Preliminary Approach for the Development of Sustainable University Campuses: A Case Study Based on the Mitigation of Greenhouse Gas Emissions
The Influence of Sewage Sludge Composts on the Enzymatic Activity of Reclaimed Post-Mining Soil
Environmental Assessment of Local Food Policies through a Territorial Life Cycle Approach
Effect of Water Level Reduction on the Littoral Zone in Terms of Its Efficiency in Lake Protection
Italy vs. Poland: A Comparative Analysis of Regional Planning System Attitudes toward Adaptation to Climate Changes and Green Infrastructures

Journal Description

Sustainability

Sustainability is an international, cross-disciplinary, scholarly, peer-reviewed and open access journal of environmental, cultural, economic, and social sustainability of human beings. It provides an advanced forum for studies related to sustainability and sustainable development, and is published semimonthly online by MDPI. The Canadian Urban Transit Research & Innovation Consortium (CUTRIC) and International Council for Research and Innovation in Building and Construction (CIB) are affiliated with Sustainability and their members receive discounts of the article processing charge.

Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE and SSCI (Web of Science), GEOBASE, GeoRef, Inspec, AGRIS, RePEc, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Environmental Sciences) / CiteScore - Q1 (Geography, Planning and Development)
Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 17.7 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.7 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2022).
Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Testimonials: See what our editors and authors say about Sustainability.
Companion journals for Sustainability include: World, Sustainable Chemistry, Conservation, Future Transportation, Architecture, Standards, Merits and Wind.

Impact Factor: 3.889 (2021); 5-Year Impact Factor: 4.089 (2021)

Imprint Information Journal Flyer Open Access ISSN: 2071-1050

Latest Articles

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Socioeconomic Status, Perceived Threat and Healthism on Vaccine Hesitancy

Andrej Kirbiš

Sustainability 2023, 15(7), 6107; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15076107 (registering DOI) - 31 Mar 2023

Abstract

The ideology of healthism and low perceptions of the threat of vaccine-preventable diseases may explain the positive link between socioeconomic status (SES) and vaccine hesitancy in high-income countries. The present study aimed to examine the effect of three measures of SES (education, income and family economic status), the perceived threat of infectious diseases and two dimensions of healthism (personal responsibility for own health and distrust in healthcare institutions) on vaccine hesitancy, adjusting for sociodemographic variables. A cross-sectional quantitative study was performed in 2019. Non-probability sampling was employed by sending invitations to respondents over the age of 18 to participate in the study. The snowball technique was used, employing e-mails and digital social networks (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram). Data from 661 respondents were collected via 1 ka.si, an online survey tool. Multivariate regression analysis indicated that vaccine hesitancy was significantly more likely to be expressed by women (β = 0.29; p < 0.001), high-income respondents (β = 0.09; p < 0.01), those who have lower perceptions of the threat of vaccine-preventable diseases (β = 0.39; p < 0.001) and those scoring high on two healthism measures (expressing high perceived control of their own health (β = 0.18; p < 0.001) and high distrust in the Slovenian healthcare system and institutions (β = 0.37; p < 0.001)). The findings indicate that among the examined predictors, low perceived threat of vaccine-preventable diseases and low trust in the healthcare system are among the strongest predictors of vaccine hesitancy among the Slovenian public. Policymakers, physicians and other healthcare workers should be especially attentive to the public’s and patients’ perceptions of the risk of infectious diseases and distrust in medical institutions, including during doctor–patient communication and through public health campaigns and policies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Science and Education for Public Policy – towards Sustainable Development)

Open AccessArticle

Using the Morgenstern–Price Method and Cloud Theory to Invert the Shear Strength Index of Tailings Dams and Reveal the Coupling Deformation and Failure Law under Extreme Rainfall

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Sustainability 2023, 15(7), 6106; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15076106 (registering DOI) - 31 Mar 2023

