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Editor’s Choice Articles

Editor’s Choice articles are based on recommendations by the scientific editors of MDPI journals from around the world. Editors select a small number of articles recently published in the journal that they believe will be particularly interesting to readers, or important in the respective research area. The aim is to provide a snapshot of some of the most exciting work published in the various research areas of the journal.

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12 pages, 1086 KiB  
Article
Robust Linear Programming and Its Application to Water and Environmental Decision-Making under Uncertainty
by Yang Zhou, Bo Yang, Jingcheng Han and Yuefei Huang
Sustainability 2019, 11(1), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11010033 - 21 Dec 2018
Cited by 32 | Viewed by 7271
Abstract
In this study, we introduce a robust linear programming approach for water and environmental decision-making under uncertainty. This approach is of significant practical utility to decision makers for obtaining reliable and robust management decisions that are “immune” to the uncertainty attributable to data [...] Read more.
In this study, we introduce a robust linear programming approach for water and environmental decision-making under uncertainty. This approach is of significant practical utility to decision makers for obtaining reliable and robust management decisions that are “immune” to the uncertainty attributable to data perturbations. The immunization guarantees that the chosen robust management plan will be implementable with no violation of the mandatory constraints of the problem being studied—i.e., natural resource supply constraint, environmental carrying capacity constraint, environmental pollution control constraint, etc.—and that the actual value of the objective will be no worse than the given estimation if the perturbations of data fall within the specified uncertainty set. A simplified example in regional water quality management is provided to help water and environmental practitioners to better understand how to implement robust linear programming from the perspective of application, as well as to illustrate the significance and necessity of implementing robust optimization techniques in real-world practices. Robust optimization is a growing research field that requires more interdisciplinary research efforts and engagements from water and environmental practitioners. Both may benefit from the advances of management science. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rural Sustainable Environmental Management)
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22 pages, 2976 KiB  
Article
Removal of ZnO Nanoparticles from Natural Waters by Coagulation-Flocculation Process: Influence of Surfactant Type on Aggregation, Dissolution and Colloidal Stability
by Rizwan Khan, Muhammad Ali Inam, Muhammad Mazhar Iqbal, Muhammad Shoaib, Du Ri Park, Kang Hoon Lee, Sookyo Shin, Sarfaraz Khan and Ick Tae Yeom
Sustainability 2019, 11(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/su11010017 - 20 Dec 2018
Cited by 22 | Viewed by 7383
Abstract
The zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) and surfactants that are widely used in commercial and industrial products lead to the likelihood of their co-occurrence in natural water, making it essential to investigate the effect of surfactants on the fate and mobility of ZnO [...] Read more.
The zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) and surfactants that are widely used in commercial and industrial products lead to the likelihood of their co-occurrence in natural water, making it essential to investigate the effect of surfactants on the fate and mobility of ZnO NPs. The present study seeks to elucidate the effect of an anionic sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and a nonionic nonylphenol ethoxylate (NPEO), on ZnO NPs adsorption, aggregation, dissolution, and removal by the coagulation process. The results indicate that the presence of SDS in ZnO NPs suspension significantly reduced the ζ-potential and hydrodynamic diameter (HDD), while the effect of NPEO was found not to be significant. The sorption of SDS and NPEO by ZnO NPs were fitted with Langmuir model, but the Freundlich isotherm was more suitable for SDS at pH 9.0. Moreover, the adsorption was strongly pH-dependent due to the formation of mono-bilayer patches onto the NPs. The SDS remarkably affect the dissolution and aggregation phenomena of ZnO NPs in natural waters as compared to NPEO. Finally, the coagulation results showed that the removal efficiency of ZnO, Zn2+ and the surfactant in synthetic and wastewaters at optimum ferric chloride (FC) dosage reached around 85–98% and 20–50%, respectively. Coagulation mechanism investigation demonstrated that the cooperation of charge neutralization and adsorptive micellar flocculation (AMF) might play an important role. In summary, this study may provide new insight into the environmental behavior of coexisting ZnO NPs and surfactants in water treatment processes, and it may facilitate their sustainable use in commercial products and processes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Wastewater Treatment Systems)
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12 pages, 232 KiB  
Review
The Role of Biosurfactants in the Continued Drive for Environmental Sustainability
by Ibukun O. Olasanmi and Ronald W. Thring
Sustainability 2018, 10(12), 4817; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10124817 - 17 Dec 2018
Cited by 78 | Viewed by 5299
Abstract
Biosurfactants are microbial products that have been increasingly researched due to their many identified advantages, such as low toxicity and high activity at extreme temperatures, but more importantly, they are biodegradable and compatible with the environment. Biosurfactants are versatile products with vast applications [...] Read more.
Biosurfactants are microbial products that have been increasingly researched due to their many identified advantages, such as low toxicity and high activity at extreme temperatures, but more importantly, they are biodegradable and compatible with the environment. Biosurfactants are versatile products with vast applications in the clean-up of environmental pollutants through biodegradation and bioremediation. They also have applications in the food, pharmaceutical, and other industries. These advantages and wide range of applications have led to the continued interest in biosurfactants. In particular, there is a growing discussion around environmental sustainability and the important role that biosurfactants will increasingly play in the near future, for example, via the use of renewable by-products as substrates, waste reduction, and potential reuse of the treated waste. This has resulted in increased attention on these microbial products in industry. Research highlighting the potential of biosurfactants in environmental sustainability is required to drive efforts to make biosurfactants more viable for commercial and large-scale applications; making them available, cheaper and economically sustainable. The present review discusses the unique relationship between biosurfactants and environmental sustainability, especially the role that biosurfactants play in the clean-up of environmental pollutants and, therefore, increasing environmental protection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)
13 pages, 1990 KiB  
Article
Spatial Analysis of Accidental Oil Spills Using Heterogeneous Data: A Case Study from the North-Eastern Ecuadorian Amazon
by Juan Durango-Cordero, Mehdi Saqalli, Christophe Laplanche, Marine Locquet and Arnaud Elger
Sustainability 2018, 10(12), 4719; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10124719 - 11 Dec 2018
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 4409
Abstract
Accidental oil spills were assessed in the north-eastern Ecuadorian Amazon, a rich biodiversity and cultural heritage area. Institutional reports were used to estimate oil spill volumes over the period 2001–2011. However, we had to make with heterogeneous and incomplete data. After statistically discriminating [...] Read more.
Accidental oil spills were assessed in the north-eastern Ecuadorian Amazon, a rich biodiversity and cultural heritage area. Institutional reports were used to estimate oil spill volumes over the period 2001–2011. However, we had to make with heterogeneous and incomplete data. After statistically discriminating well- and poorly-documented oil blocks, some spill factors were derived from the former to spatially allocate oil spills where fragmentary data were available. Spatial prediction accuracy was assessed using similarity metrics in a cross-validation approach. Results showed 464 spill events (42.2/year), accounting for 10,000.2 t of crude oil, equivalent to annual discharges of 909.1 (±SD = 1219.5) t. Total spill volumes increased by 54.8% when spill factors were used to perform allocation to poorly-documented blocks. Resulting maps displayed pollution ‘hotspots’ in Dayuma and Joya de Los Sachas, with the highest inputs averaging 13.8 t km−2 year−1. The accuracy of spatial prediction ranged from 32 to 97%, depending on the metric and the weight given to double-zeros. Simulated situations showed that estimation accuracy depends on variabilities in incident occurrences and in spill volumes per incident. Our method is suitable for mapping hazards and risks in sensitive ecosystems, particularly in areas where incomplete data hinder this process. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Resource Damage Assessment for Oil Spills)
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20 pages, 11072 KiB  
Article
Assessment of Land Cover Change and Its Impact on Changes in Soil Erosion Risk in Nepal
by Kabir Uddin, Mir Abdul Matin and Sajana Maharjan
Sustainability 2018, 10(12), 4715; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10124715 - 11 Dec 2018
Cited by 64 | Viewed by 9039
Abstract
Land cover change is a critical driver for enhancing the soil erosion risk in Nepal. Loss of the topsoil has a direct and indirect effect on human life and livelihoods. The present study provides an assessment of the decadal land use and land [...] Read more.
Land cover change is a critical driver for enhancing the soil erosion risk in Nepal. Loss of the topsoil has a direct and indirect effect on human life and livelihoods. The present study provides an assessment of the decadal land use and land cover (LULC) change and consequent changes in the distribution of soil erosion risk for the years, 1990, 2000, and 2010, for the entire country of Nepal. The study attempted to understand how different land cover types change over the three decades and how it has changed the distribution of soil erosion risks in Nepal that would help in the development of soil conservation priority. The land cover maps were produced using geographic object-based image analysis (GEOBIA) using Landsat images. Soil erosion patterns were assessed using the revised universal soil loss equation (RUSLE) with the land cover as the input. The study shows that the forest cover is the most dominant land cover in Nepal that comprises about 6,200,000 ha forest cover. The estimated annual erosion was 129.30 million tons in 1990 and 110.53 million tons in 2010. The assessment of soil erosion dynamics was presented at the national, provincial, and district level. District wise analysis revealed that Gulmi, Parbat, Syangja, and the Tanahu district require priority for soil conservation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Soil Erosion and the Sustainable Management of the Landscape)
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18 pages, 3097 KiB  
Article
Nitrogen Recovery from Wastewater: Possibilities, Competition with Other Resources, and Adaptation Pathways
by Jan Peter Van der Hoek, Rogier Duijff and Otto Reinstra
Sustainability 2018, 10(12), 4605; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10124605 - 05 Dec 2018
Cited by 86 | Viewed by 11992
Abstract
Due to increased food production, the demand for nitrogen and phosphorus as fertilizers grows. Nitrogen-based fertilizers are produced with the Haber–Bosch process through the industrial fixation of N2 into ammonia. Through wastewater treatment, the nitrogen is finally released back to the atmosphere [...] Read more.
