Sustainability

20 pages, 3810 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Bromatological, Proximate and Ultimate Analysis of OFMSW for Different Seasons and Collection Systems

by Isabella Pecorini, Elena Rossi and Renato Iannelli

Sustainability 2020, 12(7), 2639; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12072639 - 26 Mar 2020

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 3421

In order to study the quality of organic fractions of municipal solid waste (OFMSW), five different municipalities in Tuscany were chosen for sampling according to the peculiarities of their collection systems. The five collection systems selected were sampled four times: during March, June, [...] Read more.

In order to study the quality of organic fractions of municipal solid waste (OFMSW), five different municipalities in Tuscany were chosen for sampling according to the peculiarities of their collection systems. The five collection systems selected were sampled four times: during March, June, September and December, for a total of 20 picking analyses. In addition, emphasis was also given to the study of the variability of OFMSW composition related to ultimate, proximate and bromatological analyses. Road container collection systems proved to have a higher content of non-compostable and undesirable fractions (22%±1%) when compared to door-to-door systems (6% ± 1%). During months with lower temperature (March and December), the garden waste content in the OFMSW was negligible, with kitchen waste prevailing. This altered the physical chemical composition of OFMSW, which had a lower lignin content and higher methane production in the months with lower temperatures (272 ± 23 NLCH₄ kg_TVS⁻¹) compared to June and September (238 ± 14 NLCH₄ kg_TVS⁻¹). In general, the Tuscan OFMSW had a higher dry matter content (42%) than observed in previous studies. In conclusion, the result could direct possible future operators of anaerobic digestion plants towards the choice of dry and semi-dry technologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Municipal Solid Waste Management in a Circular Economy)

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30 pages, 9789 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

CityScapeLab Berlin: A Research Platform for Untangling Urbanization Effects on Biodiversity

by Moritz von der Lippe, Sascha Buchholz, Anne Hiller, Birgit Seitz and Ingo Kowarik

Sustainability 2020, 12(6), 2565; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12062565 - 24 Mar 2020

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 14395

Abstract

Urban biodiversity conservation requires an understanding of how urbanization modulates biodiversity patterns and the associated ecosystem services. While important advances have been made in the conceptual development of urban biodiversity research over the last decades, challenges remain in understanding the interactions between different [...] Read more.

Urban biodiversity conservation requires an understanding of how urbanization modulates biodiversity patterns and the associated ecosystem services. While important advances have been made in the conceptual development of urban biodiversity research over the last decades, challenges remain in understanding the interactions between different groups of taxa and the spatiotemporal complexity of urbanization processes. The CityScapeLab Berlin is a novel experimental research platform that allows the testing of theories on how urbanization affects biodiversity patterns and biotic interactions in general and the responses of species of conservation interest in particular. We chose dry grassland patches as the backbone of the research platform because dry grasslands are common in many urban regions, extend over a wide urbanization gradient, and usually harbor diverse and self-assembled communities. Focusing on a standardized type of model ecosystem allowed the urbanization effects on biodiversity to be unraveled from effects that would otherwise be masked by habitat- and land-use effects. The CityScapeLab combines different types of spatiotemporal data on (i) various groups of taxa from different trophic levels, (ii) environmental parameters on different spatial scales, and (iii) on land-use history. This allows for the unraveling of the effects of current and historical urban conditions on urban biodiversity patterns and the related ecological functions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Urban Development)

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21 pages, 752 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Strategies for Sustainable and Circular Management of Phosphorus in the Baltic Sea Region: The Holistic Approach of the InPhos Project

by Marzena Smol, Michał Preisner, Augusto Bianchini, Jessica Rossi, Ludwig Hermann, Tanja Schaaf, Jolita Kruopienė, Kastytis Pamakštys, Maris Klavins, Ruta Ozola-Davidane, Daina Kalnina, Elina Strade, Viktoria Voronova, Karin Pachel, Xiaosheng Yang, Britt-Marie Steenari and Magdalena Svanström

Sustainability 2020, 12(6), 2567; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12062567 - 24 Mar 2020

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 5578

Abstract

Despite the significant reduction of phosphorus (P) discharge in the Baltic Sea in the last decades, obtained through the implementation of some approaches within the Helsinki Convention, eutrophication is still considered the biggest problem for the Baltic Sea environment. Consequently, the reduction of [...] Read more.

Despite the significant reduction of phosphorus (P) discharge in the Baltic Sea in the last decades, obtained through the implementation of some approaches within the Helsinki Convention, eutrophication is still considered the biggest problem for the Baltic Sea environment. Consequently, the reduction of P load is an urgent need to solve, but the complexity of both the environmental and legislative context of the area makes this process difficult (more than in the past). Eutrophication is an intricate issue requiring a proper framework of governance that is not easy to determine in the Baltic Sea Region where the needs of several different countries converge. To identify the most suitable strategy to reduce the eutrophication in the Baltic Sea, the InPhos project (no. 17022, 2018–2019, funded by the European Institute of Innovation & Technology (EIT) Raw Materials) adopted a holistic approach considering technical, political, economic, environmental and social aspects of P management. With the aims to raise awareness about the P challenge, foster the dialogue among all the stakeholders, and find solutions already developed in other countries (such as Germany and Switzerland) to be transferred in the Baltic Sea Region, the InPhos project consortium applied the methodology proposed in this paper, consisting of three main phases: (i) analysis of the available technologies to remove P from waste streams that contribute to eutrophication; (ii) analysis of the main streams involving P in Baltic Sea countries to highlight the potential of more sustainable and circular P management; (iii) study of the current context (e.g., already-existing initiatives and issues). This approach allowed us to identify four categories of recommendations and practical actions proposed to improve P management in the Baltic Sea region. During the project, the consortium mainly addressed social aspects. Following steps beyond the project will be more quantitative to determine the techno-economic feasibility of circular P management in selected demo cases in the region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Eutrophication and Sustainable Management of Water)

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17 pages, 6271 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Air Pollution Prediction Using Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) and Deep Autoencoder (DAE) Models

by Thanongsak Xayasouk, HwaMin Lee and Giyeol Lee

Sustainability 2020, 12(6), 2570; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12062570 - 24 Mar 2020

Cited by 117 | Viewed by 9166

Abstract

Many countries worldwide have poor air quality due to the emission of particulate matter (i.e., PM₁₀ and PM_2.5), which has led to concerns about human health impacts in urban areas. In this study, we developed models to predict fine PM [...] Read more.

Many countries worldwide have poor air quality due to the emission of particulate matter (i.e., PM₁₀ and PM_2.5), which has led to concerns about human health impacts in urban areas. In this study, we developed models to predict fine PM concentrations using long short-term memory (LSTM) and deep autoencoder (DAE) methods, and compared the model results in terms of root mean square error (RMSE). We applied the models to hourly air quality data from 25 stations in Seoul, South Korea, for the period from 1 January 2015, to 31 December 2018. Fine PM concentrations were predicted for the 10 days following this period, at an optimal learning rate of 0.01 for 100 epochs with batch sizes of 32 for LSTM model, and DAEs model performed best with batch size 64. The proposed models effectively predicted fine PM concentrations, with the LSTM model showing slightly better performance. With our forecasting model, it is possible to give reliable fine dust prediction information for the area where the user is located. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Air Pollution Monitoring and Environmental Sustainability)

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22 pages, 6297 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Assessment of the Possible Reuse of Extractive Waste Coming from Abandoned Mine Sites: Case Study in Gorno, Italy

by Neha Mehta, Giovanna Antonella Dino, Iride Passarella, Franco Ajmone-Marsan, Piergiorgio Rossetti and Domenico Antonio De Luca

Sustainability 2020, 12(6), 2471; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12062471 - 21 Mar 2020

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 3927

Abstract

Supply of resources, a growing population, and environmental pollution are some of the main challenges facing the contemporary world. The rapid development of mining activities has produced huge amounts of waste. This waste, found in abandoned mine sites, provides the potential opportunity of [...] Read more.

Supply of resources, a growing population, and environmental pollution are some of the main challenges facing the contemporary world. The rapid development of mining activities has produced huge amounts of waste. This waste, found in abandoned mine sites, provides the potential opportunity of extracting raw material. The current study, therefore, focuses on testing the validation of a shared methodology to recover extractive waste from abandoned mines, and applies this methodology to a case study in Gorno, northwest Italy. The methods focused on: (1) analyzing the impact of tailings and fine fraction of waste rock (<2 mm) on plants (Cress - Lepidium Sativum) to assess usability of both as soil additive, and (2) recovering raw materials from tailings and coarse fraction (>2 mm) of waste rock, by means of dressing methods like wet shaking table and froth flotation. The results indicated that the fine fraction of waste rock and tailings did not have detrimental effects on seed germination; however, there was marked decrease in plant growth. As for the recovery of raw materials, the coarse waste rock samples, crushed to <0.5 mm, produced a recovery of Cd, Ga, and Zn—as much as 66%, 56%, and 64%, respectively—using the wet shaking table. The same samples when crushed to 0.063–0.16 mm and used for froth flotation produced a recovery of Cd, Ga, and Zn of up to 61%, 72%, and 47%, respectively. The flotation experiment on tailings showed a recovery of Cd, Ga and Zn at pH 7 of 33%, 6% and 29% respectively. The present investigation highlights the methodologies used for extracting raw materials from extractive waste. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Waste Management and Application of the Principles of the Circular Economy)

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15 pages, 302 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceDiscussion

Increasing Grazing in Dairy Cow Milk Production Systems in Europe

by Deirdre Hennessy, Luc Delaby, Agnes van den Pol-van Dasselaar and Laurence Shalloo

Sustainability 2020, 12(6), 2443; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12062443 - 20 Mar 2020

Cited by 60 | Viewed by 7729

Abstract

In temperate regions of Europe where grass grows for most of the year, grazed pasture is the lowest cost feed for milk production. Grazed pasture can make a contribution to dairy cow feeding systems in other parts of Europe, but is less important. [...] Read more.

In temperate regions of Europe where grass grows for most of the year, grazed pasture is the lowest cost feed for milk production. Grazed pasture can make a contribution to dairy cow feeding systems in other parts of Europe, but is less important. While there are many challenges to maintaining or increasing the proportion of grazed grass in dairy cow diets, there are also opportunities to increase its contribution. Grass use and quality can be challenging for several reasons, including the cow and sward interaction, and factors influencing dry matter intake. Adapting grazing management strategies can provide opportunities for incorporating grazing and perhaps increase grazing in dairy cow milk production systems. Pasture management tools and techniques offer the opportunity to increase herbage use at grazing. While there are many benefits of grazing including economic, environmental, animal welfare and social, there are also the challenges to maintaining grazed pasture in dairy cow diets. The objective of this paper is to present an overview of the challenges and opportunities for grazing in dairy milk production systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Grazing Systems)

16 pages, 1442 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Risks Without Borders: A Cultural Consensus Model of Risks to Sustainability in Rapidly Changing Social–Ecological Systems

by Berill Blair and Amy L. Lovecraft

Sustainability 2020, 12(6), 2446; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12062446 - 20 Mar 2020

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4166

Abstract

Global sustainability goals cannot realistically be achieved without strategies that build on multiscale definitions of risks to wellbeing. Particularly in geographic contexts experiencing rapid and complex social and environmental changes, there is a growing need to empower communities to realize self-identified adaptation goals [...] Read more.