Abstract

It is difficult to obtain reliable shear strength parameters for the stability analysis and evaluation of tailings dams in an unstable state. In this study, the sensitivity of the shear strength index to the safety factor of a tailings dam was evaluated. The cohesion C range of a tailings earth rock dam in an unstable state is determined by the safety factor, and the Morgenstern–Price method is used for inversion. During parameter inversion, uncertainty reasoning is established based on cloud theory, which overcomes the problem that the fuzziness and randomness of the quantitative cohesion value are transferred to the qualitative concept of the safety factor. The results show that the change in cohesion C has a greater influence on the safety factor Fs of the tailings dam, and the value of parameter inversion is 8.6901 kPa. The deformation and failure of tailings dams under extreme rainfall conditions are analyzed by using the modified cohesion C value. The dam toe becomes the main response area of plastic deformation and slowly expands to the interior, showing creep deformation. The displacement field gradually transfers from the accumulated tailings to the tailings dam with the flow direction, causing erosion damage. This study provides a new idea and method for parameter inversion of the shear strength index of tailings dams and provides a reference for the disaster prediction and prevention of tailings dams subjected to extreme rainfall. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mine Disasters Control and Synergetic Mining: Challenges to Mine Sustainability)

Open AccessReview

Effects of Solid Waste Reutilization on Performance of Pervious Concrete: A Review

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Sustainability 2023, 15(7), 6105; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15076105 (registering DOI) - 31 Mar 2023

Abstract

With rapid urban development, natural aggregate resources have become scarce and a large number of ageing buildings are being demolished, which has resulted in a significant reduction in natural resources and a large increase in construction waste. Therefore, the reuse of solid waste, including waste powder and recycled aggregate, has attracted more and more attention. Additionally, as a prominent way to alleviate the urban heat island effect and manage stormwater runoff, pervious concrete has been widely studied and applied. In this paper, the effects of waste powder (fly ash, volcanic powder and blast furnace slag) and recycled aggregate (recycled concrete aggregate and recycled brick aggregate) on the mechanical properties, water permeability, water filtration and durability of pervious concrete are summarized and introduced, and some prospects are put forward. From the literature review, it can be found that adding the appropriate amount of solid waste or applying proper treatment methods to solid waste will not bring negative effects; rather, it would even improve the performance attributes of pervious concrete. Therefore, the use of solid waste in pervious concrete has great potential for urban construction and environmental protection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Waste and Recycling)

Open AccessArticle

Study on Utilization of Biochar Prepared from Crop Straw with Enhanced Carbon Sink Function in Northeast China

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Sustainability 2023, 15(7), 6104; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15076104 (registering DOI) - 31 Mar 2023

Abstract

Carbon emission reduction is an important issue facing the current industrial development. With the agglomeration of old industrial bases in Northeast China and the high total carbon emission, it is difficult to achieve the goal of carbon neutrality. The objective of crop straw biochar preparation and utilization research is to achieve regional carbon neutralization and carbon sink function. The waste crop straw resources in Northeast China were huge, with an annual yield of about 7.0 × 10⁷ tons which showed an increasing trend. The development of the biochar industry in Northeast China significantly reduced carbon emissions and the environmental pollution caused by straw burning. At the same time, it obtained a huge profit of 7.0 × 10¹⁰ RMB. Because of the special location conditions in Northeast China, the establishment of the biochar industry chain needed multi-angle research and judgment. The biochar industry in Northeast China will have a broad prospect, and the industrial demand is not only farmland soil improvement but also winter heating fuel utilization and carbon reduction. This study will further increase the carbon sink capacity in Northeast China and promote the realization of China’s carbon neutrality goal, which also has important reference value for carbon reduction in other countries in the world. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Resources and Sustainable Utilization)

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Open AccessArticle

A Qualitative Investigation of European Grain Legume Supply Markets through the Lens of Agroecology in Four Companies

