Sustainability

23 pages, 7125 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of the Adaptive Reuse Potentiality of Industrial Heritage Based on Improved Entropy TOPSIS Method from the Perspective of Urban Regeneration

by Fanlei Meng, Yeqing Zhi and Yuxiang Pang

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7735; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097735 - 08 May 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1742

Abstract

In recent years, it has become critical to promote urban redevelopment and maximize the potentiality of industrial heritage through adaptive reuse. Research on the assessment of adaptive reuse potentiality helps to make scientific decisions in sustainable development and the strategy for utilizing industrial [...] Read more.

In recent years, it has become critical to promote urban redevelopment and maximize the potentiality of industrial heritage through adaptive reuse. Research on the assessment of adaptive reuse potentiality helps to make scientific decisions in sustainable development and the strategy for utilizing industrial heritage. The purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive overview of the research on the potentiality of buildings or sites. It also constructs a system for the assessment of adaptive reuse potentiality in industrial heritage and describes the characteristics of different dimensions in the indicators of potentiality evaluation. Utilizing the Improved Entropy Technique for Ordering Preferences by Similarity to the Ideal Solution (Improved Entropy TOPSIS), the relative values of the reuse potentiality of each hierarchical evaluation index are calculated, and an adaptive reuse potentiality ranking of various industrial parks is determined. Through the calculation and analysis, it is demonstrated that the application of this quantitative method to the industrial heritage potentiality evaluation system is highly applicable. This paper’s research framework for adaptive reuse potentiality and empirical findings provides targeted recommendations for determining the reuse potentiality and potential hierarchy of industrial heritage, identifying buildings with a high potential for reuse, and developing adaptive reuse strategies to better direct industrial heritage in urban regeneration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainability in Heritage and Urban Planning)

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18 pages, 1466 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sequential Methodology for the Selection of Municipal Waste Treatment Alternatives Applied to a Case Study in Chile

by Estefani Rondón Toro, Ana López Martínez and Amaya Lobo García de Cortázar

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7734; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097734 - 08 May 2023

Viewed by 1543

Abstract

Most municipalities in developing countries lack technical and economic resources to improve their municipal solid waste management (MSWM) system. Therefore, tools are needed that enable the most appropriate solutions to be identified to put waste to better use. This study presents an easy-to-apply [...] Read more.

Most municipalities in developing countries lack technical and economic resources to improve their municipal solid waste management (MSWM) system. Therefore, tools are needed that enable the most appropriate solutions to be identified to put waste to better use. This study presents an easy-to-apply sequential methodology for the analysis of MSWM alternatives. The method consists of two stages: (1) screening available technologies based on a small set of key variables; (2) ordering the selected alternatives by a combination of multicriteria methods that integrate local priorities. For this second stage, a basic series of technical, environmental, economic and social indicators is proposed. The methodology is applied to a case study where current management is limited to mixed municipal solid waste (MSW) disposal in a landfill without gas recovery. Seven options for implementing energy recovery in landfill, using mechanical plants to recover part of recyclable material, treating the organic fraction, and employing refuse-derived fuel and/or waste to energy incineration, were evaluated together with the current situation and considering four scenarios. The results identify various alternatives that allow the sustainability of MSWM in the case study to improve. Notwithstanding, today, it is necessary to introduce economic instruments that discourage final disposal to make municipal waste recovery viable. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Solid Waste Management: An International Outlook)

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16 pages, 298 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association between Earnings Announcement Behaviors and ESG Performances

by Joonhyun Kim and Yunkyeong Lee

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7733; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097733 - 08 May 2023

Viewed by 1591

Abstract

Despite the rapidly growing interest in ESG business management, it is not easily attainable for stakeholders to accurately assess the quality of the ESG activities of a firm due to several problems, including the exaggeration or greenwashing of the real ESG performance. This [...] Read more.

Despite the rapidly growing interest in ESG business management, it is not easily attainable for stakeholders to accurately assess the quality of the ESG activities of a firm due to several problems, including the exaggeration or greenwashing of the real ESG performance. This study investigates whether managerial opportunism, as revealed by earnings announcement behaviors, can be utilized as a hallmark to forecast the quality of ESG performance. Based on the tests using Korean firms, the empirical results show that opportunistic behaviors for earnings announcement announcements, such as the announcement on Friday, after market closing, and omitting preliminary earnings disclosure, are all negatively associated with the ESG performance score on an individual and also collective basis. Further analysis shows that firms with opportunistic strategies for earnings announcement tend to miss the disclosure on ESG activities as well. In sum, this study contributes to future research and policy-making by suggesting a new practical approach to analyzing the earnings announcement behaviors as a quick test to verify the corporate ESG performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Accounting, Corporate Policies and Sustainability)

26 pages, 1584 KiB

Open AccessArticle

High-Level Radioactive Disposal Policy in Japan: A Sociological Appraisal

by Yuichiro Amekawa

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7732; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097732 - 08 May 2023

Viewed by 2241

Abstract

This study critically appraises the Japanese government’s high-level radioactive disposal policy by drawing on three sociological perspectives: risk society, sociology of scientific knowledge, and social acceptance. The risk society theory emphasizes that the Government of Japan and scientists under its control are pursuing [...] Read more.

This study critically appraises the Japanese government’s high-level radioactive disposal policy by drawing on three sociological perspectives: risk society, sociology of scientific knowledge, and social acceptance. The risk society theory emphasizes that the Government of Japan and scientists under its control are pursuing nuclear power policy and repository siting within the conventional paradigm of the first modernity, which no longer aligns with the current reality of nuclear power utilization and its public awareness in Japan. Thus, a reflexive response from the policy side is essential to address the demands of a risk society. The sociology of scientific knowledge supports this view by demonstrating that, while scientists under governmental control attempt to convince the public of the safety of their geological disposal methods and the scientific validity of their siting procedures, these claims are largely a social construction of knowledge riddled with uncertainty and ambiguity about inherent environmental risks. The social acceptance standpoint also reveals a substantial bias in government measures toward ensuring distributive, procedural, and interpersonal fairness. Specifically, it critiques the heavy official reliance on monetary compensation to the host community, limited consideration of the allocation of intergenerational decision-making rights based on the reversibility principle, and the implementing agency’s one-way asymmetrical risk communication for public deliberation. Full article

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21 pages, 2824 KiB

Open AccessReview

Sustainable Approaches for Biodiversity and Bioprospecting of Citrus

by Sony Kumari, Rony Bhowal and Penna Suprasanna

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7731; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097731 - 08 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3762

Abstract

Citrus, belonging to the Rutaceae family, is a commercial fruit worldwide, and it is mainly recognized for its nutritional, anti-oxidant, and significant medicinal properties. Citruses are a group of multifaceted fruit crops with a rich traditional knowledge, deeply rooted in ethnic culture, and [...] Read more.

