Sustainability

19 pages, 1374 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Strategic and Operational Levels of CSR Marketing Communication for Sustainable Orientation of a Company: A Case Study from Bangladesh

by Beata Zatwarnicka-Madura, Dariusz Siemieniako, Ewa Glińska and Yauheniya Sazonenka

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 555; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020555 - 21 Jan 2019

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 8882

Abstract

Companies’ increasing social awareness has led to the development of a corporate social responsibility orientation, whose implementation impacts on their overall marketing communication, both at its strategic and operational levels. The issue of integration of both levels is recognized as a research gap [...] Read more.

Companies’ increasing social awareness has led to the development of a corporate social responsibility orientation, whose implementation impacts on their overall marketing communication, both at its strategic and operational levels. The issue of integration of both levels is recognized as a research gap and is thus, the main interest of this article. A company’s CSR orientation depends on the context of social problems, specifically in our case, the need for women’s empowerment as well as the creation of sustainable (socially and environmentally) workplace conditions in Bangladesh. The aim of the paper is to investigate and propose ways of integrating strategic and operational levels of CSR marketing communication. We applied the case study research method and specifically with the use of exploratory and descriptive methods, which posits this study within the logic of abductive approach, representing a creative and pragmatic process. The results refer, on the one hand, to the proposition of CSR and sustainable orientation of the one-page strategic plan, but on the other to the merging of the commercial and non-commercial activities of Aarong, a Bangladesh based company. Relying on the one-page strategic plan (OPSP) as a tool of marketing communication at the strategic level, we demonstrated the process of creating a video script scenario as a useful tool at the operational level of marketing communication. The proposed approach to building marketing communication around CSR and sustainable orientation makes the marketing communication consistent and clearer to the audience. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Communicative and Behavioral Interventions to Increase Sustainability)

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11 pages, 3117 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Thermodynamic Cycle Concepts for High-Efficiency Power Plans. Part A: Public Power Plants 60+

by Krzysztof Kosowski, Karol Tucki, Marian Piwowarski, Robert Stępień, Olga Orynycz, Wojciech Włodarski and Anna Bączyk

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 554; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020554 - 21 Jan 2019

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 4748

Abstract

An analysis was carried out for different thermodynamic cycles of power plants with air turbines. Variants with regeneration and different cogeneration systems were considered. In the paper, we propose a new modification of a gas turbine cycle with the combustion chamber at the [...] Read more.

An analysis was carried out for different thermodynamic cycles of power plants with air turbines. Variants with regeneration and different cogeneration systems were considered. In the paper, we propose a new modification of a gas turbine cycle with the combustion chamber at the turbine outlet. A special air by-pass system of the combustor was applied and, in this way, the efficiency of the turbine cycle was increased by a few points. The proposed cycle equipped with a regenerator can provide higher efficiency than a classical gas turbine cycle with a regenerator. The best arrangements of combined air–steam cycles achieved very high values for overall cycle efficiency—that is, higher than 60%. An increase in efficiency to such degree would decrease fuel consumption, contribute to the mitigation of carbon dioxide emissions, and strengthen the sustainability of the region served by the power plant. This increase in efficiency might also contribute to the economic resilience of the area. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Energy Systems: From Primary to End-Use)

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21 pages, 2712 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Evolution of Urban Spatial Structure in Brasília: Focusing on the Role of Urban Development Policies

by Cayo Costa and Sugie Lee

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 553; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020553 - 21 Jan 2019

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 10835

Abstract

Many cities evolve over time, but some are designed from scratch. Brasília is presented as a unique case on urban planning for having been built from figuratively nothing, based on a design concept that was the brainchild of Brazilian urbanist Lucio Costa. The [...] Read more.

Many cities evolve over time, but some are designed from scratch. Brasília is presented as a unique case on urban planning for having been built from figuratively nothing, based on a design concept that was the brainchild of Brazilian urbanist Lucio Costa. The present study aimed to analyze the interrelation between urban planning and spatial structure change over time to understand the role of urban development policies on the spatial organization of Brasília. The study was conducted based on three interrelated aspects: (1) The intentions of the plans, (2) territorial governance, and (3) external conditions. The results showed that the circumstances of territory occupation—characterized by a polycentric development system with dispersed satellite cities economically dependent on Brasília—have been gradually replaced by strategic development policies, mainly influenced by social and political driving forces. Accordingly, this research suggests a reconsideration of the scale of development instrumentations based on a better understanding of the metropolitan area of Brasília as a unique structure by strengthening its interrelations and seeking better coordination of interests and adaptability of governance processes. Full article

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

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24 pages, 873 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Public Grants on Firm-Level Productivity: Findings from the Czech Food Industry

by Ondřej Dvouletý and Ivana Blažková

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 552; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020552 - 21 Jan 2019

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 5587

Abstract

Studying the effects of public entrepreneurship and small- and medium-sized enterprise (SME) policies on productivity (i.e., technological efficiency) is important, because the investment policies primarily aim to reduce allocation inefficiencies, enable usage of economies of scale, promote new production methods and technological development. [...] Read more.

Studying the effects of public entrepreneurship and small- and medium-sized enterprise (SME) policies on productivity (i.e., technological efficiency) is important, because the investment policies primarily aim to reduce allocation inefficiencies, enable usage of economies of scale, promote new production methods and technological development. We reviewed the recently published studies, and we show that they often lack fundamental information, such as a sample description and numbers of supported and non-supported firms. Keeping in mind the importance of transparent and rigorous empirical evaluations, we evaluated the effects of investment support from the European Regional and Development Fund (ERDF) on the productivity of the firms operating in the Czech food processing industry two years after the end of the programme. Methodologically, we apply the propensity score matching approach (PSM) combined with a difference in differences approach (DID) based on the firm-level data accounting for 157 firms (i.e., 77.3% of all beneficiaries within the industry) and a control sample of 1224 firms that have not been supported by the intervention. We use three measures of productivity—production efficiency, labour productivity and total factor productivity (TFP). The obtained findings showed that investment subsidy had a positive impact on labour productivity of supported firms. However, the effects on TFP were negative. The impact on production efficiency indicator was proven to be inconclusive. It follows from the results that the productivity of subsidised firms did not improve through an internal increase in efficiency (efficiency of the use of inputs), which indicates no significant technological change. The subsidy decision-making processes should be more careful and transparent to ensure allocating resources only to the projects with growth potential. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Researching Entrepreneurship at Different Levels: Micro, Meso and Macro)

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20 pages, 1450 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Resource Integration, Reconfiguration, and Sustainable Competitive Advantages: The Differences between Traditional and Emerging Industries

by Hongjia Ma, Qing Sun, Yang Gao and Yuan Gao

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 551; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020551 - 21 Jan 2019

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 5601

Abstract

Emerging industries bear great difference from traditional industries. It is valuable to explore the effectiveness of different resource management methods in the two industries. Based on this, the purposes of this paper are first to define and distinguish two core resource management methods [...] Read more.

