Search Results (266)

Malting is one of the most energy-intensive stages in beer brewing, yet its environmental impacts remain under-characterized despite recent efficiency gains. Barley and malt transport drive significant greenhouse gas emissions in import-dependent countries, while local, small-scale production can offset those savings through lower process efficiencies or higher resource use. This study conducted a cradle-to-gate Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of three Italian malthouses—small, medium, and large—using SimaPro 10.2.0.0 and a functional unit of 1 kg of malted barley delivered by bulk truck to local breweries. Primary data on barley, water, methane, and electricity consumption, as well as waste generation, were collected via questionnaires; secondary data were sourced from Ecoinvent and Agri-Footprint. Impact categories were evaluated using the Cumulative Energy Demand (CED) and Product Environmental Footprint (PEF) methodologies. Barley cultivation dominates the footprint (84–92% of total impacts when using local grain). Drying and transport contribute 3.7–4.4% and 0–8.4% of impacts, respectively, depending on facility scale and import share. Smaller malthouses exhibit higher per-kilogram impacts due to lower energy efficiency and transportation modes. Mitigation strategies —including sustainable agriculture, renewable energy adoption, logistics optimization, and process improvements—can substantially reduce impacts. Notably, sourcing barley from low-impact suppliers alone lowers the carbon footprint from 0.80 to 0.66 kg CO_2e/kg, freshwater eutrophication from 227 to 32 CTU_e/kg, land use from 196 to 136 Pt/kg, and overall PEF from 192 to 81 µPt/kg. These results underscore the critical role of feedstock sourcing and process efficiency in decarbonizing malt production and provide a quantitative baseline for targeted sustainability interventions. Full article

The challenges associated with climate change have led to the need for pro-environmental behaviors, including the consumption of sustainable novel foods. Despite the importance of sustainable food for the environment, there is still a need to further investigate the psychological determinants of consumer behavior change putatively able to promote the use of novel foods. In line with this, the aim of the present study was to investigate the role of readiness to change (RTC) in shaping the intention to consume sustainable foods (e.g., chia seeds and edible insects). RTC refers to a valuable construct composed of seven different dimensions, namely perceived importance of the problem/change, motivation, self-efficacy, effectiveness of proposed solution, social support, action and involvement, and perceived readiness. In keeping with this, a cross-sectional study was conducted by collecting from 1252 participants through an online and anonymous survey. In line with the aim above, a linear discriminant analysis was performed to explore potential non-linear relationships between RTC and novel food consumption. The results highlighted certain RTC dimensions (e.g., perceived importance of the problem, action, and self-efficacy) able to positively support the intention to consume novel foods (e.g., chia seeds and spirulina algae). In conclusion, the study pointed out evidence regarding psychological determinants in terms of RTC able to improve sustainable behaviors, namely the use of novel foods. In the context of sustainability, the present study represents a groundwork for the implementation of future studies in this field of research as well as the development of future policies aimed at promoting awareness and encouraging the adoption of sustainable eating behaviors. Full article

Exposure to microplastics (MPs) in biological systems can lead to particle toxicity, oxidative stress, and inflammatory changes, potentially contributing to cancer development, digestive disorders, respiratory issues, and fertility problems. Traditional cigarette users are particularly vulnerable, as MPs have been detected in 99% of cigarette filters, exposing smokers to these particles through inhalation and ingestion. This narrative review aims to analyze the sources, health implications, and biochemical impact of MPs derived from cigarette consumption. A literature search was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, applying strict inclusion criteria: peer-reviewed studies published between 2010 and 2025 and keywords such as “microplastics”, “smoking”, “tobacco”, “oxidative stress”, “pro-inflammatory cytokines”, “cell viability”, “regulatory policies”, and “health effects”. Findings indicate that MPs are present in biological samples such as blood (77% of cases), placenta (75%), lung tissue (88%), and feces (100%), demonstrating systemic human exposure. The environmental implications of improper cigarette disposal further exacerbate the global microplastic crisis. This review highlights potential mitigation strategies to reduce the health and environmental impact of cigarette-derived microplastics. Full article

