Sustainability

15 pages, 4268 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of PdNiBi Metal Content: Cost Reduction in Alkaline Direct Ethanol Fuel Cells

by Michaela Roschger, Sigrid Wolf, Boštjan Genorio and Viktor Hacker

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15485; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215485 - 21 Nov 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1767

In this work, the metal content of Pd₈₅Ni₁₀Bi₅/C catalysts for the alkaline ethanol-oxidation reaction was reduced from 40 wt.% (PdNiBi/C (40/60)) to 30 wt.% (PdNiBi/C (30/70)), 20 wt.% (PdNiBi/C (20/80)) and 10 wt.% (PdNiBi/C (10/90)), while increasing [...] Read more.

In this work, the metal content of Pd₈₅Ni₁₀Bi₅/C catalysts for the alkaline ethanol-oxidation reaction was reduced from 40 wt.% (PdNiBi/C (40/60)) to 30 wt.% (PdNiBi/C (30/70)), 20 wt.% (PdNiBi/C (20/80)) and 10 wt.% (PdNiBi/C (10/90)), while increasing performance. The synthesized catalysts were examined using physicochemical measurements and electrochemical measurements. The best performing catalysts were used to fabricate membrane electrode assemblies for carrying out single-cell tests and to determine the influence of the metal/carbon ratio of the electrode. The electrochemical surface area (695 cm² mg⁻¹) and activity were increased, resulting in high peak-current densities for the ethanol oxidation reaction (3.72 A mg⁻¹) by the resulting more accessible metal particles. The electrode produced with the PdNiBi/C (30/70) catalyst reached a maximum power density of 34.8 mW mg⁻¹ at 50 °C. This successfully demonstrated a doubling of the power density compared with the performance of the PdNiBi/C (40/60) electrode, while simultaneously reducing the costs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Nanomaterials for Sustainable Energy Applications)

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14 pages, 1259 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Measuring Customers’ Satisfaction and Preferences for Ride-Hailing Services in a Developing Country

by Nazam Ali, Muhammad Ashraf Javid, Tiziana Campisi, Krisada Chaiyasarn and Panumas Saingam

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15484; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215484 - 21 Nov 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4045

Abstract

Ride-hailing services play an important role in developing countries where conventional transport systems are not enough to meet the needs of commuters because of increased populations. This form of transport has gained much popularity in developing regions because of the inclusion of motorcycles [...] Read more.

Ride-hailing services play an important role in developing countries where conventional transport systems are not enough to meet the needs of commuters because of increased populations. This form of transport has gained much popularity in developing regions because of the inclusion of motorcycles and rikshaws in ride-hailing services. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, there has been little research on passengers’ behavior towards these ride-hailing services that focuses on social protection and the fare system in developing regions. Therefore, this research study is aimed at investigating the behavior of commuters towards these ride-hailing services in Lahore, which is the second largest city in Pakistan and can be considered as a case study of a developing country. A total of 531 useable valid responses were collected through face-to-face interactions, including the sociodemographics (SEDs) and behavior of commuters towards these services. The results of an explanatory factor analysis (EFA) and structural equation modeling (SEM) revealed that some of the significant latent variables of these ride-hailing services are comfort, convenience, privacy and security, the fare system, social protection, and safety. The commuters’ overall evaluation of these services is positive and affects their present and future preferences. The structural coefficient between convenience and the variable of present preference is significant and negative, which shows that there are respondents who infrequently use ride-hailing services despite having high satisfaction. The riders’ satisfaction with privacy, security, social protection, safety, and comfort has a positive and direct impact on their present preferences as the structural estimates are positive, which means that the higher their views on privacy, security, and comfort, the more frequently they intend to use ride-hailing services for commuting. Increased social protection, safety, privacy, and security will improve the evaluations of the commuters and influence their present preferences for these ride-hailing services. Even though there are regulations on these ride-hailing services, some concrete policy interventions are needed for improvements in commuters’ overall evaluations of these services in order to influence their future preferences. The findings of this research study, if applied in the real world, can improve the overall evaluation of the commuters and positively influence their present and future preferences for these ride-hailing services. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Emerging Trends in Electric Vehicles, Smart Grids and Smart Cities)

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16 pages, 2446 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Environmental Impact Assessment of an Organic Wine Production in Central Italy: Case Study from Lazio

by Giuliana Vinci, Sabrina Antonia Prencipe, Ada Abbafati and Matteo Filippi

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15483; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215483 - 21 Nov 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3863

Abstract

Growing awareness of environmental sustainability in the agri-food sector has enhanced the gradual shift toward less-impactful food and organic production systems. In 2021, nearly three million hectolitres of organic wine were produced which accounted for 6% of the whole wine production in Italy [...] Read more.

Growing awareness of environmental sustainability in the agri-food sector has enhanced the gradual shift toward less-impactful food and organic production systems. In 2021, nearly three million hectolitres of organic wine were produced which accounted for 6% of the whole wine production in Italy (50.2 million hectolitres); thus, registering an increase of almost 60% in the last three years. The economic and cultural importance attributed to Italian wine production worldwide represents a key factor to assess and reduce the environmental burdens associated with the activities of this industry. Furthermore, literature studies have highlighted consumer sensitivity for sustainable winemaking processed, and there is even a trend towards eco-friendly wines. In particular, the bottling stage has been identified as an impactful stage for the environmental performance of the wine life cycle. This study examined the environmental impact assessment of organic wine production in the Lazio region, by performing a “cradle-to-gate” approach according to the life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology. High-quality inventory data for one year of operation was obtained directly from the farming company, “Tenute Filippi” (Cori, Lazio, Italy), and the wine process considered the input from grape cultivation to the winery phases. In these regards, the study also provided an impact assessment for the primary packaging of a 0.75 L wine bottle, with contributions from the different life cycle stages. The results showed a total amount of greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) of 1.1 kg CO₂ eq, that are responsible for climate change. Referring to the individual production input, the primary packaging phase accounted for 55% of the total GHGs, with 0.86 kg CO₂ eq per bottle, followed by agricultural fuel use for grape production and harvesting activities, with 0.30 kg CO₂ eq. Building on these results, the study provides recommendations on the selection of the most significant and relevant indicators for the environmental life cycle impact assessment, thus, identifying possible hotspots in the wine sector. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Evaluation and Competitiveness in Food Production)

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37 pages, 39303 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Application of TRIZ Innovative System Method in Rapid Assembly of Folding Chairs

by Kai-Chao Yao, Kuo-Yi Li, Jing-Ran Xu, Wei-Sho Ho and Yu-Hao Shen

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15482; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215482 - 21 Nov 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2350

Abstract

This design activity is an innovative method of rapid assembly system for folding chairs. The research methods used in this study included literature analysis, TRIZ the method, human factors engineering (HFE), universal design, and IPA. First, the design of the folding chair and [...] Read more.