Emerging industries bear great difference from traditional industries. It is valuable to explore the effectiveness of different resource management methods in the two industries. Based on this, the purposes of this paper are first to define and distinguish two core resource management methods (i.e., resource integration and resource reconfiguration), and second to research the different impact paths of resource integration and resource reconfiguration on the sustainable competitive advantages in different industries. Primarily, in order to achieve these purposes, this paper explores the generation path of resource integration and resource reconfiguration from the perspective of organizational learning; secondly, the empirical analysis method is applied to examine the different influences between resource integration and resource reconfiguration on sustainable competitive advantages. Based on 208 samples in traditional industries and 220 samples in emerging industries, the results show that resource integration and resource reconfiguration are the consequence of organizational learning. In traditional industries, resource integration and resource reconfiguration have a positive impact on sustainable competitive advantages, respectively, resulting in a “concerto effect” on sustainable competitive advantages. While, in emerging industries, though resource integration has a positive impact on sustainable competitive advantages, however, there is an inverted U-shaped relationship between resource reconfiguration and sustainable competitive advantages. In such a situation, the “concerto effect” disappeared. This paper not only reveals the uniqueness of different resource management methods in different industries but also enriches the applications of resource management theories in different situations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Value Management–New Concepts and Contemporary Trends)

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20 pages, 1362 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Relationship between Formal and Informal Institutions, Social Capital, and Entrepreneurial Activity in Developing and Developed Countries

by Diana Escandon-Barbosa, David Urbano-Pulido and Andrea Hurtado-Ayala

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 550; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020550 - 21 Jan 2019

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 7536

Abstract

Most research on entrepreneurial activities and institutions focuses on identifying certain relationships between formal and informal institutions and entrepreneurship across economies. In this study, we advance entrepreneurship research by examining how social capital as a characteristic of the institutional environment affects the relationship [...] Read more.

Most research on entrepreneurial activities and institutions focuses on identifying certain relationships between formal and informal institutions and entrepreneurship across economies. In this study, we advance entrepreneurship research by examining how social capital as a characteristic of the institutional environment affects the relationship between formal and informal institutions and entrepreneurial activities, differentially, in developing and developed economies. Supporting institutional theory and social capital theory, the results from our sample of 39 countries from 2001 to 2014, which contains over 30,000 identified individuals, indicate that social capital has a stronger influence in the relations between institutions and entrepreneurship. In developing countries, this influence is greater in the relationship between property rights, access to credit, subjective insecurity, and entrepreneurial activity. In developed countries, the greater effect of social capital is on the relationship between corruption and entrepreneurial activity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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15 pages, 2654 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Typical Combined Travel Mode Choice Utility Model in Multimodal Transportation Network

by Yue Liu, Jun Chen, Weiguang Wu and Jiao Ye

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 549; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020549 - 21 Jan 2019

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 5699

Abstract

The primary purpose of this paper is to explore the mechanism of combined travel mode choice in multimodal networks. To meet the objective, stated preference survey and revealed preference survey are designed under short, middle, and long travel distance scenarios. Data including travelers’ [...] Read more.

The primary purpose of this paper is to explore the mechanism of combined travel mode choice in multimodal networks. To meet the objective, stated preference survey and revealed preference survey are designed under short, middle, and long travel distance scenarios. Data including travelers’ socio-economic/personal information, trip characteristics, and mode choice are collected and analyzed. To recognize the influential factors of mode choice, a nested logit model is established. A value of time estimation and sensitivity analysis are conducted to quantify the influencing degree. The results reveal that cost has a significant influence on the short-distance travel mode; waiting time is perceived as the most important factor in short-distance scenario, and transfer-walking time as the most significant in middle and long distance scenario. Moreover, the traveler is more sensitive to the decrease of the transfer walking time than increase. Regarding socio-economic/personal information, travelers aged 40–50 prefer to choose combined travel mode than other ages; female travelers have a greater acceptance of metro-based transfer travel than male; individuals with higher economic level have a positive image of metro than bus. Full article

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28 pages, 6636 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Urban Form and Mobility Choices: Informing about Sustainable Travel Alternatives, Carbon Emissions and Energy Use from Transportation in Swedish Neighbourhoods

by Todor Stojanovski

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 548; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020548 - 21 Jan 2019

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 8602

Abstract

The lack of mobility choices in many Swedish neighbourhoods and cities designed for automobiles hinders the possibilities to shift towards more sustainable travel alternatives. Urban designers and planners can help with redesigning these neighbourhoods and creating urban forms that encourage walking, cycling and [...] Read more.