Citrus, belonging to the Rutaceae family, is a commercial fruit worldwide, and it is mainly recognized for its nutritional, anti-oxidant, and significant medicinal properties. Citruses are a group of multifaceted fruit crops with a rich traditional knowledge, deeply rooted in ethnic culture, and the fruits have been considered to be health-protecting and health-promoting food supplements since ancient times. The presence of secondary metabolites and their bioactivities has led to the development of new alternative drugs in recent years. Diverse secondary metabolites such as flavonoids, alkaloids, carotenoids, phenolic acids, and essential oils and their high bioactive properties have imparted great value to human health based on their anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, cardiovascular protective, and neuroprotective effects. The indigenous Citrus species of India—mainly Northeast India—have distinctive and valuable genetic traits, such as resistance to biotic and abiotic stress, distinctive aroma, flavor, etc. Hence, these species are considered to be repertoires of valuable genes for molecular breeding aimed at quality improvement. There is a need for awareness and understanding among the citrus-producing countries of the exploitation of biodiversity and the conservation of Citrus for sustainable development and bioprospecting. The current review presents a holistic view of Citrus biodiversity from a global perspective, including phytochemical constituents and health benefits. Advanced biotechnological and genomic approaches for Citrus trait improvement have also been discussed to highlight their relevance in Citrus improvement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Global Plant Biodiversity for Sustaining Food and Environmental Security)

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23 pages, 91637 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Spatio-Temporal Dynamics of Land Use Carbon Emissions and Multiple Driving Factors in the Guanzhong Area of Shaanxi Province

by Yali Wang, Yangyang Liu, Zijun Wang, Yan Zhang, Bo Fang, Shengnan Jiang, Yijia Yang, Zhongming Wen, Wei Zhang, Zhixin Zhang, Ziqi Lin, Peidong Han and Wenjie Yang

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7730; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097730 - 08 May 2023

Viewed by 1464

Abstract

Land use change is one of the key elements leading to carbon emission changes, and is of great significance to the process of achieving the goals of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality. In this study, we calculated the land-use carbon emissions (LCE) in [...] Read more.

Land use change is one of the key elements leading to carbon emission changes, and is of great significance to the process of achieving the goals of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality. In this study, we calculated the land-use carbon emissions (LCE) in the Guanzhong area (GZA) of Shaanxi province from 2000 to 2019 by using an improved LCE measurement model. Meanwhile, the spatial and temporal changes of LCE were analyzed and the driving forces were investigated based on the correlation analysis and multi-scale geographical weighting regression (MGWR). The results showed that the total amount of LCE showed a significant increasing trend from 2000 to 2019. Regions where the LCE significantly increased occupied 71.20% of the total area; these regions were distributed in the central and eastern parts of the study area. The LCE showed a significant positive spatial correlation and had a remarkable aggregation state. The H-H agglomeration area of LCE was distributed in the central urban agglomeration. The L-L agglomeration areas were always distributed in the southwest part of the GZA with low carbon emissions. The average correlation coefficients between LCE and nighttime light (NTL), population density (PD), and gross primary productivity (GPP) were 0.13, 0.21, and −0.05, respectively. The NLT and PD had obvious positive effects on LCE, while GPP has obvious negative effects on carbon emissions, which can be ascribed to the carbon sink effect of forests and grasslands. The results of this study have important reference value regarding the formulation of carbon emission reduction policies and the development of a low-carbon social economy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Land Use/Cover Change and Its Environmental Effects)

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19 pages, 724 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Sports Betting Tipsters as Professional Bettors: A Qualitative Interview Study

by Arif Yüce, Sevda Gökce Yüce, Hakan Katırcı, Volkan Aydoğdu, Weisheng Chiu and Mark D. Griffiths

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7729; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097729 - 08 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2378

Abstract

Although the COVID-19 pandemic impacted individuals who bet on sports, sports betting tipsters (SBTs; i.e., individuals who provide professional tips on the outcome of sporting events) were arguably among the most affected groups. Consequently, the aim of the present study was to explore [...] Read more.

Although the COVID-19 pandemic impacted individuals who bet on sports, sports betting tipsters (SBTs; i.e., individuals who provide professional tips on the outcome of sporting events) were arguably among the most affected groups. Consequently, the aim of the present study was to explore how SBTs in Turkey were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, including alternate forms of gambling engagement (e.g., e-sports betting). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 85 SBTs aged between 20 and 48 years. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify common themes. Based on the qualitative analysis, four themes emerged: (i) the meaning and role of sports betting, (ii) the effects of the pandemic on life and sports betting, (iii) comparing e-sports betting vs. traditional sports betting, and (iv) possible sports betting behavior if the pandemic continues. SBTs reported experiencing psychological distress as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic’s cancellation of sporting events. More specifically, SBTs reported a sense of emptiness because of the lack of sports betting. Furthermore, SBT reported suffering a loss of income and turning to e-sports betting during the pandemic. However, the majority of SBTs did not find betting on e-sports as exciting as traditional betting but reported they would continue to engage in e-sports betting if traditional sports betting was not available. The findings of this study can contribute to a better understanding of the impact of SBTs on individuals and further provide practical implications for policymakers to promote a safe, sustainable, and long-term growth of the sports betting industry in Turkey. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development and Management in Sports and Fitness Services during COVID-19 Pandemic)

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23 pages, 4410 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Damage Severity and Flexural Steel Ratio on CFRP Repaired RC Beams

by Moatasem M. Fayyadh and Hashim Abdul Razak

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7728; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097728 - 08 May 2023

Viewed by 1188

Abstract

The study aims to investigate the effectiveness and failure modes of using CFRP-bonded sheets as a flexural repair system for RC beams, considering the effect of pre-repair damage levels and flexural steel design limits. This study investigated two different flexural design criteria: RC [...] Read more.

