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A Quantitative Analysis and Interdisciplinary Approach to the Sustainable Development Goals

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A special issue of Sustainability (ISSN 2071-1050). This special issue belongs to the section "Development Goals towards Sustainability".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 November 2025 | Viewed by 8139

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Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Idiano D'Adamo

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Department of Computer, Control and Management Engineering Sapienza University of Rome, Via Ariosto 25, 00185 Rome, Italy
Interests: sustainable development goals; bioeconomy; biomethane; circular economy; e-waste; economic analysis; photovoltaic; renewable energy; sustainability; waste management
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Prof. Massimo Gastaldi

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Department of Industrial Engineering, Information and Economics, University of L’Aquila, Via G. Gronchi 18, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
Interests: green economy; strategic management; managerial economics; circular economy; energy economics; econometrics; supply chain; sustainable development goals
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Prof. Dr. Vincenzo Stornelli

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Department of Industrial and Information Engineering and Economics, Università degli Studi dell'Aquila, Via Camponeschi, 19, 67100 L'Aquila, AQ, Italy
Interests: filters; integrated circuits; MMIC; sensors; sensors interfaces; sustainable development goals
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue adopts a quantitative and interdisciplinary framework to evaluate global progress toward the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By synthesizing methodologies from economics, engineering, environmental science, data analytics, statistics and social policy, this Special Issue aims to capture the complex, interdependent nature of sustainable development. Employing advanced quantitative modeling techniques, it assesses the effectiveness of SDG implementation across countries and regions. Special attention is given to identifying synergies and trade-offs among the 17 goals, highlighting areas where integrated policy action can yield multiple benefits or, conversely, where progress in one area may hinder advancement in another. This Special Issue also investigates structural and systemic barriers that impede development outcomes, such as inequality, environmental degradation, and governance challenges. By mapping key drivers of success and failure, it offers evidence-based recommendations and actionable pathways to accelerate progress toward the 2030 Agenda. These findings aim to inform decision-makers, enhance cross-sectoral coordination, and support the design of more coherent and resilient development strategies.

Prof. Dr. Idiano D'Adamo
Prof. Massimo Gastaldi
Prof. Dr. Vincenzo Stornelli
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Sustainability is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

sustainable development goals (SDGs)
interdisciplinary analysis
quantitative methods
policy sustainable synergies
barriers to sustainability
sustainable inequalities
development strategy

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Published Papers (10 papers)

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Research

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21 pages, 588 KB

Open AccessArticle

Progress Toward a Circular Economy: A Comparative Analysis of EU Member States

by Mahyar Kamali Saraji and Milad Torabi

Sustainability 2025, 17(18), 8448; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17188448 - 20 Sep 2025

Viewed by 179

Abstract

Moving toward a circular economy is vital for sustainable development in the European Union. However, it is challenging to assess how well each member state is performing because there are many different factors, and the choices can be subjective. This study develops an assessment framework that integrates CRITIC-TOPSIS for objective analysis and Picture Fuzzy SWARA for subjective evaluation. The present study also used 20 circular economy factors from Eurostat for 2018 and 2023. The findings reveal shifts in factor importance over time, highlighting the impact of subjective judgments on policy evaluations and showing differences in country rankings depending on the weighting method. The study concludes that integrating both objective and subjective approaches provides a more comprehensive assessment of CE performance and supports more balanced policy development to provide insight for EU policy harmonization. Also, results indicated that Germany, France, and Italy were consistent leaders, while Estonia and Bulgaria lagged in both years. In addition, the analysis directly contributes to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 13 (Climate Action), as the circular economy models enhance resource efficiency and reduce environmental impacts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Quantitative Analysis and Interdisciplinary Approach to the Sustainable Development Goals)

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30 pages, 2621 KB

Open AccessArticle

Indicator Assessment of Sustainable Development Goals: A Global Perspective

by Idiano D’Adamo, Marialucia Della Sciucca, Massimo Gastaldi and Barbara Lupi

Sustainability 2025, 17(18), 8259; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17188259 - 14 Sep 2025