This study investigates the influence of digital skills, personal innovativeness, and attitudes toward smart home adoption on digital consumer behavior in Poland, as well as the relationship between digital activity and environmental awareness. In the context of growing interest in sustainable development and digital responsibility, the research aims to identify the psychosocial and technological determinants of conscious online behaviors. The study employs a structured survey (n = 1246) using validated scales, which were analyzed through Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The findings reveal that personal innovativeness is the strongest predictor of digital consumer behavior, followed by digital skills and, to a lesser extent, smart home adoption. Moreover, digitally active consumers demonstrate significantly higher levels of environmental awareness, suggesting that digital engagement fosters pro-environmental attitudes. Gender differences were observed in the strength of these relationships, with digital skills and innovativeness having a greater impact on women’s behavior, while smart home technology attitudes were more relevant among men. These results contribute to the understanding of digital consumer responsibility and its environmental implications, highlighting the importance of digital competence development and technological openness in promoting sustainable consumption patterns. Full article

Epidemiological studies show firefighters have increased risks of cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. To explore links between occupational/environmental exposures and dysbiosis-associated health risks, this case-control study compared oral microbiota of age-matched firefighters (n = 13) and non-firefighters (n = 13) using next-generation sequencing. Firefighters exhibited significantly reduced overall microbial diversity (p ≤ 0.05) and compositional shifts. Firmicutes increased from 53.5% to 68.5%, and Bacteroidetes from 9.5% to 14.1%, while Proteobacteria decreased from 24.6% to 8.3%, and Fusobacteria from 3.3% to 1.1%. This resulted in a higher Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes ratio (5.63 vs. 4.89 in controls), indicating a pro-inflammatory oral microenvironment. At the family level, Streptococcaceae (45.1% to 60.3%) and Prevotellaceae (6.2% to 10.0%) increased, whereas Neisseriaceae (17.7% to 4.9%) and Fusobacteriaceae (2.1% to 0.8%) decreased. The genus Streptococcus dominated firefighters’ microbiota, rising from 45.1% to 60.3%. Diversity indices confirmed reduced microbial evenness and richness in firefighters. Metadata analysis linked frequent fire exposures to perturbations in Comamonadaceae and Carnobacteriaceae (p ≤ 0.05). Barbecue consumption, a source of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, correlated with elevated Spirochaetaceae and Peptostreptococcaceae. This first report on oral dysbiosis in firefighters reveals significant alterations in microbiota abundance, diversity, and evenness, implying potential health risks for this group. Full article

Climate change (CC) is one of the most urgent challenges of our time. Research suggests that pro-environmental behaviors (PEB) are essential to address this crisis, encompassing sustainable consumption (e.g., recycling or saving energy) and active participation (e.g., protesting or donating). In this regard, young adults play a significant role as change agents. Considering the previous literature affirming the importance of CC emotions on PEB, this study aims to analyze the mediating role of eco-worry and eco-anxiety in the relationship between two cognitive antecedents (general willingness to behave pro-environmentally and CC agency) and two types of PEB (sustainable consumption and active participation). To do so, we gathered a sample of 308 young adults aged 18 to 30 years. Results show that eco-worry mediates the relationships between both antecedents (willingness and CC agency) with sustainable consumption and active participation. In contrast, eco-anxiety in young adults only mediates the relationship between CC agency and active participation. Our findings suggest that eco-worry plays a crucial role in promoting PEB more broadly, while eco-anxiety appears to be only relevant in influencing active participation. These results contrast with others observed in the adult population, so further studies are needed to confirm these findings. Full article