Due to increased food production, the demand for nitrogen and phosphorus as fertilizers grows. Nitrogen-based fertilizers are produced with the Haber–Bosch process through the industrial fixation of N2 into ammonia. Through wastewater treatment, the nitrogen is finally released back to the atmosphere as N2 gas. This nitrogen cycle is characterized by drawbacks. The energy requirement is high, and in the wastewater treatment, nitrogen is mainly converted to N2 gas and lost to the atmosphere. In this study, technologies for nitrogen recovery from wastewater were selected based on four criteria: sustainability (energy use and N2O emissions), the potential to recover nitrogen in an applicable form, the maturity of the technology, and the nitrogen concentration that can be handled by the technology. As in wastewater treatment, the focus is also on the recovery of other resources; the interactions of nitrogen recovery with biogas production, phosphorus recovery, and cellulose recovery were examined. The mutual interference of the several nitrogen recovery technologies was studied using adaptive policy making. The most promising mature technologies that can be incorporated into existing wastewater treatment plants include struvite precipitation, the treatment of digester reject water by air stripping, vacuum membrane filtration, hydrophobic membrane filtration, and treatment of air from thermal sludge drying, resulting respectively in 1.1%, 24%, 75%, 75%, and 2.1% nitrogen recovery for the specific case wastewater treatment plant Amsterdam-West. The effects on sustainability were limited. Higher nitrogen recovery (60%) could be realized by separate urine collection, but this requires a completely new infrastructure for wastewater collection and treatment. It was concluded that different technologies in parallel are required to reach sustainable solutions. Nitrogen recovery does not interfere with the recovery of the other resources. An adaptation pathways map is a good tool to take into account new developments, uncertainties, and different ambitions when choosing technologies for nitrogen recovery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Wastewater Treatment Systems)
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13 pages, 2718 KiB  
Review
Dry Anaerobic Digestion Technologies for Agricultural Straw and Acceptability in China
by Yanran Fu, Tao Luo, Zili Mei, Jiang Li, Kun Qiu and Yihong Ge
Sustainability 2018, 10(12), 4588; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10124588 - 04 Dec 2018
Cited by 44 | Viewed by 7205
Abstract
Dry anaerobic digestion technology (DADT) is considered a highly feasible way to treat agricultural straw waste; however, most practical operations are always in low efficiency, due to the poor fluidity behavior and complex lignocellulosic structure of straw, which is not easily decomposed by [...] Read more.
Dry anaerobic digestion technology (DADT) is considered a highly feasible way to treat agricultural straw waste; however, most practical operations are always in low efficiency, due to the poor fluidity behavior and complex lignocellulosic structure of straw, which is not easily decomposed by anaerobic bacteria. Hence, it is necessary to further investigate the operation boundary, in order to increase biogas production efficiency for effective applications. In this paper, typical DADTs are reviewed and their suitability for application in China is analyzed. The advantages and disadvantages of different anaerobic digestion processes are evaluated considering pretreatment, organic loading rate, anaerobic digestion temperature, and homogenization of the feedstock and inoculate. The suitability of the DADTs is evaluated considering the accessibility of straw resources and the convenience of biogas use. It is concluded that batch anaerobic digestion processes would be more suitable for the development of southern China due to the prevalence of small-scale agriculture, while continuous anaerobic digestion would be preferable in the north where large-scale agriculture is common. However, the DADTs discussed here need to broad application in China. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biofuels–Bioenergy Waste to Value Added Feedstock)
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21 pages, 4150 KiB  
Article
Forest Landscape Change and Preliminary Study on Its Driving Forces in Ślęża Landscape Park (Southwestern Poland) in 1883–2013
by Piotr Krajewski, Iga Solecka and Karol Mrozik
Sustainability 2018, 10(12), 4526; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10124526 - 30 Nov 2018
Cited by 43 | Viewed by 4166
Abstract
Changes in forest landscapes have been connected with human activity for centuries and can be considered one of the main driving forces of change from a global perspective. The spatial distribution of forests changes along with the geopolitical situation, demographic changes, intensification of [...] Read more.
Changes in forest landscapes have been connected with human activity for centuries and can be considered one of the main driving forces of change from a global perspective. The spatial distribution of forests changes along with the geopolitical situation, demographic changes, intensification of agriculture, urbanization, or changes in land use policy. However, due to the limited availability of historical data, the driving forces of changes in forest landscapes are most often considered in relation to recent decades, without taking long-term analyses into account. The aim of this paper is to determine the level and types of landscape changes and make preliminary study on natural and socio-economic factors on changes in forest landscapes within the protected area, Ślęża Landscape Park, and its buffer zone using long-term analyses covering a period of 140 years (1883–2013). A comparison of historical and current maps and demographic data related to three consecutive periods of time as well as natural and location factors by using the ArcGIS software allows the selected driving forces of forest landscape transformations to be analyzed. We took into account natural factors such as the elevation, slope, and exposure of the hillside and socio-economic drivers like population changes, distances to centers of municipalities, main roads, and built-up areas. Full article
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26 pages, 7449 KiB  
Article
Assessing Impacts of Soil Management Measures on Ecosystem Services
by Gudrun Schwilch, Tatenda Lemann, Örjan Berglund, Carlo Camarotto, Artemi Cerdà, Ioannis N. Daliakopoulos, Silvia Kohnová, Dominika Krzeminska, Teodoro Marañón, René Rietra, Grzegorz Siebielec, Johann Thorsson, Mark Tibbett, Sandra Valente, Hedwig Van Delden, Jan Van den Akker, Simone Verzandvoort, Nicoleta Olimpia Vrînceanu, Christos Zoumides and Rudi Hessel
Sustainability 2018, 10(12), 4416; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10124416 - 26 Nov 2018
Cited by 25 | Viewed by 7999
Abstract
Only a few studies have quantified and measured ecosystem services (ES) specifically related to soil. To address this gap, we have developed and applied a methodology to assess changes in ecosystem services, based on measured or estimated soil property changes that were stimulated [...] Read more.
Only a few studies have quantified and measured ecosystem services (ES) specifically related to soil. To address this gap, we have developed and applied a methodology to assess changes in ecosystem services, based on measured or estimated soil property changes that were stimulated by soil management measures (e.g., mulching, terracing, no-till). We applied the ES assessment methodology in 16 case study sites across Europe representing a high diversity of soil threats and land use systems. Various prevention and remediation measures were trialled, and the changes in manageable soil and other natural capital properties were measured and quantified. An Excel tool facilitated data collection, calculation of changes in ecosystem services, and visualization of measured short-term changes and estimated long-term changes at plot level and for the wider area. With this methodology, we were able to successfully collect and compare data on the impact of land management on 15 different ecosystem services from 26 different measures. Overall, the results are positive in terms of the impacts of the trialled measures on ecosystem services, with 18 out of 26 measures having no decrease in any service at the plot level. Although methodological challenges remain, the ES assessment was shown to be a comprehensive evaluation of the impacts of the trialled measures, and also served as an input to a stakeholder valuation of ecosystem services at local and sub-national levels. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessment and Governance of Sustainable Soil Management)
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17 pages, 261 KiB  
Article
Carbon Capture and Storage: A Review of Mineral Storage of CO2 in Greece
by Kyriaki Kelektsoglou
Sustainability 2018, 10(12), 4400; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10124400 - 24 Nov 2018
Cited by 41 | Viewed by 6954
Abstract
As the demand for the reduction of global emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) increases, the need for anthropogenic CO2 emission reductions becomes urgent. One promising technology to this end, is carbon capture and storage (CCS). This paper aims to provide [...] Read more.
As the demand for the reduction of global emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) increases, the need for anthropogenic CO2 emission reductions becomes urgent. One promising technology to this end, is carbon capture and storage (CCS). This paper aims to provide the current state-of-the-art of CO2 capure, transport, and storage and focuses on mineral carbonation, a novel method for safe and permanent CO2 sequestration which is based on the reaction of CO2 with calcium or magnesium oxides or hydroxides to form stable carbonate materials. Current commercial scale projects of CCS around Europe are outlined, demonstrating that only three of them are in operation, and twenty-one of them are in pilot phase, including the only one case of mineral carbonation in Europe the case of CarbFix in Iceland. This paper considers the necessity of CO2 sequestration in Greece as emissions of about 64.6 million tons of CO2 annually, originate from the lignite fired power plants. A real case study concerning the mineral storage of CO2 in Greece has been conducted, demonstrating the applicability of several geological forms around Greece for mineral carbonation. The study indicates that Mount Pindos ophiolite and Vourinos ophiolite complex could be a promising means of CO2 sequestration with mineral carbonation. Further studies are needed in order to confirm this aspect. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Climate Change and Sustainable Development Policy)
12 pages, 2763 KiB  
Article
Adsorption of Hexavalent Chromium Using Banana Pseudostem Biochar and Its Mechanism
by Shuang Xu, Weiguang Yu, Sen Liu, Congying Xu, Jihui Li and Yucang Zhang
Sustainability 2018, 10(11), 4250; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10114250 - 17 Nov 2018
Cited by 39 | Viewed by 6001
Abstract
A low-cost biochar was prepared through slow pyrolysis of banana pseudostem biowaste at different temperatures, and characterized by surface area and porosity analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). It was shown that the biochar prepared [...] Read more.
A low-cost biochar was prepared through slow pyrolysis of banana pseudostem biowaste at different temperatures, and characterized by surface area and porosity analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). It was shown that the biochar prepared at low pyrolysis temperature was rich in oxygen-containing groups on the surface. Adsorption experiments revealed that the biochar prepared at 300 °C (BB300) was the best adsorbent for Cr(VI) with 125.44 mg/g maximum adsorption capacity at pH 2 and 25 °C. All the adsorption processes were well described by pseudo-second-order and Langmuir models, indicating a monolayer chemiadsorption. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that adsorption of Cr(VI) was mainly attributed to reduction of Cr(VI) to Cr(III) followed by ion exchange and complexation with the biochar. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Wastewater Treatment Systems)
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19 pages, 4256 KiB  
Article
Evaluating the Impacts of Integrated Pollution on Water Quality of the Trans-Boundary Neris (Viliya) River
by Marina Valentukevičienė, Lina Bagdžiūnaitė-Litvinaitienė, Viktoras Chadyšas and Andrius Litvinaitis
Sustainability 2018, 10(11), 4239; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10114239 - 16 Nov 2018
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 3454
Abstract
The trans-boundary area between the Europe Union and other countries is highly susceptible to changes in water quality and variations in the potential pollution load that could influence its eco-systems significantly. The Neris (Viliya) River is one of the biggest surface water bodies [...] Read more.
The trans-boundary area between the Europe Union and other countries is highly susceptible to changes in water quality and variations in the potential pollution load that could influence its eco-systems significantly. The Neris (Viliya) River is one of the biggest surface water bodies in Lithuania and Belarus with an ecologically important area protected by international legislation. The study was aimed at evaluating the impacts of integrated pollution on water quality of the Neris River taking into account different storm-water flows and ecological scenarios. For this purpose, qualitative and quantitative statistical evaluation was set up and calculation was done; different integrated pollution loads of the catchment area were estimated. The evaluation considered a decrease in river discharge due to changes in the regional storm-water flow and technological development that should lead to the growing covered surface and a reduction in the untreated storm-water flows. The obtained results indicated that, in the case of storm-water treatment, the total nitrate and phosphate concentrations will decrease, while in the cases of changes in combined suspended solid, the concentration of nutrients will decrease. Thus, a trans-boundary storm-water treatment plant of the Viliya River is required as it should eliminate pollution accumulation and restore its acceptable environmental status. A coordinated international project for the entire catchment of the Neris (Viliya) River based on the specifications and requirements of the EU Water Framework Directive (EU 2000) should be developed and implemented. Subsequently, ecological river-use policies should be established at the international level, which should offer considerable perspectives for the sustainable development of the area. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)
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20 pages, 1574 KiB  
Article
Endogenous or Exogenous? Examining Trans-Boundary Air Pollution by Using the Air Quality Index (AQI): A Case Study of 30 Provinces and Autonomous Regions in China
by Wenyang Huang, Huiwen Wang and Yigang Wei
Sustainability 2018, 10(11), 4220; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10114220 - 15 Nov 2018
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4316
Abstract
China is experiencing severe environmental degradation, particularly air pollution. To explore whether air pollutants are spatially correlated (i.e., trans-boundary effects) and to analyse the main contributing factors, this research investigates the annual concentration of the Air Quality Index (AQI) and 13 polluting sectors [...] Read more.