Rikke Lybæk

and

Henrik Hauggaard-Nielsen

Sustainability 2023, 15(7), 6103; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15076103 (registering DOI) - 31 Mar 2023

Abstract

Four companies in Europe were chosen as case studies using an information-oriented selection procedure on the basis of their location, processing equipment and size, and through the adoption of a “maximum variation” approach. The purpose was to investigate how legume processors of various sizes and in different locations in the European protein legume market are working to increase their market share within the paradigm of efficiency gains from agricultural specialisation and trade in order to improve both food availability and security. After identifying company typologies and characteristics, the company case studies along the legume value chain were investigated. The analysis revealed that the supply market for grain legumes is expected to grow rapidly, and the various processors are increasing their market shares in terms of product type and geography. Based on the principles of agroecology and levels of food system change, the companies were found to be adopting promising business strategies, but are not disrupting the competitive patterns among existing European legume supply companies and food consumers that dominate the current regime. System change is far from taking place. However, conventional perspectives are being challenged and new ways of operating are being developed, indicating that a significant transition can be initiated that would move legumes away from being a niche sector, demonstrating to legume processors and consumers in the regime that there is an alternative and more sustainable pathway for the future, possibly stimulating larger-scale initiatives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Food System Transition)

Open AccessArticle

Staircase Wetlands for the Treatment of Greywater and the Effect of Greywater on Soil Microbes

Ghulam Qadir

Vanessa Pino

Arianna Brambilla

and

Fernando Alonso-Marroquin

Sustainability 2023, 15(7), 6102; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15076102 (registering DOI) - 31 Mar 2023

Abstract

Fresh water is an increasingly scarce resource in both urban and rural development. As a response to this challenge, non-potable water reuse is on the rise. This research explored a potential off-grid system for water purification, consisting of a staircase wetland with terracotta pot plants working as a filter for greywater. This study further investigated the physicochemical properties of greywater and the soil before and after wetland purification. The removal of total suspended solids, total coliforms, fecal coliforms, etc., was always between 90 and 99%. Results show that the filtered water satisfied all requirements for water reuse, e.g., a pH of 7–7.5 and a turbidity < 5 NTU. This research then uniquely investigated the effect of greywater on soil microbes and soil biomass using soil DNA extraction and the tea bag index testing method. The filtered greywater absorbed by soil decomposed the soil faster (66% for green tea) and stabilized it better compared to tap-water-absorbed soil or unfiltered greywater. DNA generation sequencing revealed no significant differences in alpha diversity between the control and treatment samples. The beta diversity differences were significant. This nature-based solution can lead to reduced loads on the sewage system, resulting in less wastewater generation. Full article

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Open AccessReview

The Bioeconomy and Food Systems Transformation

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Sustainability 2023, 15(7), 6101; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15076101 (registering DOI) - 31 Mar 2023

Abstract

While the global number of people experiencing food insecurity remains stubbornly high, innovations have been increasingly adopted that are contributing to ensure that food systems are as resilient and flexible as they can possibly be. Bioeconomy and biotechnology innovations have contributed to improving rural development and food production. Genomic knowledge is an important part of innovative bioeconomy and biotechnology research as it is applied to increase the efficiency of crops, animals, biofuel, bioplastics and bioenergy production. This allows food systems to transform to be more sustainable and equitable, providing healthy, nutritious food, while creating livelihood opportunities and reducing negative impacts. This article highlights the beneficial impacts of innovative bioeconomy and biotechnology products in technologies, particularly as they relate to the Americas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioeconomy Innovation Pipelines and Supply Chain and Policy Shocks)

Open AccessArticle

Combined Effects of Biochar and Inhibitors on Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Global Warming Potential, and Nitrogen Use Efficiency in the Tobacco Field

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Sustainability 2023, 15(7), 6100; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15076100 (registering DOI) - 31 Mar 2023