Global sustainability goals cannot realistically be achieved without strategies that build on multiscale definitions of risks to wellbeing. Particularly in geographic contexts experiencing rapid and complex social and environmental changes, there is a growing need to empower communities to realize self-identified adaptation goals that address self-identified risks. Meeting this demand requires tools that can help assess shared understandings about the needs for, and barriers to, positive change. This study explores consensus about risks and uncertainties in adjacent boroughs grappling with rapid social–ecological transformations in northern Alaska. The Northwest Arctic and North Slope boroughs, like the rest of the Arctic, are coping with a climate that is warming twice as fast as in other regions. The boroughs are predominantly inhabited by Iñupiat people, for whom the region is ancestral grounds, whose livelihoods are still supported by subsistence activities, and whose traditional tribal governance has been weakened through multiple levels of governing bodies and institutions. Drawing on extensive workshop discussions and survey experiments conducted with residents of the two boroughs, we developed a model of the northern Alaska region’s social–ecological system and its drivers of change. Using cultural consensus analysis, we gauged the extent of consensus across the boroughs about what key risks threaten the sustainability of their communities. Though both boroughs occupy vast swaths of land, each with their own resource, leadership, and management challenges, we found strong consensus around how risks that impact the sustainability of communities are evaluated and prioritized. Our results further confirmed that rapid and complex changes are creating high levels of uncertainties for community planners in both boroughs. We discuss the mobilizing potential of risk consensus toward collective adaptation action in the civic process of policy making. We note the contribution of cultural consensus analysis as a tool for cross-scale learning in areas coping with rapid environmental changes and complex social challenges. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Socio-Ecological Systems Sustainability)

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13 pages, 3928 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Sustainability-Based Lifecycle Management for Bridge Infrastructure Using 6D BIM

by Sakdirat Kaewunruen, Jessada Sresakoolchai and Zhihao Zhou

Sustainability 2020, 12(6), 2436; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12062436 - 20 Mar 2020

Cited by 75 | Viewed by 9389

Abstract

A number of bridge infrastructures are rising significantly due to economic expansion and growing numbers of railway and road infrastructures. Owing to the complexity of bridge design, traditional design methods always create tedious and time-consuming construction processes. In recent years, Building Information Modelling [...] Read more.

A number of bridge infrastructures are rising significantly due to economic expansion and growing numbers of railway and road infrastructures. Owing to the complexity of bridge design, traditional design methods always create tedious and time-consuming construction processes. In recent years, Building Information Modelling (BIM) has been developed rapidly to provide a faster solution to generate and process the integration of information in a shared environment. This paper aims to highlight an innovative 6D BIM approach for the lifecycle asset management of a bridge infrastructure by using Donggou Bridge as a case study. This paper adopts 6D modelling, incorporating 3D model information with time schedule, cost estimation, and carbon footprint analysis across the lifecycle of the bridge project. The results of this paper reveal that raw materials contribute the most embodied carbon emissions, and as the 6D BIM model was developed in the early stage of the lifecycle, stakeholders can collaborate within the BIM environment to enhance a more sustainable and cost-effective outcome in advance. This study also demonstrates the possibility of BIM applications to bridge infrastructure projects throughout the whole lifecycle. The 6D BIM can save time by transforming 2D information to 3D information and reducing errors during the pre-construction and construction stages through better visualisation for staff training. Moreover, 6D BIM can promote efficient asset and project management since it can be applied for various purposes simultaneously, such as sustainability, lifecycle asset management and maintenance, condition monitoring and real-time structural simulations. In addition, BIM can promote cooperation among working parties and improve visualisation of the project for various stakeholders. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future Cities: Urban Planning, Infrastructure and Sustainability)

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21 pages, 1566 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Impacts of Mainstream Hydropower Dams on Fisheries and Agriculture in Lower Mekong Basin

by Yuichiro Yoshida, Han Soo Lee, Bui Huy Trung, Hoang-Dung Tran, Mahrjan Keshlav Lall, Kifayatullah Kakar and Tran Dang Xuan

Sustainability 2020, 12(6), 2408; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12062408 - 19 Mar 2020

Cited by 66 | Viewed by 14309

Abstract

The riverine ecosystems of the Mekong River Basin possess the world’s most productive inland fishery and provide highly productive food crops for millions of people annually. The development of hydropower potential in the Mekong River has long been of interest to governments in [...] Read more.

The riverine ecosystems of the Mekong River Basin possess the world’s most productive inland fishery and provide highly productive food crops for millions of people annually. The development of hydropower potential in the Mekong River has long been of interest to governments in the region. Among the existing 64 dams, 46 dams have been built in the Lower Mekong Basin (LMB) to produce up to 8650 MW of electricity. Additionally, of the 123 proposed built hydropower dams, eleven hydropower plants have been nominated for the river mainstream and are expected to install a total of 13,000 MW in the LMB countries. However, serious concerns have intensified over the potential negative economic consequences, especially on fisheries and agriculture in Cambodia and Vietnam. To date, most of the concerns have concentrated on the impacts on hydrology, environment, livelihood, and diversity in the LMB attributed to hydropower development. This paper, however, discusses the fishery and agricultural sectors of the LMB and focuses on the downstream floodplains of Cambodia and Vietnam. The dam construction has caused greater losses of biodiversity and fisheries than climate change in the LMB. The reduction of 276,847 and 178,169 t of fish, 3.7% and 2.3% of rice, 21.0% and 10.0% of maize will contribute to a decrease of 3.7% and 0.3% of the GDP of Cambodia and Vietnam, respectively. Lao PDR may benefit the most revenue from electricity generation than the other country in the LMB, as most of the proposed dams are projected in the country. Cambodia burdens 3/4 of the reduction of total capture fishery destruction, whilst Lao PDR, Thailand, and Vietnam endure the remaining 1/3 losses. The tradeoff analyses reveal that losses of capture fisheries, sediment or nutrients, and social mitigation costs are greater than the benefits from electricity generation, improved irrigation, and flood control of the LMB region. The socioeconomic and environmental damage caused by hydropower dams in developing countries, including the Mekong, is greater than the early costs in North America and Europe. It is proposed that dam construction for hydropower in the Mekong River, as well as other rivers in developing countries, should be gradually removed and shifted toward solar, wind, and other renewable resources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Agriculture)

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17 pages, 3448 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Life Cycle Cost Assessment of Electric Vehicles: A Review and Bibliometric Analysis

by Bamidele Victor Ayodele and Siti Indati Mustapa

Sustainability 2020, 12(6), 2387; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12062387 - 19 Mar 2020

Cited by 42 | Viewed by 8919

Abstract

The transportation sector has been reported as a key contributor to the emissions of greenhouse gases responsible for global warming. Hence, the need for the introduction of electric vehicles (EVs) into the transportation sector. However, the competitiveness of the EVs with the conventional [...] Read more.

The transportation sector has been reported as a key contributor to the emissions of greenhouse gases responsible for global warming. Hence, the need for the introduction of electric vehicles (EVs) into the transportation sector. However, the competitiveness of the EVs with the conventional internal combustion engine vehicles has been a bone of contention. Life cycle cost analysis (LCCA) is an important tool that can be employed to determine the competitiveness of a product in its early stage of production. This review examines different published articles on LCCA of EVs using Scopus and Web of Science databases. The time trend of the published articles from 2001 to 2019 was examined. Moreover, the LCC obtained from the different models of EVs were compared. There was a growing interest in research on the LCC of EVs as indicated by the upward increase in the number of published articles. A variation in the LCC of the different EVs studied was observed to depend on several factors. Based on the LCC, EVs were found not yet competitive with conventional internal combustion engine cars due to the high cost of batteries. However, advancement in technologies with incentives could bring down the cost of EV batteries to make it competitive in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Electric Vehicles: New Challenges and Opportunities for Sustainability)

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26 pages, 683 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Corporate Social Responsibility and Performance in SMEs: Scientific Coverage

by Claudia Patricia Maldonado-Erazo, José Álvarez-García, María de la Cruz del Río-Rama and Ronny Correa-Quezada

Sustainability 2020, 12(6), 2332; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12062332 - 17 Mar 2020

Cited by 33 | Viewed by 7840

Abstract

The objective of this research is to analyze the scientific production indexed in the international Scopus database on the subject of “corporate social responsibility and corporate social performance” in small and medium-sized enterprises. In the literature, it is currently possible to observe how [...] Read more.

The objective of this research is to analyze the scientific production indexed in the international Scopus database on the subject of “corporate social responsibility and corporate social performance” in small and medium-sized enterprises. In the literature, it is currently possible to observe how large corporations undertake social responsibility actions as a usual practice. However, in the case of small and medium-sized enterprises, the reality is different due to their high heterogeneity. To fulfil the proposed objective, a bibliometric analysis is carried out, identifying 277 articles on the subject. It is observed that scientific production is concentrated in a period of 18 years (2000–2018), the majority being qualitative studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in Developing Countries: Current Trends and Development)

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25 pages, 6275 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Fuel-Cell Electric Vehicles: Plotting a Scientific and Technological Knowledge Map

by Izaskun Alvarez-Meaza, Enara Zarrabeitia-Bilbao, Rosa Maria Rio-Belver and Gaizka Garechana-Anacabe

Sustainability 2020, 12(6), 2334; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12062334 - 17 Mar 2020

Cited by 44 | Viewed by 6653

Abstract

The fuel-cell electric vehicle (FCEV) has been defined as a promising way to avoid road transport greenhouse emissions, but nowadays, they are not commercially available. However, few studies have attempted to monitor the global scientific research and technological profile of FCEVs. For this [...] Read more.

The fuel-cell electric vehicle (FCEV) has been defined as a promising way to avoid road transport greenhouse emissions, but nowadays, they are not commercially available. However, few studies have attempted to monitor the global scientific research and technological profile of FCEVs. For this reason, scientific research and technological development in the field of FCEV from 1999 to 2019 have been researched using bibliometric and patent data analysis, including network analysis. Based on reports, the current status indicates that FCEV research topics have reached maturity. In addition, the analysis reveals other important findings: (1) The USA is the most productive in science and patent jurisdiction; (2) both Chinese universities and their authors are the most productive in science; however, technological development is led by Japanese car manufacturers; (3) in scientific research, collaboration is located within the tri-polar world (North America–Europe–Asia-Pacific); nonetheless, technological development is isolated to collaborations between companies of the same automotive group; (4) science is currently directing its efforts towards hydrogen production and storage, energy management systems related to battery and hydrogen energy, Life Cycle Assessment, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The technological development focuses on technologies related to electrically propelled vehicles; (5) the International Journal of Hydrogen Energy and SAE Technical Papers are the two most important sources of knowledge diffusion. This study concludes by outlining the knowledge map and directions for further research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2020 Perspectives on Electric Mobility Research, What’s Next?)