The lack of mobility choices in many Swedish neighbourhoods and cities designed for automobiles hinders the possibilities to shift towards more sustainable travel alternatives. Urban designers and planners can help with redesigning these neighbourhoods and creating urban forms that encourage walking, cycling and increased use of public transportation if they are informed about the environmental performance and carbon implications of transportation systems in existing and newly planned neighbourhoods. This paper proposes a mobility choices model based on urban form and accessibility factors commonly used in urban planning and design practices. The mobility choices model produces heat maps and visually informs about the integration with walking, cycling, public transportation and private car, modal shares, carbon emissions and transportation energy use. This information can (potentially) trigger urban transformation or redesign to better integrate sustainable travel alternatives in these neighbourhoods and contribute to more sustainable cities. Many houses can have an excellent environmental performance as buildings but they can be located at a distance where it is impossible to walk, cycle or use public transportation. The benefits of energy efficient and carbon neutral home then disappears with extensive travel and commuting by automobile. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Transportation and the Built Environment)

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16 pages, 280 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Learning to Navigate (in) the Anthropocene

by Mathias Decuypere, Hanne Hoet and Joke Vandenabeele

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 547; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020547 - 21 Jan 2019

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4833

Abstract

Over the last decades, the extent of human impact on Earth and the atmosphere has been the subject of large-scale scientific investigations. It is increasingly argued that this impact is of a geologically-significant magnitude, to the extent that we have entered a new [...] Read more.

Over the last decades, the extent of human impact on Earth and the atmosphere has been the subject of large-scale scientific investigations. It is increasingly argued that this impact is of a geologically-significant magnitude, to the extent that we have entered a new geological epoch—the Anthropocene. However, the field of Higher Education for Sustainable Development (HESD) research has been slow in engaging in the Anthropocene debates. This article addresses that research gap by offering a theoretical analysis of the role and position of HESD, and more particularly of the lecturer and the student, within the Anthropocene. At present, the majority of HESD research can be categorized as either instrumental or emancipatory. This article’s central aim is to develop a third, navigational approach toward HESD research. In order to do so, the article first argues that developing understandings of the Anthropocene reconfigure traditional humanist conceptualizations of time, space and collectives. The article proceeds with advancing new, relational conceptualizations of educational spaces (as learning milieus), educational times (as rhythms that slow the present) and learning (as a situated activity that takes place through belonging). Embedded within these new conceptualizations, the proposed navigational approach aims to enable educational actors to orient themselves and to consequently navigate in, and to learn by making connections with, our more-than-human world. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Teacher Professional Development in ESD)

14 pages, 1708 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Soil Microbial Community Structure and Physicochemical Properties in Amomum tsaoko-based Agroforestry Systems in the Gaoligong Mountains, Southwest China

by Guizhou Liu, Man Jin, Chuantao Cai, Chaonan Ma, Zhongsuzhi Chen and Lunlun Gao

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 546; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020546 - 21 Jan 2019

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 4457

Abstract

Amomum tsaoko is cultivated in forests of tropical and subtropical regions of China, and the planting area is expanding gradually. However, little attention has been paid to the impact of A. tsaoko cultivation on the soil characteristics of the regions. We analyzed the [...] Read more.

Amomum tsaoko is cultivated in forests of tropical and subtropical regions of China, and the planting area is expanding gradually. However, little attention has been paid to the impact of A. tsaoko cultivation on the soil characteristics of the regions. We analyzed the effects of the A. tsaoko-forest agroforestry system (AFs) on the composition of soil microbial communities with increasing stand ages. We also compared the soil physicochemical properties, microbial biomass, and phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) composition between native forest (NF) and AFs. The results showed that the level of total carbon, nitrogen, and organic matter dramatically dropped in AFs with increasing stand ages. pH affected other soil properties and showed close correlation to total carbon (P = 0.0057), total nitrogen (P = 0.0146), organic matter (P = 0.0075), hydrolyzable nitrogen (P = 0.0085), available phosphorus (P < 0.0001), and available potassium (P = 0.0031). PLFAs of bacteria (F = 4.650, P = 0.037), gram-positive bacteria (F = 6.640, P = 0.015), anaerobe (F = 5.672, P = 0.022), and total PLFA (F = 4.349, P = 0.043) were significantly affected by different treatments, with the greatest value for NF treatment, and least value for AF5. However, the microbial biomass declined during the initial 5 years of cultivation, but it reached the previous level after more than 10 years of cultivation. Our research suggests that AFs is a profitable land-use practice in the Gaoligong Mountains and that AFs showed a recovering trend of the soil nutrient condition with increasing stand ages. However, the severe loss of nitrogen in the soil of AFs requires additional nitrogen during cultivation to restore it to pre-cultivation levels. Full article

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21 pages, 1231 KiB

Open AccessConcept Paper

Logistics Innovation in China: The Lens of Chinese Daoism

by Yu Gong, Lujie Chen, Fu Jia and Richard Wilding

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 545; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020545 - 21 Jan 2019

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 6382

Abstract

Innovation is vital for the logistics industry. This paper develops a Daoism-based conceptual model for logistics innovation in China. It identifies research gaps in this area and provides directions for future research. Following a content-based literature review methodology, 45 studies were selected. We [...] Read more.

Innovation is vital for the logistics industry. This paper develops a Daoism-based conceptual model for logistics innovation in China. It identifies research gaps in this area and provides directions for future research. Following a content-based literature review methodology, 45 studies were selected. We identified five research themes: interpretation of logistics innovation; Chinese institutional environment for logistics innovation; innovation generation; innovation adoption; and innovation capability. We integrate the process view and outcome view of logistics innovation and propose that logistics capability, as an innovation outcome, is reflected and measured by innovation generation and adoption. This study is probably one of the first conceptual development papers on logistics innovation in China, providing a model for innovation within this context. It provides new avenues of research in this emerging, albeit important, area of research. Our conceptual framework utilizes Chinese Daoism philosophical thinking to provide a new lens for logistics innovation that is sensitive to the cultural environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmentally Sustainable Third Party Logistics)

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17 pages, 786 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatial Spillover of House Prices: An Empirical Study of the Yangtze Delta Urban Agglomeration in China

by Ling Zhang, He Wang, Yan Song and Haizhen Wen

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 544; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020544 - 21 Jan 2019

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4077

Abstract

This study investigates the spatial dependence of house prices in the Yangtze Delta Urban Agglomeration since the year 2000. According to Moran’s I index and the LISA scatter plot derived from a cross-section data set, the spatial dependence of house prices can be [...] Read more.