This design activity is an innovative method of rapid assembly system for folding chairs. The research methods used in this study included literature analysis, TRIZ the method, human factors engineering (HFE), universal design, and IPA. First, the design of the folding chair and the layout of the literature related to the chair are analyzed. The contradiction matrix was used in the TRIZ method to find the principle of invention and analyze it, to provide a reference for the innovative design of folding chairs, and then use the relevant literature on materials to help design and select materials quickly. Next, the chair is assembled and unfolded and universal design is applied to design it into an acceptable product, causing it to be more popular. The human–machine interaction with HFE makes the design of rapid assembly and the design of folding chairs faster and safer. Finally, the IPA method is used to understand the subjective feelings of customers on the products of this research and the satisfaction and importance are used as the basis for evaluation; a two-dimensional matrix graph is drawn. After drawing a simulation using drawing software, it is compared with the traditional folding chair and the research results are as follows: (1) Quick unfolding function: use the pull ring upwards and it naturally unfolds downwards by gravity. (2) Quick folding and storage function: use the foot pedal, single-foot operation, and the folding chair can be quickly stored. (3) Rapid transportation and unfolding function: The chair back can be connected with other chair backs and has the functions of quick unfolding and quick storage, so as to realize the quick placement of the folding chair. This design activity realizes the preliminary design concept and design simulation of the product design through a systematic and innovative method. Through this design activity, we can understand the problems existing in product improvement before product development, so as to conduct market research and production cost assessment in the actual mass production later, and further reduce the cost of product design improvement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Creativity and Innovative Technologies in Product Design and Development)

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13 pages, 913 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Study on the Factors Influencing the Intention and Behavior Deviation of Rural Residents in Waste Separation—Based on LOGIT-ISM-MICMAC Combination Model

by Xue-Yuan Li, Sen-Wei Huang, Qian Lin, Qiu-Jia Lu and Ya-Shan Zhang

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15481; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215481 - 21 Nov 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1821

Abstract

Accurate identification of the influencing factors and the mechanisms of the willingness-behavior paradox in rural residents in waste separation is conducive to stimulating rural residents to participate in rural environmental governance, which is important for solving the willingness-behavior paradox problem. By using CLES [...] Read more.

Accurate identification of the influencing factors and the mechanisms of the willingness-behavior paradox in rural residents in waste separation is conducive to stimulating rural residents to participate in rural environmental governance, which is important for solving the willingness-behavior paradox problem. By using CLES data, we analyzed the factors influencing rural residents’ willingness to separate garbage and behavioral paradoxes using the combined LOGIT-ISM-MICMAC model. The results of the study showed that (1) the regression results showed that eight factors, including publicity means, reward and punishment means, policy effect perception, villagers’ environmental protection behavior perception, gender, age, socio-economic status, and ecological livability status, affect the paradox of villagers’ willingness to separate garbage and behavior; (2) the results of the ISM model show that there are four main transmission paths, and the commonality lies in the common transmission paths of “policy publicity effect factor, villagers’ perception of environmental protection behavior, village ecological habitability, and deviation of willingness and behavior”; (3) the results of MICMAC model show that we should focus on strengthening the ecological habitat of villages, ensuring the effectiveness of policy promotion, and encouraging villagers’ environmental protection behavior to reduce the deviation of rural residents’ behavior and intention. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Shared Governance and Citizen Participation for Sustainable Local Development)

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14 pages, 652 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Public Policies Are Implemented: A Comparison of Urban Domestic Waste Classification Policy Implementation Models

by Minghua Jiang

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15480; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215480 - 21 Nov 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1568

Abstract

(1) Background: Domestic waste classification has become a focal point of urban governance. Existing studies lack inter-case comparisons and ignore the precise path of waste separation policy implementation. (2) Methods: I examined the process of implementing domestic waste separation policies in Shanghai, Tokyo, [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Domestic waste classification has become a focal point of urban governance. Existing studies lack inter-case comparisons and ignore the precise path of waste separation policy implementation. (2) Methods: I examined the process of implementing domestic waste separation policies in Shanghai, Tokyo, and Taipei using the Policy Implementation Process Model as an analytical tool. Then, I compared the implementation paths of waste classification policies across cities. (3) Results: I discovered that Shanghai typically uses a mandatory strategy, Tokyo uses a benefit-driven strategy, and Taipei uses an administrative-intervention approach. The government’s mandatory strategy for waste classification policies is heavily reliant on grassroots government mobilization. This mobilization technique, however, does not significantly motivate residents. The benefit-driven strategy encourages pluralistic participation and improves the interaction of various social groups. This strategy, however, must achieve equal cooperation among all participants. The timely exit of the intervention is critical to the effectiveness of the administrative intervention strategy. (4) Conclusions: In analyzing the characteristics of policy implementation, I find that literature is primarily grouped into two perspectives: administrative mobilization and pluralistic participation. This approach appears to imply that these two cannot be harmonized in terms of methodology. I divide the policy implementation process into stages, each of which can be distinguished by administrative mobilization or pluralistic participation. When I consider the entire process, I can see that a given policy implementation process can be characterized by both administrative mobilization and pluralistic participation. My approach allows for the methodological integration of these two key features. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Trend in Achieving ‘Zero Waste’ and Sustainable Consumption)

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16 pages, 1438 KiB

Open AccessReview

Application of Probiotics for Environmentally Friendly and Sustainable Aquaculture: A Review

by Csaba Hancz

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15479; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215479 - 21 Nov 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3035

Abstract

Aquaculture plays an important role in food production for the world population and at the same time for the livelihood of the most needed globally. The concerns about sustainability and ecological health are growing in this extremely diversified sector just like in the [...] Read more.

Aquaculture plays an important role in food production for the world population and at the same time for the livelihood of the most needed globally. The concerns about sustainability and ecological health are growing in this extremely diversified sector just like in the whole agriculture industry. The use of probiotics in aquaculture already has a long history and has served from the beginning the goals of more sustainable production; however, the expansion of intensive systems along with global climate change produces new challenges. The present work aims to provide an overview of the most relevant literature. Firstly, the microbiome of aquatic animals and its functioning is surveyed followed by the aims and methods of probiotic application. The screening and testing of novel probiotics are also assessed as well as the scientific and technical novelties in probiotics research. The mainstream development in probiotic research aims to serve the sustainability of aquaculture in all respects including traditional animal health, feed efficiency, and environmental issues. New state-of-the-art techniques may lead to a future paradigm change in aquaculture under the aegis of the Blue Revolution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Probiotics in the Development of Sustainable Aquaculture)

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20 pages, 1218 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of Enterprises’ Green Marketing Behavior on Consumers’ Green Consumption Intention—Mediating Role and Moderating Role

by Shuli Yang and Junwu Chai

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15478; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215478 - 21 Nov 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4191

Abstract

Given the increasingly strained relationship between humans and the environment, green marketing has become a necessity for the sustainable development of society. In this context, this paper seeks to explore the influence of Chinese enterprises’ green marketing behavior on consumers’ green consumption willingness. [...] Read more.