Viewed by 478

Abstract

This study compares the progress of 141 countries towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), using a multi-criteria approach based on 72 indicators from the Sustainable Development Report 2024. The adoption of two aggregation methods—min-max and TOPSIS—has made it possible to highlight both the sensitivity of the results to the techniques used and the moderate consistency between the rankings obtained. Sweden comes out on top using the min-max method, followed by Finland and Denmark. The TOPSIS method, on the other hand, rewards Croatia, followed by Brazil and Sweden. The aggregate ranking by position shows Sweden ahead of Finland and Croatia, and there are sixteen European countries in the top twenty. The analysis using the min-max method reveals Sweden’s leadership in economic sustainability, Belarus’s in environmental sustainability, and Denmark’s in social sustainability. At the continental level, Europe—particularly the Nordic countries—stands out as an area of excellence in all dimensions, although North America emerges as the leader in the economic dimension. Africa, instead, shows the poorest results. Furthermore, a comparison between OECD and BRICS+ countries shows a clear superiority of the former, especially in the social sphere. The findings highlight the pressing need for enhanced commitment to the SDGs, calling for coherent, cross-sectoral strategies and long-term global vision in policymaking. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Quantitative Analysis and Interdisciplinary Approach to the Sustainable Development Goals)

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27 pages, 1160 KB

Open AccessArticle

Strategic and Systemic Sustainability: Redefining EU Governance Beyond Environmental Policy

by Andrés Fernández-Miguel, Fernando E. García-Muiña, Maria Pia Riccardi, Valerio Veglio and Davide Settembre-Blundo

Sustainability 2025, 17(18), 8208; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17188208 - 11 Sep 2025

Viewed by 422

Abstract

The European Union (EU) is fundamentally transforming sustainability governance by developing dual approaches that extend far beyond traditional environmental policy. This study explores how EU institutions integrate strategic sustainability, which embeds environmental goals within economic security and geopolitical frameworks, with systemic sustainability, which emphasizes circularity, stakeholder engagement, and long-term resilience. Using hermeneutic methodology, the research analyzes key policy documents including the European Green Deal, Circular Economy Action Plan, and Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism to reveal how sustainability narratives align with strategic autonomy and economic resilience. The findings demonstrate that sustainability governance now operates as a multi-dimensional paradigm balancing sovereignty, competitiveness, and inclusiveness. The study introduces the Neo-Sovereign Strategic Management (NSSM) framework, conceptualizing sustainability as a strategic field where economic security, geopolitical influence, and environmental objectives converge. This dual strategic–systemic approach represents a paradigm shift from standalone environmental goals toward integrated governance that positions sustainability as both economic driver and geopolitical asset. The research contributes to the sustainability governance literature by providing actionable insights for policymakers navigating the complex intersection of environmental objectives, economic security, and strategic autonomy in contemporary EU governance. Unlike existing models such as multi-level governance or resilience theory, the frameworks conceptualize sustainability as a strategic field where sovereignty, competitiveness, and legitimacy converge. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Quantitative Analysis and Interdisciplinary Approach to the Sustainable Development Goals)

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22 pages, 3219 KB

Open AccessArticle

Adapting the 15-Minute City to North America: A Framework for Neighborhood Clusters with Urban Agriculture and Green Mobility

by Md Faisal Kabir, Mahnoor Fatima Sohail and Caroline Hachem-Vermette

Sustainability 2025, 17(18), 8196; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17188196 - 11 Sep 2025

Viewed by 480

Abstract

To reduce GHG emissions from food miles and enhance urban food security, this study develops and evaluates an integrated framework combining three strategies: the 15-minute city concept, urban agriculture, and a renewable-energy-powered green transportation (GT) system. The goal is to create a scalable, holistic approach to sustainable food production and distribution within neighborhoods. A Food Production and Transportation Framework is proposed, modeling vegetable cultivation across rooftops, facades, and lot spaces, with optimized allocations based on a tailored Food Production Schedule. The harvested produce is distributed via GT powered by sidewalk-integrated photovoltaics (PVs). Results demonstrate that using 15% of roof, facade, and lot spaces yields an achieved annual food self-sufficiency of 100%. The transportation system operates with a single GT unit powered by 98 m² of sidewalk PVs, reducing CO₂ emissions by 98% from the base case. Economic analysis indicates a payback period of 2.8 years, with the cost of PV-generated electricity estimated at C$0.92/kWh. This framework highlights that 0.19 units of local food production offset one unit of CO₂ emissions. This integrated approach advances multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Quantitative Analysis and Interdisciplinary Approach to the Sustainable Development Goals)