This study investigates the spatial dependence of house prices in the Yangtze Delta Urban Agglomeration since the year 2000. According to Moran’s I index and the LISA scatter plot derived from a cross-section data set, the spatial dependence of house prices can be traced across the 25 cities in the agglomeration and became more evident after 2005. This study develops a spatial panel model with geographical distance and economic distance weight matrices. Spatial effects significantly influenced house prices in both cases but the intensity of the former was weaker than for the latter. Income, proportion of the tertiary industry, and amenity exhibited significant indirect effects on house prices in other cities in the inner region of the agglomeration, while competition of population between cities with economic proximity exerted negative indirect effects. Furthermore, urban industrial structure, innovation capability, and urbanization degree revealed differences in terms of spatial dependence among various city groups. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Smart Cities and Villages)

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14 pages, 620 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Does Fertilizer Education Program Increase the Technical Efficiency of Chemical Fertilizer Use? Evidence from Wheat Production in China

by Pingping Wang, Wendong Zhang, Minghao Li and Yijun Han

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 543; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020543 - 21 Jan 2019

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 5213

Abstract

Farmers in China and many other developing countries suffer from low technical efficiency of chemical fertilizer use, which leads to excessive nutrient runoff and other environmental problems. A major cause of the low efficiency is lack of science-based information and recommendations for nutrient [...] Read more.

Farmers in China and many other developing countries suffer from low technical efficiency of chemical fertilizer use, which leads to excessive nutrient runoff and other environmental problems. A major cause of the low efficiency is lack of science-based information and recommendations for nutrient application. In response, the Chinese government launched an ambitious nationwide program called the “Soil Testing and Fertilizer Recommendation Project” (STFRP) in 2005 to increase the efficiency of chemical fertilizer use. However, there has been no systematic evaluation of this program. Using data from a nationally representative household survey, and using wheat as an example, this paper first quantifies the technical efficiency of chemical fertilizer use (TEFU) by conducting stochastic frontier analysis (SFA), then evaluates the impact of STFRP on the TEFU using a generalized difference-in-difference approach. We found that STFRP, on average, increased TEFU in wheat production by about 4%, which was robust across various robustness checks. The lessons learned from STFRP will be valuable for China’s future outreach efforts, as well as for other countries considering similar nutrient management policies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Environmental and Sustainability Policy: Assessing the Past and charting a Course for the Future)

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11 pages, 1709 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Challenges and Strategies of Food Security under Rapid Urbanization in China

by Yong-sheng Wang

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 542; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020542 - 21 Jan 2019

Cited by 63 | Viewed by 8775

Abstract

Food security has received wide attention in China for a long time due to the challenges of a huge population and limited farmland area. Under conditions of rapid urbanization, the food scenario has changed, creating major challenges for massive populations in China. This [...] Read more.

Food security has received wide attention in China for a long time due to the challenges of a huge population and limited farmland area. Under conditions of rapid urbanization, the food scenario has changed, creating major challenges for massive populations in China. This paper intends to reveal the impact of urbanization on food security and to propose strategies for mitigating the threats to it. Total grain production has continuously increased, but most of the grain production has been distributed in the northern region since 2006. Although the per capita rural income has increased significantly since 1980, the agricultural income ratio has consistently declined from 56.13% in 1983 to 26.61% in 2012. A dramatic shift in food consumption away from grain towards meat, poultry, eggs, milk and liquor has been found in both rural and urban areas. The faster agricultural water consumption growth in northern China over southern China helped close the gap. There has been net increase of cultivated land in northern China, whereas southern China has seen a net decrease. The medium- and low-level cultivation ratios of land were 52.84% and 17.69%, respectively, in 2015. This paper concluded that food security in China could be ensured by increasing production and optimizing consumption. It suggested that enhanced grain production capacity, strict water management, and land consolidation engineering as well as agricultural industrialization could be used for maintaining grain production. Food consumption itself can be managed by optimizing resident dietary pattern, reducing food waste, adjusting grain consumption structure and moderating food imports policy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Agriculture)

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15 pages, 285 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Management of Contemporary Art Galleries: A Delphi Survey for the Spanish Art Market

by Alicia Mateos-Ronco and Nieves Peiró Torralba

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 541; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020541 - 21 Jan 2019

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4235

Abstract

The art market operates in a very different way from conventional economic markets, ranging from its behaviors of supply and demand, the trading of goods, and the economic agents intervening in it. In addition, it is a highly unregulated market, with very little [...] Read more.

The art market operates in a very different way from conventional economic markets, ranging from its behaviors of supply and demand, the trading of goods, and the economic agents intervening in it. In addition, it is a highly unregulated market, with very little standardized information in economic terms. This paper focuses on art galleries, which are the most influential intermediaries in the Spanish primary contemporary fine-art market and perform a role that goes beyond the mere distribution of works of art. This study develops and applies a prospective methodology based on the subjective information compiled by experts, known as the Delphi method, to identify and evaluate the factors that determine the current situation and future outlook for Spanish contemporary art galleries. The results show, on one hand, that the method employed constitutes a valid option to provide reliable information. In addition, they show that the survival of these organizations will depend on their ability to adapt to the changing conditions of the economic environment, reactivating and internationalizing demand, and redirecting their business model towards sustainable management by implementing appropriate business management models and techniques. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Cultural Management)

14 pages, 1574 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Adaptive Reuse Practices through User Experiences: Traditional Houses in the Walled City of Nicosia

by Kağan Günçe and Damla Mısırlısoy

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 540; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020540 - 21 Jan 2019

Cited by 46 | Viewed by 6640

Abstract

The conservation of traditional residential architecture is crucial in terms of sociocultural continuity. When the traditional houses are no longer used for residential purposes, new functions should be assigned to them for the continuity of the heritage buildings. However, new functions should respect [...] Read more.