China is experiencing severe environmental degradation, particularly air pollution. To explore whether air pollutants are spatially correlated (i.e., trans-boundary effects) and to analyse the main contributing factors, this research investigates the annual concentration of the Air Quality Index (AQI) and 13 polluting sectors in 30 provinces and autonomous regions across China. Factor analysis, the linear regression model and the spatial auto-regression (SAR) model are employed to analyse the latest data in 2014. Several important findings are derived. Firstly, the global Moran’s I test reveals that the AQI of China shows a distinct positive spatial correlation. The local Moran’s I test shows that significant high–high AQI agglomeration regions are found around the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei area and the regions of low–low AQI agglomeration all locate in south China, including Yunnan, Guangxi and Fujian. Secondly, the effectiveness of the SAR model is much better than that of the linear regression model, with a significantly improved R-squared value from 0.287 to 0.705. A given region’s AQI will rise by 0.793% if the AQI of its ambient region increases by 1%. Thirdly, car ownership, steel output, coke output, coal consumption, built-up area, diesel consumption and electric power output contribute most to air pollution according to AQI, whereas fuel oil consumption, caustic soda output and crude oil consumption are inconsiderably accountable in raising AQI. Fourthly, the air quality in Beijing and Tianjin is under great exogenous influence from nearby regions, such as Hebei’s air pollution, and cross-boundary and joint efforts must be committed by the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region in order to control air pollution. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Climate Change and Sustainable Development Policy)
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18 pages, 2124 KiB  
Article
Comparative Life Cycle Assessment of Lighting Systems and Road Pavements in an Italian Twin-Tube Road Tunnel
by Giuseppe Cantisani, Paola Di Mascio and Laura Moretti
Sustainability 2018, 10(11), 4165; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10114165 - 12 Nov 2018
Cited by 39 | Viewed by 3479
Abstract
This work calculates and discusses the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of four scenarios composed of two types of road pavements and two types of lighting systems to be built in an Italian twin-tube road tunnel. A 20-year time horizon is adopted to assess [...] Read more.
This work calculates and discusses the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of four scenarios composed of two types of road pavements and two types of lighting systems to be built in an Italian twin-tube road tunnel. A 20-year time horizon is adopted to assess the burdens of construction and maintenance of both flexible and rigid pavements and high-pressure sodium (HPS) and light-emitting diode (LED) lamps, traffic, and switching on of lamps. All considered scenarios are comparable with each other in terms of technical performances, but significantly differ regarding their environmental consequences. The geometrical and technical characteristics of the examined scenarios comply with current Italian standards for highways. In all the examined cases, LCA is carried out according to the European standard, EN 15804, and includes 19 impact categories (IC). The analysis demonstrates that the use of more reflecting surface pavement materials (i.e., concrete vs. asphalt) and more performing lighting systems (i.e., LED vs. HPS) can effectively mitigate the deleterious burdens related to road construction, maintenance, and use. For most of the examined ICs, the most environment-friendly scenario has LED lamps and concrete pavement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Lighting and Energy Saving)
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30 pages, 2299 KiB  
Review
Creating a Novel Multi-Layered Integrative Climate Change Adaptation Planning Approach Using a Systematic Literature Review
by Mehdi Hafezi, Oz Sahin, Rodney A. Stewart and Brendan Mackey
Sustainability 2018, 10(11), 4100; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10114100 - 08 Nov 2018
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 6328
Abstract
Climate change adaptation planning requires the integration of disciplines, stakeholders, different modelling approaches, treatment options, and scales of analysis. An integrated stepwise planning approach is a critical requirement for effective climate change adaptation in the context of small island developing states and coastal [...] Read more.
Climate change adaptation planning requires the integration of disciplines, stakeholders, different modelling approaches, treatment options, and scales of analysis. An integrated stepwise planning approach is a critical requirement for effective climate change adaptation in the context of small island developing states and coastal communities. To address this need, this paper reports on a systematic review of 116 research papers from an initial set of around 650 academic peer-reviewed papers. These papers were assessed and categorised based on their planning framework or the approach utilised, measured climate change impacts, employed methods and tools, and recommended adaptation strategies or options. This study identified three important dimensions of a fully integrated climate change adaptation planning process, namely, integration in assessment, integration in modelling, and integration in adaptive responses. Moreover, it resulted in the formulation of a novel multi-layered integrative climate change adaptation planning approach. Adopting this holistic and integrative approach is more likely to yield better climate change adaptation in planning outcomes over the long term. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Climate Change and Sustainable Development Policy)
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12 pages, 3147 KiB  
Article
Evaluating the Self-Sensing Ability of Cement Mortars Manufactured with Graphene Nanoplatelets, Virgin or Recycled Carbon Fibers through Piezoresistivity Tests
by Alberto Belli, Alessandra Mobili, Tiziano Bellezze, Francesca Tittarelli and Paulo Cachim
Sustainability 2018, 10(11), 4013; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10114013 - 02 Nov 2018
Cited by 50 | Viewed by 3881
Abstract
This paper presents the resistivity and piezoresistivity behavior of cement-based mortars manufactured with graphene nanoplatelet filler (GNP), virgin carbon fibers (VCF) and recycled carbon fibers (RCF). GNP was added at 4% of the cement weight, whereas two percentages of carbon fibers were chosen, [...] Read more.
This paper presents the resistivity and piezoresistivity behavior of cement-based mortars manufactured with graphene nanoplatelet filler (GNP), virgin carbon fibers (VCF) and recycled carbon fibers (RCF). GNP was added at 4% of the cement weight, whereas two percentages of carbon fibers were chosen, namely 0.05% and 0.2% of the total volume. The combined effect of both filler and fibers was also investigated. Mortars were studied in terms of their mechanical properties (under flexure and compression) and electrical resistivity. Mortars with the lowest electrical resistivity values were also subjected to cyclic uniaxial compression to evaluate the variations in electrical resistivity as a function of strain. The results obtained show that mortars have piezoresistive behavior only if they are subjected to a prior drying process. In addition, dry specimens exhibit a high piezoresistivity only when loaded with 0.2 vol.% of VCF and 0.4 wt.% of GNP plus 0.2 vol.% RCF, with a quite reversible relation between their fractional change in resistivity (FCR) and compressive strain. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Buildings and Indoor Air Quality)
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12 pages, 1676 KiB  
Communication
Effect of Growing Miscanthus x giganteus on Soil Microbial Communities in Post-Military Soil
by Diana Nebeská, Josef Trögl, Valentina Pidlisnyuk, Jan Popelka, Petra Veronesi Dáňová, Sergej Usťak and Roman Honzík
Sustainability 2018, 10(11), 4021; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10114021 - 02 Nov 2018
Cited by 19 | Viewed by 3465
Abstract
Growing a second generation energetic plant Miscanthus x giganteus (Mxg) in former military sites appears to be a promising way to use such areas with synergic phytoremediation of contaminants (organic pollutants, potential toxic metals). Effect of Mxg growth on soil microbial [...] Read more.
Growing a second generation energetic plant Miscanthus x giganteus (Mxg) in former military sites appears to be a promising way to use such areas with synergic phytoremediation of contaminants (organic pollutants, potential toxic metals). Effect of Mxg growth on soil microbial communities during a two-year pot experiment with real post-military soil (Sliač, Slovakia) and the effect of potential toxic metal concentration was studied by analyses of microbial activities and phospholipid fatty acids (PLFA). Year-on-year positive changes in microbial community structure and state were detected (higher ratios of G+/G− bacteria and fungal/bacterial PLFA, and a decrease of stress indicators trans/cis and cy/pre PLFA). Portion of gram-positive bacteria correlated negatively with potential toxic metal concentrations; however, the concentration of potential toxic metals was not identified as the main stress factor—the access to bioavailable nutrients was more important. Overall, Mxg growth generally exhibited a positive effect on soil microorganisms. Full article
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17 pages, 980 KiB  
Article
The Role of Breadfruit in Biocultural Restoration and Sustainability in Hawai‘i
by Blaire J. Langston and Noa Kekuewa Lincoln
Sustainability 2018, 10(11), 3965; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10113965 - 31 Oct 2018
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 7100
Abstract
The Hawaiian Islands today are faced with a complex mix of sustainability challenges regarding food systems. After European arrival, there was a change of dietary customs and decline in traditional Hawaiian agriculture along with the cultural mechanisms which sustained them. Recently, there has [...] Read more.
The Hawaiian Islands today are faced with a complex mix of sustainability challenges regarding food systems. After European arrival, there was a change of dietary customs and decline in traditional Hawaiian agriculture along with the cultural mechanisms which sustained them. Recently, there has been a resurgence for local food and culture alongside an enthusiasm for breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis)—a Polynesian staple crop. To investigate the role of breadfruit and biocultural restoration in Hawai‘i, we conducted surveys and interviews with local breadfruit producers. Overall, we found that breadfruit has the potential to provide holistic, practical and appropriate solutions to key issues in Hawai‘i, including food security, environmental degradation and public health, while simultaneously lending to the revival of cultural norms and social relationships. As breadfruit cultivation expands rapidly in Hawai‘i, the opportunities for increased social and environmental benefits can be realized if appropriately encouraged. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biocultural Restoration in Hawaiʻi)
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19 pages, 5058 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Late Holocene Flood Management on the Central Po Plain (Northern Italy)
by Filippo Brandolini and Mauro Cremaschi
Sustainability 2018, 10(11), 3968; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10113968 - 31 Oct 2018
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 6939
Abstract
Fluvial environments have always played a crucial role in human history. The necessity of fertile land and fresh water for agriculture has led populations to settle in floodplains more frequently than in other environments. Floodplains are complex human–water systems in which the mutual [...] Read more.