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29 pages, 4803 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Extreme Learning Machine Based Prediction of Soil Shear Strength: A Sensitivity Analysis Using Monte Carlo Simulations and Feature Backward Elimination

by Binh Thai Pham, Trung Nguyen-Thoi, Hai-Bang Ly, Manh Duc Nguyen, Nadhir Al-Ansari, Van-Quan Tran and Tien-Thinh Le

Sustainability 2020, 12(6), 2339; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12062339 - 17 Mar 2020

Cited by 51 | Viewed by 4479

Abstract

Machine Learning (ML) has been applied widely in solving a lot of real-world problems. However, this approach is very sensitive to the selection of input variables for modeling and simulation. In this study, the main objective is to analyze the sensitivity of an [...] Read more.

Machine Learning (ML) has been applied widely in solving a lot of real-world problems. However, this approach is very sensitive to the selection of input variables for modeling and simulation. In this study, the main objective is to analyze the sensitivity of an advanced ML method, namely the Extreme Learning Machine (ELM) algorithm under different feature selection scenarios for prediction of shear strength of soil. Feature backward elimination supported by Monte Carlo simulations was applied to evaluate the importance of factors used for the modeling. A database constructed from 538 samples collected from Long Phu 1 power plant project was used for analysis. Well-known statistical indicators, such as the correlation coefficient (R), root mean squared error (RMSE), and mean absolute error (MAE), were utilized to evaluate the performance of the ELM algorithm. In each elimination step, the majority vote based on six elimination indicators was selected to decide the variable to be excluded. A number of 30,000 simulations were conducted to find out the most relevant variables in predicting the shear strength of soil using ELM. The results show that the performance of ELM is good but very different under different combinations of input factors. The moisture content, liquid limit, and plastic limit were found as the most critical variables for the prediction of shear strength of soil using the ML model. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computational Modeling Techniques in Sustainable Materials, Systems and Structures)

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16 pages, 3343 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Total Brood Removal and Other Biotechniques for the Sustainable Control of Varroa Mites in Honey Bee Colonies: Economic Impact in Beekeeping Farm Case Studies in Northwestern Italy

by Teresina Mancuso, Luca Croce and Monica Vercelli

Sustainability 2020, 12(6), 2302; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12062302 - 16 Mar 2020

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 5256

Abstract

Honey bee colonies are affected by many threats, and the Varroa mite represents one of the most important causes of honey bee disease. The control of the Varroa population is managed by different methods, and in recent years, biotechnical practices are considered preferable [...] Read more.

Honey bee colonies are affected by many threats, and the Varroa mite represents one of the most important causes of honey bee disease. The control of the Varroa population is managed by different methods, and in recent years, biotechnical practices are considered preferable to chemical approaches in order to safeguard honey bee health and avoid residues in bee products as well as the appearance of acaricide resistance. However, little is known about the economic performance of beekeeping exploitations in relation to the methods used for tackling Varroa. This study aims to investigate the economic impact of total brood removal (TBR) as a biotechnique to keep Varroa mites under control, and compare this to other common biotechniques and chemical Varroa control in numerous Italian beekeeping case studies. A pool of economic and technical indexes was proposed. The proposed index pool can be included in the development of an expert system (such as a decision support system) able to address the optimal management of this very complex activity, which requires natural resources, land protection, capital and high technical skills. The result showed that the adoption of the TBR biotechnique vs. other biotechniques led to an increase in terms of total revenue (increase values ranging from 11% to 28%) even though more labor is needed (increase values ranging from 43 to 83 min/hive) and a loss of honey production could be recorded in some cases. Additionally, the total expenses, represented mainly by supplemental nutrition and treatments with oxalic acid, affected the economic results of the biotechnical practices. The use of biotechniques vs. chemical control resulted in decreased treatment costs and increased feeding costs. The advantages resulting from not using synthetic acaricides (which are dangerous for honey bee and human health as well as the environment) as well as the advantages linked to the production of new nuclei (which are involved in the maintenance of bee stock and counteract the decline in honey bee population) and pollination ecosystem services could make beekeeping farms more resilient over time. Full article

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

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17 pages, 2524 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Urban Digital Twins for Smart Cities and Citizens: The Case Study of Herrenberg, Germany

by Fabian Dembski, Uwe Wössner, Mike Letzgus, Michael Ruddat and Claudia Yamu

Sustainability 2020, 12(6), 2307; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12062307 - 16 Mar 2020

Cited by 241 | Viewed by 25952

Abstract

Cities are complex systems connected to economic, ecological, and demographic conditions and change. They are also characterized by diverging perceptions and interests of citizens and stakeholders. Thus, in the arena of urban planning, we are in need of approaches that are able to [...] Read more.

Cities are complex systems connected to economic, ecological, and demographic conditions and change. They are also characterized by diverging perceptions and interests of citizens and stakeholders. Thus, in the arena of urban planning, we are in need of approaches that are able to cope not only with urban complexity but also allow for participatory and collaborative processes to empower citizens. This to create democratic cities. Connected to the field of smart cities and citizens, we present in this paper, the prototype of an urban digital twin for the 30,000-people town of Herrenberg in Germany. Urban digital twins are sophisticated data models allowing for collaborative processes. The herein presented prototype comprises (1) a 3D model of the built environment, (2) a street network model using the theory and method of space syntax, (3) an urban mobility simulation, (4) a wind flow simulation, and (5) a number of empirical quantitative and qualitative data using volunteered geographic information (VGI). In addition, the urban digital twin was implemented in a visualization platform for virtual reality and was presented to the general public during diverse public participatory processes, as well as in the framework of the “Morgenstadt Werkstatt” (Tomorrow’s Cities Workshop). The results of a survey indicated that this method and technology could significantly aid in participatory and collaborative processes. Further understanding of how urban digital twins support urban planners, urban designers, and the general public as a collaboration and communication tool and for decision support allows us to be more intentional when creating smart cities and sustainable cities with the help of digital twins. We conclude the paper with a discussion of the presented results and further research directions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart Cities, City Dashboards, Planning and Evaluation of Urban Performances)

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47 pages, 5935 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Decarbonizing the Galapagos Islands: Techno-Economic Perspectives for the Hybrid Renewable Mini-Grid Baltra–Santa Cruz

by Andrea A. Eras-Almeida, Miguel A. Egido-Aguilera, Philipp Blechinger, Sarah Berendes, Estefanía Caamaño and Enrique García-Alcalde

Sustainability 2020, 12(6), 2282; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12062282 - 14 Mar 2020

Cited by 43 | Viewed by 7294

Abstract

The fragile ecosystem of the Galapagos Islands is being affected by population growth, intensive tourism, the exploitation of local resources and the high consumption of imported fossil fuels. This unsustainable development model makes the provision of services such as electricity a challenge. This [...] Read more.

The fragile ecosystem of the Galapagos Islands is being affected by population growth, intensive tourism, the exploitation of local resources and the high consumption of imported fossil fuels. This unsustainable development model makes the provision of services such as electricity a challenge. This research investigates the hybrid renewable mini-grid Baltra–Santa Cruz, which represents 62% of the electricity generation mix of the archipelago. This study aims to support the Galapagos Zero Fossil Fuel Initiative and the Sustainable Development Goal 7 through the reduction in diesel consumption and electricity generation costs. To do so, HOMER Pro, a specialized hybrid renewable mini-grid planning tool, is used to perform several techno-economic assessments, focusing on different electricity demand scenarios. Therefore, multiple pathways are compared to identify the most reliable alternatives towards the progressive decarbonization of this hybrid system. The results indicate that installing 18.25 MWp of photovoltaic and 20.68 MWh of battery capacity could reduce the Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) from 32.06 to 18.95 USc/kWh, increasing the renewable energy (RE) share from 18% to 39%. Additionally, the successful application of energy efficiency measures would even reduce the LCOE to 17.10 USc/kWh. What is more, distributed energy is considered the most attractive way to involve islanders in the energy transition process. Finally, this paper offers a comprehensive business model proposal to achieve a resilient energy supply, based on a combination of auctions and energy community models, which demands high political will, reliable and innovative regulations and social awareness about energy use. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy and Climate Change Policy and Governance in Small Island States)

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34 pages, 3437 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Energy Renovation of Residential Buildings in Cold Mediterranean Zones Using Optimized Thermal Envelope Insulation Thicknesses: The Case of Spain

by Luis M. López-Ochoa, Jesús Las-Heras-Casas, Luis M. López-González and César García-Lozano

Sustainability 2020, 12(6), 2287; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12062287 - 14 Mar 2020

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 3566

Abstract

The residential sector of the European Union consumes 27% of the final energy of the European Union, and approximately two-thirds of the existing dwellings in the European Union were built before 1980. For this reason, the European Union aims to transform the existing [...] Read more.

The residential sector of the European Union consumes 27% of the final energy of the European Union, and approximately two-thirds of the existing dwellings in the European Union were built before 1980. For this reason, the European Union aims to transform the existing residential building stock into nearly zero-energy buildings by 2050 through energy renovation. The most effective method to achieve this goal is to increase the thermal insulation of opaque elements of the thermal envelope. This study aims to assess the energy, environmental and economic impacts of the energy renovation of the thermal envelopes that are typical of the existing multi-family buildings of the 26 provincial capitals in the cold climate zones of Spain. To achieve this goal, the insulation thickness to be added to the walls, roof and first floor framework is optimized by a life cycle cost analysis, and the existing building openings are replaced, thus minimizing both the total heating costs and the total heating and cooling costs. The study uses four thermal insulation materials for four different heating and cooling systems in 10 different models. The results obtained will be used to propose energy renovation solutions to achieve nearly zero-energy buildings both in Spain and in similar Mediterranean climate zones. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)

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26 pages, 2978 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Analysis of the Risk Factors Affecting the Severity of Traffic Accidents on Spanish Crosstown Roads: The Driver’s Perspective

by Natalia Casado-Sanz, Begoña Guirao and Maria Attard

Sustainability 2020, 12(6), 2237; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12062237 - 13 Mar 2020

Cited by 51 | Viewed by 9577

Abstract

Globally, road traffic accidents are an important public health concern which needs to be tackled. A multidisciplinary approach is required to understand what causes them and to provide the evidence for policy support. In Spain, one of the roads with the highest fatality [...] Read more.