The conservation of traditional residential architecture is crucial in terms of sociocultural continuity. When the traditional houses are no longer used for residential purposes, new functions should be assigned to them for the continuity of the heritage buildings. However, new functions should respect the originality of the heritage building. This research focuses on the conservation and reuse of traditional houses located in the walled city of Nicosia. The walled city is divided into two parts as north and south with a buffer zone between the two. This paper includes case studies of re-functioned traditional houses from the two parts. The study questions the appropriateness of the new functions that have been assigned to the traditional houses both in the northern and southern parts of the city. This research aims to measure and compare the success of the adaptive reuse practices through user experiences. As the method of study, the literature survey was carried out to identify different aspects of adaptive reuse projects. Then, selected buildings were observed through site surveys in order to discover the current condition of the adaptive reuse projects. The third step was to complete the questionnaires with different users in order to question the success of the adaptive reuse projects through the user experience. Finally, the collected data were evaluated and discussed. The respondents were asked to answer questions about each building, which are organized under the three categories of sociocultural, economic, and physical aspects of the heritage buildings. As observed with the evaluated case studies, heritage buildings that are re-functioned with the public use, such as commercial, cultural, and educational use, are more successful in contributing to the sociocultural and economic development of the city. The preservation and reuse of abandoned traditional houses in the walled city contribute to the continuity and livability of the city. For the continuity of the heritage buildings, sociocultural, economic, and physical aspects should be taken into consideration with a holistic approach. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Tourism, Culture, and Heritage)

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13 pages, 573 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Club Convergence and Factors of Per Capita Transportation Carbon Emissions in China

by Caiquan Bai, Yuehua Mao, Yuan Gong and Chen Feng

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 539; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020539 - 21 Jan 2019

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 3756

Abstract

China is the largest carbon dioxide emitter in the world, and reducing China’s transportation carbon emissions is of great significance for the world. Using the Chinese provincial data from 2005–2015, this article analyzes the convergence characteristics of per capita transportation carbon emissions in [...] Read more.

China is the largest carbon dioxide emitter in the world, and reducing China’s transportation carbon emissions is of great significance for the world. Using the Chinese provincial data from 2005–2015, this article analyzes the convergence characteristics of per capita transportation carbon emissions in China. It employs the log t regression test method and the club clustering algorithm developed by Phillips and Sul (2007) to separate the provinces and municipalities in China into three convergence clubs with different transportation carbon emission levels and one divergent group. Among them, the divergent group consisted of Beijing and Liaoning; the high carbon emission club consisted of Shanghai and Inner Mongolia; the low carbon emission club consisted of Jiangxi, Henan, Shandong, Hebei, and Sichuan; the medium carbon emission club consisted of the remaining 21 provinces and municipalities. On this basis, this article adopts the Ordered Logit model to explore factors influencing the formation of the convergence clubs. The regression results showed that the per capita transportation carbon emissions in the provinces with a high energy intensity of the transportation sector, a high urbanization level, or a high fixed assets investment intensity of the transportation sector tended to converge into the high carbon emission club. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)

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16 pages, 770 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Investigating the Impact Factors of the Logistics Service Supply Chain for Sustainable Performance: Focused on Integrators

by Yingjie Ju, Yue Wang, Ye Cheng and Jun Jia

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 538; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020538 - 21 Jan 2019

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 6160

Abstract

The overall scale of China’s logistics industry is growing rapidly, and the environment and conditions for its development are constantly improving, which lays a solid foundation for further accelerating the development of the logistics industry. However, logistics services are characterized by subordination, immediacy, [...] Read more.

The overall scale of China’s logistics industry is growing rapidly, and the environment and conditions for its development are constantly improving, which lays a solid foundation for further accelerating the development of the logistics industry. However, logistics services are characterized by subordination, immediacy, demand volatility, and substitutability. Low-level integrated management of logistics services seriously hinders the development of the logistics service supply chain (LSSC) for sustainable performance. Many studies have been limited to the performance evaluation of LSSCs, and the factors affecting LSSC performance have generally been ignored. This study focuses on integrated LSSCs by using an integrator’s opportunistic behavior as the entry point of research and investigates the factors that affect the sustainability of LSSC performance. On the basis of relevant theories, a model for a hypothesis is constructed and eight hypotheses are subsequently proposed. Moreover, 271 survey responses from functional logistics service providers (research object) are utilized to develop a structural equation model for empirical research. Findings show that integrators with opportunistic behavior inhibit the information-sharing behavior of supply chain members. Consequently, the integration capability and agility of LSSCs are reduced, which affects the overall performance of LSSCs. The findings of this study can provide management insights into the behaviors of supply chain members and governments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Business and Operational Models for the Management of Green and Sustainable City Logistics)

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18 pages, 636 KiB

Open AccessReview

Recent Progress in Green Cement Technology Utilizing Low-Carbon Emission Fuels and Raw Materials: A Review

by Ali Naqi and Jeong Gook Jang

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 537; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020537 - 21 Jan 2019

Cited by 210 | Viewed by 22799

Abstract

The cement industry is facing numerous challenges in the 21st century due to depleting natural fuel resources, shortage of raw materials, exponentially increasing cement demand and climate linked environmental concerns. Every tonne of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) produced releases an equivalent amount of [...] Read more.

The cement industry is facing numerous challenges in the 21st century due to depleting natural fuel resources, shortage of raw materials, exponentially increasing cement demand and climate linked environmental concerns. Every tonne of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) produced releases an equivalent amount of carbon dioxide to the atmosphere. In this regard, cement manufactured from locally available minerals and industrial wastes that can be blended with OPC as substitute, or full replacement with novel clinkers to reduce the energy requirements is strongly desirable. Reduction in energy consumption and carbon emissions during cement manufacturing can be achieved by introducing alternative cements. The potential of alternative cements as a replacement of conventional OPC can only be fully realized through detailed investigation of binder properties with modern technologies. Seven prominent alternative cement types are considered in this study and their current position compared to OPC has been discussed. The study provides a comprehensive analysis of options for future cements, and an up-to-date summary of the different alternative fuels and binders that can be used in cement production to mitigate carbon dioxide emissions. In addition, the practicalities and benefits of producing the low-cost materials to meet the increasing cement demand are discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Technologies and Solutions for the Sustainable Climate Change Challenges)

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13 pages, 1912 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Extraction Behaviour and Income Inequalities Resulting from a Common Pool Resource Exploitation

by Kwabena A. Owusu, Micaela M. Kulesz and Agostino Merico

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 536; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020536 - 21 Jan 2019

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3774

Abstract

Using an experimental approach, we investigate income distribution among heterogeneous subjects exploiting a Common Pool Resource (CPR). The CPR experiments are conducted in continuous time and under different treatments, including combinations of communication and monitoring. While many studies have focused on how real-life [...] Read more.