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22 pages, 994 KB

Open AccessArticle

Examining How Sustainability Addresses Gender Inequality Using FIFA Women’s World Cup Soccer Outcomes

by Deborah de Lange and Walter Leal Filho

Sustainability 2025, 17(18), 8133; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17188133 - 10 Sep 2025

Viewed by 354

Abstract

Increasing gender equality, United Nations Sustainable Development Goal Five (UN SDG 5), is one of many wicked problems that are difficult to solve in sport. Innovative policies may create a backdrop for improving women’s career outcomes in sport and beyond. This research aims to theorize and empirically demonstrate some of these contextual relationships. Using FIFA Women’s World Cup standings as outcomes, international analyses show that sustainability has real consequences for women and their countries’ success. Guided by wicked problems Literature explicitly recognizing complexities, this research considers the interconnectedness of the UN SDGs with a focus on sports. International empirical analyses demonstrate that leading countries’ more holistic sustainability policies help to address UN SDG 5. This study also compares sustainable development indicators in regression analyses to clarify how these composite measures relate to improved outcomes for women. Overall, future research should incorporate gender differences and thereby consider a broad set of sustainability factors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Quantitative Analysis and Interdisciplinary Approach to the Sustainable Development Goals)

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19 pages, 1237 KB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of China’s ESG Policy Texts Based on the “Instrument-Theme-Subject” Framework

by Yutong Liu and Hailiang Ma

Sustainability 2025, 17(17), 7796; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17177796 - 29 Aug 2025

Viewed by 598

Abstract

This study develops a three-dimensional evaluation framework integrating policy instruments, policy themes, and policy subjects to analyze China’s ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) policies. Based on 82 central government policy documents issued between 2007 and 2024, it employs content analysis, Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) topic modeling, and social network analysis. The findings reveal a structural imbalance in policy instruments, with overreliance on environmental instruments and insufficient application of supply side and demand side mechanisms. Four major policy themes are identified: environmental governance, corporate responsibility and disclosure, technological innovation, and financial development. These themes show evolving priorities aligned with national strategies. Social network analysis shows weak coordination among stakeholders, with only a few central agencies driving most policies. This research contributes a systematic and quantitative approach to ESG policy evaluation, offering insights into structural shortcomings and governance fragmentation. It provides actionable recommendations for optimizing instrument use, enhancing thematic design, and improving multi-agency collaboration in ESG policymaking. This study contributes to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 13 (Climate Action), by evaluating China’s ESG policies and proposing a more balanced and pragmatic policy framework. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Quantitative Analysis and Interdisciplinary Approach to the Sustainable Development Goals)

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23 pages, 782 KB

Open AccessArticle

From Local Actions to Global Impact: Overcoming Hurdles and Showcasing Sustainability Achievements in the Implementation of SDG12

by John N. Hahladakis

Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 7106; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17157106 - 5 Aug 2025

Viewed by 579

Abstract

This study examines the progress, challenges, and successes in implementing Sustainable Development Goal 12 (SDG12), focusing on responsible consumption and production, using Qatar as a case study. The State has integrated Sustainable Consumption and Production (SCP) into national policies, established coordination mechanisms, and implemented action plans aligned with SDG12 targets. Achievements include renewable energy adoption, waste management reforms, and sustainable public procurement, though challenges persist in rationalizing fossil fuel subsidies, addressing data gaps, and enhancing corporate sustainability reporting. Efforts to reduce food loss and waste through redistribution programs highlight the country’s resilience, despite logistical obstacles. The nation has also advanced hazardous waste management, environmental awareness, and sustainable tourism policies, though gaps in data systems and policy coherence remain. Qatar’s approach provides a valuable local-to-global example of balancing resource-dependent economies with sustainability goals. Its strategies and lessons offer potential adaptability for other nations, especially those facing similar challenges in achieving SDG12. By strengthening data systems, enhancing policy integration, and fostering regional and international cooperation, Qatar’s efforts underscore the importance of aligning economic growth with environmental stewardship, serving as a blueprint for global sustainability initiatives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Quantitative Analysis and Interdisciplinary Approach to the Sustainable Development Goals)

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19 pages, 338 KB

Open AccessArticle

Top Management Challenges in Using Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Development Goals: An Exploratory Case Study of an Australian Agribusiness

by Amanda Balasooriya and Darshana Sedera

Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 6860; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17156860 - 28 Jul 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 820