Globally, road traffic accidents are an important public health concern which needs to be tackled. A multidisciplinary approach is required to understand what causes them and to provide the evidence for policy support. In Spain, one of the roads with the highest fatality rate is the crosstown road, a particular type of rural road in which urban and interurban traffic meet, producing conflicts and interference with the population. This paper contributes to the previous existing research on the Spanish crosstown roads, providing a new vision that had not been analyzed so far: the driver’s perspective. The main purpose of the investigation is to identify the contributing factors that increment the likelihood of a fatal outcome based on single-vehicle crashes, which occurred on Spanish crosstown roads in the period 2006-2016. In order to achieve this aim, 1064 accidents have been analyzed, applying a latent cluster analysis as an initial tool for the fragmentation of crashes. Next, a multinomial logit (MNL) model was applied to find the most important factors involved in driver injury severity. The statistical analysis reveals that factors such as lateral crosstown roads, low traffic volumes, higher percentages of heavy vehicles, wider lanes, the non-existence of road markings, and finally, infractions, increase the severity of the drivers’ injuries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Road Traffic Engineering and Sustainable Transportation)

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17 pages, 3454 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Examining Hybrid and Single SVM Models with Different Kernels to Predict Rock Brittleness

by Danial Jahed Armaghani, Panagiotis G. Asteris, Behnam Askarian, Mahdi Hasanipanah, Reza Tarinejad and Van Van Huynh

Sustainability 2020, 12(6), 2229; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12062229 - 12 Mar 2020

Cited by 77 | Viewed by 4386

Abstract

The aim of this study was twofold: (1) to assess the performance accuracy of support vector machine (SVM) models with different kernels to predict rock brittleness and (2) compare the inputs’ importance in different SVM models. To this end, the authors developed eight [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was twofold: (1) to assess the performance accuracy of support vector machine (SVM) models with different kernels to predict rock brittleness and (2) compare the inputs’ importance in different SVM models. To this end, the authors developed eight SVM models with different kernel types, i.e., the radial basis function (RBF), the linear (LIN), the sigmoid (SIG), and the polynomial (POL). Four of these models were developed using only the SVM method, while the four other models were hybridized with a feature selection (FS) technique. The performance of each model was assessed using five performance indices and a simple ranking system. The results of this study show that the SVM models developed using the RBF kernel achieved the highest ranking values among single and hybrid models. Concerning the importance of variables for predicting the brittleness index (BI), the Schmidt hammer rebound number (R_n) was identified as the most important variable by the three single-based models, developed by POL, SIG, and LIN kernels. However, the single SVM model developed by RBF identified density as the most important input variable. Concerning the hybrid SVM models, three models that were developed using the RBF, POL, and SIG kernels identified the point load strength index as the most important input, while the model developed using the LIN identified the R_n as the most important input. All four single-based SVM models identified the p-wave velocity (V_p) as the least important input. Concerning the least important factors for predicting the BI of the rock in hybrid-based models, V_p was identified as the least important factor by FS-SVM-POL, FS-SVM-SIG, and FS-SVM-LIN, while the FS-SVM-RBF identified R_n as the least important input. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computational Modeling Techniques in Sustainable Materials, Systems and Structures)

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30 pages, 10685 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Blue-Green Infrastructure (BGI) in Dense Urban Watersheds. The Case of the Medrano Stream Basin (MSB) in Buenos Aires

by Daniel Kozak, Hayley Henderson, Alejandro de Castro Mazarro, Demián Rotbart and Rodolfo Aradas

Sustainability 2020, 12(6), 2163; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12062163 - 11 Mar 2020

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 10325

Abstract

Conventional urban drainage approaches have historically focused on the volume of stormwater to be displaced with the aim of moving it as fast and as far as possible from the city. They have also been negligent regarding water quality and the inherent value [...] Read more.

Conventional urban drainage approaches have historically focused on the volume of stormwater to be displaced with the aim of moving it as fast and as far as possible from the city. They have also been negligent regarding water quality and the inherent value of watercourses to distinct forms of life in cities, from maintaining biodiversity to providing recreational space for residents. Contemporary responses to these issues point to a paradigm change: They seek to replicate the natural mechanisms of absorption and retention, with the aim of addressing pluvial drainage needs closer to the site of origin. This article aims to explore the extent to which such an approach could be accommodated in one dense and highly impervious setting in the Global South. Specifically, it compares urban morphology, land value, hydraulic performance, and politico-institutional conditions of grey and Blue-Green Infrastructure (BGI) scenarios in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The findings suggest that even in very dense and impervious urban basins it is possible to implement BGI with a significant effect in achieving urban-sustainability goals. Furthermore, the results demonstrate that it is possible to deculvert watercourses in line with Compact City principles through the development of hybrid BGI/grey-infrastructure systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pathways to Sustainable Urban Form: Compact Cities Re-Imagined)

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23 pages, 6806 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Sustainable Thermal Energy Generation at Universities by Using Loquat Seeds as Biofuel

by Miguel-Angel Perea-Moreno, Francisco Manzano-Agugliaro, Quetzalcoatl Hernandez-Escobedo and Alberto-Jesus Perea-Moreno

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 2093; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12052093 - 9 Mar 2020

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3706

Abstract

Global energy consumption has increased the emission of greenhouse gases (GHG), these being the main cause of global warming. Within renewable energies, bioenergy has undergone a great development in recent years. This is due to its carbon neutral balance and the fact that [...] Read more.

Global energy consumption has increased the emission of greenhouse gases (GHG), these being the main cause of global warming. Within renewable energies, bioenergy has undergone a great development in recent years. This is due to its carbon neutral balance and the fact that bioenergy can be obtained from a range of biomass resources, including residues from forestry, agricultural or livestock industries, the rapid rotation of forest plantations, the development of energy crops, organic matter from urban solid waste, and other sources of organic waste from agro-food industries. Processing factories that use loquats to make products such as liqueurs and jams generate large amounts of waste mainly in the form of skin and stones or seeds. These wastes are disposed of and sent to landfills without making environmentally sustainable use of them. The University of Almeria Sports Centre is made up of indoor spaces in which different sports can be practiced: sports centre pavilion (central court and two lateral courts), rocodrome, fitness room, cycle inner room, and indoor swimming pool. At present, the indoor swimming pool of the University of Almeria (UAL) has two fuel oil boilers, with a nominal power of 267 kW. The main objective of this study is to propose an energetic analysis to determine, on the one hand, the energetic properties of the loquat seed and, on the other hand, to evaluate its suitability to be used as a solid biofuel to feed the boilers of the heated swimming pool of the University of Almeria (Spain), highlighting the significant energy and environmental savings obtained. Results show that the higher calorific value of loquat seed (17.205 MJ/kg), is like other industrial wastes such as wheat straw, or pistachio shell, which demonstrates the energy potential of this residual biomass. In addition, the change of the fuel oil boiler to a biomass (loquat seed) boiler in the UAL’s indoor swimming pool means a reduction of 147,973.8 kg of CO₂ in emissions into the atmosphere and an annual saving of 35,739.5 €, which means a saving of 72.78% with respect to the previous fuel oil installation. A sensitivity analysis shows that fuel cost of base case is the variable with the most sensitivity changing the initial cost and net present value (NPV). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Energy Sustainability at Universities)

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13 pages, 405 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Sustainable Banking: New Forms of Investing under the Umbrella of the 2030 Agenda

by Mariano Méndez-Suárez, Abel Monfort and Fernando Gallardo

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 2096; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12052096 - 9 Mar 2020

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 4991

Abstract

(1) Social Impact Bonds (SIBs) foster the relationships between public and private sectors while adding value to new forms of investment that are closely linked to Socially Responsible Investments (SRIs). In this context, Sustainable Developments Goals (SDGs) aim to strengthen global partnerships in [...] Read more.

(1) Social Impact Bonds (SIBs) foster the relationships between public and private sectors while adding value to new forms of investment that are closely linked to Socially Responsible Investments (SRIs). In this context, Sustainable Developments Goals (SDGs) aim to strengthen global partnerships in order to achieve the 2030 Agenda. Sustainable banking should consider its role in both new responsible investment products and the 2030 Agenda. This study aims to: (i) estimate the ROI of SIBS, (ii) define a financial formulation and a measurement system, and (iii) explain the relationship between SIBs and SDGs. (2) This research analyzes SIBs from an SDG approach, and proposes a valuation model based on a financial options valuation methodology that clarifies the financial value of the world’s first SIB (Peterborough Prison, UK). (3) Findings suggest that investors expect to have a negative return of 16.48%, and that this expected loss may be compensated for by the short- and long-term positive impact of an intervention in society. (4) It is shown that SIBs provide an opportunity to reach SDG 17 and improve sustainable investment portfolios, while providing an opportunity to strengthen a company’s Corporate Social Responsibility policy and its corporate reputation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Banking: Issues and Challenges)

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14 pages, 2709 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Hybridized Intelligent Home Renewable Energy Management System for Smart Grids

by Yonghong Ma and Baixuan Li

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 2117; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12052117 - 9 Mar 2020

Cited by 36 | Viewed by 9536

Abstract

The incorporation of renewable energies and power storage at distribution facilities are one of the important features in the smart grid. In this paper, a hybridized intelligent home renewable energy management system (HIHREM) that combines solar energy and energy storage services with the [...] Read more.

The incorporation of renewable energies and power storage at distribution facilities are one of the important features in the smart grid. In this paper, a hybridized intelligent home renewable energy management system (HIHREM) that combines solar energy and energy storage services with the smart home is planned based on the demand response and time of consumption pricing is applied to programs that offer discounts to consumers that reduce their energy consumption during high demand periods. The system is designed and handled with minimal energy requirements at home through installation of renewable energy, preparation, and arrangement of power stream during peak and off-peak periods. The best energy utilization of residential buildings with various overlapping purposes is one of the most difficult issues correlated with the implementation of intelligent micro-network systems. A major component of the smart grid, the domestic energy control system (HIHREM) provides many benefits, such as power bill reductions, reduction in wind generation, and demand compliance. This showed that the proposed energy scheduling method minimizes the energy consumption by 48% and maximizes the renewable energy consumed at the rate 65% of the total energy generated. A new model for smart homes with renewable energies is introduced in this report. The proposed HIHREM method achieves high performance and reduces cost-utility. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Energy and Smart Systems)

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14 pages, 410 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effect of Feed Concentrate Intake on the Environmental Impact of Dairy Cows in an Alpine Mountain Region Including Soil Carbon Sequestration and Effect on Biodiversity

by Emilio Sabia, Sarah Kühl, Laura Flach, Christian Lambertz and Matthias Gauly

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 2128; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12052128 - 9 Mar 2020

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 4856

Abstract

Several studies on the environmental impacts of livestock enterprises are based on the application of life cycle assessments (LCA). In Alpine regions, soil carbon sequestration can play an important role in reducing environmental impacts. However, there is no official methodology to calculate this [...] Read more.

Several studies on the environmental impacts of livestock enterprises are based on the application of life cycle assessments (LCA). In Alpine regions, soil carbon sequestration can play an important role in reducing environmental impacts. However, there is no official methodology to calculate this possible reduction. Biodiversity plays an important role in the Alpine environment and is affected by human activities, such as cattle farming. Our aim was to estimate the carbon footprint (CF) of four different dairy production systems (different in breeds and feeding intensity) by using the LCA approach. The present study included 44 dairy Alpine farms located in the autonomous province of Bolzano in northern Italy. Half of the farms (n = 22) kept Alpine Grey and the other half (n = 22) Brown Swiss cattle. Within breeds, the farms were divided by the amount of concentrated feed per cow and day into high concentrate (HC) and low concentrate (LC). This resulted in 11 Alpine Grey low concentrate (AGLC) farms feeding an average amount of 3.0 kg concentrated feed/cow/day and 11 Alpine Grey high concentrate (AGHC) farms with an average amount of 6.3 kg concentrated feed/cow/day. Eleven farms kept Brown Swiss cows with an average amount of 3.7 kg concentrated feed/cow/day (BSLC) and another 11 farms feeding on average 7.6 kg concentrated feed/cow/day (BSHC). CF for the four systems was estimated using the LCA approach. The functional unit was 1 kg of fat and protein corrected milk (FPCM). Furthermore, two methodologies have been applied to estimate soil carbon sequestration and effect on biodiversity. The system with the lowest environmental impact in terms of CF was BSHC (1.14 kg CO₂-eq/kg of FPCM), while the most impactful system was the AGLC group (1.55 kg CO₂-eq/kg of FPCM). Including the CF reduction due to soil carbon sequestered from grassland, it decreased differently for the two applied methods. For all four systems, the main factor for CF was enteric emission, while the main pollutant was biogenic CH₄. Conversely, AGLC had the lowest impact when the damage to biodiversity was considered (damage score = 0.41/kg of FPCM, damage to ecosystem diversity = 1.78 E-07 species*yr/kg FPCM). In comparison, BSHC had the greatest impact in terms of damage to biodiversity (damage score = 0.56/kg of FPCM, damage to ecosystem diversity = 2.49 E-07 species*yr/kg FPCM). This study indicates the importance of including soil carbon sequestration from grasslands and effects on biodiversity when calculating the environmental performance of dairy farms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Livestock Production)

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17 pages, 2663 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Tillage Intensity Effects on Soil Structure Indicators—A US Meta-Analysis

by Márcio R. Nunes, Douglas L. Karlen and Thomas B. Moorman

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 2071; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12052071 - 8 Mar 2020

Cited by 59 | Viewed by 8044

Abstract

Tillage intensity affects soil structure in many ways but the magnitude and type (+/−) of change depends on site-specific (e.g., soil type) and experimental details (crop rotation, study length, sampling depth, etc.). This meta-analysis examines published effects of chisel plowing (CP), no-tillage (NT) [...] Read more.