Using an experimental approach, we investigate income distribution among heterogeneous subjects exploiting a Common Pool Resource (CPR). The CPR experiments are conducted in continuous time and under different treatments, including combinations of communication and monitoring. While many studies have focused on how real-life income inequality affects cooperation and resource use among groups, here we examine the relationship between individuals’ cooperative traits, harvest inequalities, and institutional arrangements. We found that: (1) When combined with monitoring, communication decreases harvest inequality—that is, harvest is more equally distributed among individuals in all treatments; and (2) the cooperative trait of individuals significantly predicts harvest inequality. The relative proportion of non-cooperators and cooperators (i.e., the cooperative dependency ratio) drives the within-session harvest distribution—as the cooperative dependency ration increases, the income distribution becomes increasingly unequal, leading to a downward spiral of resource overexploitation and scarcity. Finally, our results suggest that harvest and income inequalities are contingent to resource abundance, because under this regime, non-cooperators exert the greatest amount effort—thus leading to resource scarcity and income inequalities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)

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16 pages, 298 KiB

Open AccessArticle

by Marco Lerro, Maria Raimondo, Marcello Stanco, Concetta Nazzaro and Giuseppe Marotta

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 535; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020535 - 20 Jan 2019

Cited by 47 | Viewed by 12657

Abstract

The current study investigates the willingness of Millennial consumers towards several corporate social responsibility initiatives carried out by food companies. More specifically, it explores four cause related marketing campaigns implemented by food companies to spread corporate social responsibility. The analysis was carried out [...] Read more.

The current study investigates the willingness of Millennial consumers towards several corporate social responsibility initiatives carried out by food companies. More specifically, it explores four cause related marketing campaigns implemented by food companies to spread corporate social responsibility. The analysis was carried out in Italy by administering a structured questionnaire to 308 consumers. The willingness of participants to switch a chocolate snack of their favourite brand to another with similar characteristics but produced by a company supporting different social and environmental causes was assessed in four different scenarios. The study uncovered the effects of both loyalty towards the brand and trust in cause related marketing on consumers’ willingness to support different corporate social responsibility initiatives. The findings unveiled the willingness of Millennials to support companies’ social and environmental initiatives. Both trust and loyalty played a key role in affecting consumers’ willingness to support corporate social responsibility initiatives of food companies. Social and environmental concerns as well as socio-demographics aspects are also significant in supporting cause related marketing campaigns. The study has shed light on the preference of consumers towards corporate social responsibility and cause related marketing. Specifically, it provides marketing insights on the initiatives most preferred by consumers to which companies should address their efforts. Full article

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

16 pages, 975 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Does Urban Rail Transit Influence Residential Property Values? Evidence from An Emerging Chinese Megacity

by Dongfang Zhang and Jingjuan Jiao

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 534; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020534 - 20 Jan 2019

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 5172

Abstract

Urban rail transit (URT) plays crucial economic, social, and environmental roles and may generate positive externalities that can influence the residential property values (RPVs) in real estate markets. Little attention has been given to exploring the impacts with respect to both the spatial [...] Read more.

Urban rail transit (URT) plays crucial economic, social, and environmental roles and may generate positive externalities that can influence the residential property values (RPVs) in real estate markets. Little attention has been given to exploring the impacts with respect to both the spatial and temporal perspectives. This paper explores the impacts of URT on the RPVs of 480 gated communities with respect to the spatial and temporal dimensions using the hedonic price model and a panel data set from Zhengzhou for 2012–2016. The results show the following: (1) URT does have a significant positive impact on the RPVs in all the selected years from 2012 to 2016, and the influencing strength was a “U-shape” with the increased travel time to the nearest URT stations in most of the selected years. Specially, there is quite some interaction between the temporal and spatial dimensions. (2) The influencing strength of URT during its early stages of planning and construction was higher than that during the operation periods, which is quite different from previous research that uses these first-tier cities such as Beijing and Shanghai in China. (3) Regarding the operating period, the influencing strength reached its peak point after two years of the URT line operating. The results of this paper could provide some new ideas for policy-makers, real estate developers, and even the consumers in real estate markets. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Governance Model and Strategy to Improve a Sustainable Transport System)

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13 pages, 4472 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Application of Artificial Neural Networks for Multi-Criteria Yield Prediction of Winter Rapeseed

by Gniewko Niedbała

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 533; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020533 - 20 Jan 2019

Cited by 39 | Viewed by 4123

Abstract

The aim of the work was to produce three independent, multi-criteria models for the prediction of winter rapeseed yield. Each of the models was constructed in such a way that the yield prediction can be carried out on three dates: April 15th, May [...] Read more.

The aim of the work was to produce three independent, multi-criteria models for the prediction of winter rapeseed yield. Each of the models was constructed in such a way that the yield prediction can be carried out on three dates: April 15th, May 31st, and June 30th. For model building, artificial neural networks with multi-layer perceptron (MLP) topology were used, on the basis of meteorological data (temperature and precipitation) and information about mineral fertilisation. The data were collected from the years, 2008–2015, from 328 production fields located in Greater Poland, Poland. An assessment of the quality of forecasts produced based on neural models was verified by determination of forecast errors using RAE (relative approximation error), RMS (root mean square error), MAE (mean absolute error) error indicators, and MAPE (mean absolute percentage error). An important feature of the produced prediction models is the ability to realize the forecast in the current agrotechnical year on the basis of the current weather and fertiliser information. The lowest MAPE error values were obtained for the neural model WR15_04 (April 15th) based on the MLP network with structure 15:15-18-11-1:1, which reached 7.51%. Other models reached MAPE errors of 7.85% for model WR31_05 (May 31st) and 8.12% for model WR30_06 (June 30th). The performed sensitivity analysis gave information about the factors that have the greatest impact on winter rapeseed yields. The highest rank of 1 was obtained by two networks for the same independent variable in the form of the sum of precipitation within a period from September 1st to December 31st of the previous year. However, in model WR15_04, the highest rank obtained a feature in the form of a sum of molybdenum fertilization in the current year (MO_CY). The models of winter rapeseed yield produced in the work will be the basis for the construction of new forecasting tools, which may be an important element of precision agriculture and the main element of decision support systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Crop Production Systems)

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14 pages, 340 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Understanding Pro-Environmental Behavior in the US: Insights from Grid-Group Cultural Theory and Cognitive Sociology

by Gail Markle

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 532; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020532 - 20 Jan 2019

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 6035

Abstract

For almost fifty years researchers have endeavored to identify the factors that influence individuals’ performance of environmentally significant behavior, with inconsistent results. This quest has become even more urgent as newly released scientific reports provide mounting evidence of global climate change and other [...] Read more.