The study aims to investigate the effectiveness and failure modes of using CFRP-bonded sheets as a flexural repair system for RC beams, considering the effect of pre-repair damage levels and flexural steel design limits. This study investigated two different flexural design criteria: RC beams reinforced with the minimum flexural steel limit (ρmin) and RC beams reinforced with the maximum flexural steel limit (ρmax). Additionally, three pre-repair damage levels were considered: design limit load, steel yield limit load, and failure limit load. The study results showed that the RC beams’ repair effectiveness depends on the ratio of the flexural steel provided. Specifically, the beams with a minimum steel ratio demonstrated a higher capacity restoration of 49% to 85% (corresponding to the pre-repair damage level, i.e., design load to failure load), while beams with a maximum steel ratio only achieved a capacity restoration of 15.3% to 28.4%. Regarding failure modes, the beams experienced an intermediate-induced crack (IC) debonding due to pre-repair flexural cracks. Despite the debonding of the CFRP sheets, the beams still had the ability to withstand loads close to their unrepaired capacity. This indicates the possibility of re-repairing the beams after the CFRP debonding. Overall, the findings of this study can be used in the industry to repair RC beams and girders that have been damaged due to extreme loading conditions or other reasons. By using CFRP externally bonded sheets, the capacity of the structures can be restored regardless of the pre-repair damage level and the flexural steel design criteria. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Technologies to Promote Sustainability and Mitigate Climate Change through Asset Lifecycle)

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0 pages, 1209 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluating Culturalization Strategies for Sustainable Tourism Development in Uzbekistan

by Ji Young Jeong, Mamurbek Karimov, Yuldoshboy Sobirov, Olimjon Saidmamatov and Peter Marty

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7727; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097727 - 08 May 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3705

Abstract

Tourism is one of the fastest-growing and most visible sectors of the global economy, contributing significantly to boosting a nation’s economy. Currently, tourism-led economic growth considering sustainable approaches is becoming increasingly important in public policy. Recent urban and regional studies have begun to [...] Read more.

Tourism is one of the fastest-growing and most visible sectors of the global economy, contributing significantly to boosting a nation’s economy. Currently, tourism-led economic growth considering sustainable approaches is becoming increasingly important in public policy. Recent urban and regional studies have begun to focus on the sustainability of tourism from social, economic, environmental, and cultural perspectives. The research aims to identify the most important issues and barriers to sustainable tourism development in Uzbekistan and proposes the most effective culturalization strategies to overcome those barriers. This paper involves the application of Global RPM (Globalization, Rationality, Professionalism, and Morality) analysis in combination with SANEL HERMES (Sightseeing, Admission paying, Night touring, Experiencing, Learning, Healing, Enjoying, Rest and Relaxing, Memento shopping, Eating and Drinking, and Staying) model based on data from a variety of sources, including literature review, participation interview, tourist survey, and expert questionnaire to identify and classify influencing factors that show existing barriers to sustainable tourism in Uzbekistan. Finally, a set of culturalization strategies is proposed, evaluated, and ranked by experts using a Quantitative Strategic Planning Matrix. The results of the survey have shown that tourism activities are currently not sustainable in a satisfactory manner. However, if the policymakers consider the relevant strategies and take this study into account, as well as its findings, then Uzbekistan can be made more attractive in terms of sustainable tourism. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tourism, Sustainable Development, and Cultural Heritage)

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24 pages, 1879 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Factors Affecting the Purchase Intention of Products with Environmentally Friendly Packaging of Urban Residents in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

by Bui Thi Hoang Lan, Tran Thi Lan Phuong, Tran Tho Dat and Dinh Duc Truong

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7726; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097726 - 08 May 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4632

Abstract

The study’s objective is to determine the factors affecting the intention to buy products with environmentally friendly packaging in the urban area of Vietnam with a specific case study in Ho Chi Minh City. The study uses the theory of planned behavior (TPB) [...] Read more.

The study’s objective is to determine the factors affecting the intention to buy products with environmentally friendly packaging in the urban area of Vietnam with a specific case study in Ho Chi Minh City. The study uses the theory of planned behavior (TPB) to build an empirical model to evaluate the factors affecting consumer behavior. Primary data were collected through a direct survey of 485 customers in the city using a convenience sampling method. We built and tested the scale of variables using Cronbach Alpha analysis and used exploratory factor analysis (EFA) to select the main factors to be included in the impact regression model. The research results show the impact of five factors: (1) the price of products with environmentally friendly packaging on the customers’ sense of community, (2) the consumer’s attitude toward products with eco-friendly packaging with customers’ conception of effectiveness, (3) social influence, (4) personal image concerns, and (5) quality of environmentally friendly packaging to intention to buy products with environmentally friendly packaging of urban residents in Ho Chi Minh City. The factor related to the attitude and perception of the effectiveness for the environment has the most substantial impact, followed by the quality of environmentally friendly packaging, the price factor, and the sense of community. Full article

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11 pages, 753 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of New-Energy Vehicles under the Carbon Peaking and Carbon Neutrality Strategy in China

by Xia Li, Yi Peng, Qiqi He, Hongmei He and Song Xue

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7725; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097725 - 08 May 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3580

Abstract

China regards the development of new energy vehicles (NEVs) as an important breakthrough to achieve the periodic goals of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality. After decades of development, China’s NEVs industry has made significant progress, especially in the past 20 years, where the [...] Read more.

China regards the development of new energy vehicles (NEVs) as an important breakthrough to achieve the periodic goals of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality. After decades of development, China’s NEVs industry has made significant progress, especially in the past 20 years, where the industry has transformed from a follower to a leader. This article reviews the development background of NEVs in China and reflects the development status of NEVs in different periods of China. The development of NEVs in China was analyzed through data, reflecting the current development status and trends. Combined with the policy background of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality, the position of NEV industry in China’s automobile submarket, domestic market, and international market is analyzed. Based on the analysis and discussion, the main issues faced by the development of NEVs in China were proposed, including the impact of subsidy policy withdrawal on car companies and consumers, the construction and development of infrastructure, the research and development of core technologies and components, and the construction of a clean energy system based on sustainable development. It is proposed that the future development direction of China’s NEV industry can follow the directions of electrification, intelligence, lightweight, and sustainable development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Economics and Energy Policy towards Sustainability)

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20 pages, 6704 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Implementation Instruments for Developing Sustainable Tourism on Recultivated Land in the Middle Danube Flow

by Nataša Danilović Hristić, Nebojša Stefanović and Maja Hristov

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7724; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097724 - 08 May 2023

Viewed by 1228

Abstract

Development of sustainable tourism is viewed through the scope of planning procedure, participation of all stakeholders, and resolving possible conflicts. The methodology is based on empirical exploration and compared two case studies of the Middle Danube Flow coast segment. The common denominator, apart [...] Read more.

