost importance to carry out daily activities, which are constrained by space and time. Accessibility is not only shaped by the spatial and temporal dimension, but it is also defined by individual characteristics, such as [...] Read more.
The spatial arrangement of a metropolis is of utmost importance to carry out daily activities, which are constrained by space and time. Accessibility is not only shaped by the spatial and temporal dimension, but it is also defined by individual characteristics, such as gender, impairments, or socioeconomic characteristics of the citizens living or commuting in this area. This study analyzes mobility trends and patterns in the metropolitan area of Barcelona before and after the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak, with special emphasis on gender and equality. The study draws on multiple sources of information; however, two main datasets are analyzed: two traditional travel surveys from the transport metropolitan area of Barcelona and two coming from smartphone data. The results show that gender plays a relevant role when analyzing mobility patterns, as already highlighted in other studies, but, after the pandemic outbreak, some population groups were more likely to change their mobility patterns, for example, highly educated population groups and those with higher income. This study also highlights that e-activities may shape new mobility patterns and living conditions for some population segments, but some activities cannot be replaced by IT technologies. For all these reasons, city and transport planning should foster sustainable development policies, which will provide the maximum benefit for society. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ensuring Sustainable Development at the Light of New Mobility Trends and Challenges)
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21 pages, 322 KiB  
Article
Canada as a Case Study for Balanced Presentation to Address Controversy on Emission Reduction Policies
by Robert V. Parsons
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7909; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147909 - 15 Jul 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2490
Abstract
Controversy is common on environmental issues, with carbon taxation in Canada a current example. This paper uses Canada as a case study for analysis based around balanced presentation, a technique developed some time ago, yet largely forgotten. Using the method, analysis is shifted [...] Read more.
Controversy is common on environmental issues, with carbon taxation in Canada a current example. This paper uses Canada as a case study for analysis based around balanced presentation, a technique developed some time ago, yet largely forgotten. Using the method, analysis is shifted away from the point of controversy to a broader quantitative question, with comparative data employed from official government sources. Simple quantitative analysis is applied to evaluate emission trends of individual Canadian provinces, with quantitative metrics to identify and confirm the application of relevant emission reduction policies by individual jurisdictions. From 2005 through 2019, three provinces show consistent downward emission trends, two show consistent upward trends, and the remaining five have no trends, showing relatively “flat” profiles. The results clarify, in terms of diverse emission reduction policies, where successes have occurred, and where deficiencies or ambiguities have existed. Neither carbon taxation nor related cap-and-trade show any association with long-term reductions in overall emissions. One policy does stand out as being associated with long-term reductions, namely grid decarbonization. The results suggest a possible need within Canada to rethink emission reduction policies. The method may be relevant as a model for other countries to consider as well. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Air, Climate Change and Sustainability)
15 pages, 2130 KiB  
Article
Effects of Date Labels and Freshness Indicators on Food Waste Patterns in the United States and the United Kingdom
by Carter Weis, Anjali Narang, Bradley Rickard and Diogo M. Souza-Monteiro
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7897; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147897 - 15 Jul 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 5726
Abstract
To meet the target for Sustainable Development Goal 12.3, household food waste will need to be reduced by at least 284 million tonnes globally by 2030. American and British households waste a significant amount of food, and date labels are considered to be [...] Read more.
To meet the target for Sustainable Development Goal 12.3, household food waste will need to be reduced by at least 284 million tonnes globally by 2030. American and British households waste a significant amount of food, and date labels are considered to be a contributor to this situation. Using a split-plot experimental design implemented on a survey administered to a convenience sample of UK and US consumers, we aimed to determine how different types of date labels and freshness indicators affect the stated likelihoods of discarding 15 foods. We find that not all date labels would lead to reductions in waste, and that semantics matter. Overall, the likelihood to waste across products was similar between the US and the UK; however, American consumers showed a larger response to the additional information provided by the freshness indicators. Our results shed new light on the ongoing policy debate related to national strategies for simplifying and harmonizing the use of date labels for packaged foods, as well as the potential effects from the use of freshness indicators. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue National Food Loss and Waste Prevention Strategies and Monitoring Approaches—an Interdisciplinary Challenge for Decision Makers, Researchers and Practice)
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13 pages, 290 KiB  
Article
Exergames to Prevent the Secondary Functional Deterioration of Older Adults during Hospitalization and Isolation Periods during the COVID-19 Pandemic
by Ana Isabel Corregidor-Sánchez, Begoña Polonio-López, José Luis Martin-Conty, Marta Rodríguez-Hernández, Laura Mordillo-Mateos, Santiago Schez-Sobrino and Juan José Criado-Álvarez
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7932; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147932 - 15 Jul 2021
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3630
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic is having an intense impact on the functional capacity of older adults, making them more vulnerable to frailty and dependency. The development of preventive and rehabilitative measures which counteract the consequences of confinement or hospitalization is an urgent need. Exergaming [...] Read more.
The COVID-19 pandemic is having an intense impact on the functional capacity of older adults, making them more vulnerable to frailty and dependency. The development of preventive and rehabilitative measures which counteract the consequences of confinement or hospitalization is an urgent need. Exergaming can promote physical activity, prevent falls, and maintain functional and cognitive capacity. However, although the use of exergames in health programs for the elderly is promising, their widespread use should not be considered without the supervision of a social health professional. Therefore, the objective of this work was to evaluate and analyze three video game consoles (Nintendo Wii®, Xbox-Kinect® and Play Station 4®) and 26 commercial exergames with the aim of identifying their usefulness for the prevention of functional deterioration. Three occupational therapists analyzed the data independently, and subsequently agreed on the results. The examination of the commercial consoles met three criteria: components, interaction channels and the type of the exergame. Each exergame was analyzed taking into account its ability to train postural control, balance, upper limb functionality and cognitive function. The results of the evaluation showed that exergames contain game activities that can be part of the rehabilitative treatment aimed at the prevention of the functional impairment of older people affected by COVID. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Technology and Elderly Life)
15 pages, 1830 KiB  
Article
Blood, Hair and Feces as an Indicator of Environmental Exposure of Sheep, Cow and Buffalo to Cobalt: A Health Risk Perspectives
by Muhammad Iftikhar Hussain, Zafar Iqbal Khan, Majida Naeem, Kafeel Ahmad, Muhammad Umer Farooq Awan, Mona S. Alwahibi and Mohamed Soliman Elshikh
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7873; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147873 - 14 Jul 2021
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2959
Abstract
Exposure to toxic metals (TMs) such as cobalt (Co) can cause lifelong carcinogenic disorders and mutagenic outcomes. TMs enter ground water and rivers from human activity, anthropogenic contamination, and the ecological environment. The present study was conducted to evaluate the influence of sewage [...] Read more.
Exposure to toxic metals (TMs) such as cobalt (Co) can cause lifelong carcinogenic disorders and mutagenic outcomes. TMs enter ground water and rivers from human activity, anthropogenic contamination, and the ecological environment. The present study was conducted to evaluate the influence of sewage water irrigation on cobalt (Co) toxicity and bioaccumulation in a soil-plant environment and to assess the health risk of grazing livestock via forage consumption. Cobalt is a very necessary element for the growth of plants and animals; however, higher concentrations have toxic impacts. Measurement of Co in plant, soil and water samples was conducted via wet digestion method using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The Co pollution severity was examined in soil, forage crops (Sorghum bicolor Kuntze, Sesbania bispinosa (Jacq.) W. Wight, Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers., Suaeda fruticosa (L.) Forssk. and Tribulus terrestris L.) in blood, hair and feces of sheep, cow and buffalo from district Toba-Tek-Singh, Punjab, Pakistan. Three sites were selected for investigation of Co level in soil and forage samples. Highest concentration of Co was 0.65 and 0.35 mg/kg occurring in S. bicolor at site I. The sheep blood, cow hair and sheep feces samples showed highest concentrations of 0.545, 0.549 and 0.548 mg/kg, respectively at site I and site II. Bioconcentration factor, pollution load index, enrichment factor and daily intake were found to be higher (0.667, 0.124, 0.12 and 0.0007 mg/kg) in soil, S. bicolor, S. fruticosa and in buffalo, respectively, at site I. It was concluded that forage species irrigated with wastewater are safe for consumption of livestock. However, though the general values were lower than the permissible maximum limit, it was observed that the bioaccumulation in the forage species was higher. Therefore, soil and food chain components should be avoided from trace metal contamination, and other means of nonconventional water resources should be employed for forages irrigation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adaptation to Climate Change Through Sustainable and Integrated Crop-Soil-Water-Livestock Diversification: A Nexus Approach)
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26 pages, 512 KiB  
Review
The Socioeconomic Welfare of Urban Green Areas and Parks; A Literature Review of Available Evidence
by Antonios Kolimenakis, Alexandra D. Solomou, Nikolaos Proutsos, Evangelia V. Avramidou, Evangelia Korakaki, Georgios Karetsos, Georgios Maroulis, Eleftherios Papagiannis and Konstantinia Tsagkari
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7863; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147863 - 14 Jul 2021
Cited by 22 | Viewed by 5813
Abstract
Urban green areas present a lucid example for the harmonious co-existence of the artificial and natural environments best illustrated by their interdependence and interconnection in urban spaces. Urban green areas are essential for the health and wellbeing of citizens. The present study aimed [...] Read more.