Abstract

Biochar (BC), nitrification inhibitors (methyl 3-(4-hydroxyphenyl) propionate, MHPP), and urease inhibitors (n-butyl phosphorothioate triamine, NBPT) have emerged as effective soil greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation strategies in agroecosystems. However, the combined use of BC and inhibitors in karst areas has no available data. Therefore, the combined effects of BC, MHPP, and NBPT on GHG emissions, global warming potential (GWP) and nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) in roasted tobacco cropping systems were studied to improve the understanding in climate mitigation. CO₂, CH₄, and N₂O emissions from soils were measured using static chamber-gas chromatography. Results showed that the combined use of BC and inhibitors significantly increased soil total nitrogen, available potassium, electric conductivity, pH, and soil organic matter compared to the control. The combined use of BC and MHPP or NBPT significantly increased cumulative soil CO₂ emissions by 33.95% and 34.25%, respectively. The exponential–exponential function of soil CO₂ fluxes with soil moisture and temperature demonstrated good fit (R²: 0.506–0.836). The combination of BC and NBPT increased the cumulative soil CH₄ emissions by 14.28% but not significantly compared to the fertiliser treatment. However, the combination of BC and MHPP resulted in a significant reduction in cumulative soil CH₄ emissions by 80.26%. In addition, the combined use of BC and MHPP or NBPT significantly reduced the cumulative soil N₂O emissions by 26.55% and 40.67%, respectively. The inhibition effect of NBPT was better than MHPP. Overall, the combined use of BC and inhibitors significantly reduced the yield-scaled GWP, markedly increased crop yield and NUE, and mitigated climate change in the southwest karst region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Resources Conservation, Recycling and Waste Management)

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Open AccessArticle

Development of Trade and Financial-Economical Relationships between China and Russia: A Study Based on the Trade Gravity Model

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Sustainability 2023, 15(7), 6099; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15076099 (registering DOI) - 31 Mar 2023

Abstract

This article empirically assessed new opportunities and provides a conceptual justification for promising areas of trade and financial and economic relations between China and Russia amidst ongoing global turbulence, the post-COVID situation, and sanctions pressure. The study utilized the trade gravity model, taking into account the latest trends in the development of the research subject and object, as well as current challenges and trends in the global economy. The study revealed similarities between the political systems, reforms, and policies of China and Russia, with centralized power structures overlapping and supporting each other at international forums such as the UNSC. The findings suggest that both countries plan to increase trade volume in the next two years, with China focusing more on trade and economic development, while Russia works to promote security and political stability. This study provides valuable insights into the economic relationship between Russia and China, its impact on the US and Europe, and highlights the need for effective policy interventions to address the challenges posed by this relationship. It offers significant theoretical and practical contributions, including the potential to unlock the potential of national economies, increase their competitiveness and help states enter a phase of advanced and sustainable development. This article provides several policy recommendations to ensure the long-term sustainability of the economic relationship between Russia and China and foster mutual understanding and trust between their peoples. These include promoting trade diversification, enhancing financial cooperation, addressing trade barriers, strengthening political and security coordination, mitigating negative impacts on other countries, promoting sustainable development, and fostering people-to-people exchanges. Full article

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

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Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Leader Self-Sacrifice in Virtual Teams on Prosocial Behavior: The Mediational Role of Team Identification and Self-Efficacy

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Sustainability 2023, 15(7), 6098; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15076098 (registering DOI) - 31 Mar 2023

Abstract

Leadership is one of the most studied features of virtual teams. Among the various characteristics analyzed by recent literature, leadership self-sacrifice is one of the most important, as it represents a predictor of many positive characteristics of teams’ functioning. In this study, we (a) analyze the relationship between leader self-sacrifice and the prosocial behavior of followers in a work team and (b) observe the effects of leader self-sacrifice in virtual teams. A sample of 197 university students enrolled in a psychology course took part in a group electronic task of writing a detailed research plan for a scientific investigation. Participants collaborated in groups of five, led by a senior student for 30 days. Results showed the presence of an effect of e-leadership self-sacrifice on followers’ prosocial behavior. Another effect of e-leadership self-sacrifice was found via team identification and perceived self-efficacy. Findings are discussed on the basis of Social Identity Theory, showing the importance of self-sacrifice e-leaders to promote reciprocal prosocial behavior of the followers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Social Relation Mediated by New Technology: Behavior, Psychology and Society)