Given the increasingly strained relationship between humans and the environment, green marketing has become a necessity for the sustainable development of society. In this context, this paper seeks to explore the influence of Chinese enterprises’ green marketing behavior on consumers’ green consumption willingness. The current study uses a survey design to collect data from 225 respondents, to analyze the data using SPSS, and to verify them with regression analysis modeling. Results from the analysis indicate that first, enterprises’ green marketing behavior has a positive impact on consumers’ green consumption intention. Consumer perceived effectiveness plays a partial mediating role in the influence of enterprises’ green marketing behavior on consumers’ green consumption intention. Secondly, consumers’ environmental awareness weakens the mediating role of consumers’ perceived effectiveness. Finally, this paper proves two conclusions through two experiments. Compared with symbolic activities, substantive green marketing activities can better promote the positive impact of enterprises’ green marketing behaviors on consumers’ green consumption intention. Compared with the situation without the presence of others, the presence of others can better promote the positive effect of enterprises’ green marketing behavior on consumers’ green consumption intention. Therefore, enterprises should adopt green marketing strategies and give consumers a better perception of their green contribution in the process of participating in green consumption, including taking CSR in environmental education, implementing substantive green marketing activities as much as possible, and optimizing offline sales scenarios so that enterprises can enhance competitiveness and achieve sustainable development. Full article

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19 pages, 1419 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Factors Affecting Customer Satisfaction in Fast Food Restaurant “Jollibee” during the COVID-19 Pandemic

by Ardvin Kester S. Ong, Yogi Tri Prasetyo, Klint Allen Mariñas, Jehorom Px Alegre Perez, Satria Fadil Persada, Reny Nadlifatin, Thanatorn Chuenyindee and Thapanat Buaphiban

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15477; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215477 - 21 Nov 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 43457

Abstract

Jollibee is one of the most widely known fast food in Filipino-based restaurants in the world. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted restaurants across the world. The decrease in profit and dividend, and even closure of branches were evident. This study aimed to [...] Read more.

Jollibee is one of the most widely known fast food in Filipino-based restaurants in the world. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted restaurants across the world. The decrease in profit and dividend, and even closure of branches were evident. This study aimed to determine the relationships between Jollibee’s price, food quality, culture/social influence, and service quality through the SERVQUAL dimensions on customer satisfaction during the COVID-19 pandemic using the structural equation modeling (SEM) approach. A total of 303 respondents were recruited using a purposive sampling approach to answer an online survey through social media platforms. This study found that among the factors mentioned, responsiveness, reliability, and assurance dimensions yielded to be statistically insignificant to the service quality. Due to the normal attributes the staff and restaurant have, the different factors were deemed insignificant. At the same time, the service quality was observed to have the largest significant direct relationship with customer satisfaction, followed by the cultural influence, food quality, COVID-19 protocols, and pricing. It was also seen that cleanliness and appearance, empathetic staff, food quality, price, and proper implementation of COVID-19 protocol prevention would lead to high levels of satisfaction among customers in Jollibee fast-food restaurant. Moreover, cultural/social influence has played a big role seeing that the indicators represent the feeling of belongingness since childhood. This study is the first study that analyzed the factors affecting the customer satisfaction of Jollibee. Finally, this study could be used as a basis for fast-food companies and service-related industries to increase its performance by enhancing customer satisfaction worldwide. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Food)

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24 pages, 1452 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Approach to Regional Tourism Potential Assessment in View of Cross-Sectoral Ecosystem Development

by Leyla Gamidullaeva, Sergey Vasin, Tatyana Tolstykh and Svetlana Zinchenko

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15476; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215476 - 21 Nov 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1797

Abstract

The regional tourism industry along with its various components and stakeholders involved in the development of regional tourism products (TP) and the value chain can be interpreted as ecosystems. A concept of creating a regional cross-sectoral ecosystem is presented and described. It brings [...] Read more.

The regional tourism industry along with its various components and stakeholders involved in the development of regional tourism products (TP) and the value chain can be interpreted as ecosystems. A concept of creating a regional cross-sectoral ecosystem is presented and described. It brings together all interested parties (actors), including government authorities and various business representatives. The approaches to determining the level of attractiveness of a region for the formation of a tourism ecosystem based on the assessment of its tourism potential (TP) are the research subject. The research methodology presents an algorithm for assessing the tourism ecosystem formation attractiveness through assessment of key performance indicators assessing territorial TP. The purpose of the study is to develop strategic guidelines for increasing the efficiency of using tourism potential to form a regional ecosystem (a case study of the Penza Region). The conducted analysis has highlighted strategies (institutional; business image; cultural and educational; innovation and technology) that determine the key vectors for the development of tourism potential of the Penza Region. Full article

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14 pages, 4134 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Process Parameter Optimization of Additively Manufactured Parts Using Intelligent Manufacturing

by Rizwan Ur Rehman, Uzair Khaleeq uz Zaman, Shahid Aziz, Hamid Jabbar, Adnan Shujah, Shaheer Khaleequzzaman, Amir Hamza, Usman Qamar and Dong-Won Jung

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15475; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215475 - 21 Nov 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2094

Abstract

Additive manufacturing is the technique of combining materials layer by layer and process parameter optimization is a method used popularly for achieving the desired quality of a part. In this paper, four input parameters (layer height, infill density, infill pattern, and number of [...] Read more.