Urban green areas present a lucid example for the harmonious co-existence of the artificial and natural environments best illustrated by their interdependence and interconnection in urban spaces. Urban green areas are essential for the health and wellbeing of citizens. The present study aimed to investigate those multiple benefits for citizens that arise through the existence of urban green areas, as well as important policy dimensions that should be considered when designing the expansion of urban green spaces in urban development. The study was based on a literature review to examine for available evidence on the benefit levels derived by the existence of urban green areas. An extended literature review was followed by a structured review, based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria, which partly followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The search was conducted in two databases, and a total of 1674 articles and abstracts were identified through the database searches. After removing 114 duplicates, 1560 records were initially screened based on title and abstract. Following inclusion and exclusion criteria, 14 articles were incorporated in the structured review and a total of 47 in the extended review. The extended literature review identified 33 additional articles examining aspects of benefits that did not fall under the pre-established inclusion and exclusion criteria used in the structured review, such as health benefits and other social parameters associated with urban green spaces. The selected studies were allocated in five principal groups according to study types: three of the them consisted of studies employing “willingness to pay” (WTP) methods, five were based on property values, two studies assigned monetary values, while another two assigned CO2 values, and, finally, two studies were based on qualitative criteria. The results indicated benefits to citizens and increased welfare levels gained by the existence of urban green areas. The conducted review revealed a number of findings and recommendations that could direct future research and urban policy. Those hints could assist local authorities as well as stakeholders in order to measure and assess the benefits of green spaces and urban parks and promote measures and programs to assist their further deployment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Urban Green Infrastructure for Climate-Proof and Healthy Cities)
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36 pages, 14013 KiB  
Review
An Overview of Bioplastic Research on Its Relation to National Policies
by Ricard Garrido, Luisa F. Cabeza and Victor Falguera
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7848; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147848 - 14 Jul 2021
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 7578
Abstract
There is an increasing concern about fossil energy and products derived from it. The plastic industry depends on oil, and produced plastics cannot degrade naturally. An alternative to plastics from oil is the use of bioplastics, which can be degradable. The bibliometric study [...] Read more.
There is an increasing concern about fossil energy and products derived from it. The plastic industry depends on oil, and produced plastics cannot degrade naturally. An alternative to plastics from oil is the use of bioplastics, which can be degradable. The bibliometric study of the publications related to bioplastics carried out in this paper shows that research on this topic is growing both in developed (USA, European Union, and Canada) and in developing countries (China, India, Thailand, and Malaysia), mostly following the implementation of bioeconomy standards and labels by their governments. The main authors and the collaborations they have worldwide are also presented here. The research carried out in this paper is not only devoted to technological aspects but also to economic aspects and inhabitant ratios. Trends in publications, by country and authors, are analyzed. Finally, this paper also studies the countries governmental policies and how they impact the bioplastic field. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Resource Utilization in Global Economics Background: Outlook and Challenges)
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42 pages, 21829 KiB  
Article
Multi-Objective Energy Management and Charging Strategy for Electric Bus Fleets in Cities Using Various ECO Strategies
by Mohammed Mahedi Hasan, Nikos Avramis, Mikaela Ranta, Andoni Saez-de-Ibarra, Mohamed El Baghdadi and Omar Hegazy
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7865; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147865 - 14 Jul 2021
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2882
Abstract
The paper presents use case simulations of fleets of electric buses in two cities in Europe, one with a warm Mediterranean climate and the other with a Northern European (cool temperate) climate, to compare the different climatic effects of the thermal management strategy [...] Read more.
The paper presents use case simulations of fleets of electric buses in two cities in Europe, one with a warm Mediterranean climate and the other with a Northern European (cool temperate) climate, to compare the different climatic effects of the thermal management strategy and charging management strategy. Two bus routes are selected in each city, and the effects of their speed, elevation, and passenger profiles on the energy and thermal management strategy of vehicles are evaluated. A multi-objective optimization technique, the improved Simple Optimization technique, and a “brute-force” Monte Carlo technique were employed to determine the optimal number of chargers and charging power to minimize the total cost of operation of the fleet and the impact on the grid, while ensuring that all the buses in the fleet are able to realize their trips throughout the day and keeping the battery SoC within the constraints designated by the manufacturer. A mix of four different types of buses with different battery capacities and electric motor specifications constitute the bus fleet, and the effects that they have on charging priority are evaluated. Finally, different energy management strategies, including economy (ECO) features, such as ECO-comfort, ECO-driving, and ECO-charging, and their effects on the overall optimization are investigated. The single bus results indicate that 12 m buses have a significant battery capacity, allowing for multiple trips within their designated routes, while 18 m buses only have the battery capacity to allow for one or two trips. The fleet results for Barcelona city indicate an energy requirement of 4.42 GWh per year for a fleet of 36 buses, while for Gothenburg, the energy requirement is 5 GWh per year for a fleet of 20 buses. The higher energy requirement in Gothenburg can be attributed to the higher average velocities of the bus routes in Gothenburg, compared to those of the bus routes in Barcelona city. However, applying ECO-features can reduce the energy consumption by 15% in Barcelona city and by 40% in Gothenburg. The significant reduction in Gothenburg is due to the more effective application of the ECO-driving and ECO-charging strategies. The application of ECO-charging also reduces the average grid load by more than 10%, while shifting the charging towards non-peak hours. Finally, the optimization process results in a reduction of the total fleet energy consumption of up to 30% in Barcelona city, while in Gothenburg, the total cost of ownership of the fleet is reduced by 9%. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)
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23 pages, 1009 KiB  
Article
Key Elements for a New Spanish Legal and Architectural Design of Adequate Housing for Seniors in a Pandemic Time
by María Luisa Gómez-Jiménez and Vargas-Yáñez Antonio
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7838; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147838 - 13 Jul 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2839
Abstract
The provision of housing for the elderly in Spain has been approached from a public policy perspective to understand social housing and the allocation of specialized social services. The lockdowns in cities and the need to remain at home with social isolation and [...] Read more.
The provision of housing for the elderly in Spain has been approached from a public policy perspective to understand social housing and the allocation of specialized social services. The lockdowns in cities and the need to remain at home with social isolation and social distance has especially affected the most vulnerable groups, creating situations that widen the gap in the provision of adequate housing. Research is being carried out by a team of researchers at the University of Málaga, funded by European FEDER funds awarded by the Andalusian Regional Government (VIDA project), to analyze the main characteristics connected with “ideal” adequate housing for a vulnerable senior person living alone or in social isolation due to the quarantine period. In this study, we draw a line between the need for adequate housing, the chance to remodel, and the opportunity to propose new Spanish legal approaches from an architectural perspective within the scope of alternative typologies of housing. This article deals with the preliminary findings of the research connected to the architectural review, exploring key elements for senior housing design, and highlighting the need to approach the issue by proposing a new regulation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban and Buildings Regeneration Strategy to Climatic Change Mitigation, Energy, and Social Poverty after a World Health and Economic Global Crisis)
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18 pages, 4615 KiB  
Article
Food Connects Washington DC in 2050—A Vision for Urban Food Systems as the Centerpieces of a Circular Economy
by Marian Stuiver and Sabine O’Hara
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7821; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147821 - 13 Jul 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3929
Abstract
This article presents a vision for an urban food system in Washington DC in 2050 that serves as the centerpiece of a circular economy for the capital region of the United States. Food serves as the connecting link for an inclusive, adaptive, and [...] Read more.