Development of sustainable tourism is viewed through the scope of planning procedure, participation of all stakeholders, and resolving possible conflicts. The methodology is based on empirical exploration and compared two case studies of the Middle Danube Flow coast segment. The common denominator, apart from the location in the same region and on the bank of an international river, is the use of recycled land for the purpose of converting it into a tourist complex. This paper has a wider theoretical background, tailored and selected for this research purpose. Ambition was expressed to answer the questions of how to carry out the strategically set tasks at the level of detailed design and implementation, what kind of interactions to expect, and if it is possible to single out key approaches and steps and form recommendations for achieving satisfactory and non-conflicting results. The authors search and look for similarities among the chosen development directions and the decisions made which can point to a common methodological framework and options for creating an attractive, profitable, and sustainable tourist product. The conclusion is that desirable sustainable tourism can be reached through careful location and content selection, choice of adequate land use, and balanced alignment between protection and development. This paper indicates the possibility of an additional step towards a joint solution, which is not only a compromise, but is valued as being of high quality and desirable. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Frontier Progress in Sustainable Tourism: Stakeholder, Society, and Environment Perspectives)

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18 pages, 2028 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Community Participation and Social Inclusion in Successful Historic City Center Regeneration in the Mediterranean Region

by Ali Tanrıkul

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7723; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097723 - 08 May 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2546

Abstract

Historic city center regeneration in the Mediterranean region is often seen as a tool for economic development and tourism promotion. However, the success of regeneration initiatives is not only dependent on financial investments and physical interventions but also on the social, cultural, and [...] Read more.

Historic city center regeneration in the Mediterranean region is often seen as a tool for economic development and tourism promotion. However, the success of regeneration initiatives is not only dependent on financial investments and physical interventions but also on the social, cultural, and environmental sustainability of the projects. Community participation and social inclusion are two important factors that can contribute to the long-term success of historic city center regeneration in the Mediterranean region. This paper provides an overview of the existing literature on community participation and social inclusion in historic city center regeneration and explores their role in successful regeneration projects in the Mediterranean region. The paper argues that community participation can foster a sense of ownership and collective identity among local residents and can provide valuable knowledge and resources for the planning and implementation of regeneration initiatives. Social inclusion, on the other hand, can help to ensure that the benefits of regeneration are distributed fairly and equitably among all members of the community, including marginalized and vulnerable groups. The paper provides case studies of successful historic city center regeneration projects in the Mediterranean region, including Valencia (Spain), Palermo (Italy), and Chania (Greece), to illustrate the importance of community participation and social inclusion in achieving sustainable and inclusive urban regeneration. The paper concludes by highlighting the need for more research and policy attention to be paid to these critical factors in historic city center regeneration initiatives in the Mediterranean region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Cultural Heritage in Promoting the Sustainable Development of Cities and Territories)

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22 pages, 5631 KiB

Open AccessArticle

From Laborers to Coffee Farmers: Collaborative Forest Management in West Java, Indonesia

by Budhi Gunawan, Oekan Soekotjo Abdoellah, Firman Hadi, Gianrico Juan Alifi, Riky Novalia Suhendi, Inas Yaumi Aisharya and Wahyu Gunawan

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7722; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097722 - 08 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1621

Abstract

Collaborative forest management (CFM) is assumed to provide benefits for improving the condition of the forest ecology and the community’s economy. However, its effectiveness is often debated, particularly regarding the involvement of poor and landless farmers in program implementation. In this relation, this [...] Read more.

Collaborative forest management (CFM) is assumed to provide benefits for improving the condition of the forest ecology and the community’s economy. However, its effectiveness is often debated, particularly regarding the involvement of poor and landless farmers in program implementation. In this relation, this study examines a CFM program implementation in Bandung District, West Java, the so-called Pengelolaan Hutan Bersama Masyarakat (PHBM). The study combined qualitative and quantitative approaches in collecting data. GIS analysis and vegetation identification supported this study. The study shows that the PHBM program implementation in the study area provided benefits for improving forest ecological conditions and the livelihood of the farmers. This study also suggests that poor or landless farmers could secure their rights and access to the forest; they became coffee farmers. Despite this, to ensure the sustainability of the program, especially the involvement of the poor and landless farmers, support from the government is very much needed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Forestry)

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18 pages, 2313 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Build Back Safely: Evaluating the Occupational Health and Safety in Post-Disaster Reconstruction

by Sandra Carrasco and David O’Brien

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7721; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097721 - 08 May 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1774

Abstract

Current trends in disaster response and management include various stakeholders, including non-government organisations (NGOs), volunteer groups and other humanitarian organisations, working alongside governmental agencies. Together, they are directly involved in reconstruction efforts, with support often extending from the early response to long-term reconstruction. [...] Read more.

Current trends in disaster response and management include various stakeholders, including non-government organisations (NGOs), volunteer groups and other humanitarian organisations, working alongside governmental agencies. Together, they are directly involved in reconstruction efforts, with support often extending from the early response to long-term reconstruction. The common goal of reconstruction efforts spanning the last few decades is the ambition to “Build Back Better”. More recently, there have been efforts to expand the scope of the reconstruction efforts to “Build Back Safer” and to raise awareness about the quality and safety of the final products, such as housing and infrastructure. Disaster management studies rarely address the construction process after disasters, or the working conditions of the builders, and often pay little attention to the health and safety of the extended workforce. This study identifies critical factors affecting workers, volunteers, local communities and other staff working on disaster reconstruction projects through a systematic literature review of academic publications. A total of 35 publications were thematically analysed, reduced from an initial selection of 394 publications selected between 2004 to 2022. The findings from this study highlight the vulnerabilities experienced by workers and the broader community involved in post-disaster reconstruction and acknowledge challenges integrating health and safety concerns into the practice and governance of global humanitarian systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Safety of Construction Sites)

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21 pages, 5015 KiB

Open AccessReview

Thematic Trends in Industry 4.0 Revolution Potential towards Sustainability in the Construction Industry

by Mohd Zairul and Zeinab Zaremohzzabieh

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7720; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097720 - 08 May 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2369

Abstract

The construction industry is currently facing challenges because of the massive waste generated by its production processes. The climate agreement also requires the industry to meet the increasing demand for sustainable building materials to achieve the energy transition. As a result, the construction [...] Read more.