Open AccessArticle

Bifurcation Analysis of a Photovoltaic Power Source Interfacing a Current-Mode-Controlled Boost Converter with Limited Current Sensor Bandwidth for Maximum Power Point Tracking

Edwige Raissa Mache Kengne

Alain Soup Tewa Kammogne

and

Sustainability 2023, 15(7), 6097; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15076097 (registering DOI) - 31 Mar 2023

Abstract

The presence of a high ripple in the inductor current of a DC-DC converter in a photovoltaic converter chain leads to a considerable decrease in the energy efficiency of the converter. To solve this problem, we consider a current-mode control and for economic reasons we used a single inductor current sensor with a low-pass filter. The purpose of the low-pass filter is to minimize the effect of ripple in the inductor current by taking only the DC component of the signal at the output of the sensor for tracking the maximum power point. The objective of this paper is therefore to study the stability of the photovoltaic system as a function of the filter frequency while maintaining a good power level. First, we propose a general modeling of the whole system by linearizing the PV around the maximum power point. Floquet theory is used to determine analytically the stability of the overall system. The fourth-order Runge–Kutta method is used to plot bifurcation diagrams and Lyapunov exponents in MATLAB/SIMULINK when the filter frequency varies in a limited range and the ramp amplitude is taken as a control parameter. Secondly, the PSIM software is used to design the device and validate the results obtained in MATLAB/SIMULINK. The results depicted in MATLAB/SIMULINK are in perfect agreement with those obtained in PSIM. We found that not only is the energy level maintained at the maximum power level of

85.17

W, but also that the stability range of the photovoltaic system increased with the value of the filter cut-off frequency. This research offers a wider range of parameters for stability control of photovoltaic systems contrarily to others found in literature. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advancements in Sustainable Solar Photovoltaic Power Technology)

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Open AccessArticle

Conditions Driving Youth Employment in Key Sectors of the Nigerian Economy

Sarah Edore Edewor

Genesis B. Kollie

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Ibukun James Olaoye

Sustainability 2023, 15(7), 6096; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15076096 - 31 Mar 2023

Abstract

The rising incidence of youth unemployment, especially in emerging economies, calls for prompt attention of development experts and policy makers given its effect on sustainable growth. This challenge has worsened in recent times in Nigeria, hence, making it crucial to understand the factors driving youth employment. We analyzed the differential impact of sectoral growth on youth employment across rural and urban areas through a gender lens and identified the specific conditions needed for investment in sectors with potentials for job creation in the Nigerian economy. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, revealed comparative advantage (RCA), employment elasticity, and Logit regression model. It was observed that Nigeria has demonstrated a comparative advantage in the export of 17 products. Our findings also revealed that all the economic sectors in Nigeria have potential for creating employment at different levels with financial services contributing the highest (0.734) and manufacturing the lowest (0.056). The increase in education influenced employment and a higher likelihood of male youths’ employment in the services, construction, and industry sectors as compared to more female youths in the trade sector. Some common conditions that could aid firms’ production scale-up and increase job creation across all sectors include: increased access to finance, improved infrastructure (road, water, air, power, and rail), and favorable interest rates and exchange rates. We recommend that concerted effort be targeted at mainstreaming gender in all sectoral policies and key sectors be strengthened through targeted welfare reforms aimed at enhancing the capacities of the youths for sectoral relevance. Full article

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

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Open AccessArticle

Identifying Critical Indicators in Performance Evaluation of Green Supply Chains Using Hybrid Multiple-Criteria Decision-Making