This article presents a vision for an urban food system in Washington DC in 2050 that serves as the centerpiece of a circular economy for the capital region of the United States. Food serves as the connecting link for an inclusive, adaptive, and resilient urban economy embedded in the region. This food economy values natural resources, cultural diversity, and commitment to nature-based innovations. The vision is the result of a three-pronged methodology of: (1) community engagement; (2) a thoughtful, process-focused transformation; and (3) the scaling up of existing urban food initiatives. We argue that small, hyperlocal, neighborhood-based initiatives can become crucial game changers and catalysts of change for entire neighborhoods, cities, and regions. Therefore, we propose a design-based approach to advance our 2050 vision of a circular food system. Our design-based approach consists of three building blocks: (A) systems thinking; (B) the ability to manage wins and tradeoffs; and (C) transitional leadership and cooperation. We explain these building blocks and the way in which they are incorporated in the 2050 vision of Washington DC. We further argue that the food economy is an ideal sector to embark on such a design-based approach due to its systemic nature, its critical position as an indispensable economic sector, and the complex connections it brings to multiple other sectors of the economy. An urban food system can therefore offer the ideal starting point for a transition towards a circular economy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Sustainability: Re-envisioning Cities to Lead the Way toward A Circular Economy)
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14 pages, 690 KiB  
Article
Investigating Smart City Development Based on Green Buildings, Electrical Vehicles and Feasible Indicators
by Armin Razmjoo, Meysam Majidi Nezhad, Lisa Gakenia Kaigutha, Mousa Marzband, Seyedali Mirjalili, Mehdi Pazhoohesh, Saim Memon, Mehdi A. Ehyaei and Giuseppe Piras
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7808; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147808 - 13 Jul 2021
Cited by 41 | Viewed by 6348
Abstract
With a goal of achieving net-zero emissions by developing Smart Cities (SCs) and industrial decarbonization, there is a growing desire to decarbonize the renewable energy sector by accelerating green buildings (GBs) construction, electric vehicles (EVs), and ensuring long-term stability, with the expectation that [...] Read more.
With a goal of achieving net-zero emissions by developing Smart Cities (SCs) and industrial decarbonization, there is a growing desire to decarbonize the renewable energy sector by accelerating green buildings (GBs) construction, electric vehicles (EVs), and ensuring long-term stability, with the expectation that emissions will need to be reduced by at least two thirds by 2035 and by at least 90% by 2050. Implementing GBs in urban areas and encouraging the use of EVs are cornerstones of transition towards SCs, and practical actions that governments can consider to help with improving the environment and develop SCs. This paper investigates different aspects of smart cities development and introduces new feasible indicators related to GBs and EVs in designing SCs, presenting existing barriers to smart cities development, and solutions to overcome them. The results demonstrate that feasible and achievable policies such as the development of the zero-energy, attention to design parameters, implementation of effective indicators for GBs and EVs, implementing strategies to reduce the cost of production of EVs whilst maintaining good quality standards, load management, and integrating EVs successfully into the electricity system, are important in smart cities development. Therefore, strategies to governments should consider the full dynamics and potential of socio-economic and climate change by implementing new energy policies on increasing investment in EVs, and GBs development by considering energy, energy, techno-economic, and environmental benefits. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations towards Greener and Smarter Mobility for Sustainable Development)
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16 pages, 996 KiB  
Article
Effects of Microencapsulated Organic Acid and Their Salts on Growth Performance, Immunity, and Disease Resistance of Pacific White Shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei
by Mohiuddin Amirul Kabir Chowdhury, Hongli Song, Yao Liu, Jean-Daniel Bunod and Xiao-Hui Dong
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7791; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147791 - 13 Jul 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3145
Abstract
Use of antibiotics and other chemicals to combat disease outbreaks has been a bottleneck for the sustainable growth of shrimp industry. Among various replacements proposed, organic acid (OA) and their salts (OS) are commonly used by farmers and feed millers. However, in free [...] Read more.
Use of antibiotics and other chemicals to combat disease outbreaks has been a bottleneck for the sustainable growth of shrimp industry. Among various replacements proposed, organic acid (OA) and their salts (OS) are commonly used by farmers and feed millers. However, in free forms, their requirement is very high (2–3 kg/MT) as they tend to disassociate before reaching the hindgut. The dosage can be reduced by microencapsulation of the ingredients. In this study, a 63-day trial was conducted to assess the effects of OA and OS (COMP) microencapsulated (ENCAP) with fat (HF), fat + alginate (HA), wax esters (WE) and HA + WE (HAWE) on performance, digestive enzymes, immunity and resistance to Vibrio parahaemolyticus. A positive control (PC, 200 g/kg fishmeal-FM) and a negative control (NC, 130 g/kg FM) diet were formulated. Eight other diets were formulated, supplementing an NC diet with microencapsulated OA (OAHF, OAHA, OAWE, OAHAWE) and OS (OSHF, OSHA, OSWE, OSHAWE). Among the ENCAPs, significant difference was observed in serum malondialdehyde (p = 0.026), where HF showed the lowest level (6.4 ± 0.3 mmol/L). Significant interactions between COMP and ENCAP were observed in lipid deposition (p = 0.047), serum alkaline phosphatase, acid phosphatase, hepatopancreatic and serum phenol oxidase (p < 0.0001). Despite no differences, 96-h mortality during pathogenic Vibrio parahaemolyticus challenge in all treatment diets (45–56%) was lower compared to the NC diets (63%). In conclusion, use of HF microencapsulated OA diets could provide improved performance and disease resistance that could contribute to the reduction of antibiotic use by the shrimp industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Aquaculture and Environmental Impacts)
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22 pages, 1018 KiB  
Article
Sharing Anxiety Is in the Driver’s Seat: Analyzing User Acceptance of Dynamic Ridepooling and Its Implications for Shared Autonomous Mobility
by Sigma Dolins, Helena Strömberg, Yale Z. Wong and MariAnne Karlsson
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7828; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147828 - 13 Jul 2021
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3060
Abstract
As connected, electric, and autonomous vehicle (AV) services are developed for cities, the research is conclusive that the use of these services must be shared to achieve maximum efficiency. Yet, few agencies have prioritised designing an AV system that focuses on dynamic ridepooling, [...] Read more.
As connected, electric, and autonomous vehicle (AV) services are developed for cities, the research is conclusive that the use of these services must be shared to achieve maximum efficiency. Yet, few agencies have prioritised designing an AV system that focuses on dynamic ridepooling, and there remains a gap in the understanding of what makes people willing to share their rides. However, in 2017, the Australian transport authority Transport for New South Wales launched over a dozen trials for on-demand, shared public transport, including AVs. In this paper, we investigate the user willingness-to-share, based on experiences from one of these trials. Four focus groups (19 participants in total) were held in New South Wales with active users of either the trialled on-demand dynamic ridepooling service (Keoride) or commercial ridepooling (UberPool). Through thematic analysis of the focus group conversations, the cost, comfort, convenience, safety, community culture, and trust in authority emerged as factors that influenced the willingness-to-share. When presented with driverless scenarios, the focus group participants had significant concerns about the unknown behaviour of their co-passengers, revealing sharing anxiety as a significant barrier to the adoption of shared AVs. This paper identifies previously disregarded factors that influence the adoption of AVs and dynamic ridepooling and offers insights on how potential users’ sharing anxiety can be mitigated. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Shared Mobility)
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9 pages, 969 KiB  
Article
Defects Impact on PV System GHG Mitigation Potential and Climate Change
by Waqas Ahmed, Jamil Ahmed Sheikh, Shahjadi Hisan Farjana and M. A. Parvez Mahmud
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7793; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147793 - 13 Jul 2021
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2305
Abstract
Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems are widely used to mitigate greenhouse gases (GHG), due to their green renewable nature. However, environmental factors such as bird drops, shade, pollution, etc., accommodation on PV panels surface reduce photons transmission to PV cells, which results in lower [...] Read more.
Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems are widely used to mitigate greenhouse gases (GHG), due to their green renewable nature. However, environmental factors such as bird drops, shade, pollution, etc., accommodation on PV panels surface reduce photons transmission to PV cells, which results in lower energy yield and GHG mitigation potential of PV system. In this study, the PV system’s energy and GHG mitigation potential loss is investigated under environmental stresses. Defects/hotspots caused by the environment on PV panel surface have unknown occurrence frequency, time duration, and intensity and are highly variable from location to location. Therefore, different concentrations of defects are induced in a healthy 12 kWp PV system. Healthy PV system has the potential to avoid the burning of 3427.65 L of gasoline by 16,157.9 kWh green energy production per annum. However, in 1% and 20% defective systems, green energy potential reduces to 15,974.3 and 12,485.6 kWh per annum, respectively. It is equivalent to lesser evasion burning of 3388.70, and 2648.64 L of gasoline, respectively. A timely solution to defective panels can prevent losses in the PV system to ensure optimal performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability of Mining Industries through Renewable Energy Utilization)
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19 pages, 10484 KiB  
Article
Quantitative Assessment of Environmental Sensitivity to Desertification Using the Modified MEDALUS Model in a Semiarid Area
by Sayed Fakhreddin Afzali, Ali Khanamani, Ehsan Kamali Maskooni and Ronny Berndtsson
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7817; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147817 - 13 Jul 2021
Cited by 22 | Viewed by 3345
Abstract
Iran is mainly located in the arid and semiarid climate zone and seriously affected by desertification. This is a severe environmental problem, which results in a persistent loss of ecosystem services that are fundamental to sustaining life. Process understanding of this phenomenon through [...] Read more.
Iran is mainly located in the arid and semiarid climate zone and seriously affected by desertification. This is a severe environmental problem, which results in a persistent loss of ecosystem services that are fundamental to sustaining life. Process understanding of this phenomenon through the evaluation of important drivers is, however, a challenging work. The main purpose of this study was to perform a quantitative evaluation of the current desertification status in the Segzi Plain, Isfahan Province, Iran, through the modified Mediterranean Desertification and Land Use (MEDALUS) model and GIS. In this regard, five main indicators including soil, groundwater, vegetation cover, climate, and erosion were selected for estimating the environmental sensitivity to desertification. Each of these qualitative indicators is driven by human interference and climate. After statistical analysis and a normality test for each indicator data, spatial distribution maps were established. Then, the maps were scored in the MEDALUS approach, and the current desertification status in the study area from the geometric mean of all five quality indicators was created. Based on the results of the modified MEDALUS model, about 23.5% of the total area can be classified as high risk to desertification and 76.5% classified as very high risk to desertification. The results indicate that climate, vegetation, and groundwater quality are the most important drivers for desertification in the study area. Erosion (wind and water) and soil indices have minimal importance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Land and Water Degradation in Catchments: The Role of Remote Sensing for Assessment and Management)
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20 pages, 27978 KiB  
Article
Environmental Particulate Matter (PM) Exposure Assessment of Construction Activities Using Low-Cost PM Sensor and Latin Hypercubic Technique
by Muhammad Khan, Numan Khan, Miroslaw J. Skibniewski and Chansik Park
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7797; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147797 - 13 Jul 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3350
Abstract
Dust generation is generally considered a natural process in construction sites; ergo, workers are exposed to health issues due to fine dust exposure during construction work. The primary activities in the execution of construction work, such as indoor concrete and mortar mixing, are [...] Read more.
Dust generation is generally considered a natural process in construction sites; ergo, workers are exposed to health issues due to fine dust exposure during construction work. The primary activities in the execution of construction work, such as indoor concrete and mortar mixing, are investigated to interrogate and understand the critical high particulate matter concentrations and thus health threats. Two low-cost dust sensors (Sharp GP2Y1014AU0F and Alphasense OPC N2) without implementing control measures to explicitly evaluate, compare and gauge them for these construction activities were utilized. The mean exposures to PM10, PM2.5 and PM1 during both activities were 3522.62, 236.46 and 47.62 µg/m3 and 6762.72, 471.30 and 59.09 µg/m3, respectively. The results show that PM10 and PM2.5 caused during the concrete mixing activity was approximately double compared to the mortar. The Latin Hypercube Sampling method is used to analyze the measurement results and to predict the exposure concentrations. The high dust emission and exposure from mixing activities fail to meet the World Health Organization and Health and Safety Commission standards for environmental exposure. These findings will leverage the integration of low-cost dust sensors with Building Information Modelling (BIM) to formulate a digital twin for automated dust control techniques in the construction site. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Monitoring and Impact Assessment for Sustainable Management)
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22 pages, 1588 KiB  
Article
Developing Farm-Level Social Indicators for Agri-Environment Schemes: A Focus on the Agents of Change
by Jane Mills, Hannah Chiswell, Peter Gaskell, Paul Courtney, Beth Brockett, George Cusworth and Matt Lobley
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7820; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147820 - 13 Jul 2021
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4564
Abstract
Most monitoring and evaluation programmes for agri-environment schemes focus on understanding the environmental outcomes and the cost-effectiveness of these schemes. Evaluation of the social dimensions of agri-environment schemes, particularly the socio-cultural factors that might influence the quality of engagement with the schemes and [...] Read more.
Most monitoring and evaluation programmes for agri-environment schemes focus on understanding the environmental outcomes and the cost-effectiveness of these schemes. Evaluation of the social dimensions of agri-environment schemes, particularly the socio-cultural factors that might influence the quality of engagement with the schemes and the social wellbeing impact of scheme engagement, is limited. This is a critical gap in knowledge as there is growing recognition that without more explicit consideration of the farmers involved in land management as agents of change, the required environmental improvements will not be achieved. The aim of this paper was to undertake a systematic literature review to inform the development of a set of social indicators that can be used to measure the level of farmers’ engagement with their scheme agreement and the social sustainability outcomes from participation. Following the literature review and a short-listing ranking exercise with two sets of experts, 20 high-level (composite) social indicators and associated sub-level (component) indicators were identified. A series of scale or ranking questions that can be used to capture the indicator data were also developed and tested. This paper presents the first stage in the development of a robust set of social indicators for agri-environment schemes that will also provide a good indicator of long-term environmental outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmentally-Friendly Agricultural Practices For Achieving Sustainable Ecosystem Services)
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13 pages, 455 KiB  
Article
Do Tourism Activities and Urbanization Drive Material Consumption in the OECD Countries? A Quantile Regression Approach
by Taiwo Temitope Lasisi, Kayode Kolawole Eluwole, Uju Violet Alola, Luigi Aldieri, Concetto Paolo Vinci and Andrew Adewale Alola
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7742; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147742 - 12 Jul 2021
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 2625
Abstract
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) elaborately encompass a global goal for sustainable consumption and production (Goal 12: SDGs), thus providing potential drivers and/or pathways to attaining sustainable consumption. In view of this global goal, this study examined the role of real [...] Read more.
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) elaborately encompass a global goal for sustainable consumption and production (Goal 12: SDGs), thus providing potential drivers and/or pathways to attaining sustainable consumption. In view of this global goal, this study examined the role of real income per capita, urbanization and especially inbound tourism in domestic material consumption for the panel of OECD countries. The study is conducted for the period of 1995 to 2016 by employing the panel quantile approach. Interestingly, an inverted U-shaped relationship between outbound tourism and domestic material consumption is established across the quantiles, thus indicating that sustainable domestic consumption is achievable after a threshold of domestic material consumption is attained. In addition, achieving sustainable consumption through economic or income growth is a herculean task for the OECD countries because the current reality indicates that income growth triggers higher consumption of domestic materials. However, the results suggest that urbanization is a recipe for sustainable domestic consumption since there is a negative and significant relationship between the two parameters across the quantiles. Nevertheless, the study presents relevant policy for efficient material and resources utilization and that is suitable to drive the SDGs for 2030 and other country-specific sustainable ambitions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inclusive Science of the Total Environment)
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12 pages, 364 KiB  
Article
Responding to Climate-Induced Displacement in Bangladesh: A Governance Perspective
by Chakma Kisinger and Kenichi Matsui
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7788; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147788 - 12 Jul 2021
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4692
Abstract
Population displacement by extreme weather events have long plagued Bangladesh, a low-lying disaster-prone river delta. The country experiences yearly displacement of approximately one million people and losses of about 1% of its gross domestic product due to cyclones, floods, and riverbank erosion. This [...] Read more.
