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Sustainable Consumption and Production

A topical collection in Sustainability (ISSN 2071-1050). This collection belongs to the section "Environmental Sustainability and Applications".

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Editors

Prof. Dr. Rebeka Kovačič Lukman

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
University of Maribor, Faculty of Logistics, Mariborska c. 7, SI-3000 Celje
Interests: sustainable consumption and production, circular economy, life cycle assessment, sustainability indicators, education for sustainable development, sustainable cities
Dr. Damjan Krajnc

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
University of Maribor, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Smetanova ul. 17, SI-2000 Maribor
Interests: Sustainable production indicators and metrics, Life cycle analysis, circular economy assessment, Process and product design

Topical Collection Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are preparing a Special Issue in the research field of sustainable consumption and production.

The Bundtland report, published in 1987, generally defined sustainabile development and framed the future of a global society. Furthermore, the Agenda 21 as a deliverable of the United Nation Earth Summit in 1992 paved a way for sustainable consumption and production. Following those, a success at the global level was perceived, in terms of reducing the usage of toxic chemicals, changing consumption patters and resource usage, as well as innovations from engineering and technology perspectives (Kovačič Lukman et al., 2016). However, challenges in sustainable consumption and production still exist in 2020, especially when considering reaching Sustainable Development Goal No. 12. and the European Union Green Deal, emphasizing research, innovations, and technology improvements in a context of environmental, economic, societal, and policy dimensions.

Thus, we are inviting all authors of relevant research domains to submit high-level original research, state-of-the-art reviews or evidenced-based case studies, contributing to theoretical understanding and practical implementation of sustainable consumption and production, from various perspecives: engineering, technology, environmental, and societal. The papers should address but are not limited to:

  • Sustainable production and resource efficiency, including innovative and sustainable manufacturing processes, products and service design;
  • Life cycle assessment and management, sustainability assessment of production systems;
  • Ciruclar economy, including innovative business models;
  • Sustainable consumption at various levels: individual, organizational, city;
  • New educational initiatives in sustainable consumption and production.

Prof. Dr. Rebeka Kovačič Lukman
Dr. Damjan Krajnc
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the collection website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Sustainability is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • Sustainable production and resource efficiency
  • Life cycle assessment and management
  • Ciruclar economy, including innovative business models
  • Sustainable consumption at various levels: individual, organizational, city
  • New educational initiatives in sustainable consumption and production
  • Innovative and sustainable manufacturing processes
  • Products and service design
  • Sustainability assessment of production systems
  • Innovative business models

Published Papers (20 papers)

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2023

Jump to: 2022, 2021, 2020

18 pages, 1791 KiB  
Article
Categorizing Chinese Consumers’ Behavior to Identify Factors Related to Sustainable Clothing Consumption
by Wenjun Guo and Eunyoung Kim
Sustainability 2023, 15(7), 6126; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15076126 - 02 Apr 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1805
Abstract
Consumers’ current clothing consumption behavior patterns have become the primary challenge to environmental sustainability within the clothing industry. In order to ensure any behavioral change intervention is successful, a thorough understanding of consumers’ current consumption behavior is required. Accordingly, we aimed to identify [...] Read more.
Consumers’ current clothing consumption behavior patterns have become the primary challenge to environmental sustainability within the clothing industry. In order to ensure any behavioral change intervention is successful, a thorough understanding of consumers’ current consumption behavior is required. Accordingly, we aimed to identify factors related to sustainable clothing consumption by categorizing the actual clothing consumption behaviors of Chinese consumers. Specifically, the study aims to answer two sub-questions: (1) how can we categorize clothing consumption behaviors? and (2) what factors influence different types of clothing consumption behaviors? Data were collected through a two-phase survey that included observations and a questionnaire. The consumer behavior was divided into three categories based on the actual total number of clothing items and clothing usage frequency during a designated period. Among these categories, demographics and clothing consumption behavior variables were examined in the purchase, use, and disposal phases, using Chi-square analysis, Fisher’s exact test, and variance analysis. The findings show that gender, age, brand preference, annual expenditure, number of new items, purchase priorities, reason for disposal, disposal channels, disposal quantity, repair experience, duration of use, price, and clothing type were the main factors related to sustainable clothing consumption. Finally, we discuss the implications of our findings and define the issues to be addressed in order to move towards sustainable clothing consumption behavior changes. Full article
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2022