Fluvial environments have always played a crucial role in human history. The necessity of fertile land and fresh water for agriculture has led populations to settle in floodplains more frequently than in other environments. Floodplains are complex human–water systems in which the mutual interaction between anthropogenic activities and environment affected the landscape development. In this paper, we analyzed the evolution of the Central Po Plain (Italy) during the Medieval period through a multi-proxy record of geomorphological, archaeological and historical data. The collapse of the Western Roman Empire (5th century AD) coincided with a progressive waterlogging of large floodplain areas. The results obtained by this research shed new light on the consequences that Post-Roman land and water management activities had on landscape evolution. In particular, the exploitation of fluvial sediments through flood management practices had the effect of reclaiming the swamps, but also altered the natural geomorphological development of the area. Even so, the Medieval human activities were more in equilibrium with the natural system than with the later Renaissance large-scale land reclamation works that profoundly modified the landscape turning the wetland environment into the arable land visible today. The analysis of fluvial palaeoenvironments and their relation with past human activities can provide valuable indications for planning more sustainable urbanized alluvial landscapes in future. Full article
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30 pages, 5770 KiB  
Article
Distant Interactions, Power, and Environmental Justice in Protected Area Governance: A Telecoupling Perspective
by Sébastien Boillat, Jean-David Gerber, Christoph Oberlack, Julie G. Zaehringer, Chinwe Ifejika Speranza and Stephan Rist
Sustainability 2018, 10(11), 3954; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10113954 - 30 Oct 2018
Cited by 45 | Viewed by 7619
Abstract
Equity has become a major concern in efforts to conserve nature. However, in the Global South, inequitable social impacts of conservation usually prevail. We investigate barriers to equitable governance of four protected areas through an innovative approach linking the tri-dimensional framing of environmental [...] Read more.
Equity has become a major concern in efforts to conserve nature. However, in the Global South, inequitable social impacts of conservation usually prevail. We investigate barriers to equitable governance of four protected areas through an innovative approach linking the tri-dimensional framing of environmental justice with the notion of telecoupling. We conceptualize the creation, support, and implementation of protected areas as telecoupling processes that involve flows, actors, and action situations, and assess them based on a set of indicators of procedural justice, distributive justice, and recognition. We perform the analysis for parallel or competing telecoupling processes that affect the areas and we then investigate the scope and reach of resistance actions to attain more equitable outcomes. Identified barriers include dependence of the PAs on transnational financial flows, presence of competing extractive demands, negative narratives on local practices, wilderness and Malthusian framings, authoritarian rule, narrow development options, and socio-cultural discrimination. These combined barriers create multiple forms of exclusion. Resistance actions are likely to succeed when actors can mobilize alliances and resources across distance. We conclude that justice framings can make power relationships in telecouplings more visible, and that considering distant interactions can elucidate causes of (in)equity in conservation. Full article
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19 pages, 1484 KiB  
Review
Sustainable Management and Successful Application of Constructed Wetlands: A Critical Review
by Angela Gorgoglione and Vincenzo Torretta
Sustainability 2018, 10(11), 3910; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10113910 - 27 Oct 2018
Cited by 90 | Viewed by 8847
Abstract
Constructed wetlands (CWs) are affordable and reliable green technologies for the treatment of various types of wastewater. Compared to conventional treatment systems, CWs offer an environmental-friendly approach, are low cost, have fewer operational and maintenance requirements, and have a high potential for being [...] Read more.
Constructed wetlands (CWs) are affordable and reliable green technologies for the treatment of various types of wastewater. Compared to conventional treatment systems, CWs offer an environmental-friendly approach, are low cost, have fewer operational and maintenance requirements, and have a high potential for being applied in developing countries; particularly in small rural communities. However, the sustainable management and successful application of these systems remain a challenge. Therefore, after briefly giving basic information on wetlands and summarizing the classification and use of current CWs, this study aims to provide sustainable solutions for the performance and applications of CWs. To accomplish this objective, design and management parameters of CWs, including macrophyte species, media types, water level, hydraulic retention time (HRT), and hydraulic loading rate (HLR), are discussed. The current study collects and presents results of more than 120 case studies from around the world. This work provides a tool for researchers and decision-makers for using CWs to treat wastewater in a particular area. This study presents an aid for informed analysis, decision-making, and communication. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Wastewater Treatment Systems)
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21 pages, 6183 KiB  
Article
Model-Based Evaluation of Land Management Strategies with Regard to Multiple Ecosystem Services
by Nina Zarrineh, Karim C. Abbaspour, Ann Van Griensven, Bernard Jeangros and Annelie Holzkämper
Sustainability 2018, 10(11), 3844; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10113844 - 23 Oct 2018
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 3693
Abstract
In agroecosystem management, conflicts between various services such as food provision and nutrient regulation are common. This study examined the trade-offs between selected ecosystem services such as food provision, water quantity and quality, erosion and climate regulations in an agricultural catchment in Western [...] Read more.
In agroecosystem management, conflicts between various services such as food provision and nutrient regulation are common. This study examined the trade-offs between selected ecosystem services such as food provision, water quantity and quality, erosion and climate regulations in an agricultural catchment in Western Switzerland. The aim was to explore the existing land use conflicts by a shift in land use and management strategy following two stakeholder-defined scenarios based on either land sparing or land sharing concepts. The Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) was used to build an agro-hydrologic model of the region, which was calibrated and validated based on daily river discharge, monthly nitrate and annual crop yield, considering uncertainties associated with land management set up and model parameterization. The results show that land sparing scenario has the highest agricultural benefit, while also the highest nitrate concentration and GHG emissions. The land sharing scenario improves water quality and climate regulation services and reduces food provision. The management changes considered in the two land use scenarios did not seem to reduce the conflict but only led to a shift in trade-offs. Water quantity and erosion regulation remain unaffected by the two scenarios. Full article
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18 pages, 4422 KiB  
Article
Indoor Air Quality: A Bibliometric Study
by Mattia Pierpaoli and Maria Letizia Ruello
Sustainability 2018, 10(11), 3830; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10113830 - 23 Oct 2018
Cited by 31 | Viewed by 13743
Abstract
What are the actual trends in Indoor Air Quality (IAQ), and in which direction is academic interest moving? Much progress has been made in identifying and mitigating indoor pollutants, due to both prevention campaigns (e.g., smoking bans) and greater control of product emissions. [...] Read more.
What are the actual trends in Indoor Air Quality (IAQ), and in which direction is academic interest moving? Much progress has been made in identifying and mitigating indoor pollutants, due to both prevention campaigns (e.g., smoking bans) and greater control of product emissions. However, IAQ is still of interest and the future trends are unknown. In this study, a thorough bibliometric analysis was conducted on the scientific literature available on the Web of Science database with CiteSpace from 1990 until today. It was possible to identify past trends and current advances, both with the aim of introducing the IAQ topic to those encountering it for the first time and to examine the issues that are expected to be pertinent in the future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Buildings and Indoor Air Quality)
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30 pages, 2152 KiB  
Article
Whose Agency Counts in Land Use Decision-Making in Myanmar? A Comparative Analysis of Three Cases in Tanintharyi Region
by Lara M. Lundsgaard-Hansen, Flurina Schneider, Julie G. Zaehringer, Christoph Oberlack, Win Myint and Peter Messerli
Sustainability 2018, 10(10), 3823; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10103823 - 22 Oct 2018
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 6213
Abstract
Myanmar has experienced profound transformations of land use and land governance, often at the expense of smallholders. Empirical evidence on the agency of actors included and excluded in land use decision-making remains scarce. This study analyses who influences land use decision-making, how they [...] Read more.
Myanmar has experienced profound transformations of land use and land governance, often at the expense of smallholders. Empirical evidence on the agency of actors included and excluded in land use decision-making remains scarce. This study analyses who influences land use decision-making, how they do this, and under what circumstances smallholders are included. Comparing three land use trajectories in southern Myanmar, we analysed actors’ agency—conceived as the meanings and means behind (re)actions—in land use decision-making using data from focus groups and interviews. Results showed that uneven distribution of means can lead to unequal decision-making power, enabling actors with more means to exclude those with less means: smallholders. However, this only applies in the case of top-down interventions with mutually exclusive actor interests regarding use of the same land. Where interests are compatible or a mediator supports smallholders in negotiations, actors are likely to develop a collaboration despite unequal means, leading to smallholders’ inclusion in decision-making. Transformation of current land governance towards sustainable development could be promoted by providing mediators to actors with few means, ensuring equal access for all to formal land tenure, engaging with brokers in the land governance network, and improving access to knowledge and financial capital for actors with few means. Full article
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19 pages, 11431 KiB  
Article
Thermal and Vibration Comfort Analysis of a Nearly Zero-Energy Building in Poland
by Małgorzata Fedorczak-Cisak, Marcin Furtak, Jolanta Gintowt, Alicja Kowalska-Koczwara, Filip Pachla, Krzysztof Stypuła and Tadeusz Tatara
Sustainability 2018, 10(10), 3774; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10103774 - 18 Oct 2018
Cited by 24 | Viewed by 3597
Abstract
Placing emphasis exclusively on minimizing energy consumption in low-energy buildings can adversely impact thermal comfort and vibrational comfort. Vibrational comfort is extremely important in building design, especially within mining or seismically active territories, and due to car transportation in city centers. In this [...] Read more.
Placing emphasis exclusively on minimizing energy consumption in low-energy buildings can adversely impact thermal comfort and vibrational comfort. Vibrational comfort is extremely important in building design, especially within mining or seismically active territories, and due to car transportation in city centers. In this article, a new approach to designing passive buildings and nearly zero-energy buildings (NZEBs) in Poland is proposed, which has a strong emphasis on the necessity of providing comfort of use in passive houses and NZEBs. Additionally, vibration comfort provisions in the design process are examined. The research gap that will be addressed by the research presented in this article is to extend the comfort conditions of passive buildings and NZEBs into the area of vibratory comfort. The second goal of the project is to determine the impact of solar control systems on the conditions of thermal comfort. The conclusions from the research will allow for the optimization of design assumptions for passive houses and NZEBs. The conclusions from the tests can serve as the basis for introducing appropriate construction law requirements in Poland. The results of the research, which are presented in the article, indicate that the technical requirements that are applicable in Poland ought to include requirements regarding the use of sun blinds in NZEBs and passive buildings (not only as recommendations). In particular, the use of apertures on the south side ought to be mandated. The article can also be the basis for introducing the requirements of vibration comfort to the PN–EN 15251:2012 “Indoor environmental input parameters for design and assessment of energy performance of buildings addressing indoor air quality, thermal environment, lighting and acoustics” standard, which is the basis for designing the parameters of the internal environment for buildings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Buildings and Indoor Air Quality)
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14 pages, 2286 KiB  
Article
Circular Economy Aspects Regarding LED Lighting Retrofit—from Case Studies to Vision
by Dorin Beu, Calin Ciugudeanu and Mircea Buzdugan
Sustainability 2018, 10(10), 3674; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10103674 - 14 Oct 2018
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 5311
Abstract
The lighting industry is still a linear economy, despite the extensive use of light-emitting diode (LED) and the ban of incandescent/halogen lamps, claiming to be greener and more human centered. Light-emitting diode has changed radically the whole lighting industry with an increased luminaire [...] Read more.