Tillage intensity affects soil structure in many ways but the magnitude and type (+/−) of change depends on site-specific (e.g., soil type) and experimental details (crop rotation, study length, sampling depth, etc.). This meta-analysis examines published effects of chisel plowing (CP), no-tillage (NT) and perennial cropping systems (PER) relative to moldboard plowing (MP) on three soil structure indicators: wet aggregate stability (AS), bulk density (BD) and soil penetration resistance (PR). The data represents four depth increments (from 0 to >40-cm) in 295 studies from throughout the continental U.S. Overall, converting from MP to CP did not affect those soil structure indicators but reducing tillage intensity from MP to NT increased AS in the surface (<15-cm) and slightly decreased BD and PR below 25-cm. The largest positive effect of NT on AS was observed within Inceptisols and Entisols after a minimum of three years. Compared to MP, NT had a minimal effect on soil compaction indicators (BD and PR) but as expected, converting from MP to PER systems improved soil structure at all soil depths (0 to >40-cm). Among those three soil structure indicators, AS was the most sensitive to management practices; thus, it should be used as a physical indicator for overall soil health assessment. In addition, based on this national meta-analysis, we conclude that reducing tillage intensity improves soil structure, thus offering producers assurance those practices are feasible for crop production and that they will also help sustain soil resources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Agriculture)

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14 pages, 1895 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Urban Vegetation Types are Not Perceived Equally in Providing Ecosystem Services and Disservices

by Zuzana Drillet, Tze Kwan Fung, Rachel Ai Ting Leong, Uma Sachidhanandam, Peter Edwards and Daniel Richards

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 2076; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12052076 - 8 Mar 2020

Cited by 40 | Viewed by 7865

Abstract

Urban vegetation is important in providing ecosystem services to people. Different urban vegetation types provide contrasting suites of ecosystem services and disservices. Understanding public perceptions of the ecosystem services and disservices can therefore play an important role in shaping the planning and management [...] Read more.

Urban vegetation is important in providing ecosystem services to people. Different urban vegetation types provide contrasting suites of ecosystem services and disservices. Understanding public perceptions of the ecosystem services and disservices can therefore play an important role in shaping the planning and management of urban areas. We conducted an online survey (n = 1000) to understand how residents in the tropical city of Singapore perceived urban vegetation and the associated ecosystem services and disservices. The questionnaire was designed to explore whether different urban vegetation types (grass, shrubs, trees, trees over shrubs, and secondary forest) were perceived as equal in providing benefits. Respondents considered ecosystem services provided by urban vegetation to be more important than disservices. Among ecosystem services, regulating services were most highly rated, with more than 80% of the respondents appreciating urban vegetation for providing shade and improving air quality. Respondents recognized that different vegetation types provided different ecosystem services. For example, secondary forest was most commonly associated with education and wildlife, while trees were strongly associated with cooling and air quality. We conclude that in developing plans and designs for urban vegetation and ecosystem services, it is important to understand the perceptions, priorities, and concerns of residents. Full article

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

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17 pages, 4338 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Stand-Alone Microgrid with 100% Renewable Energy: A Case Study with Hybrid Solar PV-Battery-Hydrogen

by Furat Dawood, GM Shafiullah and Martin Anda

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 2047; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12052047 - 6 Mar 2020

Cited by 135 | Viewed by 12757

Abstract

A 100% renewable energy-based stand-alone microgrid system can be developed by robust energy storage systems to stabilize the variable and intermittent renewable energy resources. Hydrogen as an energy carrier and energy storage medium has gained enormous interest globally in recent years. Its use [...] Read more.

A 100% renewable energy-based stand-alone microgrid system can be developed by robust energy storage systems to stabilize the variable and intermittent renewable energy resources. Hydrogen as an energy carrier and energy storage medium has gained enormous interest globally in recent years. Its use in stand-alone or off-grid microgrids for both the urban and rural communities has commenced recently in some locations. Therefore, this research evaluates the techno-economic feasibility of renewable energy-based systems using hydrogen as energy storage for a stand-alone/off-grid microgrid. Three case scenarios in a microgrid environment were identified and investigated in order to select an optimum solution for a remote community by considering the energy balance and techno-economic optimization. The “HOMER Pro” energy modelling and simulating software was used to compare the energy balance, economics and environmental impact amongst the proposed scenarios. The simulation results showed that the hydrogen-battery hybrid energy storage system is the most cost-effective scenario, though all developed scenarios are technically possible and economically comparable in the long run, while each has different merits and challenges. It has been shown that the proposed hybrid energy systems have significant potentialities in electrifying remote communities with low energy generation costs, as well as a contribution to the reduction of their carbon footprint and to ameliorating the energy crisis to achieve a sustainable future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Scenario in the Context of Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement)

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15 pages, 624 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Financial Performance of SDG Mutual Funds Focused on Biotechnology and Healthcare Sectors

by Carmen-Pilar Martí-Ballester

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 2032; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12052032 - 6 Mar 2020

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3548

Abstract

Measures favoring healthy lives among populations around the world are essential to reduce social inequalities. Mutual funds could play an important role funding these measures if they are able to attract socially concerned investors by improving their wealth. This study analyzes the financial [...] Read more.

Measures favoring healthy lives among populations around the world are essential to reduce social inequalities. Mutual funds could play an important role funding these measures if they are able to attract socially concerned investors by improving their wealth. This study analyzes the financial performance of mutual funds focused on the biotechnology and healthcare sectors related to UN sustainable development goal 3 (SDG 3), comparing their risk-adjusted return with that achieved by conventional mutual funds. This study implements Carhart’s multifactor model and Bollen and Busse’s timing multifactor model on a sample of 34 biotechnology and 178 healthcare mutual funds and 4352 conventional mutual funds. The results show that biotechnology and healthcare mutual funds perform similarly, while both of them outperform conventional mutual funds. This outperformance of biotechnology and healthcare funds is driven by the superior stock-picking skills of their managers with regards to those of conventional fund managers, while managers of biotechnology, healthcare, and conventional mutual funds present similar poor market timing ability. Mutual funds specialized in biotechnology and healthcare sectors related to sustainable development goal 3 (SDG 3) outperform conventional mutual funds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Financial Markets, Instruments and Intermediaries for Social, Environmental and Fiscal Sustainability)

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17 pages, 996 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Aquaculture Production and Its Environmental Sustainability in Thailand: Challenges and Potential Solutions

by Tiptiwa Sampantamit, Long Ho, Carl Lachat, Nantida Sutummawong, Patrick Sorgeloos and Peter Goethals

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 2010; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12052010 - 5 Mar 2020

Cited by 66 | Viewed by 11401

Abstract

Though aquaculture plays an important role in providing foods and healthy diets, there are concerns regarding the environmental sustainability of prevailing practices. This study examines the trends and changes in fisheries originating from aquaculture production in Thailand and provides insights into such production’s [...] Read more.

Though aquaculture plays an important role in providing foods and healthy diets, there are concerns regarding the environmental sustainability of prevailing practices. This study examines the trends and changes in fisheries originating from aquaculture production in Thailand and provides insights into such production’s environmental impacts and sustainability. Together with an extensive literature review, we investigated a time series of Thai aquaculture production data from 1995 to 2015. Overall, Thai aquaculture production has significantly increased during the last few decades and significantly contributed to socio-economic development. Estimates of total aquaculture production in Thailand have gradually grown from around 0.6 to 0.9 million tons over the last twenty years. Farmed shrimp is the main animal aquatic product, accounting for an estimated 40% of total yields of aquaculture production, closely followed by fish (38%) and mollusk (22%). Estimates over the past decades indicate that around 199470 ha of land is used for aquaculture farming. Out of the total area, 61% is used for freshwater farms, and 39% is used for coastal farms. However, this industry has contributed to environmental degradation, such as habitat destruction, water pollution, and ecological effects. Effective management strategies are urgently needed to minimize the environmental impacts of aquaculture and to ensure it maximally contributes to planetary health. Innovative and practical solutions that rely on diverse technology inputs and smart market-based management approaches that are designed for environmentally friendly aquaculture farming can be the basis for viable long-term solutions for the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Agriculture)

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22 pages, 8875 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Methodology Designed to Evaluate Accidents at Intersection Crossings with Respect to Forensic Purposes and Transport Sustainability

by Igor Dirnbach, Tibor Kubjatko, Eduard Kolla, Ján Ondruš and Željko Šarić

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 1972; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12051972 - 5 Mar 2020

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 3809

Abstract

Currently, there are quite a lot of incorrect procedures and mistakes that occur in the forensic area, which lacks analytical approaches toward solving the causes of accidents using s–t diagrams (distance–time diagrams) combined with the software simulation applications. When analyzing accidents, the correct [...] Read more.

Currently, there are quite a lot of incorrect procedures and mistakes that occur in the forensic area, which lacks analytical approaches toward solving the causes of accidents using s–t diagrams (distance–time diagrams) combined with the software simulation applications. When analyzing accidents, the correct information is of key importance. The aim of this article is to define a new specific technical and analytical approach toward handling expert’s reports on traffic accidents in road transport at intersections, with respect to the traffic lights. A simulation program application is used as a progressive means of accident evaluation. This procedure must become a standard in the methods of modern traffic accident analysis. The application of this methodology with simulation tools for accident reconstruction enables one to perform a very precise analysis of traffic accidents. Mutual space and time relationships of vehicles’ movements have been evaluated here, depending upon the intersection signal plan. To demonstrate the methodology, a real case is used here, reconstructed by means of the complex analytical simulation software PC-Crash. A procedure processed by these means can be beneficial for forensic traffic accident analysis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)

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23 pages, 6638 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Samothraki in Transition: A Report on a Real-World Lab to Promote the Sustainability of a Greek Island

by Marina Fischer-Kowalski, Markus Löw, Dominik Noll, Panos Petridis and Nikolaos Skoulikidis

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 1932; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12051932 - 3 Mar 2020

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4798

Abstract

This is a case study on a small mountainous island in the Aegean Sea with the policy goal of preparing it to become member of UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves. While the local community opted for such an identity very early on, [...] Read more.