For almost fifty years researchers have endeavored to identify the factors that influence individuals’ performance of environmentally significant behavior, with inconsistent results. This quest has become even more urgent as newly released scientific reports provide mounting evidence of global climate change and other types of anthropogenic environmental degradation. In order to change individuals’ behavior on a large scale, it is necessary to change their habits of thinking. Using insights from Grid-group cultural theory and cognitive sociology, this mixed-methods study examined the factors that influence pro-environmental behavior among a nationally representative US sample (n = 395). Qualitative results indicate that individuals develop culturally-specific environmental socio-cognitive schemas which they use to assign meaning to the environment and guide their environmentally significant behavior. Quantitative results indicate cultural orientation, pro-environmental orientation, environment identity, and environmental influence predict pro-environmental behavior. Applying these combined theoretical perspectives to the social problem of environmental degradation could facilitate the development of targeted strategies for bringing about impactful behavioral change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Cultural Management)

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11 pages, 249 KiB

Open AccessConcept Paper

An Embedded Systems Perspective in Conceptualizing Canada’s Healthcare Sustainability

by Peter Tsasis, Nirupama Agrawal and Natalie Guriel

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 531; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020531 - 20 Jan 2019

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 5846

Abstract

Healthcare sustainability has been dominated by a strong fiscal orientation. In an era of budget cuts and staff reductions, the financial challenges in Canadian healthcare are immediate and must be addressed. However, an independent focus on financial viability is too narrow a framing; [...] Read more.

Healthcare sustainability has been dominated by a strong fiscal orientation. In an era of budget cuts and staff reductions, the financial challenges in Canadian healthcare are immediate and must be addressed. However, an independent focus on financial viability is too narrow a framing; too limited to allow for the kind of creative, novel, and even radical thinking that is required to fundamentally alter the current course of healthcare in Canada and internationally. Prospects for solving the current financial challenges are likely to be greatly enhanced if we simultaneously account for the broad and interrelated dimensions of sustainability. What would a healthcare system look like if sustainability were adopted as the focal and principal goal? And what might a “deep” sustainability orientation imply for how we think about and manage healthcare systems? This analysis is informed by the notion that healthcare systems are fully contained within the societal system, which is itself fully contained within the broader ecological system. This model, which foregrounds nature as the most fundamental and important system, has both greater ecological validity and particular relevance to the healthcare context given the interdependence between the health of natural systems and the health of humans. Our understanding of nature in relation to health may be key to solving or at least reducing the economic burden of healthcare. A multidimensional systems orientation thus has the potential to unveil new modes of thinking that highlight intersectoral relations, communications, collaboration, and cross-boundary learning for improved health and wellbeing, healthcare performance, and sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability for Healthcare)

20 pages, 977 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Expanding Student Engagement in Sustainability: Using SDG- and CEL-Focused Inventories to Transform Curriculum at the University of Toronto

by Rashad Brugmann, Nicolas Côté, Nathan Postma, Emily A. Shaw, Danielle Pal and John B. Robinson

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 530; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020530 - 20 Jan 2019

Cited by 43 | Viewed by 9294

Abstract

The Expanded Student Engagement Project (ESE) has developed three comprehensive inventories which aim to increase student knowledge of sustainability-related course content and increase student engagement in on- and off-campus, curricular, and non-curricular sustainability projects at the University of Toronto (U of T). The [...] Read more.

The Expanded Student Engagement Project (ESE) has developed three comprehensive inventories which aim to increase student knowledge of sustainability-related course content and increase student engagement in on- and off-campus, curricular, and non-curricular sustainability projects at the University of Toronto (U of T). The first is a sustainability course inventory (SCI) generated using keyword search based on the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This is the first SCI that has been based on the SDGs. The inventory identified 2022 unique sustainability courses and found that SDG 13 had the greatest representation and SDG 6 had the least. The second inventory is a community-engaged learning (CEL) sustainability inventory which found 154 sustainability-focused CEL courses and identified 86 faculty members who teach sustainability CEL. Finally, an inventory of sustainability co-curricular and extracurricular opportunities revealed that U of T has 67 sustainability-focused student groups and identified 263 sustainability-focused opportunities. These inventories are an important foundation for future initiatives to increase student engagement in sustainability on campus and in the community. The ESE will integrate this data into U of T’s course management system and use the inventories to develop a new sustainability pathways program. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development and Higher Education Institutions: Acting with a purpose)

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19 pages, 2878 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatial Analysis of Social Vulnerability to Floods Based on the MOVE Framework and Information Entropy Method: Case Study of Katsushika Ward, Tokyo

by Lianxiao and Takehiro Morimoto

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 529; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020529 - 20 Jan 2019

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 5579

Abstract

Tokyo is located in a lowland area that is vulnerable to flooding. Due to global climate change, the scalability and frequency of flooding is increasing. On the other hand, population aging and family structural changes, as well as the lack of adaptation measures, [...] Read more.