Abstract

The integration of artificial intelligence into sustainable agriculture holds significant potential to transform traditional agricultural practices. This transformation of agricultural practices through AI directly intersects with several critical sustainable development goals, such as Climate Action (SDG13), Life Below Water (SDG 14), and Life on Land (SDG 15). However, such implementations are fraught with multifaceted challenges. This study explores the technological, organizational, and environmental challenges confronting top management in the agricultural sector utilizing the technological–organizational–environmental framework. As interest in AI-enabled sustainable initiatives continues to rise globally, this exploration is timely and relevant. The study employs an interpretive case study approach, drawing insights from a carbon sequestration project within the agricultural sector where AI technologies have been integrated to support sustainability goals. The findings reveal six key challenges: sustainable policy inconsistency, AI experts lacking farming knowledge, farmers’ resistance to change, limited knowledge and expertise to deploy AI, missing links in the existing system, and transition costs, which often hinder the achievement of long-term sustainability outcomes. This study emphasizes the importance of field realities and cross-disciplinary collaboration to optimize the role of AI in sustainability efforts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Quantitative Analysis and Interdisciplinary Approach to the Sustainable Development Goals)

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16 pages, 439 KB

Open AccessArticle

Examining the Role of Food Technology Neophobia in Shaping Consumer Attitudes and Intentions to Purchase Genetically Modified Foods

by Eda Yaşa Özeltürkay, Ümit Doğrul, Suzan Oğuz, Deniz Yalçıntaş and Murat Gülmez

Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6416; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146416 - 13 Jul 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 688

Abstract

In recent years, significant changes in food consumption habits have emerged due to various factors, including climate change, population growth, urbanization, and the depletion of natural resources. These changes pose a threat to the stability of global food systems and raise serious concerns about food security. Although this process encourages innovative and sustainable food consumption, it also makes individuals more skeptical and concerned about new foods. In this context, understanding consumer intentions regarding behaviors such as purchasing genetically modified (GM) foods is critical for predicting consumer responses and promoting responsible consumption patterns within the scope of sustainability. This study examined the effects of food technology neophobia and perceived information on attitudes and purchase intentions toward genetically modified (GM) foods. Survey data were collected from 324 participants across Turkey and analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings revealed that food technology neophobia reduces perceived benefits and increases perceived risks, whereas perceived information enhances perceived benefits and lowers perceived risks. Additionally, attitudes were found to influence the intention to purchase GM foods significantly. Global issues, such as climate change and the depletion of natural resources, highlight the importance of innovations in food technology for sustainable food production. Understanding consumer concerns and perceived knowledge levels regarding genetically modified (GM) foods is critical to ensuring that these products are accepted at the societal level in an informed and conscious way. This study contributes to the promotion of sustainable food technologies and responsible consumer behavior, in line with the objectives of Sustainable Development Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Quantitative Analysis and Interdisciplinary Approach to the Sustainable Development Goals)

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44 pages, 1541 KB

Open AccessReview

Unlocking the Commercialization of SAF Through Integration of Industry 4.0: A Technological Perspective

by Sajad Ebrahimi, Jing Chen, Raj Bridgelall, Joseph Szmerekovsky and Jaideep Motwani

Sustainability 2025, 17(16), 7325; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17167325 - 13 Aug 2025

Viewed by 1389

Abstract

Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) has demonstrated significant potential to reduce carbon emissions in the aviation industry. Multiple national and international initiatives have been launched to accelerate SAF adoption, yet large-scale commercialization continues to face technological, operational, and regulatory barriers. Industry 4.0 provides a suite of advanced technologies that can address these challenges and improve SAF operations across the supply chain. This study conducts an integrative literature review to identify and synthesize research on the application of Industry 4.0 technologies in the production and distribution of SAF. The findings highlight that technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, digital twins, and 3D printing can enhance feedstock logistics, optimize conversion pathways, improve certification and compliance processes, and strengthen overall supply chain transparency and resilience. By mapping these applications to the six key workstreams of the SAF Grand Challenge, this study presents a practical framework linking technological innovation to both strategic and operational aspects of SAF commercialization. Integrating Industry 4.0 solutions into SAF production and supply chains contributes to reducing life cycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, strengthens low-carbon energy systems, and supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 13 (SDG 13). The findings from this research offer practical guidance to policymakers, industry practitioners, investors, and technology developers seeking to accelerate the global shift toward carbon neutrality in aviation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Quantitative Analysis and Interdisciplinary Approach to the Sustainable Development Goals)

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