Changlu Zhang

Liqian Tang

and

Jian Zhang

Sustainability 2023, 15(7), 6095; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15076095 - 31 Mar 2023

Abstract

Performance evaluation of green supply chains (GSC) is an important tool to improve their comprehensive management. Identifying critical indicators is crucial to evaluation. This study examines the critical indicators in performance evaluations of GPC and provides relevant suggestions for managers to improve GSCs’ performances. Firstly, we summarized 24 evaluation indicators from five dimensions—financial value, customer service-level, business processes, innovation and development, and the so-called green level. Secondly, the Delphi method was used to determine the formal research framework. The fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory based analytic network process (fuzzy DEMATEL-based ANP) model was applied. The weighted prominence of each indicator was calculated to identify those that were critical, and a causality diagram was constructed for them. Finally, corresponding countermeasures and implications regarding those were put forward. The research results show that the critical indicators include the return rate of net assets, the growth rate of profit, the rate of service satisfaction, market share, production flexibility, and the green consensus. Among them, the green consensus, the growth rate of profit and the rate of service satisfaction form a virtuous circle, leading to the improvement of the overall performance of GSC. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multiple Criteria Decision-Making Techniques in Sustainable Supply Chains and Logistics Management)

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Open AccessArticle

An Integrated Method Based on Convolutional Neural Networks and Data Fusion for Assembled Structure State Recognition

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Sustainability 2023, 15(7), 6094; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15076094 (registering DOI) - 31 Mar 2023

Abstract

This article focuses on the Assembled Structure (AS) state recognition method based on vibration data. The difficulty of AS state recognition is mainly the extraction of effective classification features and pattern classification. This paper presents an integrated method based on Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) and data fusion for AS state recognition. The method takes the wavelet transform time-frequency images of the denoised vibration signal as input, uses CNNs to supervise and learn the data, extracts the deep data structure layer by layer, and improves the classification results through data fusion technology. The method is tested on an assembly concrete shear wall using shake-table testing, and the results show that it has a good overall identification accuracy (IA) of 94.7%, indicating that it is robust and capable of accurately recognizing very small changes in AS state recognition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Structural Damage Detection and Quick Repair Assisted by AI Technologies)

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Open AccessArticle

Two-Stage Robust Optimal Scheduling of Flexible Distribution Networks Based on Pairwise Convex Hull

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Sustainability 2023, 15(7), 6093; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15076093 - 31 Mar 2023

Abstract

With distributed generation (DG) being continuously connected into distribution networks, the stochastic and fluctuating nature of its power generation brings ever more problems than before, such as increasing operating costs and frequent voltage violations. However, existing robust scheduling methods of flexible resources tend to make rather conservative decisions, resulting in high operation costs. In view of this, a two-stage robust optimal scheduling method for flexible distribution networks is proposed in this paper, based on the pairwise convex hull (PWCH) uncertainty set. A two-stage robust scheduling model is first formulated considering coordination among on-load tap changers, energy storage systems and flexible distribution switches. In the first stage, the temporal correlated OLTCs and energy storage systems are globally scheduled using day-ahead forecasted DG outputs. In the second stage, FDSs are scheduled in real time in each time period based on the first-stage decisions and accurate short-term forecasted DG outputs. The spatial correlation and uncertainties of the outputs of multiple DGs are modeled based on the PWCH, such that the decision conservativeness can be reduced by cutting regions in the box with low probability of occurrence. The improved column-and-constraint generation algorithm is then used to solve the robust optimization model. Through alternating iterations of auxiliary variables and dual variables, the nonconvex bilinear terms induced by the PWCH are eliminated, and the subproblem is significantly accelerated. Test results on the 33-bus distribution system and a realistic 104-bus distribution system validate that the proposed PWCH-based method can obtain much less conservative scheduling schemes than using the box uncertainty set. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Theories and Applications of Sustainable Energy Systems and Smart Power Grids)