Population displacement by extreme weather events have long plagued Bangladesh, a low-lying disaster-prone river delta. The country experiences yearly displacement of approximately one million people and losses of about 1% of its gross domestic product due to cyclones, floods, and riverbank erosion. This study examines how the Bangladesh government has managed climate-induced displacement with a particular focus on socioeconomic development policies. We analyzed the country’s 1984 Land Reform Ordinance, the 2009 climate change strategy and action plan, the 1997 agricultural Khasland settlement policy, perspective plan for 2010–2021, poverty reduction strategy paper, and five-year plans to understand governance changes for displaced communities. We found that, overall, the central government implemented four main strategies. In the first strategy, Bangladesh resettled displaced people in cluster villages on public lands. Then, it provided life skills training (e.g., leadership, disaster preparedness, income generation) to rehabilitate the residents. The third strategy was to align resettlement efforts with local-level climate change adaptation and poverty reduction activities. Here, the central government and its seventeen departments collaborated with local councils to support resettled households under the social safety program. The fourth strategy was to diversify financial resources by obtaining more fund from donors and establishing its own financial mechanism. However, we also found that the decision-making and implementation process remained top-down without need assessment and community participation. This paper intends to offer insights on how similar challenged countries and regions may respond to climate displacement in the future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability and Risk Governance: Exploring and Developing Sustainable Solutions for Complex and Wicked Problems)
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21 pages, 1462 KiB  
Article
A More Sustainable Management of Domestic Tourists in Protected Natural Parks: A New Trend in Sport Tourism after the Covid-19 Pandemic?
by Anne-Marie Lebrun, Che-Jen Su and Patrick Bouchet
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7750; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147750 - 12 Jul 2021
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 5734
Abstract
One of the consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic crisis has been the development of proximity tourism in outdoor spaces being less conducive to the spread of the virus. From a study preceding this pandemic, this article seeks to better understand the experiences lived [...] Read more.
One of the consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic crisis has been the development of proximity tourism in outdoor spaces being less conducive to the spread of the virus. From a study preceding this pandemic, this article seeks to better understand the experiences lived by domestic tourists from when they visited two typical protected natural parks as specific experiential contexts (extraordinary versus ordinary) providing different experiences. Each experiential context enables the distinction of actual visitors’ experiences inside each park—education, esthetics, entertainment, escapism, physical activity—differentiated, on one hand by the visitors’ participation axis and, on the other hand, by the absorption-immersion axis influencing the visitors’ arousal and memory. A structural equation model tested the data collected (n = 1000) in both experiential contexts and shows their moderator effect. The results underline the link between the experiential context and the actual experiences and highlight the interest of a new global framework including the visitors’ participation and a bodily axis relative to the specific context. This research could help managers of protected natural parks adjust their domestic tourists’ experience offer during pandemic crises by implementing specific sustainable and sanitary strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Challenges and Trends in Sport Tourism and Its Development Impacts)
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16 pages, 2343 KiB  
Article
Predicting the Compressive Strength of Rubberized Concrete Using Artificial Intelligence Methods
by Amedeo Gregori, Chiara Castoro and Giri Venkiteela
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7729; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147729 - 11 Jul 2021
Cited by 19 | Viewed by 2839
Abstract
In this study, support vector machine (SVM) and Gaussian process regression (GPR) models were employed to analyse different rubbercrete compressive strength data collected from the literature. The compressive strength data at 28 days ranged from 4 to 65 MPa in reference to rubbercrete [...] Read more.
In this study, support vector machine (SVM) and Gaussian process regression (GPR) models were employed to analyse different rubbercrete compressive strength data collected from the literature. The compressive strength data at 28 days ranged from 4 to 65 MPa in reference to rubbercrete mixtures, where the fine aggregates (sand fraction) were substituted with rubber aggregates in a range from 0% to 100% of the volume. It was observed that the GPR model yielded good results compared to the SVM model in rubbercrete strength prediction. Two strength reduction factor (SRF) equations were developed based on the GPR model results. These SRF equations can be used to estimate the compressive strength reduction in rubbercrete mixtures; the equations are provided. A sensitivity analysis was also performed to evaluate the influence of the w/c ratio on the compressive strength of the rubbercrete mixtures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Towards Advanced Sustainable Recycled Materials and Technology)
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21 pages, 4309 KiB  
Article
Modeling the Compaction Characteristics of Fine-Grained Soils Blended with Tire-Derived Aggregates
by Amin Soltani, Mahdieh Azimi and Brendan C. O’Kelly
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7737; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147737 - 11 Jul 2021
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2687
Abstract
This study aims at modeling the compaction characteristics of fine-grained soils blended with sand-sized (0.075–4.75 mm) recycled tire-derived aggregates (TDAs). Model development and calibration were performed using a large and diverse database of 100 soil–TDA compaction tests (with the TDA-to-soil dry mass ratio [...] Read more.
This study aims at modeling the compaction characteristics of fine-grained soils blended with sand-sized (0.075–4.75 mm) recycled tire-derived aggregates (TDAs). Model development and calibration were performed using a large and diverse database of 100 soil–TDA compaction tests (with the TDA-to-soil dry mass ratio ≤ 30%) assembled from the literature. Following a comprehensive statistical analysis, it is demonstrated that the optimum moisture content (OMC) and maximum dry unit weight (MDUW) for soil–TDA blends (across different soil types, TDA particle sizes and compaction energy levels) can be expressed as universal power functions of the OMC and MDUW of the unamended soil, along with the soil to soil–TDA specific gravity ratio. Employing the Bland–Altman analysis, the 95% upper and lower (water content) agreement limits between the predicted and measured OMC values were, respectively, obtained as +1.09% and −1.23%, both of which can be considered negligible for practical applications. For the MDUW predictions, these limits were calculated as +0.67 and −0.71 kN/m3, which (like the OMC) can be deemed acceptable for prediction purposes. Having established the OMC and MDUW of the unamended fine-grained soil, the empirical models proposed in this study offer a practical procedure towards predicting the compaction characteristics of the soil–TDA blends without the hurdles of performing separate laboratory compaction tests, and thus can be employed in practice for preliminary design assessments and/or soil–TDA optimization studies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Sustainability in Geotechnics: The Use of Environmentally Friendly Materials)
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19 pages, 4659 KiB  
Article
Identification and Investigation of Subsidence Areas to Mitigate Karstic Risks in Urbanized Areas of Madrid, Spain: A Case Study
by Eugenio Sanz Pérez and Cesar Sanz Riaguas
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7716; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147716 - 10 Jul 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1788
Abstract
A multidisciplinary investigation was carried out in a karstic depression in a housing development under construction in Madrid to assess its stability. It was found that it is a small basin within a larger depression as a result of subsidence accumulated during the [...] Read more.
A multidisciplinary investigation was carried out in a karstic depression in a housing development under construction in Madrid to assess its stability. It was found that it is a small basin within a larger depression as a result of subsidence accumulated during the Quaternary. Subsidence has built up progressively in the Miocene clay cap and bedrock due to the underlying dissolution of gypsum rich intercalations. The preferential circulation of the dissolving subsurface flow is along a fault conditioned by subsidence, the formation of an elongated syncline along the fracture, and the alluvial basin. During the Pleistocene, a former lagoon zone was formed in this subsiding area; it was also a groundwater discharge zone. The decrease in recent times is very small and could be evaluated to be about 0.4 mm/year, and affects the alluvial zone and along the furrow of a fault zone, where the maximum average rate of subsidence would be 1.4 mm/year. This has led to the development of a relatively strong alluvium. It seems that under the alluvial deposits, a slow and diffuse dissolution is taking place of the shallower clayey gypsiferous levels, free of hypersoluble mineral species; this is somewhat more intense in the fault zone, which is more active hydrodynamically, where groundwater velocity is higher. Microgravimetry surveys indicate that only 5% of the area hidden under the alluvium shows anomalies, interpreted as residual soft clayey masses, or anomalous alluvial fillings of old dissolution voids. These pockets (“bolsones”), have dimensions of no more than 20 × 20 m and depths below 20 m. These measurements have been confirmed by boreholes and are the only points that would require special attention in the future construction of the urbanization. The urbanization work, in full development, is implementing solutions aimed at the stability of the road in the strips of alluvial studied. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geotechnical Risks in Rock Mechanics and Sustainable Infrastructures)
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17 pages, 3987 KiB  
Article
A Combined Control Systems and Machine Learning Approach to Forecasting Iceberg Flux off Newfoundland
by Jennifer B. Ross, Grant R. Bigg, Yifan Zhao and Edward Hanna
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7705; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147705 - 9 Jul 2021
Viewed by 3112
Abstract
Icebergs have long been a threat to shipping in the NW Atlantic and the iceberg season of February to late summer is monitored closely by the International Ice Patrol. However, reliable predictions of the severity of a season several months in advance would [...] Read more.