Additive manufacturing is the technique of combining materials layer by layer and process parameter optimization is a method used popularly for achieving the desired quality of a part. In this paper, four input parameters (layer height, infill density, infill pattern, and number of perimeter walls) along with their settings were chosen to maximize the tensile strength for a given part. Taguchi DOE was used to generate an L₂₇ orthogonal array which helped to fabricate 27 parts on the Ender 3 V2 fused deposition modeling (FDM) printer. The ultimate testing machine was used to test all 27 samples to generate the respective tensile strength values. Next, the Microsoft Azure ML database was used to predict the values of the tensile strength for various input parameters by using the data obtained from Taguchi DOE as the input. Linear regression was applied to the dataset and a web service was deployed through which an API key was generated to find the optimal values for both the input and output parameters. The optimum value of tensile strength was 22.69 MPa at a layer height of 0.28 mm, infill density of 100%, infill pattern of honeycomb, and the number of perimeter walls as 4. The paper ends with the conclusions drawn and future research directions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Additive Manufacturing: Materials, Design and Applications towards Sustainability)

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11 pages, 4567 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Field Test on Soybean-Urease Induced Calcite Precipitation (SICP) for Desert Sand Stabilization against the Wind-Induced Erosion

by Yaqing Gao, Chen Hua and Tong Ke

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15474; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215474 - 21 Nov 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1198

Abstract

Soybean-urease induced calcite precipitation (SICP) is an effective method for the improvement of sand, which forms a biocemented layer on the desert sand surface to resist erosion induced by the wind. Under this study, field tests were carried out to determine how the [...] Read more.

Soybean-urease induced calcite precipitation (SICP) is an effective method for the improvement of sand, which forms a biocemented layer on the desert sand surface to resist erosion induced by the wind. Under this study, field tests were carried out to determine how the SICP approach may enhance the resistance of the desert to wind-induced erosion and the durability of SICP treatment in southeastern margin of Tengger Desert, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China. The experimental results demonstrated that the erosion resistance of desert sand was significantly enhanced due to the SICP treatment, and the improvement effect was enhanced with the increase of the biocement solution concentration and dosage and the number of treatment cycles. Furthermore, it was also found that the resistance of SICP-treated sand to erosion induced by the wind reduced as the development of time reduced. Based on the test results in this paper, larger biocement solution concentration and dosage and multiple treatment cycles are proposed in the areas where severe wind-induced erosion takes place in order to improve the ductility of SICP treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Soil Dynamics and Earthquake Engineering in Sustainability)

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19 pages, 1574 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Modeling the Influence of Paternalistic Leadership and Personality Characteristics on Alienation and Organizational Culture in the Aviation Industry of Pakistan: The Mediating Role of Cohesiveness

by Farrukh Shahzad, Muhammad Farrukh Shahzad, Azer Dilanchiev and Muhammad Irfan

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15473; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215473 - 21 Nov 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2652

Abstract

Espousing the theoretical framework of singling theory and social exchange theory, the current study examines the less explored topic of paternalistic leadership. This study contributed by scrutinizing the relationship between paternalistic leadership, personality characteristics, alienation, and organizational climate through the mediating role of [...] Read more.

Espousing the theoretical framework of singling theory and social exchange theory, the current study examines the less explored topic of paternalistic leadership. This study contributed by scrutinizing the relationship between paternalistic leadership, personality characteristics, alienation, and organizational climate through the mediating role of cohesiveness. A convenience sampling technique was applied for this study. Data was collected through an adopted questionnaire from 723 respondents. A variance-based structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used for testing the proposed structural model. Results revealed that paternalistic leadership and personality characteristics significantly and positively impact alienation and organizational climate. Furthermore, cohesiveness mediates the relationship between personality characteristics, paternalistic leadership, alienation, and organizational climate. Based on research findings, essential theoretical and managerial aspects with major policy-making implications are discussed in the study. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Organizational Behavior and Psychological Research for Sustainability)

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23 pages, 5620 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluating Pedestrian Environment Using DeepLab Models Based on Street Walkability in Small and Medium-Sized Cities: Case Study in Gaoping, China

by Yibang Zhang, Yukun Zou, Zhenjun Zhu, Xiucheng Guo and Xin Feng

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15472; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215472 - 21 Nov 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1951

Abstract

In small and medium-sized cities of China, walking plays an important role as a green and healthy way to travel. However, the intensification of motorized travel and poor planning of pedestrian transportation systems have resulted in poor travel experiences for residents. To encourage [...] Read more.

In small and medium-sized cities of China, walking plays an important role as a green and healthy way to travel. However, the intensification of motorized travel and poor planning of pedestrian transportation systems have resulted in poor travel experiences for residents. To encourage residents to change their mode of travel from motorized transport to greener modes, it is necessary to consider the characteristics of walking travel, design good walking street environments, and increase the advantages of walking in the downtown areas of small and medium-sized cities. In this study, a spatial environment model of a pedestrian street was constructed based on the walking score. Visual perception elements, street function elements, and walking scale elements were acquired by semantic segmentation of Baidu street view images obtained with the DeepLab model. Points of interest (POI) were obtained based on surveys, measurements, and the space syntax. Considering walking distances for small and medium-sized cities, the attenuation coefficient of a reasonable facility distance was adopted to modify the walking score. Based on the comprehensive score obtained, walking paths were divided into four categories: functionally preferred, visually preferred, scale preferred, and environmentally balanced. This categorization provides theoretical support for the design of pedestrian street space environments. Taking the pedestrian street in the city center of Gaoping in Shanxi Province, China as an example, the feasibility of the method and model was verified. Full article

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19 pages, 696 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Econometric and Machine Learning Methods to Identify Pedestrian Crash Patterns

by Maria Rella Riccardi, Francesco Galante, Antonella Scarano and Alfonso Montella

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15471; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215471 - 21 Nov 2022

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 2280

Abstract

Walking plays an important role in overcoming many challenges nowadays, and governments and local authorities are encouraging healthy and environmentally sustainable lifestyles. Nevertheless, pedestrians are the most vulnerable road users and crashes with pedestrian involvement are a serious concern. Thus, the identification of [...] Read more.

Walking plays an important role in overcoming many challenges nowadays, and governments and local authorities are encouraging healthy and environmentally sustainable lifestyles. Nevertheless, pedestrians are the most vulnerable road users and crashes with pedestrian involvement are a serious concern. Thus, the identification of pedestrian crash patterns is crucial to identify appropriate safety countermeasures. The aims of the study are (1) to identify the road infrastructure, environmental, vehicle, and driver-related patterns that are associated with an overrepresentation of pedestrian crashes, and (2) to identify safety countermeasures to mitigate the detected pedestrian crash patterns. The analysis carried out an econometric model, namely the mixed logit model, and the association rules and the classification tree algorithm, as machine learning tools, to analyse the patterns contributing to the overrepresentation of pedestrian crashes in Italy. The dataset consists of 874,847 crashes—including 101,032 pedestrian crashes—that occurred in Italy from 2014 to 2018. The methodological approach adopted in the study was effective in uncovering relations among road infrastructure, environmental, vehicle, and driver-related patterns, and the overrepresentation of pedestrian crashes. The mixed logit provided a clue on the impact of each pattern on the pedestrian crash occurrence, whereas the association rules and the classification tree detected the associations among the patterns with insights on how the co-occurrence of more factors could be detrimental to pedestrian safety. Drivers’ behaviour and psychophysical state turned out to be crucial patterns related to pedestrian crashes’ overrepresentation. Based on the identified crash patterns, safety countermeasures have been proposed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Transportation Systems in Urban Areas: Planning, Operation, and Management)

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17 pages, 318 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Emotional Sustainability in Human Services Organizations: Cultural and Communicative Paths to Dealing with Emotional Work

by Minkyung Kim and Elizabeth A. Williams

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15470; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215470 - 21 Nov 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2038

Abstract

Emotional sustainability in the human services sector is crucial for both the organizations and the constituents they serve. However, human services professionals consistently struggle with emotional work as they care for the vulnerable. Despite such challenges, individuals in the human services sector choose [...] Read more.