Jump to: 2023, 2021, 2020

18 pages, 1619 KiB  
Review
Independent User Circular Behaviors and Their Motivators and Barriers: A Review
by Mohammed I. M. Ali and Pilsung Choe
Sustainability 2022, 14(20), 13319; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142013319 - 17 Oct 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1495
Abstract
The promotion, facilitation, and adoption of circular behaviors are extremely vital for the success of the transition toward a Circular Economy. Thus, many studies have been conducted on circular behaviors and designing for them. Nevertheless, most of the previous studies adopted a macro [...] Read more.
The promotion, facilitation, and adoption of circular behaviors are extremely vital for the success of the transition toward a Circular Economy. Thus, many studies have been conducted on circular behaviors and designing for them. Nevertheless, most of the previous studies adopted a macro perspective (across different business models and product types) to investigate circular behaviors related to product purchasing, product disposal, or a particular circular strategy, such as repair or recycling. Intending to address a serious gap, this study aimed to identify a specific, important set of circular behaviors: independent user circular behaviors. These are the behaviors that can be solely performed by the same product user, during use or at the end of the product life, in relation to a shopping product owned under a product-oriented or pure product business model. After critically reviewing the key literature, we present a model for independent user circular behaviors (CURA model). It includes four behaviors: care, upgrade, repurpose, and appreciate. The latter is a concept we are introducing in this paper. We also identified and categorized the motivators of, and the barriers to, these behaviors. The study outcomes are hoped to encourage and guide researchers toward an in-depth exploration of independent user circular behaviors. Moreover, they are expected to assist researchers, product designers, and business strategists in conceptualizing and realizing products of higher circularity, and, ultimately, stimulate sustainable consumption patterns. Full article
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18 pages, 2618 KiB  
Article
Sustainable Consumption and Production in the Extraction and Processing of Raw Materials—Measures Sets for Achieving SDG Target 12.2
by Patrick Trummer, Gloria Ammerer and Marco Scherz
Sustainability 2022, 14(17), 10971; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141710971 - 02 Sep 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2885
Abstract
As part of the European Green Deal, the European Commission recently launched the project “New European Bauhaus of the 21st Century” to promote climate-neutral, affordable, and creative design approaches and transform the built environment towards sustainability. Based on a forecasting and backcasting approach, [...] Read more.
As part of the European Green Deal, the European Commission recently launched the project “New European Bauhaus of the 21st Century” to promote climate-neutral, affordable, and creative design approaches and transform the built environment towards sustainability. Based on a forecasting and backcasting approach, we developed three sets of measures containing eighteen individual measures, with the overall aim of reducing the consumption of mineral raw materials in line with the sustainability strategies (consistency, efficiency, and sufficiency) from exploration through material processing, to semi-finished product production. The developed measures address in detail the reduction of primary raw material consumption, the increased use of secondary raw materials, and the intensification of access to important domestic raw material sources, as well as the efficiency and productivity progression of the Austrian raw material industry. The implementation of the measures will raise the transparency and traceability of raw material routes, material flows, and supply chains through improved and comprehensive data collection and processing. The developed measures were handed over to the Austrian Federal Government in February 2022 to push the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12 in Austria. Full article
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21 pages, 972 KiB  
Review
Dishwashers: Literature Review to Summarise the Multi-Dimensionality of Sustainable Production and Consumption
by G. Venkatesh
Sustainability 2022, 14(16), 10302; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141610302 - 18 Aug 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3847
Abstract
An automatic dishwasher is a water-using, energy-demanding contraption with 40–50 different component parts fashioned out of different materials—metals and non-metals—which over the last 70 years has evolved in its role as a comfort-enhancing, convenience-providing, time-saving white good in the kitchen of the modern [...] Read more.
An automatic dishwasher is a water-using, energy-demanding contraption with 40–50 different component parts fashioned out of different materials—metals and non-metals—which over the last 70 years has evolved in its role as a comfort-enhancing, convenience-providing, time-saving white good in the kitchen of the modern urban household, especially in the countries of the developed world. Its lifecycle, which spans about 12–13 years on average, lends itself to research in a variety of sustainability aspects—politico-legal/regulatory, economic, environmental, social and techno-functional—and fields—thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, acoustics, economics, chemistry, microbiology, materials science, design engineering, wastewater treatment, energy engineering, consumer behaviour, and, of late, sustainable consumption and production. The end goal of this review is to present the automatic dishwasher—almost ubiquitous and taken-for-granted in the western world these days—as a candidate for progressive research and development, resulting in its continued evolution. The author facilitates this by providing an overview of the different aspects of sustainability addressed by researchers thus far. It at once reinforces the importance of transdisciplinary research, finds answers to a clutch of ‘what’, ‘why’, ‘where’, ‘how’, ‘who’, and ‘when’ questions, and reminds us that improvement/s in one aspect must not undermine or thwart those in any of the others. It is the first of its kind, as far as the automatic dishwasher is concerned; it is a well-structured review of 84 peer-reviewed journal publications focusing on the dishwasher, accessed through Scopus and contacting researchers through ResearchGate, spanning the time period 1980–2021, originating in 21 countries (with Germany leading the pack, with 22% of the publications), and sourced from 63 different journals. Over a 16-year period between 1998 and 2014, both the energy use and water consumption of dishwashers decreased by well over 40%. Consumers in the USA, reportedly, are willing to pay up to 90% more for a higher-rated dishwasher. Interestingly, a publication from Germany states that manual dishwashing, if done in accordance with the Best Practice Tips (recommended by another German study), can have a 20% lower environmental footprint than automatic dishwashers. Full article