The lighting industry is still a linear economy, despite the extensive use of light-emitting diode (LED) and the ban of incandescent/halogen lamps, claiming to be greener and more human centered. Light-emitting diode has changed radically the whole lighting industry with an increased luminaire efficacy more than four times higher compared with fluorescent lamps and their new opportunities for modern control systems. In the years to come, millions of fluorescent luminaires will become waste and will be replaced by LED luminaires. According to the Cost European Cooperation in Science & Technology Program the next step will be from sustainability to regenerative (enabling social and ecological systems to maintain a healthy state and to evolve) and to get there, circular economy is essential. In order to reduce even further the carbon footprint, the retrofit of existing luminaires and additional modern control systems should be the solution. Circular economy aspects for the lighting area were identified using the university adopted lighting retrofit solutions as case studies. For an LED retrofitted recessed luminaire 4 × T8 18 W studies showed a major installed power reduction, a good lighting distribution, but also revealed some problems: the retrofit luminaire has no certification, necessity of qualified personnel, high labor costs, etc. A major issue is the fact that luminaire design did not take into consideration circular economy aspects like the possibility of future retrofit solutions. It is important that from now on a different approach should be foreseen for the LED luminaire design. There is a section about vision, which plays an important role in preparing new luminaire generations with circular economy in mind. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Lighting and Energy Saving)
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9 pages, 245 KiB  
Article
Monitoring Transboundary Water Cooperation in SDG 6.5.2: How a Critical Hydropolitics Approach Can Spot Inequitable Outcomes
by Hussam Hussein, Filippo Menga and Francesca Greco
Sustainability 2018, 10(10), 3640; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10103640 - 11 Oct 2018
Cited by 54 | Viewed by 6605
Abstract
This article contributes to critical sustainability studies through an interrogation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their action towards improving access to water and sanitation. This is done through an analysis of ‘SDG 6: Ensure access to water and sanitation for all’, [...] Read more.
This article contributes to critical sustainability studies through an interrogation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their action towards improving access to water and sanitation. This is done through an analysis of ‘SDG 6: Ensure access to water and sanitation for all’, specifically focusing on Target 6.5: ‘By 2030, implement integrated water-resources management at all levels, including through transboundary cooperation as appropriate’, and its related Indicator 6.5.2, ‘Proportion of transboundary basin area with an operational arrangement for water cooperation’. While on paper Target 6.5 might seem relatively unproblematic, this article shows that its implementation could have some unintended practical implications for countries sharing transboundary waters. This article fine-tunes SDG 6.5.2 by suggesting two additional qualitative steps to improve the indicator. These qualitative dimensions are deemed extremely important for two reasons: the first one is the need to unfold and tackle inequitable water agreements; the second reason is to assess, recognize, and promote the role of civil society, NGOs, and technical and informal cooperation as a positive path toward the actual achievement of formal cooperation. The two steps that we propose are deemed essential if the United Nations (UN) is going to include SDG 6.5.2 as a proactive tool in the achievement of “implementing integrated water-resources management at all levels, including through transboundary cooperation as appropriate”, as declared in the 2030 agenda. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)
27 pages, 1376 KiB  
Article
Equitable Allocation of Blue and Green Water Footprints Based on Land-Use Types: A Case Study of the Yangtze River Economic Belt
by Gang Liu, Lu Shi and Kevin W. Li
Sustainability 2018, 10(10), 3556; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10103556 - 04 Oct 2018
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2669
Abstract
This paper develops a lexicographic optimization model to allocate agricultural and non-agricultural water footprints by using the land area as the influencing factor. An index known as the water-footprint-land density (WFLD) index is then put forward to assess the impact and equity of [...] Read more.
This paper develops a lexicographic optimization model to allocate agricultural and non-agricultural water footprints by using the land area as the influencing factor. An index known as the water-footprint-land density (WFLD) index is then put forward to assess the impact and equity of the resulting allocation scheme. Subsequently, the proposed model is applied to a case study allocating water resources for the 11 provinces and municipalities in the Yangtze River Economic Belt (YREB). The objective is to achieve equitable spatial allocation of water resources from a water footprint perspective. Based on the statistical data in 2013, this approach starts with a proper accounting for water footprints in the 11 YREB provinces. We then determined an optimal allocation of water footprints by using the proposed lexicographic optimization approach from a land area angle. Lastly, we analyzed how different types of land uses contribute to allocation equity and we discuss policy changes to implement the optimal allocation schemes in the YREB. Analytical results show that: (1) the optimized agricultural and non-agricultural water footprints decrease from the current levels for each province across the YREB, but this decrease shows a heterogeneous pattern; (2) the WFLD of 11 YREB provinces all decline after optimization with the largest decline in Shanghai and the smallest decline in Sichuan; and (3) the impact of agricultural land on the allocation of agricultural water footprints is mainly reflected in the land use structure of three land types including arable land, forest land, and grassland. The different land use structures in the upstream, midstream, and downstream regions lead to the spatial heterogeneity of the optimized agricultural water footprints in the three YREB segments; (4) In addition to the non-agricultural land area, different regional industrial structures are the main reason for the spatial heterogeneity of the optimized non-agricultural water footprints. Our water-footprint-based optimal water resources allocation scheme helps alleviate the water resources shortage pressure and achieve coordinated and balanced development in the YREB. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Conflict Analysis and Sustainable Management of Water Resources)
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22 pages, 1825 KiB  
Article
Tourism and Environmental Pollution: Evidence from the One Belt One Road Provinces of Western China
by Fayyaz Ahmad, Muhammad Umar Draz, Lijuan Su, Ilhan Ozturk and Abdul Rauf
Sustainability 2018, 10(10), 3520; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10103520 - 30 Sep 2018
Cited by 122 | Viewed by 11429
Abstract
The rapid economic development of China and the industrial shift from its eastern to western provinces have resulted in significant negative impacts on the environment. Recently, tourism has emerged as an alternative for economic and environmental development, but it is a double-edged sword. [...] Read more.
The rapid economic development of China and the industrial shift from its eastern to western provinces have resulted in significant negative impacts on the environment. Recently, tourism has emerged as an alternative for economic and environmental development, but it is a double-edged sword. Without the required measures to protect environment, the opportunity cost of tourism is environmental degradation. The western part of China holds a significant advantage for the development of travel and tourism (T&T), due to One Belt One Road (OBOR), unique ancient culture and spectacular variety of natural scenic spots. This region is among the less explored and less developed, but important, parts of China. Taking this point into consideration, this paper aims to examine the impact of tourism on the environmental pollution of five provinces located in the heart of OBOR over the period of 1991–2016. To explore this link, we used the fully modified ordinary least squares (FMOLS) approach and Gregory-Hansen test for robustness check. We applied the Zivot-Andrews unit root test to deal with structural breaks in data. Our results confirm a negative impact of tourism on environment for Ningxia, Qinghai, Gansu, and Shanxi. However, tourism improves the environmental quality of Xinjiang. The negative impact of energy consumption and GDP growth is significant than tourism. Our findings suggest that the relationship varies for different provinces in the same region depending on the specific provincial features and government policies. Furthermore, tourism development has great potential to improve the economic and environmental sustainability in these provinces. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)
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25 pages, 663 KiB  
Article
Finland’s Dependence on Russian Energy—Mutually Beneficial Trade Relations or an Energy Security Threat?
by Jaakko J. Jääskeläinen, Sakari Höysniemi, Sanna Syri and Veli-Pekka Tynkkynen
Sustainability 2018, 10(10), 3445; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10103445 - 27 Sep 2018
Cited by 27 | Viewed by 10591
Abstract
Studies on energy security in the context of relations between European Union (EU) and Russia tend to focus on cases, with an open conflict related to supply, such as “hard” energy weapons, or on only one fuel, often natural gas. However, there is [...] Read more.
Studies on energy security in the context of relations between European Union (EU) and Russia tend to focus on cases, with an open conflict related to supply, such as “hard” energy weapons, or on only one fuel, often natural gas. However, there is a need to understand the long-term impacts that energy relations have politically, economically and physically, and their linkages between resilience, sustainability and security. We analyse the Finnish-Russian energy relations as a case study, as they are characterised by a non-conflictual relationship. To assess this complex relationship, we apply the interdependence framework to analyse both the energy systems and energy strategies of Finland and Russia, and the energy security issues related to the notable import dependence on one supplier. Moreover, we analyse the plausible development of the energy trade between the countries in three different energy policy scenarios until 2040. The findings of the article shed light on how the trends in energy markets, climate change mitigation and broader societal and political trends could influence Russia’s energy trade relations with countries, such as Finland. Our analysis shows that Finland’s dependence on primary energy imports does not pose an acute energy security threat in terms of sheer supply, and the dependence is unlikely to worsen in the future. However, due to the difficulty in anticipating societal, political, and economic trends, there are possible developments that could affect Finland. Full article
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21 pages, 6623 KiB  
Article
ʻĀina Momona, Honua Au Loli—Productive Lands, Changing World: Using the Hawaiian Footprint to Inform Biocultural Restoration and Future Sustainability in Hawai‘i
by Samuel M. Gon, Stephanie L. Tom and Ulalia Woodside
Sustainability 2018, 10(10), 3420; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10103420 - 25 Sep 2018
Cited by 26 | Viewed by 10402
Abstract
Pre-Western-contact Hawai‘i stands as a quintessential example of a large human population that practiced intensive agriculture, yet minimally affected native habitats that comprised the foundation of its vitality. An explicit geospatial footprint of human-transformed areas across the pre-contact Hawaiian archipelago comprised less than [...] Read more.
Pre-Western-contact Hawai‘i stands as a quintessential example of a large human population that practiced intensive agriculture, yet minimally affected native habitats that comprised the foundation of its vitality. An explicit geospatial footprint of human-transformed areas across the pre-contact Hawaiian archipelago comprised less than 15% of total land area, yet provided 100% of human needs, supporting a thriving Polynesian society. A post-contact history of disruption of traditional land use and its supplanting by Western land tenure and agriculture culminated in a landscape less than 250 years later in which over 50% of native habitats have been lost, while self-sufficiency has plummeted to 15% or less. Recapturing the ‘āina momona (productive lands) of ancient times through biocultural restoration can be accomplished through study of pre-contact agriculture, assessment of biological and ecological changes on Hawaiian social-ecological systems, and conscious planned efforts to increase self-sufficiency and reduce importation. Impediments include the current tourism-based economy, competition from habitat-modifying introduced species, a suite of agricultural pests severely limiting traditional agriculture, and climate changes rendering some pre-contact agricultural centers suboptimal. Modified methods will be required to counteract these limitations, enhance biosecurity, and diversify agriculture, without further degrading native habitats, and recapture a reciprocal Hawaiian human-nature relationship. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biocultural Restoration in Hawaiʻi)
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23 pages, 23107 KiB  
Article
Lighting Features in Historical Buildings: Scientific Analysis of the Church of Saint Louis of the Frenchmen in Sevilla
by Jose-Manuel Almodovar-Melendo, Joseph-Maria Cabeza-Lainez and Inmaculada Rodriguez-Cunill
Sustainability 2018, 10(9), 3352; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10093352 - 19 Sep 2018
Cited by 23 | Viewed by 5278
Abstract
Heritage issues have increased significantly in recent years. However, they tend to remain in the cultural sphere and are often resistant to scientific analyses. If we have to deal with the contradictory matter of sustainability in design for ancient buildings, such hindrances appear [...] Read more.