Open AccessArticle

Promoting Responsible Sustainable Consumer Behavior through Sustainability Marketing: The Boundary Effects of Corporate Social Responsibility and Brand Image

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Sustainability 2023, 15(7), 6092; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15076092 - 31 Mar 2023

Abstract

Responsible sustainable consumer behavior might serve as a complex pattern of social and environmental issues, consistent with the perspective of sustainability as a construct with both social and environmental pillars. Anchored on signaling theory and attribution theory, this study seeks to unearth a hitherto unexplored mechanism that might translate sustainability marketing into elevated responsible sustainable consumer behavior through the mediating role of brand image. Besides, this study aims to examine the impact of corporate social responsibility, as an intervening variable, to underpin the association between sustainability marketing and brand image. This study analyzes data from five-star and four-star hotel customers using SmartPLS SEM (v 4.0). The findings support our hypotheses that a hotel’s brand image mediates the relationship between sustainability marketing and responsible sustainable consumer behavior. In addition, hotels’ engagement in corporate social responsibility activities moderates the link between sustainability marketing and brand image, such that the association is stronger (weaker) at higher (lower) levels of corporate social responsibility. This study explores the boundary conditions of the sustainability marketing–responsible sustainable consumer behavior link. Hotels can foster responsible sustainable consumer behavior by executing sustainability marketing and engaging in corporate social responsibility activities. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Effects of Urea Application on Soil Organic Nitrogen Mineralization and Nitrogen Fertilizer Availability in a Rice–Broad Bean Rotation System

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Sustainability 2023, 15(7), 6091; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15076091 - 31 Mar 2023

Abstract

Rice cultivation is facing a situation where rice production stagnates while nitrogen fertilizer (NF) application continues to increase. The effectiveness of the NF residues from the rice season on the growth of rotating broad beans is unclear. High NF use in rice cultivation also affects the nitrogen supply through soil organic nitrogen (SON) mineralization (SONM). However, the rules of SONM and the NF availability in the rice–broad bean rotation system (RBRS) are unknown. A field trial of the RBRS was conducted using ¹⁵N-labeled urea (CO(¹⁵NH₂)₂) as the partial NF source (¹⁵N accounted for 5.3% of the total pure nitrogen applied) for the rice and no NF for the broad bean. It was found that 33.0–38.1% of NF in the rice season was utilized. NF availability was low in the broad bean season (3.6–4.0%). SONM was the most important source, providing approximately 60% of the nitrogen for rice growth. The SONM into mineral nitrogen and the fixation of mineral nitrogen into SON occurred simultaneously, with SONM dominating in most cases. SON content decreased slowly in the rice season and dramatically in the broad bean’s podding stage with a 0.64 g kg⁻¹ (24.1%) decrease. The high nitrogen application in rice season promoted SONM and aggravated groundwater pollution. Soil urease activity, rather than catalase, phosphatase, and invertase activities, can be the main monitoring object of SONM. Furthermore, fungal abundance (especially Aspergillaceae, Neuroceae, and unclassified_o__Helotiales), rather than bacteria, was the primary target for SONM monitoring. It is unreasonable to apply large amounts of NF in the rice season but not in the broad bean season in the RBRS. N1 (135 kg N ha⁻¹) had the best comprehensive benefits regarding crop yield, nitrogen supply by SONM, NF utilization, and nitrogen loss on the environment in the RBRS. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Sustainability of Agricultural Soils)

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Open AccessArticle

Special Characteristics and Stability Analysis of Bank Slope Deposits with Special Geotechnical Structures in High and Cold Valleys

Shuyu Wu

Daru Hu

and

Tao Wen

Sustainability 2023, 15(7), 6090; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15076090 - 31 Mar 2023