Icebergs have long been a threat to shipping in the NW Atlantic and the iceberg season of February to late summer is monitored closely by the International Ice Patrol. However, reliable predictions of the severity of a season several months in advance would be useful for planning monitoring strategies and also for shipping companies in designing optimal routes across the North Atlantic for specific years. A seasonal forecast model of the build-up of seasonal iceberg numbers has recently become available, beginning to enable this longer-term planning of marine operations. Here we discuss extension of this control systems model to include more recent years within the trial ensemble sample set and also increasing the number of measures of the iceberg season that are considered within the forecast. These new measures include the seasonal iceberg total, the rate of change of the seasonal increase, the number of peaks in iceberg numbers experienced within a given season, and the timing of the peak(s). They are predicted by a range of machine learning tools. The skill levels of the new measures are tested, as is the impact of the extensions to the existing seasonal forecast model. We present a forecast for the 2021 iceberg season, predicting a medium iceberg year. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modelling for Sustainable Marine Management)
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12 pages, 1806 KiB  
Article
Utilization of Organic Mixed Biosludge from Pulp and Paper Industries and Green Waste as Carbon Sources in Blast Furnace Hot Metal Production
by Tova Jarnerud, Andrey V. Karasev, Chuan Wang, Frida Bäck and Pär G. Jönsson
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7706; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147706 - 9 Jul 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2404
Abstract
A six day industrial trial using hydrochar as part of the carbon source for hot metal production was performed in a production blast furnace (BF). The hydrochar came from two types of feedstocks, namely an organic mixed biosludge generated from pulp and paper [...] Read more.
A six day industrial trial using hydrochar as part of the carbon source for hot metal production was performed in a production blast furnace (BF). The hydrochar came from two types of feedstocks, namely an organic mixed biosludge generated from pulp and paper production and an organic green waste residue. These sludges and residues were upgraded to hydrochar in the form of pellets by using a hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) technology. Then, the hydrochar pellets were pressed into briquettes together with commonly used briquetting material (in-plant fines such as fines from pellets and scraps, dust, etc. generated from the steel plant) and the briquettes were top charged into the blast furnace. In total, 418 tons of hydrochar briquettes were produced. The aim of the trials was to investigate the stability and productivity of the blast furnace during charging of these experimental briquettes. The results show that briquettes containing hydrochar from pulp and paper industries waste and green waste can partially be used for charging in blast furnaces together with conventional briquettes. Most of the technological parameters of the BF process, such as the production rate of hot metal (<1.5% difference between reference days and trial days), amount of dust, fuel rate and amount of injected coal, amount of slag, as well as contents of FeO in slag and %C, %S and %P in the hot metal in the experimental trials were very similar compared to those in the reference periods (two days before and two days after the trials) without using these experimental charge materials. Thus, it was proven that hydrochar derived from various types of organic residues could be used for metallurgical applications. While in this trial campaign only small amounts of hydrochar were used, nevertheless, these positive results support our efforts to perform more in-depth investigations in this direction in the future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Valorization of Secondary Resources)
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21 pages, 1492 KiB  
Article
Moving from Niche to Norm: Lessons from Food Waste Initiatives
by Lusine H. Aramyan, Gonne Beekman, Joris Galama, Sandra van der Haar, Maarten Visscher and Gertrude G. Zeinstra
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7667; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147667 - 9 Jul 2021
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3367
Abstract
For a transition to a circular economy to take place, behavioural change from people who are part of the transition is a key requirement. However, this change often does not occur by itself. For systemic behavioural change, policy instruments that incentivise behaviour supporting [...] Read more.
For a transition to a circular economy to take place, behavioural change from people who are part of the transition is a key requirement. However, this change often does not occur by itself. For systemic behavioural change, policy instruments that incentivise behaviour supporting circular food systems play a key role. These instruments need to be aligned with the environment in which the behaviour takes place. In this study, we scrutinise a case study with five initiatives on the reduction of food loss and waste (FLW) contributing to a circular food system, to understand how specific, well-targeted combinations of instruments as well as other contextual and personal factors can fuel the transition to a circular economy and the reduction of FLW. All the initiatives are taking place under the umbrella of the Dutch initiative “United against food waste” (STV). We use a behavioural change perspective to assess how initiatives that support circular food systems arise and how they can be further supported. Based on the case-study analysis, we arrive at five common success traits and barriers, and five key needs for upscaling. We conclude that motivated, inspiring frontrunners are of key importance in the initial phase of a transition process. However, once a niche initiative is ready to be scaled up, the enabling environment becomes increasingly important. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue National Food Loss and Waste Prevention Strategies and Monitoring Approaches—an Interdisciplinary Challenge for Decision Makers, Researchers and Practice)
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14 pages, 499 KiB  
Article
Dynamic Connectedness and Portfolio Diversification during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic: Evidence from the Cryptocurrency Market
by Samia Nasreen, Aviral Kumar Tiwari and Seong-Min Yoon
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7672; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147672 - 9 Jul 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2139
Abstract
This paper examines interlinkages and hedging opportunities between nine major cryptocurrencies from 30 September 2015 to 4 June 2020, a period which notably includes the COVID-19 outbreak lasting from early 2020 to the end of the sample period. Estimated time-varying correlation coefficients that [...] Read more.
This paper examines interlinkages and hedging opportunities between nine major cryptocurrencies from 30 September 2015 to 4 June 2020, a period which notably includes the COVID-19 outbreak lasting from early 2020 to the end of the sample period. Estimated time-varying correlation coefficients that are based on a TVP-VAR show a high degree of interconnectedness among cryptocurrencies throughout the sample period. Notably, the correlations reach their joint minimum during the COVID-19 pandemic indicating that cryptocurrencies acted as a hedge or safe haven during the stressful period of the COVID-19 pandemic. The cryptocurrency weights of the minimum connectedness portfolio were significantly reduced and their hedging effectiveness varied greatly during the pandemic, implying that investors’ preferences changed during the COVID-19 period. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue World under Pandemic—the Sustainable Economy Challenge)
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38 pages, 2889 KiB  
Article
Sustainability Understanding and Behaviors across Urban Areas: A Case Study on Istanbul City
by Hasan Fehmi Topal, Dexter V. L. Hunt and Christopher D. F. Rogers
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7711; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147711 - 9 Jul 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3328
Abstract
The success of urban sustainability is very much dependent on a number of human factors. Therefore, it becomes even more important to explore how people understand urban sustainability and how they behave accordingly. Based on a formerly developed conceptual framework and on specified [...] Read more.
The success of urban sustainability is very much dependent on a number of human factors. Therefore, it becomes even more important to explore how people understand urban sustainability and how they behave accordingly. Based on a formerly developed conceptual framework and on specified influencing factors, this study aimed to evaluate and elucidate the urban sustainability understanding and behavior of individuals in the city of Istanbul. This was assessed through the use of a quantitative questionnaire survey of 535 respondents. Therein, socio-psychological processes of sustainability understanding (i.e., determinants of awareness, perception, and attitude) and sustainability behaviors along with personality traits and influential factors were assessed and analyzed through the use of bivariate and multivariate methods (i.e., correlation tests, ANOVA, t-tests, and multiple linear regression). The results showed that sustainability awareness was more strongly correlated with attitude than perception, whereas behavior was found to be strongly correlated with both awareness and attitude and was (significantly) predicted by all determinants. The associations/influences of personality traits with determinants were found to be mostly insignificant. Conversely, for behavior, they were significant. The most influential factors found (in hierarchical ordering) were awareness of consequences, trust in society, social appraisement, world-mindedness, willingness to pay, trust in science and technology, ascription of responsibility, age and gender. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Reviews and Perspectives on Smart and Sustainable Metropolitan and Regional Cities)
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45 pages, 13357 KiB  
Article
Indoor Environmental Quality and Consumption Patterns before and during the COVID-19 Lockdown in Twelve Social Dwellings in Madrid, Spain
by Fernando de Frutos, Teresa Cuerdo-Vilches, Carmen Alonso, Fernando Martín-Consuegra, Borja Frutos, Ignacio Oteiza and Miguel Ángel Navas-Martín
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7700; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147700 - 9 Jul 2021
Cited by 22 | Viewed by 3684
Abstract
This article analyses the situation that prevailed in 12 dwellings located on the outskirts of Madrid during Spain’s state of emergency. How did 24/7 occupation affect the quality of indoor air and power consumption patterns? The mixed method used (surveys and instrumental monitoring) [...] Read more.