Heritage issues have increased significantly in recent years. However, they tend to remain in the cultural sphere and are often resistant to scientific analyses. If we have to deal with the contradictory matter of sustainability in design for ancient buildings, such hindrances appear frequently. A crucial aspect in Architecture has always been its capacity to dispose internal spaces and apertures in a manner that enhances the balance of light and thus provides attuned perception and well-being. Poor performance in that respect raised objections against the prestige of admirable works and famed artists. If we reject the absurd idea of accurately reproducing identical buildings in the same place repeatedly, how are we supposed to benefit from the said knowledge without the help of any objective design tools? It is easy to agree that at least we would need some scientific support to transmit such proper effects. Aware of the former notions, authors have developed a novel simulation software called DianaX, which is based on mathematical models and equations produced and expanded by Joseph Cabeza-Laïnez, from roughly 1990 to 2018. This non-commercial software deals with radiative exchanges in all kinds of surfaces (for instance domes, vaults, cylinders, hyperboloids and curves in general). It also includes direct sun in the simulations unlike most programs. Therefore, it is ideally suited for the analysis of heritage architecture and especially that which identifies with the Renaissance, baroque and neoclassical epochs. The case of temples from the baroque period resumes the conflict expressed in the first paragraph and the Jesuit Church of Saint Louis (1699–1731) is one of the most relevant examples of efficient illumination found in Mediterranean latitudes, having been recently restored. In this article, we would like to discuss the subtle and interesting implications of employing our simulation software for lighting in such a complex baroque temple. The methodology would be to identify the main energy sources within the church in order to construct a suitable model for simulation. Subsequently we apply the said software DianaX to such model and establish the most significant results trying to compare them with available on-site measurements. Finally, a strategy to enhance day-lighting and supplement it with other light sources in the church is proposed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Lighting and Energy Saving)
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13 pages, 1973 KiB  
Article
Assessing Impacts of Climate Variability and Reforestation Activities on Water Resources in the Headwaters of the Segura River Basin (SE Spain)
by Javier Senent-Aparicio, Sitian Liu, Julio Pérez-Sánchez, Adrián López-Ballesteros and Patricia Jimeno-Sáez
Sustainability 2018, 10(9), 3277; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10093277 - 14 Sep 2018
Cited by 19 | Viewed by 3553
Abstract
Climate change and the land-use and land-cover changes (LULC) resulting from anthropic activity are important factors in the degradation of an ecosystem and in the availability of a basin’s water resources. To know how these activities affect the quantity of the water resources [...] Read more.
Climate change and the land-use and land-cover changes (LULC) resulting from anthropic activity are important factors in the degradation of an ecosystem and in the availability of a basin’s water resources. To know how these activities affect the quantity of the water resources of basins, such as the Segura River Basin, is of vital importance. In this work, the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) was used for the study of the abovementioned impacts. The model was validated by obtaining a Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE) of 0.88 and a percent bias (PBIAS) of 17.23%, indicating that SWAT accurately replicated monthly streamflow. Next, land-use maps for the years of 1956 and 2007 were used to establish a series of scenarios that allowed us to evaluate the effects of these activities on both joint and individual water resources. A reforestation plan applied in the basin during the 1970s caused that the forest area had almost doubled, whereas the agricultural areas and shrubland had been reduced by one-third. These modifications, together with the effect of climate change, have led to a decrease of 26.3% in the quantity of generated water resources, not only due to climate change but also due to the increase in forest area. Full article
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14 pages, 1258 KiB  
Review
How Is Australia Adapting to Climate Change Based on a Systematic Review?
by Tristan D. Pearce, Evelyn H. Rodríguez, David Fawcett and James D. Ford
Sustainability 2018, 10(9), 3280; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10093280 - 14 Sep 2018
Cited by 37 | Viewed by 11193
Abstract
We develop and apply a systematic literature review methodology to identify and characterize the ways in which the peer-reviewed literature depicts how climate change adaptation is occurring in Australia. We reviewed the peer-reviewed, English-language literature between January 2005 and January 2018 for examples [...] Read more.
We develop and apply a systematic literature review methodology to identify and characterize the ways in which the peer-reviewed literature depicts how climate change adaptation is occurring in Australia. We reviewed the peer-reviewed, English-language literature between January 2005 and January 2018 for examples of documented human adaptation initiatives in Australia. Our results challenge previous assumptions that adaptation actions are not happening in Australia and describes adaptation processes that are underway. For the most part, actions can be described as preliminary or groundwork, with a particular focus on documenting stakeholder perspectives on climate change and attitudes towards adaptation, and modelling or scenario planning in the coastal zone, agriculture, and health sectors. Where concrete adaptations are reported, they are usually in the agricultural sector and are most common in the Murray–Darling Basin, Australia’s food basket. The findings of the review advance our understanding of adaptation to climate change as a process and the need to consider different stages in the process when tracking adaptation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Climate Change and Sustainable Development Policy)
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28 pages, 8206 KiB  
Article
Assessment of the Spatial Dynamics and Interactions among Multiple Ecosystem Services to Promote Effective Policy Making across Mediterranean Island Landscapes
by Roxanne Suzette Lorilla, Konstantinos Poirazidis, Stamatis Kalogirou, Vassilis Detsis and Aristotelis Martinis
Sustainability 2018, 10(9), 3285; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10093285 - 14 Sep 2018
Cited by 34 | Viewed by 5682
Abstract
To manage multiple ecosystem services (ES) effectively, it is essential to understand how the dynamics of ES maintain healthy ecosystems to avoid potential negative impacts on human well-being in the context of sustainable development. In particular, the Ionian Islands in the central Mediterranean [...] Read more.
To manage multiple ecosystem services (ES) effectively, it is essential to understand how the dynamics of ES maintain healthy ecosystems to avoid potential negative impacts on human well-being in the context of sustainable development. In particular, the Ionian Islands in the central Mediterranean are characterized by high natural, ecological, and recreational value; however, the intensification of human activities over time has resulted in the loss of natural ecosystems, which might have negatively impacted ES. Here, we aimed to assess and understand the spatiotemporal dynamics of ES supply and how these components interact across the Ionian Islands to optimize future ES provision and mitigate current trade-offs. We quantified multiple ecosystem services and analyzed their interactions at a temporal scale across the four prefectures of the Ionian Islands. Seven ES were quantified covering all three ES sections (provisioning, regulating and maintenance, and cultural) of the Common International Classification of Ecosystem Services (CICES). ES interactions were investigated by analyzing ES relationships, identifying ES bundles (sets of ES that repeatedly occur together across space and time), and specifying ES occurrence within bundles. The three ES groups exhibited similar patterns on some islands, but differed on islands with areas of high recreation in parallel to low provisioning and regulating ES. Temporal variations showed both stability and changes to the supply of ES, as well as in the interactions among them. Different patterns among the islands were caused by the degree of mixing between natural vegetation and olive orchards. This study identified seven ES bundles that had distinct compositions and magnitudes, with both unique and common bundles being found among the islands. The olive grove bundle delivered the most ES, while the non-vegetated bundle delivered negligible amounts of ES. Spatial and temporal variation in ES appear to be determined by agriculture, land abandonment, and increasing tourism, as well as the occurrence of fires. Knowledge about the spatial dynamics and interactions among ES could provide information for stakeholders and decision-making processes to develop appropriate sustainable management of the ecosystems on the Ionian Islands to secure ecological, social, and economic resilience. Full article
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16 pages, 1612 KiB  
Article
Nitrate Vulnerable Zones Revision in Poland—Assessment of Environmental Impact and Land Use Conflicts
by Ewa Szalińska, Paulina Orlińska-Woźniak and Paweł Wilk
Sustainability 2018, 10(9), 3297; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10093297 - 14 Sep 2018
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3916
Abstract
Despite concerted efforts through the European territory, the problems of nitrogen pollution released from agricultural sources have not been resolved yet. Therefore, infringement cases are still open against a few Member States, including Poland, based on fulfilment problems of commitments regarding the Nitrate [...] Read more.
Despite concerted efforts through the European territory, the problems of nitrogen pollution released from agricultural sources have not been resolved yet. Therefore, infringement cases are still open against a few Member States, including Poland, based on fulfilment problems of commitments regarding the Nitrate Directive. As a result of the litigation process, Poland has completely changed its approach to nitrate vulnerable zones. Instead of just selected areas, the measured actions will be implemented throughout the whole Polish territory. Additionally, further restrictions concerning the fertilizer use calendar will be introduced in areas indicated as extremely cold or hot, based on the average temperature distribution (poles of cold, and heat). Such a change will be of key importance to farmers, whose protests are already audible throughout the country, and can be expected to intensify. To assess the impact of the introduced modifications a modelling approach has been adopted. The use of the Macromodel DNS/SWAT allowed for the development of baseline and variant scenarios incorporating details of stipulated changes in the fertilizer use for a pilot catchment (Słupia River). The results clearly indicate that the new restriction will have a substantial effect on the aquatic environment by altering the amount of released total nitrogen. Full article
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30 pages, 4806 KiB  
Article
Integrative Assessment of Land Use Conflicts
by Zita Izakovičová, László Miklós and Viktória Miklósová
Sustainability 2018, 10(9), 3270; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10093270 - 13 Sep 2018
Cited by 23 | Viewed by 4623
Abstract
Changes in land use are reflected primary in changes of land cover, but subsequently cause conflict of interest of sectors and are the main initiation of many environmental problems. The basic tool for sustainable utilization of the landscape is integrated landscape management, which, [...] Read more.
Changes in land use are reflected primary in changes of land cover, but subsequently cause conflict of interest of sectors and are the main initiation of many environmental problems. The basic tool for sustainable utilization of the landscape is integrated landscape management, which, in our understanding, is the environmentally biased harmonization of tools which regulate the spatial organization and functional utilization of the landscape to avoid the conflicts of interest of sectors. “Integrated” in this case means the systematic assessment of the interests of all relevant sectors from the environmental point of view. The scientific base of this approach is the understanding of the landscape as a geosystem, and, in particular, the proper interpretation of the mutual relations of primary, secondary and tertiary landscape structures and their role in the assessment of the conflicts of interest. This paper presents a theoretical and methodical base for the integrated approach to the assessment of the conflicts of interest of the sectors in the landscape. The theoretical-methodical base was applied to the model territory of the Trnava district (south-west Slovakia). Mutual conflicts of interest of endangering and endangered sectors cause diverse problems, which were ranked in three basic groups as: problems of endangering of the ecological stability of the landscape (including endangering of biodiversity and nature conservation areas); problems of endangering of natural resources (in particular forests, soils, waters); and, problems of endangering the immediate human environment (stress factors in residential and recreational areas). The result is the identification and analysis of the conflicts of interest in the territory and their projection to a map. This research should be followed by implementation of procedures of ecologically optimal spatial organization and utilization of the territory for regular spatial planning processes. Full article
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13 pages, 471 KiB  
Review
Sustainability and Shared Mobility Models
by Georgina Santos
Sustainability 2018, 10(9), 3194; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10093194 - 07 Sep 2018
Cited by 64 | Viewed by 11808
Abstract
Shared mobility or mobility in the sharing economy is characterised by the sharing of a vehicle instead of ownership, and the use of technology to connect users and providers. Based on a literature review, the following four emerging models are identified: (1) peer [...] Read more.