This is a case study on a small mountainous island in the Aegean Sea with the policy goal of preparing it to become member of UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves. While the local community opted for such an identity very early on, there are a number of obstacles to be overcome. The multidisciplinary research is based upon a sociometabolic approach and focuses on two issues: The transformation of agriculture, mainly herding of sheep and goats, and the shift to tourism. The degradation of the landscape caused by extensive roaming of goats and sheep constitute one of the major sustainability challenges of the island. We analyze farmers’ opportunities and describe new initiatives to get out of this deadlock. The impacts of the transition to tourism are addressed from an infrastructural perspective: A shift from traditional stone buildings to bricks and concrete, the establishment of new roads and ports, and the challenges to water supply and wastewater removal, also with reference to the quality and amounts of wastes generated that need to be dealt with. The island has so far escaped mass tourism and attracts mainly eco-tourists who value its remoteness and wilderness. We discuss how to serve this clientele best in the future, and increase local job opportunities and income while maintaining environmental quality. Finally, we reflect upon emerging new forms of local collaboration and the impact of our research efforts on a sustainability transition that might be on its way. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Metabolism of Islands)

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17 pages, 1820 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Benefit–Cost Analysis of Food and Biodegradable Waste Treatment Alternatives: The Case of Oita City, Japan

by Micky A. Babalola

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 1916; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12051916 - 3 Mar 2020

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 4285

Abstract

As the generation of food scrap, kitchen, and biodegradable wastes increases, the proper handling of these wastes is becoming an increasingly significant concern for most cities in Japan. A substantial fraction of food and biodegradable waste (FBW) ends up in the incinerator. Therefore, [...] Read more.

As the generation of food scrap, kitchen, and biodegradable wastes increases, the proper handling of these wastes is becoming an increasingly significant concern for most cities in Japan. A substantial fraction of food and biodegradable waste (FBW) ends up in the incinerator. Therefore, an analytic hierarchy process (AHP) benefit–cost analysis technique was employed in this study to compare different FBW treatment technologies and select the most appropriate FBW disposal technology for Oita City. The four FBW treatment options considered were those recommended by the Japanese Food Waste Recycling Law: anaerobic digestion, compost, landfill, and incineration, which is currently in use. The fundamental AHP was separated into two hierarchy structures for benefit analysis and cost analysis. The criteria used in these two analyses were value added, safety, efficiency, and social benefits for benefit analysis, and cost of energy, cost of operation and maintenance, environmental constraints, and disamenity for cost analysis. The results showed that anaerobic digestion had the highest overall benefit while composting had the least cost overall. The benefit–cost ratio result showed that anaerobic digestion is the most suitable treatment alternative, followed by composting and incineration, with landfill being the least favored. The study recommends that composting could be combined with anaerobic digestion as an optimal FBW management option in Oita City. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability as a Multi-criteria Concept: New Developments and Applications)

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33 pages, 528 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Application of Floating Aquatic Plants in Phytoremediation of Heavy Metals Polluted Water: A Review

by Shafaqat Ali, Zohaib Abbas, Muhammad Rizwan, Ihsan Elahi Zaheer, İlkay Yavaş, Aydın Ünay, Mohamed M. Abdel-DAIM, May Bin-Jumah, Mirza Hasanuzzaman and Dimitris Kalderis

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 1927; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12051927 - 3 Mar 2020

Cited by 253 | Viewed by 25437

Abstract

Heavy-metal (HM) pollution is considered a leading source of environmental contamination. Heavy-metal pollution in ground water poses a serious threat to human health and the aquatic ecosystem. Conventional treatment technologies to remove the pollutants from wastewater are usually costly, time-consuming, environmentally destructive, and [...] Read more.

Heavy-metal (HM) pollution is considered a leading source of environmental contamination. Heavy-metal pollution in ground water poses a serious threat to human health and the aquatic ecosystem. Conventional treatment technologies to remove the pollutants from wastewater are usually costly, time-consuming, environmentally destructive, and mostly inefficient. Phytoremediation is a cost-effective green emerging technology with long-lasting applicability. The selection of plant species is the most significant aspect for successful phytoremediation. Aquatic plants hold steep efficiency for the removal of organic and inorganic pollutants. Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes), water lettuce (Pistia stratiotes) and Duck weed (Lemna minor) along with some other aquatic plants are prominent metal accumulator plants for the remediation of heavy-metal polluted water. The phytoremediation potential of the aquatic plant can be further enhanced by the application of innovative approaches in phytoremediation. A summarizing review regarding the use of aquatic plants in phytoremediation is gathered in order to present the broad applicability of phytoremediation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Constructed and Floating Wetlands for Sustainable Water Reclamation)

23 pages, 5338 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Intelligent Intersection Control for Delay Optimization: Using Meta-Heuristic Search Algorithms

by Arshad Jamal, Muhammad Tauhidur Rahman, Hassan M. Al-Ahmadi, Irfan Ullah and Muhammad Zahid

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 1896; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12051896 - 2 Mar 2020

Cited by 51 | Viewed by 5218

Abstract

Traffic signal control is an integral component of an intelligent transportation system (ITS) that play a vital role in alleviating traffic congestion. Poor traffic management and inefficient operations at signalized intersections cause numerous problems as excessive vehicle delays, increased fuel consumption, and vehicular [...] Read more.

Traffic signal control is an integral component of an intelligent transportation system (ITS) that play a vital role in alleviating traffic congestion. Poor traffic management and inefficient operations at signalized intersections cause numerous problems as excessive vehicle delays, increased fuel consumption, and vehicular emissions. Operational performance at signalized intersections could be significantly enhanced by optimizing phasing and signal timing plans using intelligent traffic control methods. Previous studies in this regard have mostly focused on lane-based homogenous traffic conditions. However, traffic patterns are usually non-linear and highly stochastic, particularly during rush hours, which limits the adoption of such methods. Hence, this study aims to develop metaheuristic-based methods for intelligent traffic control at isolated signalized intersections, in the city of Dhahran, Saudi Arabia. Genetic algorithm (GA) and differential evolution (DE) were employed to enhance the intersection’s level of service (LOS) by optimizing the signal timings plan. Average vehicle delay through the intersection was selected as the primary performance index and algorithms objective function. The study results indicated that both GA and DE produced a systematic signal timings plan and significantly reduced travel time delay ranging from 15 to 35% compared to existing conditions. Although DE converged much faster to the objective function, GA outperforms DE in terms of solution quality i.e., minimum vehicle delay. To validate the performance of proposed methods, cycle length-delay curves from GA and DE were compared with optimization outputs from TRANSYT 7F, a state-of-the-art traffic signal simulation, and optimization tool. Validation results demonstrated the adequacy and robustness of proposed methods. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optimization in Logistics and Mobility Using Metaheuristics)

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31 pages, 4889 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Effect of Botanical Extracts Obtained through Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction on White Head Cabbage (Brassica Oleracea L. Var. Capitata L.) Seedlings Grown under Controlled Conditions

by Katarzyna Godlewska, Anita Biesiada, Izabela Michalak and Paweł Pacyga

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 1871; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12051871 - 2 Mar 2020

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 4245

Abstract

This research presents the possibility of using innovative botanical extracts as biostimulants of plant growth to improve plant nutritional value, growth, and development. It is important to increase agricultural production but this process should be carried out in a sustainable way, without causing [...] Read more.

This research presents the possibility of using innovative botanical extracts as biostimulants of plant growth to improve plant nutritional value, growth, and development. It is important to increase agricultural production but this process should be carried out in a sustainable way, without causing risks for both the environment and consumers. For this reason, we have focused on the use of 14 natural raw materials and ultrasound assisted extraction for the production of biostimulants. Results proved that higher plants can be used to obtain valuable products for the application in modern horticulture and agriculture. For instance, extract based on Urtica dioica L. showed the highest biostimulatory properties: in the group sprayed with 0.1% extract cabbage seedlings were longer by 31%, while with 1.0% extract of Polygonum aviculare L. roots were longer by 72% than in the control group treated with water. Extracts based on Equisetum arvense L. (0.5%) and Urtica dioica L. (leaf) (0.1%) increased the fresh weight of sprouts by 113% and 112%, respectively. The highest root weight was observed in groups treated with Equisetum arvense L. (0.5%), Polygonum aviculare L. (0.5%), and Urtica dioica L. (leaf) (2.5%)—heavier by 207%, 206%, and 205%, respectively. Most of biostimulants increased the content of pigments involved in photosynthesis (e.g. 156% more chlorophyll for 0.1% Hypericum perforatum L. extract), decreased the content of polyphenols (e.g. 47% less for 2.5% Trifolium pretense extract), and showed a varied impact on antioxidant activity. There is an increasing interest in botanical extracts due to their high content of biologically active compounds and wide variety of application possibilities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Extraction Technologies and Analytical Strategies for Sustainable Food By-Products Valorisation: Food-Health Relationships in Sustainable Agro-Food Systems)

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16 pages, 689 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Sustainable Development Goals and Investment Strategies: The Profitability of Using Five-Factor Fama-French Alphas

by José Luis Miralles-Quirós, María Mar Miralles-Quirós and José Manuel Nogueira

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 1842; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12051842 - 29 Feb 2020

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 4657

Abstract

This study focuses on assets related to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are the most recent aspect of the Socially Responsible Investment framework and have caught the attention of investors due to their investment opportunities as well as the global challenges that can [...] Read more.

This study focuses on assets related to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are the most recent aspect of the Socially Responsible Investment framework and have caught the attention of investors due to their investment opportunities as well as the global challenges that can be achieved. The profitability of developing an investment strategy is shown based on the value of the alphas obtained from the estimation of the Fama-French five-factor model when compared to an equally weighted portfolio, even when transaction costs are taken into consideration. In addition, it is proven that investors should focus their investments on two main SDGs: Good health and well-being (Goal 3) and Industry, innovation and infrastructure (Goal 9). Full article

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

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19 pages, 1184 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Environmental, Social and Economic Sustainability Indicators Applied to Food Services: A Systematic Review

by Dayanne da Costa Maynard, Mayara Daré Vidigal, Priscila Farage, Renata Puppin Zandonadi, Eduardo Yoshio Nakano and Raquel Braz Assunção Botelho

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 1804; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12051804 - 28 Feb 2020

Cited by 46 | Viewed by 13353

Abstract

Sustainability is the integration of actions focused on three pillars: environmental, social, and economical. Implementing sustainable development ranges from the pursuit of quality of life, and from environmental balance to break with the current pattern of development. Therefore, the objective of this work [...] Read more.