This article analyses the situation that prevailed in 12 dwellings located on the outskirts of Madrid during Spain’s state of emergency. How did 24/7 occupation affect the quality of indoor air and power consumption patterns? The mixed method used (surveys and instrumental monitoring) pragmatically detected the variation in consumption, comfort and indoor air quality patterns before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The characteristics initially in place and household predisposition had a conclusive effect on such variations. The starting conditions, including household composition, habits and the way daily activities were performed, differed widely, logically affecting power consumption: 8/12 case studies increase occupancy density by more than 25 percent; 11/12 improve thermal comfort; 10/12 improve air quality but not necessarily translate in a sufficient ventilation practices; air quality was lower in the bedrooms on the whole; only 4/12 case studies use the potential of passive measures; only one household adopted energy savings strategies; 10/12 case studies increase electric power consumption but none of the dwellings was fitted with a renewable power generation system. The conclusion drawn is that, despite starting conditions differing widely, household composition, habits (including performance of daily activities performance) and power consumption also played an active role in the end result. This approach allowed to integrate qualitative and quantitative findings on indoor environmental quality (IEQ), energy use and households’ behavior. The objective data on the energy situation of the case studies not only is useful for the study, but also for potential enrollment in energy rehabilitation programs, such as the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Post-pandemic Cities and Buildings: Strategies to Increase Their Adaptive Capacity and Environmental Health)
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21 pages, 4201 KiB  
Systematic Review
Seaweeds as a “Palatable” Challenge between Innovation and Sustainability: A Systematic Review of Food Safety
by Giuseppe Cavallo, Chiara Lorini, Giuseppe Garamella and Guglielmo Bonaccorsi
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7652; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147652 - 8 Jul 2021
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4036
Abstract
Moderate or severe food insecurity affect 2 billion people worldwide. The four pillars of food security (availability, access, use and stability) are in danger due to the impact of climatic and anthropogenic factors which impact on the food system. Novel foods, like seaweeds, [...] Read more.
Moderate or severe food insecurity affect 2 billion people worldwide. The four pillars of food security (availability, access, use and stability) are in danger due to the impact of climatic and anthropogenic factors which impact on the food system. Novel foods, like seaweeds, have the potential to increase food yields so that to contribute in preventing or avoiding future global food shortages. The purpose of this systematic review was to assess microbiological, chemical, physical, and allergenic risks associated with seaweed consumption. Four research strings have been used to search for these risks. Preferred Reporting Item for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines were applied. Finally, 39 articles met the selected criteria. No significant hazards for microbiological, allergenic, and physical risks were detected. Regarding chemical risk, algae can accumulate various heavy metals, especially when harvested in polluted sites. Cultivating seaweeds in a controlled environment allows to avoid this risk. Periodic checks will be necessary on the finished products to monitor heavy metals levels. Since the consumption of algae seems to be on the rise everywhere, it seems to be urgent that food control authorities establish the safety levels to which eating algae does not represent any risk for human health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges in Sustainable Agriculture and Cities Development: Innovations and Improvements, From Cradle to Grave, Including Connections between Agro-Food Productions and Markets)
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14 pages, 239 KiB  
Article
Smallholder Farms in Bulgaria and Their Contributions to Food and Social Security
by Lena Fredriksson, Marian Rizov, Sophia Davidova and Alastair Bailey
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7635; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147635 - 8 Jul 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2112
Abstract
Bulgaria has a long tradition of smallholder farming, predominantly producing for self-consumption. As a result of land reform and farm restructuring, many rural households received agricultural land. Some developed commercial farms but most households stayed as subsistence farmers and used their small pieces [...] Read more.
Bulgaria has a long tradition of smallholder farming, predominantly producing for self-consumption. As a result of land reform and farm restructuring, many rural households received agricultural land. Some developed commercial farms but most households stayed as subsistence farmers and used their small pieces of land to produce for self-consumption and market the excess output to top up their non-farm incomes or meagre pensions. They had little capital and insecure access to markets. The paper employs semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 10 smallholders for obtaining detailed information about individuals’ behaviour and exploring issues in greater detail. In particular, the study looks at the drivers of the diverse strategies pursued by smallholder farms, their importance for household food security and incomes, and the prospects of smallholder farms in the future, especially the possibilities for productivity increases. The Bulgarian study on contemporary smallholder farms shows that subsistence production constitutes a valuable safety net for households with low incomes, and therefore, it acts as an extension of the limited social security system of the country. Despite all the challenges faced by smallholders, half of the interviewed households succeeded to commercialise and increase marketable surplus. Policies for increased commercialisation of smallholder farms and a structural change in agriculture should address, besides market factors, the socioeconomic aspects which contribute to the persistence of subsistence farming. Furthermore, when prioritising different policies, the chosen livelihood strategies of the households should be taken into account. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Economics Perspectives on Sustainable Food Security)
13 pages, 1075 KiB  
Article
Sustainability and Natural Wines: An Exploratory Analysis on Consumers
by Sara Fabbrizzi, Veronica Alampi Sottini, Maria Cipollaro and Silvio Menghini
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7645; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147645 - 8 Jul 2021
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4843
Abstract
Wine production and consumption in Italy have a long tradition strongly linked to conventional products. Because of these market dynamics, the Italian wine industry has strongly increased the production of organic wines, as well as that of biodynamic and natural wines. Based on [...] Read more.
Wine production and consumption in Italy have a long tradition strongly linked to conventional products. Because of these market dynamics, the Italian wine industry has strongly increased the production of organic wines, as well as that of biodynamic and natural wines. Based on a qualitative survey of 210 wine consumers, this study explores the motivations which move the interests of consumers for the consumption of natural wine. The aim of the study is to verify if and how sustainability inspires demand. Considering the scarcity of studies on “natural wines” this research aims to provide a cognitive framework capable of giving a social representation of natural wine from the consumers’ side, although not reaching a generalizable result. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges in Sustainable Agriculture and Cities Development: Innovations and Improvements, From Cradle to Grave, Including Connections between Agro-Food Productions and Markets)
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20 pages, 529 KiB  
Review
Tilapia Farming in Bangladesh: Adaptation to Climate Change
by Mohammad Lutfar Rahman, Md Shahjahan and Nesar Ahmed
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7657; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147657 - 8 Jul 2021
Cited by 37 | Viewed by 7769
Abstract
In Bangladesh, aquaculture is critically important in terms of providing food and nutrition, sustainable livelihoods, income, and export earnings. Nevertheless, aquaculture in Bangladesh has faced recent concerns due to climate change. Aquaculture is vulnerable to a combination of climatic factors, such as global [...] Read more.
In Bangladesh, aquaculture is critically important in terms of providing food and nutrition, sustainable livelihoods, income, and export earnings. Nevertheless, aquaculture in Bangladesh has faced recent concerns due to climate change. Aquaculture is vulnerable to a combination of climatic factors, such as global warming, rainfall variation, flood, drought, temperature fluctuation, and salinity change. Considering the vulnerability of fish production to the impacts of climate change, tilapia farming is one of the possible strategies for adaptation to climate change. The positive culture attributes of tilapia are their tolerance to low water levels and poor water quality with rainfall variation, temperature fluctuation, and salinity change. In fact, tilapia farming is possible in a wide range of water environments, including freshwater, brackish water, and saltwater conditions. We suggest that appropriate tilapia culture strategies with institutional support and collaboration with key stakeholders are needed for adaptation to environmental change. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coping with Climate Change at Regional Level)
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19 pages, 51062 KiB  
Article
Internet of Things (IoT) as Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Enabling Technology towards Smart Readiness Indicators (SRI) for University Buildings
by Ignacio Martínez, Belén Zalba, Raquel Trillo-Lado, Teresa Blanco, David Cambra and Roberto Casas
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7647; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147647 - 8 Jul 2021
Cited by 32 | Viewed by 8033
Abstract
Non-residential buildings contribute to around 20% of the total energy consumed in Europe. This consumption continues to increase globally. Smart building proposals (focused on Nearly Zero Energy Building (NZEB), air quality monitoring, energy saving with thermal comfort, etc.) were already necessary before 2020, [...] Read more.