Shared mobility or mobility in the sharing economy is characterised by the sharing of a vehicle instead of ownership, and the use of technology to connect users and providers. Based on a literature review, the following four emerging models are identified: (1) peer to peer provision with a company as a broker, providing a platform where individuals can rent their cars when not in use; (2) short term rental of vehicles managed and owned by a provider; (3) companies that own no cars themselves but sign up ordinary car owners as drivers; and (4) on demand private cars, vans, or buses, and other vehicles, such as big taxis, shared by passengers going in the same direction. The first three models can yield profits to private parties, but they do not seem to have potential to reduce congestion and CO2 emissions substantially. The fourth model, which entails individuals not only sharing a vehicle, but actually travelling together at the same time, is promising in terms of congestion and CO2 emissions reductions. It is also the least attractive to individuals, given the disbenefits in terms of waiting time, travel time, comfort, and convenience, in comparison with the private car. Potential incentives to encourage shared mobility are also discussed, and research needs are outlined. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Transport: Transport, Environment, and Development)
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19 pages, 2652 KiB  
Article
Using Information on Settlement Patterns to Improve the Spatial Distribution of Population in Coastal Impact Assessments
by Jan-Ludolf Merkens and Athanasios T. Vafeidis
Sustainability 2018, 10(9), 3170; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10093170 - 05 Sep 2018
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3849
Abstract
Broad-scale impact and vulnerability assessments are essential for informing decisions on long-term adaptation planning at the national, regional, or global level. These assessments rely on population data for quantifying exposure to different types of hazards. Existing population datasets covering the entire globe at [...] Read more.
Broad-scale impact and vulnerability assessments are essential for informing decisions on long-term adaptation planning at the national, regional, or global level. These assessments rely on population data for quantifying exposure to different types of hazards. Existing population datasets covering the entire globe at resolutions of 2.5 degrees to 30 arc-seconds are based on information available at administrative-unit level and implicitly assume uniform population densities within these units. This assumption can lead to errors in impact assessments and particularly in coastal areas that are densely populated. This study proposes and compares simple approaches to regionalize population within administrative units in the German Baltic Sea region using solely information on urban extent from the Global Urban Footprint (GUF). Our results show that approaches using GUF can reduce the error in predicting population totals of municipalities by factor 2 to 3. When assessing exposed population, we find that the assumption of uniform population densities leads to an overestimation of 120% to 140%. Using GUF to regionalise population within administrative units reduce these errors by up to 50%. Our results suggest that the proposed simple modeling approaches can result in significantly improved distribution of population within administrative units and substantially improve the results of exposure analyses. Full article
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16 pages, 3484 KiB  
Article
Spatial Distributions, Pollution Assessment, and Qualified Source Apportionment of Soil Heavy Metals in a Typical Mineral Mining City in China
by Li Hua, Xue Yang, Yajun Liu, Xiuli Tan and Yong Yang
Sustainability 2018, 10(9), 3115; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10093115 - 31 Aug 2018
Cited by 30 | Viewed by 4090
Abstract
Daye is a city in China known for its rich mineral resources, with a history of metal mining and smelting that dates back more than 3000 years. To analyze the spatial distribution patterns, ecological risk, and sources of heavy metals (Cd, Co, Cr, [...] Read more.
Daye is a city in China known for its rich mineral resources, with a history of metal mining and smelting that dates back more than 3000 years. To analyze the spatial distribution patterns, ecological risk, and sources of heavy metals (Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn) in soils, 213 topsoil samples were collected in the main urban area of Daye in September 2016. The mean concentrations of Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn were higher than the corresponding background values, with the mean concentration of Cd being almost seven times its background value. Spatially, the high concentrations of Cd, Mn, Pb, and Zn were mainly concentrated in the southeastern part of the region due to nonferrous metal mining and smelting. However, the high concentrations of Co and Cu were concentrated in the central part of the study area, resulted from copper mining and smelting. The data of the geoaccumulation index showed that the contamination levels ranged from no pollution (Co, Cr, Mn, and Ni) to heavy contamination (Cd, Cu, and Pb). Ecological risk assessment showed that Cd posed a high, serious, and even severe ecological risk in 53.78% of the area of Daye. According to the results of the principal component analysis, mineral exploitation and smelting involving a variety of minerals (ES_M), mining exploitation, and smelting of copper ore (ES_C), and natural sources are the three main sources of heavy metals in these soils. Furthermore, the absolute principal component scores showed that 69.21% and 23.17% of the heavy metal concentrations were ascribed to ES_M and ES_C, respectively. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)
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16 pages, 5047 KiB  
Article
Reliability–Resiliency–Vulnerability Approach for Drought Analysis in South Korea Using 28 GCMs
by Jang Hyun Sung, Eun-Sung Chung and Shamsuddin Shahid
Sustainability 2018, 10(9), 3043; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10093043 - 27 Aug 2018
Cited by 34 | Viewed by 4731
Abstract
This study developed a Reliability–Resiliency–Vulnerability (R–R–V) approach that aggregates the frequency, duration, and severity of droughts estimated using the Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI). This approach was used to analyze the characteristics of droughts for the current (1976–2005) and the future (2010–2099) climates. [...] Read more.
This study developed a Reliability–Resiliency–Vulnerability (R–R–V) approach that aggregates the frequency, duration, and severity of droughts estimated using the Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI). This approach was used to analyze the characteristics of droughts for the current (1976–2005) and the future (2010–2099) climates. The future climate data obtained from 28 general circulation models (GCMs) of Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5) was divided into three general periods: Future 1: 2010–2039, Future 2: 2040–2069; and Future 3: 2070–2099. As a result, aggregation R–R–V representing water availability would increase during Future 1, and then gradually decrease until the end of the century. The frequencies of future drought events for Future 2 and Future 3 were similar to the current frequency, while the durations will be longer and the severity will be higher at most locations during Future 3. Thus, the mean of R–R–V over South Korea is expected to decrease, except for Future 1, and the spatial variability of R–R–V is expected to increase. In the end, the changes in the mean and variance of rainfall and temperature would lead to a decrease in the mean and increase in the spatial variation of sustainability in South Korea. This approach and its results can be used to establish a long-term drought strategy for regions where the risk of future drought is expected to increase. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue High Impact Events and Climate Change)
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19 pages, 552 KiB  
Article
The ‘Invisible’ Subsoil: An Exploratory View of Societal Acceptance of Subsoil Management in Germany
by Ana Frelih-Larsen, Mandy Hinzmann and Sophie Ittner
Sustainability 2018, 10(9), 3006; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10093006 - 24 Aug 2018
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 5431
Abstract
Subsoil, commonly defined as horizons below the working depth of 30 cm, has traditionally received little explicit attention in policy discussions on soils. Recently, however, there has been growing recognition among scientists of the issues of subsoil (re-)compaction and of the role of [...] Read more.
Subsoil, commonly defined as horizons below the working depth of 30 cm, has traditionally received little explicit attention in policy discussions on soils. Recently, however, there has been growing recognition among scientists of the issues of subsoil (re-)compaction and of the role of subsoil as a resource that can offer valuable nutrients and water for plants. Subsoil management could provide an option to sustainably maintain yields in the context of climate change and resource scarcity, and it is a central question in addressing subsoil compaction. Yet how socially acceptable are different methods for subsoil management? Drawing on in-depth interviews with farmers and stakeholders in Germany, we show that biophysical conditions, the timing of operations, economic considerations, and awareness of subsoil functions are key factors in the acceptance of management methods. Views towards methods involving mechanical intervention are more diverse and in some cases more critical because the benefits are not always certain, the costs can outweigh the benefits, and/or because they entail risks for soil structure and functions. Alfalfa cultivation is seen to be beneficial for yields without risks for soil structure and functions; however, economic barriers limit its uptake. Awareness of multiple subsoil functions is associated with more critical views of mechanical interventions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessment and Governance of Sustainable Soil Management)
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20 pages, 1971 KiB  
Review
A Drivers-Pressure-State-Impact-Responses Framework to Support the Sustainability of Fish and Fisheries in Lake Tana, Ethiopia
by Shewit Gebremedhin, Abebe Getahun, Wassie Anteneh, Stijn Bruneel and Peter Goethals
Sustainability 2018, 10(8), 2957; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10082957 - 20 Aug 2018
Cited by 58 | Viewed by 7723
Abstract
Lake Tana, Ethiopia’s largest lake, has a remarkable and conservation-worthy assemblage of fish species, requiring fisheries management for sustainable exploitation. However, due to anthropogenic impacts, many of these fish species are threatened. Hence, an improved management of these resources is recommended. To allow [...] Read more.
Lake Tana, Ethiopia’s largest lake, has a remarkable and conservation-worthy assemblage of fish species, requiring fisheries management for sustainable exploitation. However, due to anthropogenic impacts, many of these fish species are threatened. Hence, an improved management of these resources is recommended. To allow a more sustainable exploitation of natural resources, a better understanding of the cause-effect relationships between anthropogenic impacts and environmental components is fundamental. The Drivers-Pressure-State-Impact-Responses (DPSIR) framework is a useful tool to describe these links in a meaningful way to managers and policy makers. Despite its potential, application of DPSIR is virtually lacking in developing countries. This paper assessed the potential of the DPSIR framework and used it to comprehensively describe the available knowledge and management needs in the lake catchment. Rapid population growth and the economic transformation are the main driving forces leading to various pressures such as water quality and wetlands degradation as well as declining fish community, which is detrimental to the socio-economic state and health of the local inhabitants. As feedback to the driving forces, pressures, state changes and impacts, optimal multi-level responses are developed. This study aims at providing policy makers a better understanding of the lake catchment in order to bridge the gap between science and decision-making. Full article
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12 pages, 1533 KiB  
Article
Advanced Oxidation Processes and Nanofiltration to Reduce the Color and Chemical Oxygen Demand of Waste Soy Sauce
by Hyun-Hee Jang, Gyu-Tae Seo and Dae-Woon Jeong
Sustainability 2018, 10(8), 2929; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10082929 - 17 Aug 2018
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4311
Abstract
Currently, the ozone (O3) oxidation efficiency in the treatment of waste soy sauce provides 34.2% color removal and a 27.4% reduction in its chemical oxygen demand (COD). To improve the O3 oxidation efficiency, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) [...] Read more.