One of the most important trends in today’s construction is energy efficiency. Nowadays, construction is undergoing a revolution thanks to modern technologies. Technological innovations not only speed up the construction process but also improve the quality, durability, and safety of the structure, ensure energy efficiency, as well as aesthetics and comfort of use. Modern technologies, such as photovoltaic panels and heat pumps, can produce their own electricity and heat for buildings’ own needs with minimal use of fossil fuels. This not only leads to economic benefits, but also has a positive impact on the environment. Furthermore, choosing the right materials is the key factor in sustainable construction. Concrete, steel and other traditional building materials, although durable, have a negative impact on the environment due to the high energy consumption during their production. This study employed a SWOT-TOWS analysis to determine the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of the basic construction materials used for sustainable building. Its purpose was to compile all construction materials and evaluate them using the same technological, environmental, and socio-economic indicators. The results of the analysis allowed for the comparison of materials in terms of their usability in sustainable construction and provided the opportunity to determine strategies for their further application, thereby filling the research gap in this area. Taking into account care of the natural environment, the article presents current trends in modern sustainable construction in the world. Using SWOT analysis, the advantages and disadvantages of sustainable construction were indicated, and the economic, social, legal, environmental, and technological barriers to their development were discussed. Particular attention was paid to the use of pro-ecological technologies that reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Full article

This paper examines the phenomenon of collaborative consumption among Generation Z in Ukraine, focusing on its significance for sustainable consumption and the factors driving its popularity. In the context of increasing digitalization and environmental challenges, the authors analyze the extent to which young Ukrainians engage in the sharing economy and the motivations behind their choices. Special attention is given to the unique characteristics of Generation Z in Ukraine, who, unlike their Western peers, are marked by a strong sense of patriotism, greater social responsibility, and a desire for economic stability—factors influenced by the country’s challenging geopolitical situation. The study was conducted using an online survey (CAWI) with a sample of 292 respondents in 2024. The results indicate that 54.8% of the respondents show a propensity for collaborative consumption (PCC), with key motivators being convenience (90%), the need for social connections (70%), and environmental awareness (68%). Individuals inclined toward resource sharing tend to exhibit greater openness, loyalty, and innovativeness. However, the lack of significant differences in their broader sustainable consumption behaviors suggests that collaborative consumption is perceived primarily as a practical solution rather than a consciously pro-environmental strategy. These findings have important practical implications—companies should focus on building trust in sharing platforms, offering flexible pricing models, and emphasizing both financial savings and environmental benefits. Meanwhile, policymakers can support the growth of the sharing economy through regulations that foster innovation and educational campaigns promoting sustainable consumer behavior. Full article

Given the relevance of sustainability, this study analyzed the impacts on water consumption in the production chain of ornamental stone pieces (marble and granite) and quartz-based composites. The goal was to compare the water demand throughout the process, from extraction to manufacturing, using 1 m³ blocks as the unit of analysis. This study was conducted in Bahia, a state with significant ornamental stone production, located in a semi-arid region with limited water availability. The methodology included data collection from participating companies, combined with sectorial information and the Ecoinvent version 3.3 database, modeled using the SimaPro 8.0 software. The impact assessment was carried out using the AWaRE (Water Scarcity Footprint) and ReCiPe Endpoint methods, following the guidelines of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), as per ABNT NBR ISO 14040 standards. The results showed that marble and granite have lower water demand and environmental impact in the categories of particulate matter, human toxicity, ecotoxicity, eutrophication, and acidification when compared to quartz composites. The highest environmental impact occurred during the processing stage, which requires a large amount of water and generates effluents, losses, and particulate matter. The results indicate that marble and granite demand less water and exhibit lower environmental impacts—across categories like particulate matter, human toxicity, ecotoxicity, eutrophication, and acidification—than quartz composites. Notably, the processing stage incurred the highest environmental burden due to its intensive water use and consequent generation of effluents, losses, and particulate matter. These findings highlight the necessity of efficient water management and the adoption of circular economy principles—including water reuse and waste valorization—to promote long-term sustainability in the ornamental stone industry. Full article