Sustainability is the integration of actions focused on three pillars: environmental, social, and economical. Implementing sustainable development ranges from the pursuit of quality of life, and from environmental balance to break with the current pattern of development. Therefore, the objective of this work was to understand and analyze the sustainability indicators implemented in the production of meals in food services. The authors developed specific search strategies for Scopus, Web of Science, Pubmed, Lilacs, Google Scholar, and ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global to perform the systematic review. The authors evaluated the methodological quality of the included studies using the Meta-analysis Statistical Assessment and Review Instrument (MASTARI). A total of 31 cross-sectional studies were analyzed. Twenty four (77.41%) of the studies had activities that covered the three indicators (environmental, social, and economic); 22.59% (n = 7) used two indicators in which 12.90% (n = 4) presented environmental and economic indicators and 9.67% (n = 3) with environmental and social indicators. This research indicates that the studies in food services are seeking to insert indicators that cover the three pillars of sustainable meal production. It is worth mentioning that in the literature, many works encompasses the importance of sustainability, but few explore which indicators are most applied or detail their implementation in food services. More studies are needed to estimate better the indicators being applied in food services. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Food Processing)

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17 pages, 3405 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Dockless E-Scooter: A Green Solution for Mobility? Comparative Case Study between Dockless E-Scooters, Displaced Transport, and Personal E-Scooters

by Hélie Moreau, Loïc de Jamblinne de Meux, Vanessa Zeller, Pierre D’Ans, Coline Ruwet and Wouter M.J. Achten

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 1803; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12051803 - 28 Feb 2020

Cited by 109 | Viewed by 14112

Abstract

This study applies a life cycle assessment (LCA) to the shared dockless standing e-scooter system that is established in Brussels. The results are given for four impact categories: global warming potential (GWP), particulate matter formation, mineral resource, and fossil resource scarcity. Regarding GWP, [...] Read more.

This study applies a life cycle assessment (LCA) to the shared dockless standing e-scooter system that is established in Brussels. The results are given for four impact categories: global warming potential (GWP), particulate matter formation, mineral resource, and fossil resource scarcity. Regarding GWP, the use of the shared e-scooters in the current system causes 131 g of CO₂-eq. per passenger-kilometer while the mode of transportation displaced has an impact of 110 g of CO₂-eq. Thus, at present, the use of e-scooters shows a higher impact than the transportation modes they replace. The high results for the shared e-scooter, in terms of GWP, are mainly caused by the short lifespan of the shared e-scooter. Nevertheless, as the market further matures, the lifespan of e-scooters could increase and the impact per kilometer travelled could decrease accordingly. Regarding the use of the personal e-scooter, the LCA results show an impact of around 67 g of CO₂-eq. This study quantifies the LC impacts of the current situation based on local, ‘real-life’ data. However, potential changes on soft mobility patterns induced by the use-oriented product-service system (PSS), such as a shared e-scooter system, could not be quantified. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)

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20 pages, 5251 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Characterization of Excavated Waste of Different Ages in View of Multiple Resource Recovery in Landfill Mining

by Isabella Pecorini and Renato Iannelli

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 1780; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12051780 - 27 Feb 2020

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 4008

Abstract

With the aim of examining the forcing factors in postmanagement landfills, in this study, excavation waste from nonhazardous municipal waste landfill in Tuscany was characterized for the first time. The specific objective was to estimate the feasibility of sampling and analyzing the excavated [...] Read more.

With the aim of examining the forcing factors in postmanagement landfills, in this study, excavation waste from nonhazardous municipal waste landfill in Tuscany was characterized for the first time. The specific objective was to estimate the feasibility of sampling and analyzing the excavated waste in order to define its properties and provide information about possible landfill mining projects. Based on the biochemical methane potential assays, it was shown that the excavated waste had not yet been stabilized (i.e., with a production of 52.2 ± 28.7 NlCH₄/kgTS) in the landfill, probably due to the low excavated waste moisture content (36% ± 6% w/w). Furthermore, excavated waste has a high calorific value, i.e., 15.2 ± 4.1 MJ/kg; the quantity of combustibles in the industrial shredder waste (16 MJ/kg) was rather modest compared to that of municipal solid waste (20.8 MJ/Kg). In conclusion, during large scale excavation of the landfill, it was possible to evaluate how a dedicated treatment plant could be designed to treat and select waste which might appear in a different category. For excavated industrial waste, detailed mechanical sorting may be convenient for end-of-waste recovery to improve calorific value. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Municipal Solid Waste Management in a Circular Economy)

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18 pages, 10482 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Serious Gaming for Climate Adaptation—Assessing the Potential and Challenges of a Digital Serious Game for Urban Climate Adaptation

by Tina-Simone Neset, Lotta Andersson, Ola Uhrqvist and Carlo Navarra

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 1789; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12051789 - 27 Feb 2020

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 9704

Abstract

Serious gaming has gained increasing prominence in climate change communication, and provides opportunity to engage new audiences and new platforms for knowledge co-creation and dialogues. This paper presents the design and evaluation of a serious game on climate adaptation, primarily targeted towards high [...] Read more.

Serious gaming has gained increasing prominence in climate change communication, and provides opportunity to engage new audiences and new platforms for knowledge co-creation and dialogues. This paper presents the design and evaluation of a serious game on climate adaptation, primarily targeted towards high school students, practitioners and politicians. The game aims to provide an experience of the impact of climate adaptation measures, and illustrates links with selected Agenda 2030 goals, which the player has to consider, while limiting impacts of hazardous climate events. The game design builds on the key goals in Education for Sustainable Development combining comprehensive views, action competence, learner engagement and pluralism. This study draws on game sessions and surveys with high school students in Sweden, and aims to assess to what extent different aspects of the game can support an increased understanding of the needs and benefits of adaptation actions. The results of this study indicate that the game can engage players to reflect upon challenges related to climate adaptation decision making, but also point towards the challenge of including a high degree of complexity which can make it difficult to grasp consequences of individual measures, as well as to link these to the natural variability of the occurrence of extreme climatic events. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Visualization for Climate Change Adaptation)

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12 pages, 12117 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Pass-by Characterization of Noise Emitted by Different Categories of Seagoing Ships in Ports

by Luca Fredianelli, Marco Nastasi, Marco Bernardini, Francesco Fidecaro and Gaetano Licitra

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 1740; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12051740 - 26 Feb 2020

Cited by 54 | Viewed by 4039

Abstract

In the light of sustainability, satisfactory living conditions is an important factor for people’s positive feedback in their own living environment. Acoustic comfort and noise exposure should then be carefully monitored in all human settlements. Furthermore, it is already well-known that high or [...] Read more.

In the light of sustainability, satisfactory living conditions is an important factor for people’s positive feedback in their own living environment. Acoustic comfort and noise exposure should then be carefully monitored in all human settlements. Furthermore, it is already well-known that high or prolonged noise levels may lead to unwanted health effects. Unfortunately, while in the last decades scientists and public authorities have investigated the noise produced by roads, trains, and airports, not enough efforts have been spent in studying what happens around the coastal and port areas. Following the attention brought to the subject by recent European projects on noise in port areas, the present paper characterizes the sound power level and 1/3 octave band sound power spectrum of seagoing ships while moving at low speeds. Five different categories have been distinguished: Roll-on/roll-off (RORO), container ship, oil tanker, chemical tanker, and ferry. The analysis is based on a continuous noise measurement lasting more than three months, performed in the industrial canal of the port of Livorno (Italy). The resulting noise emissions are new and useful data that could be inserted in acoustic propagation models to properly assess the noise in the areas affected by port activities. Thus, the present work can act as a supporting tool in planning ship traffic in ports towards better sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Maritime Transportation Management and Policies)

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26 pages, 2119 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

The Determinants behind the Acceptance of Autonomous Vehicles: A Systematic Review

by Peng Jing, Gang Xu, Yuexia Chen, Yuji Shi and Fengping Zhan

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 1719; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12051719 - 25 Feb 2020

Cited by 186 | Viewed by 14171

Abstract

Excessive dependence on autonomous vehicles (AVs) may exacerbate traffic congestion and increase exhaust emissions in the future. The diffusion of AVs may be significantly affected by the public’s acceptance. A few factors that may affect people’s acceptance of AVs have been researched in [...] Read more.

Excessive dependence on autonomous vehicles (AVs) may exacerbate traffic congestion and increase exhaust emissions in the future. The diffusion of AVs may be significantly affected by the public’s acceptance. A few factors that may affect people’s acceptance of AVs have been researched in the existing studies, one-third of which cited behavioral theories, while the rest did not. A total of seven factors with behavior theories are screened out that significantly affect the acceptance intention, including perceived ease of use, attitude, social norm, trust, perceived usefulness, perceived risk, and compatibility. Six factors without behavior theories are summed up that affect AV acceptance, namely safety, performance-to-price value, mobility, value of travel time, symbolic value, and environmentally friendly. We found that people in Europe and Asia have substantial differences in attitudes toward AVs and that safety is one of the most concerned factors of AVs by scholars and respondents. Public acceptance of the different types of AVs and consumers’ dynamic preferences for AVs are highlighted in the review too. The quality of literature is systematically assessed based on previously established instruments and tailored for the current review. The results of the assessment show potential opportunities for future research, such as the citation of behavior theories and access to longitudinal data. Additionally, the experimental methods and the utilization of mathematical and theoretical methods could be optimized. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Autonomous Vehicles: Future of Transportation Sustainability)

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21 pages, 580 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Values and Planned Behaviour of the Romanian Organic Food Consumer

by Cristina Fleșeriu, Smaranda Adina Cosma and Vlad Bocăneț

Sustainability 2020, 12(5), 1722; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12051722 - 25 Feb 2020

Cited by 63 | Viewed by 8916

Abstract

Romanian consumers have started to buy and consume more organic products. Their decision-making process is influenced by multiple variables. The theory of planned behaviour is widely accepted and used to predict behaviours in certain contexts, including the buying of organic food products. Other [...] Read more.

Romanian consumers have started to buy and consume more organic products. Their decision-making process is influenced by multiple variables. The theory of planned behaviour is widely accepted and used to predict behaviours in certain contexts, including the buying of organic food products. Other researchers have identified values that the consumer of organic products hold and that influence their buying behaviour. This study analyses the factors that have an impact on buying intention and behaviour of Romanian organic products from these two perspectives. A proposed model was designed by combining the two frameworks. It was evaluated by using structural equation modelling with the SmartPLS 3 software package (v. 3.2.7, SmartPLS GmbH, Bönningstedt, Germany, 2017). Results confirm the model proposed in the theory of planned behaviour while integrating the relationships of consumer values. Health consciousness was found to have a significant effect both on buying intention as well as on personal attitude. Food safety has a significant effect on buying intention regardless of personal attitude. Environmental concerns, social consciousness, perception of quality and lifestyle although important in personal attitude, do not affect buying intention directly. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Consumer Behaviour regarding Organic Food)

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18 pages, 2165 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Why Don’t People Ride Bicycles in High-Income Developing Countries, and Can Bike-Sharing Be the Solution? The Case of Qatar

by Khaled Shaaban

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1693; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041693 - 24 Feb 2020

Cited by 45 | Viewed by 7839

Abstract

Although cycling is increasing in developed regions, such as Europe and North America, high-income developing countries in the Arabian Gulf region still have low cycling activities. Limited research has investigated the barriers to cycling in these countries. In this study, the barriers and [...] Read more.