Abstract

Due to the special internal and external dynamic action of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, the high and cold valleys are typically characterized by high-steep terrain, dry and cold climate, lithologic diversity, complex geological structure, and frequent occurrence of earthquakes. In this study, the types of special geotechnical structures of bank slope deposits in high and cold valleys are summarized based on field investigation, field and laboratory tests, and numerical simulation. These special deposits include colluvial-deluvial deposits, terrace deposits, early debris flow deposits, and landslide deposits. The formation mechanism, physical and mechanical properties, and stability analysis of these deposits were studied. The results show that the formation mechanism of various deposits is different, which is closely related to the intense geological tectonic action, the weathering and unloading action intensified by freezing and thawing cycles, and the special rock and soil structure in the high and cold valleys. Different material compositions have obvious effects on the physical and mechanical properties of the deposits, thus affecting the stability and deformation characteristics of the deposits. Under natural and saturated conditions, the stability of different types of the deposits is different, which is mainly related to the special geotechnical structure of various deposits. Compared with that before the reservoir impoundment, the stability factor of various deposits after the reservoir impoundment is significantly reduced. The performances can be provided as a reference for evaluating the stability of bank slope deposits in high and cold valleys. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Risk Assessment of Landslides Based on Multi-Source Data and Machine Learning)

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Open AccessReview

The Impact of Fisheries on the Economy: A Systematic Review on the Application of General Equilibrium and Input–Output Methods

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Sustainability 2023, 15(7), 6089; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15076089 - 31 Mar 2023

Abstract

In this paper, a systematic literature review on the impact of fisheries on the economy and the application of the computable general equilibrium (CGE) and input–output (IO) methods for assessing this impact is conducted. The importance of fisheries as a food source, the over exploitation of this resource, and, consequently, the impact of fisheries on the economy are the motivations behind this study. By reviewing the applications of two of the most common economic modelling tools, we aim to shine light on the state of the art and how the impact of fisheries on the economy has been addressed in the literature. In this analysis, three main themes of socio-economic, ecological, and environmental have been identified, and the application of these methods in each theme has been considered. The results show that while IO methods continue to be applied in the literature, the CGE method has experienced increased application recently, and future applications are anticipated due to its enhanced capabilities in comparison with IO models. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Modelling for Sustainable Fisheries Management)

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Open AccessArticle

Optimization-Driven Machine Learning Approach for the Prediction of Hydrochar Properties from Municipal Solid Waste

Parthasarathy Velusamy

Jagadeesan Srinivasan

Nithyaselvakumari Subramanian

Rakesh Kumar Mahendran

Muhammad Qaiser Saleem

Maqbool Ahmad

Muhammad Shafiq

and

Jin-Ghoo Choi

Sustainability 2023, 15(7), 6088; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15076088 - 31 Mar 2023

Abstract

Municipal solid waste (MSW) management is an essential element of present-day society. The proper storage and disposal of solid waste is critical to public health, safety, and environmental performance. The direct recovery of MSW into useful energy is a critical task. In addition, the demand for conventional power supplies is high. As a strategy to solve these two problems, the technology to directly convert municipal solid waste into conventional energy to replace fossil fuels has been obtained. The hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) process is a thermochemical conversion process that utilizes heat to convert wet biomass feedstocks into hydrochar. Hydrochar with premium gasoline properties is used for fuel combustion for strength. The properties of fuel hydrochar, including C char (carbon content), HHV (higher heating value), and yield, are mainly based on the properties of the MSW. This study aimed to predict the properties of fuel hydrochar using a machine learning (ML) model. We employed an ensemble support vector machine (E-SVM) as the classifier, which was combined with the slime mode algorithm (SMA) for optimization and developed based on 281 data points. The model was primarily trained and tested on a fusion of three datasets: sewage sludge, leftovers, and cow dung. The proposed ESVM_SMA model achieved an excellent overall performance with an average R² of 0.94 and RMSE of 2.62. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future Prospects of Machine Learning, Data Mining and IoT in Smart and Sustainable Systems)

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