Non-residential buildings contribute to around 20% of the total energy consumed in Europe. This consumption continues to increase globally. Smart building proposals (focused on Nearly Zero Energy Building (NZEB), air quality monitoring, energy saving with thermal comfort, etc.) were already necessary before 2020, and the pandemic has made this research and development area more essential. Furthermore, the need to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and obtain technological solutions based on the Internet of Things (IoT) requires holistic contributions through real installations that serve as spaces for measuring, testing, study and research. This article proposes a “measure–analyse–decide and act” methodology to quantify the Smart Readiness Indicator (SRI) for university buildings as a reference environment for energy efficiency and COVID-19 prevention models. Two conceptual spaces (physical and digital) within two dimensions (users and infrastructures) are designated over an IoT three-level model (information acquisition, interoperable communication, and data-driven decision). An IoT ecosystem (sensoriZAR) was implemented as a proof-of-concept of a smart campus at the University of Zaragoza, Spain. Focused on CO2 and energy consumption monitoring, the results showed effectiveness through real installations, demonstrating the IoT potential as SDG-enabling technologies. These contributions allow not only experimental lab tests (from the authors’ expertise in several specialties of Industrial, Mechanical, Design, Thermal, Electrical, Electronic, Computer and Telecommunication Engineering) but also a reference model for direct application in academic works, research projects and institutional initiatives, extendable to professional environments, buildings and cities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Post-pandemic Cities and Buildings: Strategies to Increase Their Adaptive Capacity and Environmental Health)
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20 pages, 3329 KiB  
Review
Unveiling the Evolution of Innovation Ecosystems: An Analysis of Triple, Quadruple, and Quintuple Helix Model Innovation Systems in European Case Studies
by Rallou Taratori, Paulina Rodriguez-Fiscal, Marie Abigail Pacho, Sesil Koutra, Montserrat Pareja-Eastaway and Dimitrios Thomas
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7582; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147582 - 7 Jul 2021
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 6555
Abstract
Despite the rising interest in smart city initiatives worldwide, governmental theories along with the managerial perspectives of city planning are greatly lacking in the literature. It is definitely understandable that the adoption of configurational pathways toward the ‘smart’ ‘governance’ models is required as [...] Read more.
Despite the rising interest in smart city initiatives worldwide, governmental theories along with the managerial perspectives of city planning are greatly lacking in the literature. It is definitely understandable that the adoption of configurational pathways toward the ‘smart’ ‘governance’ models is required as a key factor and smartness’ facilitator in modern cities. In this manuscript, we display an exhaustive literature review on the importance of the n-Helix models along with a benchmarking critical approach through selected European case studies. This paper reveals the lack of exhaustive analyses for the methodological investigation, identification, and adoption of the most appropriate governance model per project including collaborative approaches. In addition, the paper deploys modular frameworks to efficiently address the continuous urban challenges, such as the rapid urbanization or the climate change. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Storage Utilization for Electricity Grid Applications)
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23 pages, 2223 KiB  
Article
Retail Policies and Urban Change in Naples City Center: Challenges to Resilience and Sustainability from a Mediterranean City
by Rosario Sommella and Libera D’Alessandro
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7620; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147620 - 7 Jul 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2721
Abstract
Political discourses, public discussions, and studies in different fields have increasingly focused on the vulnerabilities affecting cities and on the possible responses to them, which are often traced back to urban resilience and sustainability. Research and debates in the field of retailing and [...] Read more.
Political discourses, public discussions, and studies in different fields have increasingly focused on the vulnerabilities affecting cities and on the possible responses to them, which are often traced back to urban resilience and sustainability. Research and debates in the field of retailing and consumption geographies are no exception. To carry out a critical analysis on the retail policies associated with the urban commercial change of the Naples city center, the case study is placed in the context of the literature review focusing on three concepts: spatial vulnerability, adaptive resilience, and territorialized sustainability. The analysis is conducted combining data, policy, and planning documents with long-term field research. The changing relationship between consumption practices, retail dynamics, and policies highlights a sort of hybridization of commercial and consumption central cityscapes, which is produced by the coexistence between retail-led phenomena of regeneration and forms of local resistance. The results of the research highlight, from a Mediterranean perspective, new general insights on the impact of selective forms of vulnerability and on the adaptive resilience strategies adopted, but most of all on the indispensable rethinking of the urban retail governance for the enhancement of urban livability, social cohesion, and locally sustainable lifestyles, activities, and places. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Retail Systems: Vulnerability, Resilience and Sustainability)
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20 pages, 704 KiB  
Communication
The Geographical Indication Pathway to Sustainability: A Framework to Assess and Monitor the Contributions of Geographical Indications to Sustainability through a Participatory Process
by Emilie Vandecandelaere, Luis Fernando Samper, Andrés Rey, Ana Daza, Pablo Mejía, Florence Tartanac and Massimo Vittori
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7535; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147535 - 6 Jul 2021
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 6309
Abstract
Geographical Indications (GIs) are widely considered as tools to contribute to sustainability (The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations—FAO, 2009; 2017), if established and well managed. While the literature may not always agree on the positive effects of GIs in all [...] Read more.
Geographical Indications (GIs) are widely considered as tools to contribute to sustainability (The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations—FAO, 2009; 2017), if established and well managed. While the literature may not always agree on the positive effects of GIs in all sustainability dimensions (e.g., economic, social, and environmental), there is evidence that engaging GI producers in a sustainability strategy can maximize their contribution to different components of sustainable development. FAO and oriGIn developed the sustainability strategy for GI (SSGI) to support GI producers and their associations so that they could engage in a place-based and participative approach in order to generate concrete progress and results. This paper presents original research for building both a framework and database for the selection and use of relevant sustainability indicators for GIs. A number of SSGI principles have guided the work throughout an iterative process for reviewing, selecting, and improving relevant indicators, while the Sustainability Assessment of Food and Agriculture (SAFA) has provided the structure to align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and other widely used and recognized sustainability frameworks. As a result of this work, a database of 372 robust sustainability indicators that are relevant to GIs have been characterized to facilitate their use by practitioners. The discussion highlights the importance of the place-based approach, and the participative, inclusive process that represents the key to empowerment and the ability to develop alliances. It also focuses on action, and the need to strengthen both internal and external communication. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geographical Indications, Public Goods, and Sustainable Development)
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12 pages, 2939 KiB  
Article
Analyzing the Basic Properties and Environmental Footprint Reduction Effects of Highly Sulfated Calcium Silicate Cement
by Hyeon-Soo Kim, Ik Kim, Wan-hee Yang, Soo-Young Moon and Ji-Young Lee
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7540; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147540 - 6 Jul 2021
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2302
Abstract
In South Korea, efforts to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and environmental impacts from the perspective of life cycle assessment (LCA) are important because of the implementation of zero-energy building certification for public buildings and the promotion of net-zero policy. Therefore, it is critical [...] Read more.
In South Korea, efforts to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and environmental impacts from the perspective of life cycle assessment (LCA) are important because of the implementation of zero-energy building certification for public buildings and the promotion of net-zero policy. Therefore, it is critical to develop cement alternatives with low embodied energy and less environmental impact. In this study, the applicability of “highly sulfated calcium silicate cement (HSCSC),” an eco-friendly binder developed by our research team, was investigated. Its basic properties and environmental footprint reduction effects were examined in comparison with ordinary Portland cement (OPC) and Portland blast furnace slag cement (PBSC). The environmental impacts of the HSCSC were analyzed using the LCA method. The results confirmed that HSCSC can be considered an excellent alternative to conventional OPC or PBSC in certain areas as an eco-friendly binder that can reduce carbon dioxide emissions and environmental impacts. Moreover, compared to OPC and PBSC, the probability of HSCSC affecting the human body is extremely low. The results of this study may contribute to the development and practical use of cements that minimize climate impacts, as well as improve the efficacy of future research on embodied energy saving. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Building Materials and Sustainable Architecture)
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