Hydrogen (H₂) production from biomass has emerged as a promising alternative to fossil-based pathways, addressing the global demand for low-carbon energy solutions. This study compares the environmental impacts of two biomass-based H₂ production processes, biogas reforming and agricultural residue gasification, through a life cycle assessment (LCA). Using real-world data from the literature, the analysis considered key system boundaries for each process, including biogas production, reforming, and infrastructure, for the former, and biomass cultivation, syngas generation, and offgas management, for the latter. Environmental impacts were evaluated using SimaPro software (Version 9.4) and the ReCiPe midpoint (H) method. The results revealed that biogas reforming emits approximately 5.047 kg CO₂-eq per kg of H₂, which is 4.89 times higher than the emissions from agricultural residue gasification (1.30 kg CO₂-eq/kg H₂), demonstrating the latter’s superior environmental performance. Gasification consumes fewer fossil resources (3.20 vs. 10.42 kg oil-eq) and poses significantly lower risks to human health (1.51 vs. 23.28 kg 1,4-DCB-eq). Gasification water consumption is markedly higher (5.37 compared to biogas reforming (0.041 m³/kg H₂)), which is an important factor to consider for sustainability. These findings highlight gasification as a more sustainable H₂ production method and emphasize its potential as an eco-friendly solution. To advance sustainability in energy systems, integrating socio-economic studies with LCA is recommended, alongside prioritizing agricultural residue gasification for hydrogen production. Full article

Industrial symbiosis (IS) plays a crucial role in enhancing sustainability within industrial ecosystems by facilitating the exchange of waste, by-products, energy, and resources among different industries. This collaborative approach reduces resource consumption, minimizes waste generation, lowers disposal costs, and creates economic opportunities through synergistic relationships. This study focuses on the production of potassium nitrate (KNO₃) in the Escombreras industrial area in Spain, employing life cycle assessment (LCA) and life cycle cost analysis (LCC) to evaluate the impact of IS strategies. The ReCiPe method, implemented through SimaPro software and supported by market data from the Ecoinvent 3.8 database, is used for a comparative analysis between conventional KNO₃ production and improved technologies that promote circular economy principles. The LCA and LCC methodologies provide a comprehensive evaluation of both environmental and economic performance, considering key factors influenced by IS synergies. Results demonstrate significant environmental and economic benefits from the integration of IS into KNO₃ production, revealing the potential for improved sustainability and competitiveness through circular economy practices. This research provides valuable insights into how IS can enhance both environmental performance and cost-efficiency in industrial processes. These findings support the integration of IS as a viable pathway toward sustainable and cost-effective fertilizer production. Full article

In the context of growing environmental concerns and the demand for more sustainable manufacturing practices, this study evaluates the environmental and economic performance of two production routes for a stainless steel support block used in steel mills. A comparative Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Life Cycle Costing (LCC) were conducted to assess a conventional subtractive manufacturing process based on Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining versus a hybrid approach that combines Plasma Arc-Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (PA-WAAM) with CNC finishing. The LCA was carried out using ReCiPe 2016 Midpoint and Endpoint methodologies in SimaPro, while the LCC employed a cradle-to-gate cost model. Results showed that the hybrid WAAM-CNC route reduced average environmental impacts by 49% across 18 categories and decreased steel consumption by approximately 70% due to near-net-shape fabrication. Although the hybrid method incurred an approximate 3.5 times increase in unit production cost, this was primarily attributed to equipment investment. In contrast, operational costs such as labor, materials, and consumables were significantly lower—by 66%, 28%, and 45%, respectively. These findings support the hybrid approach as a more sustainable manufacturing alternative with the potential for long-term cost optimization as additive technologies mature. Full article