Emotional sustainability in the human services sector is crucial for both the organizations and the constituents they serve. However, human services professionals consistently struggle with emotional work as they care for the vulnerable. Despite such challenges, individuals in the human services sector choose to work in emotionally demanding careers and are motivated to serve others. However, such career pathways may not be consistent in other cultures and can further impact the way individuals cope with emotional work. This study explores South Korean social workers and how they experience and sustain themselves through emotional work. Findings show that emotional work led to burnout yet also resulted in fulfillment. Social workers also were mostly led to work in the human services sector by their education system that reflects the unique culture of South Korea. At the same time, these systems were foundational to building sustainability as they bolstered communication networks based on selective ties specific to school. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emotional Communication, Organizations, and Sustainability)

12 pages, 3337 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation and Technical Requirements of the Initial Anti-Wear Performance of an Emulsified Asphalt Cold Recycled Mixture: A Case Study in Northern China

by Weidang Duan, Tao Liu, Qiuping Li, Jian Xu, Jialin Zhang, Yongchun Qin, Jie Wang and Rong Chang

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15469; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215469 - 21 Nov 2022

Viewed by 1019

Abstract

Considering the initial strength evaluation method of a cold recycled asphalt emulsified mixture, the abrasion test was selected as the evaluation method. The comparison test was designed to determine the key parameters of the test, including the molding method, the curing temperature, the [...] Read more.

Considering the initial strength evaluation method of a cold recycled asphalt emulsified mixture, the abrasion test was selected as the evaluation method. The comparison test was designed to determine the key parameters of the test, including the molding method, the curing temperature, the curing relative humidity, and the curing time. The influence of different emulsifiers, the emulsifier dosage, the asphalt dosage, the cement dosage, and the mineral aggregate gradation on the initial anti-wear performance of the mixture was analyzed. The technical requirements for the emulsified asphalt cold recycled mixture were put forward. We analyzed the significance of different influencing factors using analysis of variance. The results shows that the abrasion test is simple and reliable. It can be used to evaluate the initial abrasion resistance of the emulsified asphalt cold recycled mixture. The curing conditions had a great impact on the abrasion loss. With the increase in temperature or the extension of the curing time, the abrasion loss gradually decreased. With the increase in relative humidity, the abrasion loss gradually increased. The testing protocols, namely 25 °C with a relative humidity of 70%, the curing time was 4 h, followed an active Chinese standard (JTG/T 5521). The results indicate that the factors that affect the initial performance of the cold reclaimed mixture of emulsified asphalt are in the following order: cement dosage, cement strength grade, emulsifier type, mineral aggregate gradation, emulsified asphalt dosage, mixture moisture content, and emulsifier dosage. The cement dosage, emulsifier type, and mineral aggregate gradation had significant effects on the initial strength of the cold recycled mixture. An abrasion loss of less than 3.5% was selected as the basis for optimizing the design of the emulsified asphalt cold recycled mixture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Organic Materials Used in the Construction Sector)

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10 pages, 2050 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Air Anions on Growth and Economic Feasibility of Lettuce: A Plant Factory Experiment Approach

by Sora Lee, Min-Jeong Song and Myung-Min Oh

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15468; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215468 - 21 Nov 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2332

Abstract

Anions are molecules that have gained one or more extra electrons, and oxygen anions are the anions most commonly present in the atmosphere. Several studies have reported an improvement in plant respiration and growth through the application of air anions in several plants. [...] Read more.

Anions are molecules that have gained one or more extra electrons, and oxygen anions are the anions most commonly present in the atmosphere. Several studies have reported an improvement in plant respiration and growth through the application of air anions in several plants. In this study, the effect of air anions on the growth of lettuce was explored, and further, the economic feasibility of this technique was analyzed in a plant factory. Two cultivars of lettuce were cultivated for 4 weeks with the application of negatively ionized air in a commercial plant factory. The exposure to air anions improved the growth of the lettuce plants in the plant factory. A profitability analysis of applying air anions revealed that the annual net profit per 1500 m² cultivation area was about USD 60,000 and USD 70,000 for red leaf lettuce and Lollo bionda lettuce, respectively. Therefore, the application of air anions to lettuce in plant factories or greenhouses could increase crop production and has high economic feasibility. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Crop Production and Management: The Perspective of Controlled Environment Agriculture)

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21 pages, 3985 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Coupling Coordination Degree of Ecological-Economic and Its Influencing Factors in the Counties of Yangtze River Economic Belt

by Tongning Li, Daozheng Li, Diling Liang and Simin Huang

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15467; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215467 - 21 Nov 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1721

Abstract

The rapid economic development (ED) of the Yangtze River Economic Belt (YREB) has had a significant negative impact on regional ecosystem services (ES). Accurately understanding and properly handling the relationship between ES and ED is critical to achieving coordinated regional development of the [...] Read more.