The construction industry is currently facing challenges because of the massive waste generated by its production processes. The climate agreement also requires the industry to meet the increasing demand for sustainable building materials to achieve the energy transition. As a result, the construction industry is looking for alternative ways to meet these sustainability challenges. The implementation of the fourth industrial revolution (IR4.0) can be an opportunity for the construction industry to become more sustainable. Therefore, this paper aims to (i) ensure a detailed assessment of the existing challenges and (ii) identify the potential implementation of IR4.0 technologies in the construction industry. A set of criteria was established for searching and screening papers from three major databases (Scopus, WoS, and Mendeley), and 58 eligible articles were included in the current study. Using ATLAS.ti 22 software, a thematic analysis was conducted, and the final six themes were determined based on problems and challenges, technology and tools, information technology, consulting and business, construction management, and education. In addition, this paper identified potential prospective study paths. It is expected that the results will be useful for the future direction of the industry in addressing the challenges of IR4.0. Full article

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19 pages, 2599 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Consumption Culture and Critical Sustainability Discourses: Voices from the Global South

by Arindam Das and Pia A. Albinsson

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7719; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097719 - 08 May 2023

Viewed by 3272

Abstract

Our qualitative critical research intends to examine the meta-normative features of the sustainability discourse of the marginalized Global South through sociological critique of (neo)colonial and anti-sustainable consumption. Using a critical lens, we discuss two community performances of sustainable consumer culture from the Global [...] Read more.

Our qualitative critical research intends to examine the meta-normative features of the sustainability discourse of the marginalized Global South through sociological critique of (neo)colonial and anti-sustainable consumption. Using a critical lens, we discuss two community performances of sustainable consumer culture from the Global South to highlight the subversive consumption performances in the Global South market, which has the potency to ontologically denaturalize the Global North market’s standard-normalized Western discourses of sustainability that tend to legitimize social inequalities and the seizing of agency by marginalized consumers of subsistence marketplace. The article contributes to both sustainability and consumer culture literature by proposing a new research agenda: the way sustainable consumption culture projects and negotiates identity in the Global South, especially at the margin. We highlight how traditional sustainable prosumption of subaltern subjects of the Global South resists power practices promulgated by Western capitalism, neoliberalism, and neocolonization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Consumption Culture and Sustainability Discourses)

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20 pages, 4933 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Life Cycle Assessment for Geopolymer Concrete Bricks Using Brown Coal Fly Ash

by Jingxuan Zhang, Sarah Fernando, David W. Law, Chamila Gunasekara, Sujeeva Setunge, Malindu Sandanayake and Guomin Zhang

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7718; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097718 - 08 May 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2361

Abstract

Traditionally, the construction industry has predominantly used Portland cement (PC) to manufacture bricks, as it is one of the most-commonly available building materials. However, the employment of waste industrial material for brick production can lead to a significant improvement in terms of sustainability [...] Read more.

Traditionally, the construction industry has predominantly used Portland cement (PC) to manufacture bricks, as it is one of the most-commonly available building materials. However, the employment of waste industrial material for brick production can lead to a significant improvement in terms of sustainability within the construction sector. Geopolymer bricks made from brown coal fly ash, a promising industrial waste by-product, serve as a potential alternative. Conducting a life cycle assessment (LCA), this study thoroughly evaluated the entire manufacturing process’s environmental impact, from source material acquisition and transportation to brick manufacturing, distribution, usage, and end-of-life, for brown coal bricks as compared to PC bricks. The LCA of the brown coal bricks revealed that their primary environmental impacts stemmed from the raw material manufacturing and usage, while exhibiting substantial reductions in ozone depletion, water depletion, and metal depletion. These findings highlighted the environmental advantages of the brown coal bricks and their potential to revolutionize sustainable construction practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations in Construction Industry towards Sustainable Future: Implementation, Assessment and Opportunities)

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22 pages, 5103 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Controlling Industrial Air-Pollutant Emissions under Multi-Factor Interactions Based on a Developed Hybrid-Factorial Environmental Input–Output Model

by Jing Liu and Yujin Yang

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7717; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097717 - 08 May 2023

Viewed by 1032

Abstract

A hybrid-factorial environmental input–output model (HEIM) is proposed for controlling industrial energy-related air pollution. HEIM has the advantages of analyzing industrial air-pollutant emission system (IAES) performance, quantifying key factors’ individual and reciprocal effects on the system, generating optimal system planning strategies under multiple [...] Read more.

A hybrid-factorial environmental input–output model (HEIM) is proposed for controlling industrial energy-related air pollution. HEIM has the advantages of analyzing industrial air-pollutant emission system (IAES) performance, quantifying key factors’ individual and reciprocal effects on the system, generating optimal system planning strategies under multiple scenarios. HEIM is then applied to Fujian province, which is a special economic development region in China. The significant findings are as follows: (i) the main sectors of pollutants’ (NO_x, SO₂, PM and VOCs) emissions are electricity supply (ELE), transportation (TRA), nonmetal minerals (NON), chemical products (CHE) and metal processing (MET); (ii) the proportion of air pollutants (NO_x, SO₂ and PM) emitted from energy activities can reach 83.8%, 88.6% and 68.1% of the province’s total emissions, implying that it is desired for industrial activities to improve the energy efficiency and promote cleaner production; (iii) the system robustness was between 0.287 and 0.321 (maximum value is 0.368), indicating the emission structure of IAES was not healthy; (iv) the contributions of the key factors to air-pollutant emission equivalent are NO_x emission (51.6%) > ELE coal consumption (25.8%) > SO₂ emission (12.5%); (v) the contributions of the key factors affecting system robustness are equipment manufacturing’s (EQU) direct consumption coefficient (81.4%) > CHE coal consumption (11.7%) > NON coal consumption (5.0%). The optimal strategies should strictly control ELE coal consumption (replaced by clean energy) and strictly limit NO_x and SO₂ emissions (e.g., technology upgrade) from the main sectors. Full article

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17 pages, 2673 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Research on Beijing Manufacturing Green-Oriented Transition Path under “Double Carbon” Goal-Based on the GML-SD Model

by Yuanying Chi, Situo Xu, Xiaolei Yang, Jialin Li, Xufeng Zhang and Yahui Chen

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7716; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097716 - 08 May 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1452

Abstract

Accelerating the “double carbon” transformation of the manufacturing industry is the key to achieving the strategic goal of “double carbon” in China, among which the low-carbon development of the Beijing manufacturing industry is the top priority. To achieve high-quality development of the manufacturing [...] Read more.