Tokyo is located in a lowland area that is vulnerable to flooding. Due to global climate change, the scalability and frequency of flooding is increasing. On the other hand, population aging and family structural changes, as well as the lack of adaptation measures, would accelerate flooding vulnerability. The key factors involved in social vulnerability must be studied to reduce the risk of flooding. In this study, we refer to the MOVE framework (a disaster vulnerability assessment framework) and analyze it from three perspectives: Exposure to social vulnerability, susceptibility, and resilience. We subsequently develop an index system to complete the evaluation using 11 indicators. The collected data will help reveal social vulnerability to floods in the Katsushika Ward, Tokyo, using the information entropy method and GIS. We found that the western region of the Katsushika Ward is at more risk than the eastern region during flooding. Additionally, the possibility of a serious crisis erupting is greater in the southwestern region than in the northwestern region. Consequently, we conclude that the spatial distribution of flooding varies in the region. The results of this study will help in understanding social vulnerability, in selecting and combining adaptation measures suited to the characteristics of the area, and in the effective and efficient implementation of these measures by the local government’s disaster department. Full article

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12 pages, 7083 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Technological Innovation in Biomass Energy for the Sustainable Growth of Textile Industry

by Leonel Jorge Ribeiro Nunes, Radu Godina and João Carlos de Oliveira Matias

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 528; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020528 - 20 Jan 2019

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 4945

Abstract

The growing increase in world energy consumption favors the search for renewable energy sources. One of the existing options for the growth and sustainable development of such types of sources is through the use of biomass as an input. The employment of biomass [...] Read more.

The growing increase in world energy consumption favors the search for renewable energy sources. One of the existing options for the growth and sustainable development of such types of sources is through the use of biomass as an input. The employment of biomass as solid fuel is widely studied and is no longer a novelty nor presents any difficulty from the technical point of view. It presents, however, logistic obstacles, thus not allowing their direct dissemination in every organization that is willing to replace it as an energy source. Use of biomass can be rewarding due to the fact that it can bring significant economic gains attained due to the steadiness of the biomass price in Portugal. However, the price may rise as predicted in the coming years, although it will be a gradual rising. The main goal of this study was to analyze whether biomass in the case of the Portuguese textile industry can be a viable alternative that separates the possibility of sustainable growth from the lack of competitiveness due to high energy costs. The study showed that biomass can be a reliable, sustainable and permanent energy alternative to more traditional energy sources such as propane gas, naphtha and natural gas for the textile industry. At the same time, it can bring savings of 35% in energy costs related to steam generation. Also, with new technology systems related to the Internet of Things, a better on-time aware of needs, energy production and logistic chain information will be possible. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Energy Systems: From Primary to End-Use)

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20 pages, 1309 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of a Manager’s Intangible Capabilities in Resource Acquisition and Sustainable Competitive Performance

by Qianwei Ying, Hazrat Hassan and Habib Ahmad

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 527; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020527 - 19 Jan 2019

Cited by 78 | Viewed by 8097

Abstract

The answer to the challenging question, “Should one either invest in tangible resources or intangible resources/capabilities?” is still fragmented. In prior studies, more emphasis is given to tangible resources, while intangible resources have comparatively received minor attention, despite their significant role in the [...] Read more.

The answer to the challenging question, “Should one either invest in tangible resources or intangible resources/capabilities?” is still fragmented. In prior studies, more emphasis is given to tangible resources, while intangible resources have comparatively received minor attention, despite their significant role in the success of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Particularly the role of the intangible skills; intellectual capital, financial literacy (FL), and business experience (BE) in resource acquisition and sustainable competitive performance has missed in prior studies. Grounded on the resource-based view and upper echelon theory, this study examines the role of intellectual capital in sustainable competitive performance with a mediating role of resource acquisition. This research also assesses the moderating role of financial literacy and business experience between intellectual capital and resource acquisition. Data are collected through structured questionnaires from 384 owners/managers of Pakistani SMEs. After analyzing the data through structural equation modeling (SEM), the results indicate that intellectual capital helps managers in acquiring valuable resources, which in turn enhance sustainable competitive performance. Resource acquisition partially mediates the relation between intellectual capital and sustainable competitive performance. Financial literacy is a significant predictor of resource acquisition, but it does not significantly moderate the relation between intellectual capital and sustainable competitive performance. Business experience significantly boosts the acquisition of resources and strengthens the path between intellectual capital and resource acquisition. SMEs should encourage their managers to acquire unique, rare, and immutable external resources in the turbulent markets. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Entrepreneurship, Finance and Sustainability)

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34 pages, 4643 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Novel System for Wind Speed Forecasting Based on Multi-Objective Optimization and Echo State Network

by Jianzhou Wang, Chunying Wu and Tong Niu

Sustainability 2019, 11(2), 526; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11020526 - 19 Jan 2019

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 4021

Abstract

Given the rapid development and wide application of wind energy, reliable and stable wind speed forecasting is of great significance in keeping the stability and security of wind power systems. However, accurate wind speed forecasting remains a great challenge due to its inherent [...] Read more.

Given the rapid development and wide application of wind energy, reliable and stable wind speed forecasting is of great significance in keeping the stability and security of wind power systems. However, accurate wind speed forecasting remains a great challenge due to its inherent randomness and intermittency. Most previous researches merely devote to improving the forecasting accuracy or stability while ignoring the equal significance of improving the two aspects in application. Therefore, this paper proposes a novel hybrid forecasting system containing the modules of a modified data preprocessing, multi-objective optimization, forecasting, and evaluation to achieve the wind speed forecasting with high precision and stability. The modified data preprocessing method can obtain a smoother input by decomposing and reconstructing the original wind speed series in the module of data preprocessing. Further, echo state network optimized by a multi-objective optimization algorithm is developed as a predictor in the forecasting module. Finally, eight datasets with different features are used to validate the performance of the proposed system using the evaluation module. The mean absolute percentage errors of the proposed system are 3.1490%, 3.0051%, 3.0618%, and 2.6180% in spring, summer, autumn, and winter, respectively. Moreover, the interval prediction is complemented to quantitatively characterize the uncertainty as developing intervals, and the mean average width is below 0.2 at the 95% confidence level. The results demonstrate the proposed forecasting system outperforms other comparative models considered from the forecasting accuracy and stability, which has great potential in the application of wind power systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wind Energy, Load and Price Forecasting towards Sustainability 2019)

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