This systematic literature review examines the relationship between Connectedness to Nature (CN) and Pro-Environmental Behaviors (PEBs). Considering the worsening climate change and the current climate emergency, pro-environmental behavior has gained significant attention in the literature. PEBs aim to minimize negative impacts and maximize positive impacts on the environment. Researchers have focused on the Connectedness to Nature as a potential driver of Pro-Environmental Behavior. However, there is no universally agreed definition of this construct, which can be understood as a profound connection with nature. The primary aim of this study is to investigate the existence of a relationship between Connectedness to Nature (CN) and Pro-Environmental Behaviors (PEBs). To determine if such a relationship be identified, this study further attempts to clarify its direction and assess the magnitude of this association. This literature review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses). To identify relevant studies, we searched multiple academic databases, including Google Scholar, PubMed, Sociological Abstracts, PsycArticles, PsycINFO, Science Direct, and Academic Search Complete. The search strategy involved the use of the keywords: “Connectedness to Nature” and “Pro-Environmental Behavior”. The search process yielded a total of 2280 records after the removal of duplicates. Among these, only 29 studies met the established inclusion criteria and were therefore selected for analysis. The findings reported in the reviewed literature consistently indicate the existence of a significant and positive relationship between Connectedness to Nature (CN) and Pro-Environmental Behaviors (PEBs), although this association appears to exhibit considerable variability across studies. Overall, individual Pro-Environmental Behaviors showed a stronger association with Connectedness to Nature (CN) compared to activism-related behaviors. The findings of this review highlight the potential value, for practitioners engaged in environmental protection, of promoting and enhancing individuals’ connectedness to the natural world. Strengthening CN may represent an effective strategy to foster Pro-Environmental Behaviors, particularly in relation to sustainable consumption practices and recycling activities. Full article

Sustainable development purposes require strong emphasis on green food promotion as an essential component. The decision-making process of Generation X members toward green food consumption creates important effects on both personal health and environmental sustainability and social programs and economic stability. This research examines environmental self-identity and environmental values as predictors of green food consumption intentions with analysis of attitude and relevant intermediate factors that include personal standards as well as perceived control over behavior. The researcher gathered data through convenience sampling from 480 Chinese Generation X participants. Statistical analysis followed the pretest to perform assessments for reliability and validity testing. Structural equation modeling (SEM) processed the data while validating confirmatory factor analysis and path analysis testing. Data analysis demonstrates that environmental values directly drive green food consumption intentions. These values operate through two key pathways: (1) shaping positive attitudes toward green food, and (2) reinforcing subjective norms and perceived behavioral control. These mechanisms collectively promote pro-environmental choices with measurable ecological and social benefits. The research shows self-identity as an environmental entity positively affects green food consumption because it strengthens users’ self-belief as eco-conscious consumers leading to intensified attitudes and subjective norms and perception of behavior control. The research enriches the TPB (theory of planned behavior) by proving that environmental attitudes respond to environmental factors including social environments along with economic capacity and living conditions to shape generation X consumers’ intentions to buy green food. The findings advance sustainable consumption theories by revealing generation-specific behavioral mechanisms, while providing actionable insights for designing targeted green marketing strategies and policy interventions. Full article

The aim of this study is to evaluate the environmental impact of solar energy by analyzing its emissions, resource consumption, and waste generation throughout its life cycle. As one of the most widely adopted energy sources, solar power offers substantial benefits in reducing greenhouse gas emissions; however, its broader environmental footprint requires careful examination. The production, operation, and disposal of solar panels contribute to pollution, water consumption, and hazardous waste accumulation, with an estimated 250,000 tons of solar waste reported in 2016 alone. Furthermore, solar power generation requires significant water resources, averaging 650 gallons per megawatt-hour of electricity. A key focus of this study is the emissions associated with solar technology, particularly during panel manufacturing and operation. Using HOMER Pro software, this research quantifies the emissions from Trina Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels (345 Wp), revealing an annual output of 49,259 kg of carbon dioxide, 214 kg of sulfur dioxide, and 104 kg of nitrogen dioxide. This Study obtained using HOMER Pro primarily account for operational emissions and do not include full lifecycle impacts such as raw material extraction, transportation, and disposal. These findings highlight the trade-offs between solar energy’s environmental advantages and its indirect ecological costs. While solar systems contribute to energy security and long-term economic savings, their environmental implications must be factored into energy planning and sustainability strategies. This study underscores the importance of developing greener manufacturing processes, improving recycling strategies, and optimizing solar farm operations to reduce emissions and resource depletion. By providing a comprehensive assessment of solar energy’s environmental impact, this research contributes valuable insights for policymakers, researchers, and industry leaders seeking to balance the benefits of solar power with sustainable environmental management. Full article