Accelerating the “double carbon” transformation of the manufacturing industry is the key to achieving the strategic goal of “double carbon” in China, among which the low-carbon development of the Beijing manufacturing industry is the top priority. To achieve high-quality development of the manufacturing industry in Beijing, the main task is to reduce carbon emissions and improve efficiency. Therefore, on the basis of the Global Malmquist–Luenberger (GML) index and the system dynamics (SD) method, this study analyzes the green total-factor energy efficiency trends of 25 manufacturing sub-sectors in Beijing from 2006 to 2020 and incorporates the GML index as a key variable into the construction of the SD model. It then explores the path optimization of Beijing’s manufacturing low-carbon development in the 14th Five-Year Plan period via scenario simulation and offers policy recommendations for the green-oriented transition of Beijing’s manufacturing industry. The study finds that Beijing’s manufacturing industry needs to prioritize energy structure optimization and efficient energy utilization and give full play to the city’s advantages in technological innovation and investment while supporting high-end scientific research and innovation projects to confirm the capital city’s strategic position. Full article

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13 pages, 1439 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Factors Affecting Taiwanese Consumers’ Intention to Purchase Abnormally Shaped Produce

by Yen-Lun Su, Pongsakorn Ngamsom and Jen-Hung Wang

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7715; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097715 - 08 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1233

Abstract

This study examines the effects of produce shape abnormality, organic labeling, and discounts on consumers’ intention to purchase produce. Two studies were conducted. In Study 1, a 3 (normal, moderate, and extreme shape abnormality) × 2 (with and without organic labeling) between-subjects design [...] Read more.

This study examines the effects of produce shape abnormality, organic labeling, and discounts on consumers’ intention to purchase produce. Two studies were conducted. In Study 1, a 3 (normal, moderate, and extreme shape abnormality) × 2 (with and without organic labeling) between-subjects design was used. In Study 2, a 2 (moderate and extreme shape abnormality) × 5 (discount: 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, and 70%) between-subjects design was used. A total of 480 valid responses to questionnaires were collected. Study 1 revealed that the interaction between produce shape abnormality and organic labeling significantly affects purchase intention. Study 2 revealed that the interaction between produce shape abnormality and discount significantly affected purchase intentions. For a 30% discount, the results indicate no difference in intention to purchase moderately or extremely abnormally shaped produce. For 40%, 50%, 60%, and 70% discounts, intention to purchase moderately abnormally shaped produce was stronger than that for extremely abnormally shaped produce. This study discusses the implications of the findings, limitations, and recommendations for future research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthy Eating and Sustainable Consumption in Foodservice Industry)

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26 pages, 2795 KiB

Open AccessReview

Green Roof Development in ASEAN Countries: The Challenges and Perspectives

by Hanny Chandra Pratama, Theerawat Sinsiri and Aphai Chapirom

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7714; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097714 - 08 May 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3918

Abstract

Green roofs (GRs) have emerged as an essential component for the sustainability of buildings, as they reduce the need for cooling energy by limiting heat transmission into building space. The benefits of implementing GRs are appropriate in tropical regions with hot temperatures. The [...] Read more.

Green roofs (GRs) have emerged as an essential component for the sustainability of buildings, as they reduce the need for cooling energy by limiting heat transmission into building space. The benefits of implementing GRs are appropriate in tropical regions with hot temperatures. The entire Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is located in a tropical climate and receives about 12 h of sunlight every day throughout the year, which offers excellent opportunities to install GRs. This research reviews the literature on GR knowledge in ASEAN countries over the past decade (2012–2022) and discusses two main points including (i) GR development level status and (ii) GR performance regarding drivers, motivations, and barriers. The review reveals that Singapore and Malaysia are two among ten countries with significant developments in GRs. Barriers to expertise, government regulations, and public awareness of green roofs represent the most challenging aspects of GR implementation in ASEAN countries. Although research regarding the use of green roofs has been conducted widely, ASEAN countries still need to investigate regulatory breakthroughs, incentives, and technology applications to encourage the use of GRs. The review recommends promoting the use of GRs, which have the potential to reduce energy consumption by up to fifty percent, outdoor surface temperature up to 23.8 °C, and room temperature to 14 °C. The use of GRs can also mitigate runoff issues by up to 98.8% to avoid the risk of flooding in ASEAN countries, which have high rainfall. In addition, this review sheds new insights on providing future potential research to improve GR development in the ASEAN region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Green Technology, Environmental Management and Corporate Social Responsibility from a Global Perspective)

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15 pages, 942 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Tourism Satisfaction and Service Quality on Destination Loyalty: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach concerning China Resort Hotels

by Abid Hussain, Mingxing Li, Shahida Kanwel, Muhammad Asif, Arif Jameel and Jinsoo Hwang

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7713; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097713 - 08 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 5701

Abstract

Since China holds a critical geographical status, it harbors an immense tourist attraction. This research aims to investigate service quality, which determines electronic word of mouth, tourist satisfaction, and loyalty to visiting China’s tourist places. This study collected 443 questionnaires comprising tentative sampling [...] Read more.

Since China holds a critical geographical status, it harbors an immense tourist attraction. This research aims to investigate service quality, which determines electronic word of mouth, tourist satisfaction, and loyalty to visiting China’s tourist places. This study collected 443 questionnaires comprising tentative sampling from sightseers in China. This research examined how electronic word of mouth affects how far tourists are satisfied with their trip and how much loyalty they demonstrate toward the destination places. The SPSS, AMOS, and structural equation modeling techniques were used for analysis. Our findings illustrate the connection between electronic word of mouth, service quality, tourist satisfaction, and destination loyalty. This study also demonstrated that both tourist satisfaction and electronic word of mouth exercise an intermediary impact on service quality and the destination loyalty relationship. In this way, service quality may be attributed to tourist satisfaction (TS) and electronic word of mouth (eWOM), which explicitly influences destination loyalty (DL) when visiting China. These findings have practical implications for the tourism sector of China. Full article

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

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33 pages, 969 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Competition between Green and Non-Green Travel Companies: The Role of Governmental Subsidies in Green Travel

by Jun Tu, Juan Du and Min Huang

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7712; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097712 - 08 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1283

Abstract

The problem of carbon emissions in transportation is an increasing concern, and consumers need to be encouraged towards green modes of travel to achieve low-carbon travel. To compete with non-green travel companies, green travel companies have considered implementing expensive green efforts to attract [...] Read more.