The rapid economic development (ED) of the Yangtze River Economic Belt (YREB) has had a significant negative impact on regional ecosystem services (ES). Accurately understanding and properly handling the relationship between ES and ED is critical to achieving coordinated regional development of the YREB. Restricted by a minimal number of research units, traditional studies have not fully considered the spatial heterogeneity of the influencing factors, leading to results with poor accuracy and applicability. To address these problems, this paper introduces a spatial econometric model to explore the impact of influencing factors on the level of coordinated development in the YREB. For the 1013 counties in the YREB, we used the value equivalent method, the entropy weight method, and the coupling coordination model to quantify the coupling coordination relationship between the ecosystem services value (ESV) and ED from 2010 to 2020. The multi-scale geographically weighted regression model (MGWR) was adopted to analyze the role of influencing factors. The results showed the following: (1) The coupling coordination degree (CCD) of ESV and ED along the YREB demonstrated significant spatial heterogeneity, with Sichuan and Anhui provinces forming a low-value lag. The average CCD from high to low were found in the Triangle of Central China (TOCC), the Yangtze River Delta urban agglomeration (YRDUA), and the Chengdu–Chongqing urban agglomeration (CCUA). (2) There was spatial autocorrelation in the distribution of CCD, with high–high clustering mainly distributed in Hunan, Jiangxi, and Zhejiang provinces. The counties with high–high clustering were expanding, mainly centering on Kunming City in Yunnan Province and expanding outward. (3) There was significant spatial heterogeneity in the impact of each influencing factor on CCD. Per capita fiscal expenditure was sensitive to low–low clustering areas of CCD; per capita, food production was a negative influence, and the rate of urbanization transitioned from negative to positive values from west to east. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insight into the Relationship between Economic Expansion and Carbon Dioxide Emission)

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20 pages, 7464 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Landscape Factors on Automobile Road Deformation Patterns—A Case Study of the Almaty Mountain Road

by Ainur Kairanbayeva, Gulnara Nurpeissova, Zhumabek Zhantayev, Roman Shults, Dina Panyukova, Saniya Kiyalbay and Kerey Panyukov

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15466; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215466 - 21 Nov 2022

Viewed by 1617

Abstract

The geography of Kazakhstan is characterized by a diverse landscape and a small population. Therefore, certain automobile roads pass through unpopulated mountain regions, where physical road diagnostics are rare or almost absent, while landscape factors continue to affect the road. However, modern geo-information [...] Read more.

The geography of Kazakhstan is characterized by a diverse landscape and a small population. Therefore, certain automobile roads pass through unpopulated mountain regions, where physical road diagnostics are rare or almost absent, while landscape factors continue to affect the road. However, modern geo-information approaches and remote sensing could effectively provide the road diagnostics necessary to make timely control decisions regarding a road’s design, construction, and maintenance. To justify this assumption, we researched the deformation of a mountain road near Almaty city. Open access satellite images of and meteorological archival data for the region were processed. The resulting data were compared to validate the road’s deformation triggers. Extreme weather conditions’ impacts could be identified via road destruction (nearly 40 m longitudinal cracks, 15 m short transversal cracks, and two crack networks along a 50 m road section). The remotely sensed parameters (vertical displacement velocity, slope exposure, dissections, topographic wetness index, aspect, solar radiation, SAVI, and snow melting) show the complexity of triggers of extensive road deformations. The article focuses only on open access data from remote sensing images and meteorological archives. All the resulting data are available and open for all interested parties to use. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Road Traffic Engineering and Sustainable Transportation - The Second Edition)

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24 pages, 3620 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis Indicators of Health-Safety in the Risk Assessment of Landfill with the Combined Method of Fuzzy Multi-Criteria Decision Making and Bow Tie Model

by Talieh Abdolkhaninezhad, Masoud Monavari, Nematollah Khorasani, Maryam Robati and Forogh Farsad

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15465; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215465 - 21 Nov 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2015

Abstract

The study and analysis of safety, health and environmental indicators in the risk assessment of landfill sites are essential to improving performance and reducing injuries. This study is essential in identifying effective criteria and providing useful solutions for proper waste control and management. [...] Read more.

The study and analysis of safety, health and environmental indicators in the risk assessment of landfill sites are essential to improving performance and reducing injuries. This study is essential in identifying effective criteria and providing useful solutions for proper waste control and management. In Gilan province, 2200 tons of waste enter landfills every day, and this has created a lot of pollution in the area. The methodology of this research was chosen using the opinions of experts and the Delphi technique. Factors affecting the risk assessment in the construction and operation phases were investigated in two phases. The risks of a landfill project were identified by combining (FANP) and (FTOPSIS) using a multi-criteria decision bow tie technique to rank and prioritize criteria. The results show that urban landfills are one of the environmental risk factors in cities. They often contaminate water sources. This has caused a disturbance in the stability of ecological systems. Using the bow tie model can control and prevent environmental health-safety risks caused by urban waste disposal. This can be a threat and a big factor in the destruction of ecosystem resources and services. The integrated approach used in this study provides a flexible tool for evaluating and developing municipal landfills. The risk assessment study proves that the most involved areas in the landfill are environment and health-safety, respectively. Socio-economic and cultural fields are in the next categories. Due to their nature and working process, lancets face many environmental, safety and health risks. The integrated approach (FANP) and (FTOPSIS) with bow ties are suitable methods for risk assessment in landfills. It is very important to use the bow tie technique in analyzing, examining and prioritizing risk sources for management and also control measures such as preventing and limiting high-risk sources. Full article

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11 pages, 1619 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Soil Management in Indigenous Agroforestry Systems of Guarana (Paullinia cupana Kunth) of the Sateré-Mawé Ethnic Group, in the Lower Amazon River Region

by Clara Peres Vignoli, Johannes Leeuwen, Robert Pritchard Miller, César Augusto Ticona-Benavente, Bárbara Vieira da Silva, Bruno Striffler, José Guedes Fernandes Neto and Sonia Sena Alfaia

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15464; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215464 - 21 Nov 2022

Viewed by 1621

Abstract

The Sateré-Mawé Brazilian indigenous people cultivate the guarana liana in biodiverse agroforests that incorporate many species, mainly trees, and produce food, medicines, fuel and income. The objective of this study was to evaluate the soil fertility in nineteen indigenous guarana agroforestry systems (AFSs) [...] Read more.

The Sateré-Mawé Brazilian indigenous people cultivate the guarana liana in biodiverse agroforests that incorporate many species, mainly trees, and produce food, medicines, fuel and income. The objective of this study was to evaluate the soil fertility in nineteen indigenous guarana agroforestry systems (AFSs) compared with areas of adjacent forests in the Andirá–Marau Indigenous Land—an ancestral territory of the Sateré-Mawé people. Soils in both locations showed low natural fertility, with levels of most macronutrients below the minimum agronomic reference levels. Higher C and soil organic matter (SOM) content was observed in the forest soils and may be related to greater vegetation cover and higher litter production. However, the maintenance of the average levels of most nutrients in the soil of the AFSs, at the same level as under the forests, suggests that efficient nutrient cycling is taking place. In these conditions, the management of organic matter seems to be essential to maintain the productivity of guarana AFSs since levels of C, SOM and organic N were not considered as low as those of most of the other soil attributes that were evaluated. The high tree diversity in the guarana agroforests, including N-fixing species, may also contribute to efficient nutrient cycling and maintenance of the soil food web. The results suggest that the addition of limestone, green manure practices and the reincorporation of organic residues from guarana processing, among other sources, can be a low-cost alternative to improve soil fertility and increase guarana production in the AFS under study. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agricultural Intensification and Soil Fertility)

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16 pages, 3545 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Space–Time Evolution of the Coupling and Coordinated Development of Public Cultural Services and Cultural Industries: A Case Study of 31 Regions in China

by Zhongqi Xie, Ying Zhang and Zhiqiang Fang

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15463; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215463 - 21 Nov 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1341

Abstract

The coordinated development of public cultural services (PCS) and cultural industries (CI) is conducive to sustainable regional development. Few studies focus on the coordinated development of PCS and CI. This study builds an evaluation index system for the coordinated development of PCS and [...] Read more.