Although cycling is increasing in developed regions, such as Europe and North America, high-income developing countries in the Arabian Gulf region still have low cycling activities. Limited research has investigated the barriers to cycling in these countries. In this study, the barriers and motivators in Qatar, a high-income developing country, were investigated. Respondents were asked to report their bicycle usage during the last 12 months. The results indicated that approximately 15% used a bicycle during this period, but only 1.7% bicycled for transportation purposes. The analysis revealed the different barriers to cycling and their relative strengths. The study also compared the perceived challenges of cycling between males and females. The questionnaire results indicated that both groups considered the issues related to the weather conditions, bicycle ownership, lack of paths or connections, and driver behavior as important barriers to cycling. However, the female participants identified clothing, parental consent, and cultural and societal pressure as far more important. When asked about motivators for cycling, the results revealed that improving intersections, adding additional infrastructure facilities, planting trees for shading, affordable bicycles, and campaigns targeting potential cyclists and drivers are needed in order to increase cycling. To better understand how bike-sharing will be perceived if implemented in the future, the feedback was obtained from the participants, and their opinions indicated that there is a great deal of acceptance for this type of service. The outcome of this study can be of benefit to public agencies in developing countries that have the goal of increasing cycling use among their populations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Mobility: Public-Shared Bike and Emerging Public Transport Systems)

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27 pages, 2998 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Deep Neural Network-Assisted Approach to Enhance Short-Term Optimal Operational Scheduling of a Microgrid

by Fatma Yaprakdal, M. Berkay Yılmaz, Mustafa Baysal and Amjad Anvari-Moghaddam

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1653; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041653 - 22 Feb 2020

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 3159

Abstract

The inherent variability of large-scale renewable energy generation leads to significant difficulties in microgrid energy management. Likewise, the effects of human behaviors in response to the changes in electricity tariffs as well as seasons result in changes in electricity consumption. Thus, proper scheduling [...] Read more.

The inherent variability of large-scale renewable energy generation leads to significant difficulties in microgrid energy management. Likewise, the effects of human behaviors in response to the changes in electricity tariffs as well as seasons result in changes in electricity consumption. Thus, proper scheduling and planning of power system operations require accurate load demand and renewable energy generation estimation studies, especially for short-term periods (hour-ahead, day-ahead). The time-sequence variation in aggregated electrical load and bulk photovoltaic power output are considered in this study to promote the supply-demand balance in the short-term optimal operational scheduling framework of a reconfigurable microgrid by integrating the forecasting results. A bi-directional long short-term memory units based deep recurrent neural network model, DRNN Bi-LSTM, is designed to provide accurate aggregated electrical load demand and the bulk photovoltaic power generation forecasting results. The real-world data set is utilized to test the proposed forecasting model, and based on the results, the DRNN Bi-LSTM model performs better in comparison with other methods in the surveyed literature. Meanwhile, the optimal operational scheduling framework is studied by simultaneously making a day-ahead optimal reconfiguration plan and optimal dispatching of controllable distributed generation units which are considered as optimal operation solutions. A combined approach of basic and selective particle swarm optimization methods, PSO&SPSO, is utilized for that combinatorial, non-linear, non-deterministic polynomial-time-hard (NP-hard), complex optimization study by aiming minimization of the aggregated real power losses of the microgrid subject to diverse equality and inequality constraints. A reconfigurable microgrid test system that includes photovoltaic power and diesel distributed generators is used for the optimal operational scheduling framework. As a whole, this study contributes to the optimal operational scheduling of reconfigurable microgrid with electrical energy demand and renewable energy forecasting by way of the developed DRNN Bi-LSTM model. The results indicate that optimal operational scheduling of reconfigurable microgrid with deep learning assisted approach could not only reduce real power losses but also improve system in an economic way. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Microgrids: The Path to Sustainability)

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16 pages, 5396 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Absorptive Desulfurization of Model Biogas Stream Using Choline Chloride-Based Deep Eutectic Solvents

by Edyta Słupek and Patrycja Makoś

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1619; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041619 - 21 Feb 2020

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 3294

Abstract

The paper presents a synthesis of deep eutectic solvents (DESs) based on choline chloride (ChCl) as hydrogen bond acceptor and phenol (Ph), glycol ethylene (EG), and levulinic acid (Lev) as hydrogen bond donors in 1:2 molar ratio. DESs were successfully used as absorption [...] Read more.

The paper presents a synthesis of deep eutectic solvents (DESs) based on choline chloride (ChCl) as hydrogen bond acceptor and phenol (Ph), glycol ethylene (EG), and levulinic acid (Lev) as hydrogen bond donors in 1:2 molar ratio. DESs were successfully used as absorption solvents for removal of dimethyl disulfide (DMDS) from model biogas steam. Several parameters affecting the absorption capacity and absorption rate have been optimized including kinds of DES, temperature, the volume of absorbent, model biogas flow rate, and initial concentration of DMDS. Furthermore, reusability and regeneration of DESs by means of adsorption and nitrogen barbotage followed by the mechanism of absorptive desulfurization by means of density functional theory (DFT) as well as FT-IR analysis were investigated. Experimental results indicate that the most promising DES for biogas purification is ChCl:Ph, due to high absorption capacity, relatively long absorption rate, and easy regeneration. The research on the absorption mechanism revealed that van der Waal interaction is the main driving force for DMDS removal from model biogas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Technologies in Air Treatment)

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14 pages, 239 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Social Capital along Wine Trails: Spilling the Wine to Residents?

by Shuangyu Xu, Carla Barbieri and Erin Seekamp

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1592; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041592 - 20 Feb 2020

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 2696

Abstract

Social capital is a vital element of tourism development and sustainability, and has thus drawn significant attention during the past decade. Yet, this topic is still under-researched in the context of niche tourism, especially along linear tourism settings such as wine trails. As [...] Read more.

Social capital is a vital element of tourism development and sustainability, and has thus drawn significant attention during the past decade. Yet, this topic is still under-researched in the context of niche tourism, especially along linear tourism settings such as wine trails. As a major component of wine tourism, wine trails have been growing rapidly worldwide to further regional tourism development. To examine the level of social capital related with wine tourism, communities surrounding two wine trails in North Carolina (U.S.) were surveyed regarding the Trust, Information Sharing, Collective Action, Bonding and Bridging dimensions of social capital. Results indicated the Piedmont region has not yet fully developed the social capital associated with local wine trails, although residents perceived somewhat strong Collective Action derived from this growing tourism niche. Visitation frequency to wine trails was found to be significantly associated with all dimensions of wine tourism social capital. This study advances the wine tourism scholarship concerning social capital along wine trails (e.g., integrating main dimensions into one scale). It also sheds light on wine trail development and management, suggesting local wineries and wine trails invest greater effort in forging community bonds, especially among older residents, and bridging with local businesses. Full article

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

33 pages, 8977 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Patterns of Urban Park Use and Their Relationship to Factors of Quality: A Case Study of Tehran, Iran

by Fariba Bahriny and Simon Bell

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1560; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041560 - 19 Feb 2020

Cited by 50 | Viewed by 7099

Abstract

Urban parks play an important role in increasing the quality of urban life. Thus, a variety of approaches to planning and decision-making regarding sustainable open spaces and urban parks is needed, especially when models from one location are borrowed to another with a [...] Read more.

Urban parks play an important role in increasing the quality of urban life. Thus, a variety of approaches to planning and decision-making regarding sustainable open spaces and urban parks is needed, especially when models from one location are borrowed to another with a very different culture. In many developing countries cities are expanding without proper planning of public green spaces which places pressure on the quality of life. In common with many Middle Eastern cities, Tehran, the capital of Iran is a large sprawling metropolis which has experienced fast growth since 1970 and with little in the way of comprehensive planning of green spaces as an organised system. To date there has been no comprehensive investigation of urban parks regarding their level of use, range of activities, quality of maintenance, evidence of anti-social activities or the demographic character of their catchment—important information for effective park planning. In this study a representative sample of 16 parks in Tehran was studied using a combination of site assessments and user observations. We found that a combination of factors concerning the quality of the parks such as presence of facilities, existence of water and other special attractions, as well as how well-lit they are, how well maintained and safe they are, has a lot to do with their level of use. Some pleasant parks with good facilities are less well used because of, e.g., evidence of anti-social behaviour, poor maintenance and accessibility. A key aspect we found is the difference between male and female users, with some parks being much less-well-used by women. Much more attention is needed for planning and management of parks in Tehran. The approach applied here has potential to help other cities in similar areas to learn more about their green space systems for planning purposes. Full article

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

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23 pages, 1601 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Food Heritage Makes a Difference: The Importance of Cultural Knowledge for Improving Education for Sustainable Food Choices

by Suzanne Kapelari, Georgios Alexopoulos, Theano Moussouri, Konstantin J. Sagmeister and Florian Stampfer

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1509; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041509 - 18 Feb 2020

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 10401

Abstract

This paper presents findings from a study carried out as part of BigPicnic, a European Commission’s Horizon 2020 project. BigPicnic brought together members of the public, scientists, policy-makers and industry representatives to develop exhibitions and science cafés. Across 12 European and one Ugandan [...] Read more.

This paper presents findings from a study carried out as part of BigPicnic, a European Commission’s Horizon 2020 project. BigPicnic brought together members of the public, scientists, policy-makers and industry representatives to develop exhibitions and science cafés. Across 12 European and one Ugandan botanic gardens participating in the study, we surveyed 1189 respondents on factors and motives affecting their food choices. The study highlights the importance that cultural knowledge holds for understanding food choices and consumer preferences. The findings of this study are discussed in the wider context of food security issues related to sustainable food choice, and the role of food as a form of cultural heritage. Specifically, the findings underline the importance of the impact of food preferences and choices on achieving sustainability, but also indicate that heritage is a key parameter that has to be more explicitly considered in definitions of food security and relevant policies on a European and global level. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Quality, Price and Consumer Choices)

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16 pages, 2888 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

National-Scale Built-Environment Exposure to 100-Year Extreme Sea Levels and Sea-Level Rise

by Ryan Paulik, Scott A. Stephens, Robert G. Bell, Sanjay Wadhwa and Ben Popovich

Sustainability 2020, 12(4), 1513; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041513 - 18 Feb 2020

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 6772

Abstract

Coastal flooding from extreme sea levels will increase in frequency and magnitude as global climate change forces sea-level rise (SLR). Extreme sea-level events, rare in the recent past (i.e., once per century), are projected to occur at least once per year by 2050 [...] Read more.

Coastal flooding from extreme sea levels will increase in frequency and magnitude as global climate change forces sea-level rise (SLR). Extreme sea-level events, rare in the recent past (i.e., once per century), are projected to occur at least once per year by 2050 along many of the world’s coastlines. Information showing where and how built-environment exposure increases with SLR, enables timely adaptation before damaging thresholds are reached. This study presents a first national-scale assessment of New Zealand’s built-environment exposure to future coastal flooding. We use an analytical risk model framework, “RiskScape”, to enumerate land, buildings and infrastructure exposed to a present and future 100-year extreme sea-level flood event (ESL₁₀₀). We used high-resolution topographic data to assess incremental exposure to 0.1 m SLR increases. This approach detects variable rates in the potential magnitude and timing of future flood exposure in response to SLR over decadal scales. National built-land and asset exposure to ESL₁₀₀ flooding doubles with less than 1 m SLR, indicating low-lying areas are likely to experience rapid exposure increases from modest increases in SLR expected within the next few decades. This highlights an urgent need for national and regional actions to anticipate and adaptively plan to reduce future socio-economic impacts arising from flood exposure to extreme sea-levels and SLR. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Understanding and Preparing for Uncertainty in Sustainable Disaster Risk Management)

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