The problem of carbon emissions in transportation is an increasing concern, and consumers need to be encouraged towards green modes of travel to achieve low-carbon travel. To compete with non-green travel companies, green travel companies have considered implementing expensive green efforts to attract consumers. Decisions on travel prices, the green efforts of green travel companies to maintain their competitiveness, and the role of governmental subsidies in promoting green travel must be thoroughly investigated. To consider travel competitiveness and the role of governmental subsidies that support the increased expenses of green travel, this study defined four different decision-making scenarios. The Nash game model without governmental subsidies and the Stackelberg–Nash game model with governmental subsidies were built and solved to understand the effects on the pricing and green efforts of travel companies. The equilibrium results and the role of governmental subsidies were analyzed theoretically and numerically. The results showed that governmental subsidies could boost green efforts while increasing green and non-green travel prices. The competition between green and non-green travel companies both undermined the role of the governmental subsidies and reduced the green and non-green travel prices. A sufficiently large cost-sharing coefficient from the government caused the green travel demand to be higher than the non-green travel demand. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Innovations and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals)

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22 pages, 1112 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Investment Decision Model for Underground Urban Utility Tunnel Based on MIVES and Real Option Theory from a Sustainable Perspective

by Zilian Deng, Xi He, Yingtao Chai and Ting-Kwei Wang

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7711; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097711 - 08 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1193

Abstract

Although the importance of urbanization, urban renewal and sustainable development have been increasingly recognized, with the accelerating process of urbanization, the urban above-ground space is no longer sufficient for the process of urbanization, and downward development of the city has become inevitable. Underground [...] Read more.

Although the importance of urbanization, urban renewal and sustainable development have been increasingly recognized, with the accelerating process of urbanization, the urban above-ground space is no longer sufficient for the process of urbanization, and downward development of the city has become inevitable. Underground Urban Utility Tunnel (UUUT) is an effective measure to promote the sustainable development of urban underground space (UUS). However, decision makers still cannot fully consider the economic, social, environmental and technological factors, as well as the future risks of the project and the value of flexibility in management. In this paper, an investment decision model for UUUT is proposed that combines the Integrated Value Model for Sustainable Assessment (MIVES) and the real option theory, which comprehensively considers the social, economic, environmental and technological impacts, and assists the government in carrying out the investment decision analysis of UUUT from a sustainability perspective by applying the real option theory to the economic evaluation process. The primary process of this study can be divided into four steps. (1) establishment of the investment decision index system for UUUT; (2) determination of the quantitative criteria for each indicator; (3) calculation of the feasibility of UUUT; and (4) a case study to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed model, as well as the achieved results. The proposed investment decision model can be used as an auxiliary tool in the early planning stage of UUUT, and also for the comparison and selection of different options for UUUT. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable and Resilient Infrastructure Development and Operation: Innovative and Adaptive Project Planning, Management, and Finance Measures)

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15 pages, 1423 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Mutual Relationships between Public Space and Social Satisfaction with Case Studies

by Ying Yan and Abdol Aziz Shahraki

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7710; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097710 - 08 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1537

Abstract

This paper analyzes the interconnection between community place qualification and neighborhood social capital. It conducts four types of analyses concerning twelve communities in the Jinshui district of Zhengzhou City. With a literature review, this innovative paper provides general indicators to assess the relationship [...] Read more.

This paper analyzes the interconnection between community place qualification and neighborhood social capital. It conducts four types of analyses concerning twelve communities in the Jinshui district of Zhengzhou City. With a literature review, this innovative paper provides general indicators to assess the relationship between the quality of public spaces and social capital. The innovative feature of this study is when that it localizes indicators with local cognition in analyses. The research methods of this paper are theoretical probes with a case study strategy. A structural equation model (SEM) and a questionnaire technique are employed with 1068 sample respondents. This research benefits from the exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis (EFA and CFA) in a structural equation model (SEM). The studies include five public places’ elements and four social capital factors. The EFA supports reliability, and CFA reveals that environmentally friendly community places affect satisfaction. The model provides more attractive public places and increases social capital. The environmental, humane, and sustainable urban planning and development model brings more public satisfaction and social trust. Bartlett’s test of sphericity verifies our structural equation modeling results. The outcomes of this paper assist urban planners and engineers in designing green cities to provide social satisfaction. Full article

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12 pages, 2705 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Microbial Preparations Combined with Humic Substances Improve the Quality of Tree Planting Material Needed for Reforestation to Increase Carbon Sequestration

by Aleksey Nazarov, Sergey Chetverikov, Darya Chetverikova, Iren Tuktarova, Ruslan Ivanov, Ruslan Urazgildin, Ivan Garankov and Guzel Kudoyarova

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7709; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097709 - 08 May 2023

Viewed by 1140

Abstract

Restoring forests in areas where they once stood is an important step towards increasing carbon sequestration. However, reforestation requires an increase in current levels of seedling production in the tree nurseries. The purpose of this work was to study the effectiveness of preparations [...] Read more.

Restoring forests in areas where they once stood is an important step towards increasing carbon sequestration. However, reforestation requires an increase in current levels of seedling production in the tree nurseries. The purpose of this work was to study the effectiveness of preparations based on bacteria and humic substances (HSs) to stimulate the growth of tree seedlings in a nursery. Two selected strains of Pseudomonas and humic substances were used to treat pine and poplar plants. The treatment of seedlings was carried out during their transplantation and after it, and the effects of treatment on shoot elongation, shoot and root mass were evaluated. Treatments with both bacterial strains enhanced the growth of poplar and pine shoots and roots, which was explained by their ability to synthesize auxins. P. protegens DA1.2 proved to be more effective than P. sp. 4CH. The treatment of plants with humic substances increased the nitrogen balance index and the content of chlorophyll in the leaves of poplar seedlings, which can elevate carbon storage due to the higher rate of photosynthesis. In addition, the combination of humic substances with P. protegens DA1.2 increased shoot biomass accumulation in newly transplanted pine plants, which indicates the possibility of using this combination in plant transplantation. The increase in length and weight of shoots and roots serves as an indicator of the improvement in the quality of planting material, which is necessary for successful reforestation to increase capture of carbon dioxide. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Carbon Capture Science & Technology (CCST))

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22 pages, 332 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Stories of Leadership: Leading with Empathy through the COVID-19 Pandemic

by Jennifer S. Linvill and Gloria O. Onosu

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7708; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097708 - 08 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3502

Abstract

Leader–follower interactions during times of complexity are critical in managing rapid change demands and ensuring organizational sustainability. Between early 2020 and 2023, many organizations worldwide witnessed an unprecedented need for organizational change that rapidly transformed the work environment. This study focused on understanding [...] Read more.