The coordinated development of public cultural services (PCS) and cultural industries (CI) is conducive to sustainable regional development. Few studies focus on the coordinated development of PCS and CI. This study builds an evaluation index system for the coordinated development of PCS and CI and uses the entropy weight method, synchronous development model, coupling coordination model, and exploratory spatial data analysis method on 31 regions in China. It evaluates the synchronous development levels, coupling coordination levels, and spatial evolution characteristics of the coordinated development of PCS and CI from 2011 to 2020. The results are as follows: (1) The coordinated development level of PCS and CI has risen steadily. The leading type is dominant in space, with the leading type > synchronous type > lagging type. (2) The overall coupling degree is high. The high-level coupling in space is dominant. (3) The degree of coupling coordination has improved. Regions with good spatial and high-quality coordination are concentrated in the eastern, central, and coastal areas. (4) The coordinated development of PCS and CI shows positive spatial correlation agglomeration. The degree of agglomeration is increasing, mainly high high, forming an important growth region in the Yangtze River Delta economic region and its surroundings. Finally, we propose policy recommendations for the coordinated development of PCS and CI, and provide new ideas for the collaborative development of PCS and CI in China. Full article

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

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16 pages, 4013 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Functionalized Bentonite Clay Composite with NiAl-Layered Double Hydroxide for the Effective Removal of Cd(II) from Contaminated Water

by Muhammad Shafiq, Abdulrahman Ali Alazba and Muhammad Tahir Amin

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15462; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215462 - 21 Nov 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1626

Abstract

In this study, the efficiency of functionalized bentonite (F-bentonite) and NiAl-layered double hydroxide (LDH), as well as their nanocomposites, was explored regarding the adsorption of cadmium ions (Cd²⁺) in batch tests. Surface characterization using SEM, EDX, and FTIR analyses confirmed the [...] Read more.

In this study, the efficiency of functionalized bentonite (F-bentonite) and NiAl-layered double hydroxide (LDH), as well as their nanocomposites, was explored regarding the adsorption of cadmium ions (Cd²⁺) in batch tests. Surface characterization using SEM, EDX, and FTIR analyses confirmed the successful loading of LDH (NiAl) onto the F-bentonite and the adsorption of Cd²⁺ onto the F-bentonite, LDH (NiAl), and LDH/F-bentonite composite adsorbent, suggesting ion exchange and surface precipitation as the main controlling mechanisms of the formation of adsorbent. An equilibrium contact period of 60 min was suggested, with the LDH/F-bentonite composite presenting the highest adsorption capacity and removal effectiveness as compared to the other adsorbents. The LDH/F-bentonite composite also presented the highest removal efficiency and maximum adsorption capacity at an optimum pH value of 7.0. A steady increase in the uptake capacity of Cd²⁺ was observed by increasing the dosage of the adsorbents, with the LDH/F-bentonite composite having the best adsorption capacity. The fitting of the pseudo second-order kinetic model to the adsorption data of Cd²⁺ suggested chemisorption on the adsorbents’ surfaces as the controlling mechanism. The Langmuir isotherm with a near-perfect fitting revealed a monolayer adsorption, while physical adsorption of Cd²⁺ onto all the adsorbents is proposed using the D–R isotherm. Finally, both homogeneous and heterogeneous adsorption systems are proposed for all the adsorbents due to the satisfactory fitting of the Sips and R–P isotherm models. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Heavy Metals Contaminated Soil Management for Sustainable Agriculture and Environment)

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11 pages, 392 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Emotional Intelligence as a Personality Trait That Predicts Consumption Behavior: The Role of Consumer Emotional Intelligence in Persuasive Communication

by Hongmin Ahn

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15461; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215461 - 21 Nov 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1907

Abstract

While a significant number of studies have examined the effect of cognitive ability on social behaviors, researchers have devoted insufficient attention to emotional ability as a distinguishing individual characteristic that influences social behaviors. This study aims to address this critical gap by examining [...] Read more.

While a significant number of studies have examined the effect of cognitive ability on social behaviors, researchers have devoted insufficient attention to emotional ability as a distinguishing individual characteristic that influences social behaviors. This study aims to address this critical gap by examining the specific role that consumer emotional intelligence (CEI) plays in the susceptibility to persuasive messages. Based on emotional intelligence and regulatory focus theories, an experiment was conducted to test CEI effect and its boundary conditions. The results demonstrate that people with high CEI are more likely to be persuaded by positive emotion-evoking ads than people with low CEI. Furthermore, the study found that this effect is more pronounced for promotion-focused (vs. prevention-focused) ad messages. These findings indicate that emotional intelligence is a meaningful individual trait to consider when predicting how people will respond to persuasive messages. Full article

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19 pages, 946 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Sustainable Delivery of Building Projects in Developing Countries: A PLS-SEM Approach

by Ahmed Farouk Kineber and Mohammed Magdy Hamed

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15460; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215460 - 21 Nov 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1600

Abstract

Sustainable building approaches should be included at every level of the development process for maximum benefit without jeopardising the structure’s intended usage. However, researchers have paid less attention to how they may be applied to developing nations. This study aims to investigate the [...] Read more.

Sustainable building approaches should be included at every level of the development process for maximum benefit without jeopardising the structure’s intended usage. However, researchers have paid less attention to how they may be applied to developing nations. This study aims to investigate the numerous determinants of sustainable delivery in the construction industries of developing nations. For this to happen, existing literature was used to inform the development of a closed-ended questionnaire. Consequently, 95 structured questionnaires by building professionals investigated the importance of these factors. As a result, the factor’s structure was determined and confirmed using the study’s partial least square structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) approach, which was utilised to investigate the connections between these factors. According to the PLS-SEM analysis, the factors most strongly influencing sustainable delivery are those associated with the preparation, followed by evaluation and use factors, respectively. As a result of this research, authorities in Egypt’s building sector will have a road map for implementing sustainability principles to reduce building costs, boost the local ecosystem, and strengthen social cohesion. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Approaching Carbon Neutrality: Low-Carbon Solutions to Urban Regeneration and Green Economy)

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19 pages, 2652 KiB

Open AccessArticle

What Attracts College Students to Start a Business in Rural Areas?—A Qualitative Comparative Analysis from China

by Yapeng Li

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15459; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215459 - 21 Nov 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1818

Abstract

Employment is an important public issue related to national economy and people’s livelihood. In 2022, the global youth unemployment rate will reach 14.9%, affecting a total of 73 million people. In order to deal with the social risks brought about by large scale [...] Read more.