Currently, the ozone (O3) oxidation efficiency in the treatment of waste soy sauce provides 34.2% color removal and a 27.4% reduction in its chemical oxygen demand (COD). To improve the O3 oxidation efficiency, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is used to cause a H2O2/O3 process. In H2O2/O3 process experiments, a previously optimized pH of 11 and applied O3 dose of 50 mg L−1 were used and the H2O2/O3 ratio was varied between 0.1 and 0.9 in intervals of 0.2. The results show that an H2O2/O3 ratio of 0.3 results in the highest efficiencies in terms of color removal (51.6%) and COD reduction (33.8%). Nanofiltration (NF) was used to pretreat the waste soy sauce to improve color removal and COD reduction. The results showed that NF with an NE-70 membrane results in 80.8% color removal and 79.6% COD reduction. Finally, the combination of NF and H2O2/O3 process resulted in the best treatment efficiency: 98.1% color removal and 98.2% COD reduction. Thus, NF & H2O2/O3 process can be considered as one of the best treatment methods for waste soy sauce, which requires high intrinsic color removal and COD reduction efficiencies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Wastewater Treatment Systems)
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17 pages, 317 KiB  
Article
Identifying Gaps between the Legislative Tools of Soil Protection in the EU Member States for a Common European Soil Protection Legislation
by Petra Stankovics, Gergely Tóth and Zoltán Tóth
Sustainability 2018, 10(8), 2886; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10082886 - 14 Aug 2018
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 5009
Abstract
To ensure an adequate level of protection in the European Union (EU), the European Commission (EC) adopted the Soil Thematic Strategy in 2006, including a proposal for a Soil Framework Directive (the Directive). However, a minority of Member States (United Kingdom, Germany, France, [...] Read more.
To ensure an adequate level of protection in the European Union (EU), the European Commission (EC) adopted the Soil Thematic Strategy in 2006, including a proposal for a Soil Framework Directive (the Directive). However, a minority of Member States (United Kingdom, Germany, France, Austria, and The Netherlands) could not agree on the text of the proposed Directive. Consequently, the EC decided to withdraw the proposal in 2014. In the more than 10 years that have passed since the initial proposal, a great number of new evidences on soil degradation and its negative consequences, have proved the necessity of a common European soil protection Directive. This study is aimed at specifying the possible obstacles, differences, and gaps in legislature and administration in the countries that formed the blocking minority, which resulted in the refusal of the Directive. The individual legislations of the opposing countries on the matter, were summarized and compared with the goals set by the Directive, in three highlighted aspects: (1) soil-dependent threats, (2) contamination, and (3) sealing. We designed a simple schematic evaluation system to show the basic levels of differences and similarities. We found that the legislative regulations concerning soil-dependent degradation and contamination issues in the above countries were generally well defined, complementary, and thorough. A common European legislation can be based on harmonised approaches between them, focusing on technical implementations. In the aspect of sealing we found recommendations, principles, and good practices rather than binding regulations in the scrutinised countries. Soil sealing is an issue where the proposed Directive’s measures, could have exceeded those of the Member States. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessment and Governance of Sustainable Soil Management)
21 pages, 2073 KiB  
Article
Community Food Growing in Parks? Assessing the Acceptability and Feasibility in Sheffield, UK
by Jinvo Nam and Nicola Dempsey
Sustainability 2018, 10(8), 2887; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10082887 - 14 Aug 2018
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 5879
Abstract
Urbanisation brings with it increased pressure on land and land uses, particularly green spaces. There has been considerable interest in community food growing in green spaces as part of a wide trend for gardening in the UK, which has been found to bring [...] Read more.
Urbanisation brings with it increased pressure on land and land uses, particularly green spaces. There has been considerable interest in community food growing in green spaces as part of a wide trend for gardening in the UK, which has been found to bring social, health, and well-being benefits. Such activity tends to take place in community-managed gardens and allotments. In light of the context of austerity within which local authority parks departments currently operate, this study tested the acceptability and feasibility of parks as a potential urban setting for Community Food Growing (CFG) in Sheffield, UK. Employing a combination of resident questionnaires and interviews with community groups and professionals, the study results showed localised differences in the acceptability and feasibility of CFG. Residents’ propensity to want to get involved in CFG differed by age and household composition, which, if acted on across the city, could significantly change the demographic make-up of parks-based community groups in the city. Barriers to CFG in parks were described by community groups and park managers as security and vandalism, need for resources, and undue pressure on the local authority as land-owner. We discuss the emergent questions around who is best placed to manage urban parks, particularly when the public sector is subject to stringent austerity budget measures. The paper concludes with commentary and recommendations about the importance of governance arrangements if CFG is to be included as part of the activities supported and managed in urban parks. Full article
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20 pages, 10433 KiB  
Article
Evaluating the Driving Risk of Near-Crash Events Using a Mixed-Ordered Logit Model
by Hasan. A. H. Naji, Qingji Xue, Nengchao Lyu, Chaozhong Wu and Ke Zheng
Sustainability 2018, 10(8), 2868; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10082868 - 13 Aug 2018
Cited by 25 | Viewed by 3630
Abstract
With the considerable increase in ownership of motor vehicles, traffic crashes have become a challenge. This paper presents a study of naturalistic driving conducted to collect driving data. The experiments were performed on different road types in the city of Wuhan in China. [...] Read more.
With the considerable increase in ownership of motor vehicles, traffic crashes have become a challenge. This paper presents a study of naturalistic driving conducted to collect driving data. The experiments were performed on different road types in the city of Wuhan in China. The collected driving data were used to develop a near-crash database, which covers driving behavior, near-crash factors, driving environment, time, demographics, and experience. A new definition of near-crash events is also proposed. The new definition considers potential risks in driving behavior, such as braking pressure, time headway, and deceleration. A clustering analysis was carried out through a K-means algorithm to classify near-crash events based on their risk level. In addition, a mixed-ordered logit model was used to examine the contributing factors associated with the driving risk of near-crash events. The results indicate that ten factors significantly affect the driving risk of near-crash events: deceleration average, vehicle kinetic energy, near-crash causes, congestion on roads, time of day, driving miles, road types, weekend, age, and experience. The findings may be used by transportation planners to understand the factors that influence driving risk and may provide valuable insights and helpful suggestions for improving transportation rules and reducing traffic collisions thus making roads safer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Risk Assessment and Management)
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29 pages, 809 KiB  
Article
Participation as Relational Space: A Critical Approach to Analysing Participation in Sustainability Research
by Livia Fritz and Claudia R. Binder
Sustainability 2018, 10(8), 2853; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10082853 - 11 Aug 2018
Cited by 27 | Viewed by 6327
Abstract
In the field of sustainability, scholars, and policy-makers herald the transformative power of participation in knowledge production. However, a discrepancy between these expectations and the limited understanding of the complex interactions constituting participation processes can be observed. With the aim of critically analysing [...] Read more.
In the field of sustainability, scholars, and policy-makers herald the transformative power of participation in knowledge production. However, a discrepancy between these expectations and the limited understanding of the complex interactions constituting participation processes can be observed. With the aim of critically analysing these complex interactions, this paper develops a conceptual perspective on participation as a relational space which is formed in the interplay of structures and processes. This perspective is applied to the analysis of empirical literature in sustainability research, development research, and science and technology studies. The literature review guided by the proposed conceptualisation systematically draws together the rich experience with participation in knowledge production. Elements constituting participation spaces along the dimensions ‘structures’ and ‘actors’ are identified and discussed in relation to ‘processes’ of space-making: (i) (in)coherences with reference system, (ii) resources, (iii) timing, (iv) expectations, (v) mutual trust, and (vi) worldviews and values. Power relations are found to pervade the three dimensions. Enhanced conceptual-analytical clarity of the elements constituting participation spaces provides a differentiated basis for discussing the transformative power of participatory knowledge production. By stimulating reflexivity on the making of participation, this approach contributes to better understanding when spaces of participation have the capacity to become spaces of transformation. Full article
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14 pages, 491 KiB  
Article
Aspects Regarding the Pharmaceutical Waste Management in Romania
by Simona Bungau, Delia Mirela Tit, Katalin Fodor, Gabriela Cioca, Maricel Agop, Ciprian Iovan, Delia Carmen Nistor Cseppento, Adrian Bumbu and Cristiana Bustea
Sustainability 2018, 10(8), 2788; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10082788 - 07 Aug 2018
Cited by 81 | Viewed by 10755
Abstract
The issue of drug disposal, as well as the development and implementation of efficient collection strategies, represents an important concern at the highest European level. This research looks into the factors that could have an impact on the efficiency of pharmacies in collecting [...] Read more.
The issue of drug disposal, as well as the development and implementation of efficient collection strategies, represents an important concern at the highest European level. This research looks into the factors that could have an impact on the efficiency of pharmacies in collecting and disposing the medicinal waste of the population. There were 521 pharmacists from all over the country who filled in a questionnaire on their opinion/attitude related to the system of collecting and disposing the pharmaceutical waste of the population. Of the surveyed pharmacists, 16% work in pharmacies that do not collect unused/expired drugs from the population, and nearly 33% of those investigated have refused, at least once, to take the unused medicines from the people. Pharmacists’ most important reasons for refusing to collect the pharmaceutical waste were the lack of procedure, incomplete legislation, exceeding the amount contracted with the operators, and high costs. Results show that pharmacies in Romania face several deficiencies in the pharmaceutical waste collection services. The lack of implemented programs has contributed considerably to lower standards of pharmaceutical waste management in Romania. This study is the first research on this topic in Romania, a country where the management of drug-based waste generated by the population is at the beginning. The results shown in this survey can provide a reference point for competent authorities in developing and implementing a take-back program for waste medicine whose efficiency is superior to the existing ones. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Trends in Municipal Solid Waste Management)
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20 pages, 5103 KiB  
Article
Land Use Changes and Their Driving Forces in a Debris Flow Active Area of Gansu Province, China
by Songtang He, Daojie Wang, Yong Li and Peng Zhao
Sustainability 2018, 10(8), 2759; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10082759 - 04 Aug 2018
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3715
Abstract
Land use change is extremely sensitive to natural factors and human influence in active debris flow. It is therefore necessary to determine the factors that influence land use change. This paper took Wudu District, Gansu Province, China as a study area, and a [...] Read more.
Land use change is extremely sensitive to natural factors and human influence in active debris flow. It is therefore necessary to determine the factors that influence land use change. This paper took Wudu District, Gansu Province, China as a study area, and a systemic analysis of the transformational extent and rate of debris flow waste-shoal land (DFWSL) was carried out from 2005 to 2015. The results show that from 2005 to 2015, cultivated land resources transformed to other types of land; cultivated lands mainly transformed to grassland from 2005 to 2010 and construction land from 2010 to 2015. Moreover, the growth rate of construction land from 2005 to 2010 was only 0.11%, but increased to 6.87% between 2010 and 2015. The latter is more than 60 times the former. This increase was brought about by natural disasters (debris flow, earthquakes, and landslides) and anthropogenic factors (national policies or strategies), which acted as driving forces in debris flow area. The former determines the initial use type of the DFWSL while the latter only affects the direction of land use and transformation. Full article
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