Leader–follower interactions during times of complexity are critical in managing rapid change demands and ensuring organizational sustainability. Between early 2020 and 2023, many organizations worldwide witnessed an unprecedented need for organizational change that rapidly transformed the work environment. This study focused on understanding the contexts of leader and follower interactions during times of change using the shifting organizational landscapes of the COVID-19 pandemic. Applying a qualitative methodology, we collected data from 12 leaders across multiple business sectors in Africa, Asia, and the United States using semi-structured interviews. We then transcribed the interviews and applied an iterative phronetic approach to analyze the data by engaging complexity leadership, emotion in organizations, leading with empathy, belonging, and power and control as theoretical lenses for data analysis. We analyzed how individual leadership experiences during a time of complexity fostered a shift in leadership paradigms and leadership styles within organizations. The findings indicated that due to the unprecedented situations faced during COVID-19, leaders shifted from leadership styles that applied a lens of power and control to an adaptable model that follows the framework of complexity leadership and applies a lens of leading with emotional intelligence. The findings provided a nuanced understanding of the leader–follower relationship by allowing for a complex and varied description of how individuals discursively situate their experiences around issues of power and control. The findings also showed that leaders became more intentional about leading, purposely changing their leadership style to create an environment that supported open communication, belonging, empathy, and awareness. The findings also suggested that when leaders adapt elements of emotional intelligence in leading during times of organizational complexity, they do so with the goal of motivating others and creating a feeling of connection with followers. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed. Full article

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

15 pages, 1707 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Risk Management of Supply Chain Green Finance Based on Sustainable Ecological Environment

by Hailei Zhao

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7707; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097707 - 08 May 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2024

Abstract

Green supply chain finance is a new financing method that focuses on corporate restructuring and promotes corporate capital flow and the development of environmental protection. This paper used BP neural network technology to study the green financing of the supply chain under the [...] Read more.

Green supply chain finance is a new financing method that focuses on corporate restructuring and promotes corporate capital flow and the development of environmental protection. This paper used BP neural network technology to study the green financing of the supply chain under the sustainable ecological environment. The method played an important role in the trial. Due to the more uncertain factors faced and the more complex environment, the risks of green supply chain finance are more hidden, diverse, and complex. The BP neural network is relatively mature in both network theory and performance. Its outstanding advantages are its strong nonlinear mapping ability and flexible network structure. The positive effect of BP neural network on green financial risk management is verified by experiments. Green supply chain finance is an innovative model of green finance. This experiment studies the risk management of green finance in supply chain and the evaluation index of green finance risk management through BP neural network method, and shows that the evaluation results are highly scientific. In addition, based on the green supply chain model, the historical data of different regions provide a scientific basis for the sustainable ecological development of the region. This paper provides guidance for the sustainable development of green finance in the supply chain and makes contributions to promoting the development of green economy. In order to control the risks of supply chain financing business, the risks of supply chain financing business are classified and analyzed, and specific project risk levels and points are determined to propose control measures to ensure effective control of the business risks. Full article

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13 pages, 1795 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Promotion Mechanism of Atrazine Removal from Soil Microbial Fuel Cells by Semiconductor Minerals

by Muyuan Tang, Yilun Sun, Xian Cao, Xiaoyi Jiang, Xintong Gao and Xianning Li

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7706; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097706 - 08 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1203

Abstract

In recent years, soil microbial fuel cells (Soil-MFCs) have attracted attention due to their simultaneous electricity production and contaminant removal functions, but soil electron transfer resistance limits their contaminant removal effectiveness. To overcome the above-mentioned drawbacks, in this study, a dual-chamber Soil-MFC was [...] Read more.

In recent years, soil microbial fuel cells (Soil-MFCs) have attracted attention due to their simultaneous electricity production and contaminant removal functions, but soil electron transfer resistance limits their contaminant removal effectiveness. To overcome the above-mentioned drawbacks, in this study, a dual-chamber Soil-MFC was constructed using atrazine (ATR) as the target contaminant, and the electrochemical performance of Soil-MFC and ATR removal were enhanced by semiconductor mineral addition. Analysis of atrazine was performed in soil using HPLC and GC-MS, and analysis of metallic minerals using XPS. Anodic microorganisms were determined using high-throughput sequencing technology. The results showed that the addition of Fe₃O₄ increased the maximum output voltage of the device by 2.56 times, and the degradation efficiency of atrazine in the soil to 63.35%, while the addition of MnO₂ increased the internal resistance of the device and affected the current output, and these changes were closely related to the ion dissolution rate of the semiconductor minerals. In addition, the addition of both minerals significantly increased the relative abundance of both Proteobacteria and Bacteroidota, and Fe₃O₄ simultaneously promoted the significant enrichment of Firmicutes, indicating that the semiconductor minerals significantly enhanced the enrichment of electroactive microorganisms near the anode. The structural equation modeling indicated that the semiconductor minerals achieved efficient degradation of ATR in the soil through a synergistic mechanism of metal ion leaching and microbial community structure changes. The detection of ATR and its degradation products in soil revealed that the degradation of ATR mainly included: (1) hydrolysis of atrazine by microorganisms to generate dehydroxylated atrazine (HYA); (2) reduced to diethyl atrazine (DEA) and diisopropyl atrazine (DIA) by extracellular electron reduction and re-dechlorination and hydrolysis to HYA. Semiconductor minerals make an important contribution to promoting microbial activity and extracellular electron reduction processes. The results of this study strengthen the power production and ATR removal efficiency of the Soil-MFC system and provide important theoretical support for the on-site removal of organic pollutants and the sustainable application of converting biomass energy into electricity. Full article

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