Employment is an important public issue related to national economy and people’s livelihood. In 2022, the global youth unemployment rate will reach 14.9%, affecting a total of 73 million people. In order to deal with the social risks brought about by large scale youth unemployment, countries around the world are taking measures to solve the employment problem of college students, the main youth employment group. In the 14th Five-Year Plan, China proposes to promote the modernization and development of agriculture and rural areas by supporting university graduates and scientific and technical personnel to enter the rural economy and start their own businesses; moreover, China also aims to achieve economic recovery in the post epidemic era through mutual promotion between the entrepreneurial choices of college students and the direction of national economic development. Through qualitative comparative analysis of 131 Chinese college students, it is found that none of the antecedents meets the requirements of sufficient and necessary conditions for consistency greater than or equal to 0.8 and coverage greater than or equal to 0.9. Further analysis shows that there are three paths for college students’ rural entrepreneurship: “resource-based, with policy guarantee and villager participation”, “policy support, villager participation” and “villagers actively participate”. The government, enterprises, villages and college students should invest more in improving policy support, building infrastructure, diversifying industrial structure, clarifying strategic positioning of villages and innovating entrepreneurial models, so as to promote the modernization of China’s agriculture and rural development and the realization of the goal of rural revitalization while solving the employment difficulties of college students. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Entrepreneurial Environment in Rural Areas)

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16 pages, 927 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pattern and Explanation of Inter-City Crime Variation in South Korea

by Hyunjoong Kim and Eunyoung Seong

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15458; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215458 - 21 Nov 2022

Viewed by 2034

Abstract

The primary purpose of this paper is to test the applicability of environmental criminology in South Korea. Moreover, it explores effective strategies from a spatial planning perspective by taking control of diverse spatial planning factors. The study area is South Korea, and the [...] Read more.

The primary purpose of this paper is to test the applicability of environmental criminology in South Korea. Moreover, it explores effective strategies from a spatial planning perspective by taking control of diverse spatial planning factors. The study area is South Korea, and the base year is 2016. A spatial econometric model is built to analyze the relationship between the built environment and three crimes (theft, violence, and sexual assault). As a result, the best spatial regression models for violent crime rate and sexual assault rate are a spatial error model (SEM) and a spatial autoregressive model (SAC), respectively. The most prominent finding is that the regression results in the three crimes are slightly different. The broken windows effect was negligible for significant crimes in South Korea. The influence of regional disorders on the incidence of crimes was marginal. In the three crime types, mixed land use affected rising crime rates, which aligns with some previous studies that mixed land use increases the likelihood of crime incidences. In contrast with a series of relevant works, brighter nighttime light has not effectively decreased crimes in South Korea. In South Korea, closed-circuit television (CCTV) did not play a role in deterring crimes. Lastly, socio-economic characteristics were closely connected with crime rates in South Korea. The theft rate, violent crime rate, and sexual assault rate confirm the reliability of environmental criminology. Although this study has examined the likelihood of applying environmental criminology, further research and discussions are followed for concrete plans. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability on Crime Analysis and Public Safety)

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15 pages, 303 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability: From a Corporate Governance Perspective

by Lijuan Wu and Shanyue Jin

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15457; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215457 - 21 Nov 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3357

Abstract

Sustainable corporate development has become essential for many enterprises in the context of economic globalization and fierce technological competition. In fact, it is being tackled at a strategic level by most companies. The fulfillment of corporate social responsibility (CSR) is significant in building [...] Read more.

Sustainable corporate development has become essential for many enterprises in the context of economic globalization and fierce technological competition. In fact, it is being tackled at a strategic level by most companies. The fulfillment of corporate social responsibility (CSR) is significant in building a corporate image, improving brand competitiveness, and promoting sustainable corporate development. Simultaneously, the level of corporate governance is a crucial factor in an enterprise’s long-term development. Therefore, this study clarifies whether CSR has a positive impact on the sustainable development of enterprises through empirical analysis; it also analyzes the effects of internal governance factors on the relationship between the two, from the perspective of corporate governance. A fixed-effects regression analysis was conducted on a sample of Chinese A-share listed companies from 2015 to 2019. According to the results, active CSR can promote sustainable development. Furthermore, corporate governance factors such as internal control, management capabilities, and accounting information quality have a moderating role in the CSR process on sustainable corporate development. This study provides a theoretical basis for future research on CSR and sustainable development, and its findings can inspire governments and enterprises from the perspective of corporate governance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Corporate Environmental Strategy and Stakeholder Management from a Green Economy Perspective)

19 pages, 2811 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Utilizing a Domestic Water Tank to Make the Air Conditioning System in Residential Buildings More Sustainable in Hot Regions

by Radwan A. Almasri, Nidal H. Abu-Hamdeh, Abdullah Alajlan and Yazeed Alresheedi

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15456; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215456 - 21 Nov 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2012

Abstract

Air conditioning (AC) is considered an important requirement for hot environments, but it is facing one of the most demanding obstacles as concerns the use of electrical energy resources. In 2019, electricity consumption in the residential sector in Gulf Cooperation Council states reached [...] Read more.

Air conditioning (AC) is considered an important requirement for hot environments, but it is facing one of the most demanding obstacles as concerns the use of electrical energy resources. In 2019, electricity consumption in the residential sector in Gulf Cooperation Council states reached approximately 43% of the total national consumption, and about two-thirds of the electrical energy consumed in residential buildings (RBs) was used for AC. Therefore, as these indicators show, there is a need to focus on studying AC. One of the most important reasons for the high consumption of electrical energy in RBs is the big difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures. In this paper, a heat exchanger was designed and tested experimentally to reduce this temperature difference by using a domestic ground water tank (GWT) as a sink/source (water-cooled condensers instead of air-cooling). The results have shown that the water tank made the surrounding temperature around the external coil of the AC more suitable for cooling/heating. The proposed system resulted in a reduction in energy consumption by 28% of the electrical energy needed in the conventional system and an increase in COP by 39%. This means that this system is more efficient and therefore more sustainable. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Building Integrated Photovoltaic/Thermal Systems for Net Zero Energy/plus Buildings)

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