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19 pages, 2444 KiB  
Article
A Systems Thinking Approach towards Single-Use Plastics Reduction in Food Delivery Business in Thailand
by Boonchanit Wongprapinkul and Sujitra Vassanadumrongdee
Sustainability 2022, 14(15), 9173; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14159173 - 26 Jul 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4060
Abstract
Sustainable consumption and production (SCP) is largely influenced by dynamics in the market system. Hence, this study adopts the systems thinking approach as a tool to understand the non-linearity and complexity of sustainable practices. The food delivery business has accelerated the plastic waste [...] Read more.
Sustainable consumption and production (SCP) is largely influenced by dynamics in the market system. Hence, this study adopts the systems thinking approach as a tool to understand the non-linearity and complexity of sustainable practices. The food delivery business has accelerated the plastic waste problem, especially during COVID-19 where restaurant dine-in was limited. This study aims to identify high leverage points, which contribute to system intervention strategies to improve Thailand’s single-use plastics (SUP) waste situation caused by the food delivery sector. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with relevant stakeholders (n = 14). A qualitative system dynamics model analysis and thematic analysis suggest that the key leverage points include (1) benefit alignment among all stakeholders, (2) cost minimization and profit maximization, (3) laws and regulations, (4) postconsumption waste management systems, and (5) research and development. In addition, to stimulate policy initiatives, this study suggests that system intervention strategies should include behavioral instruments (setting default and eco-labelling), market-based instruments (green-packaging procurement and subsidies), and system and infrastructure provision (waste management systems and deposit return models). Partnerships, research and development, and laws and regulations are proposed as supporting measures. Full article
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19 pages, 3040 KiB  
Article
Comparative Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment of Mono- vs. Bivalent Operation of a Crucible Melting Furnace
by Maximilian Schutzbach, Steffen Kiemel, Robert Miehe, Ekrem Köse, Alexander Mages and Alexander Sauer
Sustainability 2022, 14(14), 8826; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14148826 - 19 Jul 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1426
Abstract
The benefits of energy flexibility measures have not yet been conclusively assessed from an ecological, economic, and social perspective. Until now, analysis has focused on the influence of changes in the energy system and the ecological and economic benefits of these. Therefore, the [...] Read more.
The benefits of energy flexibility measures have not yet been conclusively assessed from an ecological, economic, and social perspective. Until now, analysis has focused on the influence of changes in the energy system and the ecological and economic benefits of these. Therefore, the objective of this study was to perform a life cycle sustainability assessment of energy flexibility measures on the use case of a bivalent crucible melting furnace in comparison with a monovalent one for aluminum light metal die casting. The system boundary was based on a cradle-to-gate approach in Germany and includes the production of the necessary process technologies and energy infrastructure and the utilization phase of the crucible melting furnaces in non-ferrous metallurgy. The LCSA is performed for different economic and environmental scenarios over a 25-year lifetime to account for potential adjustments in the energy system and volatile energy prices. In summary, it can be said that over the entire service life, no complete ecological, economic, and social advantage of energy flexibility measures through a bivalent system can be demonstrated. Only a temporarily better life cycle sustainability performance of the bivalent furnace can be shown. All results must be considered with the caveat that the bivalent crucible melting furnace has not yet been investigated in actual operation and the calculations of the utilization phase are based on the monovalent crucible melting furnace. To further sharpen the results, more research is needed and the use of actual data for bivalent operation. Full article
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21 pages, 3695 KiB  
Article
Decision Support Concept for Improvement of Sustainability-Related Competences
by Andreja Abina, Tanja Batkovič, Bojan Cestnik, Adem Kikaj, Rebeka Kovačič Lukman, Maja Kurbus and Aleksander Zidanšek
Sustainability 2022, 14(14), 8539; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14148539 - 12 Jul 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1881
Abstract
In this paper, we derived competences from previously developed competence models, ensuring the effective use of advanced technologies in future factories to improve the sustainability of their business models and strategies. Based on the analysis of the Hogan competence model and competence models [...] Read more.
In this paper, we derived competences from previously developed competence models, ensuring the effective use of advanced technologies in future factories to improve the sustainability of their business models and strategies. Based on the analysis of the Hogan competence model and competence models for sustainability and leadership, we compiled a selection of competences for digitalisation, automation, robotics, artificial intelligence, and soft competences such as emotional intelligence and cultural literacy. We also included competences required for sustainability, corporate social responsibility, and circular economy. The selected competences formed the core for the conceptual development of a decision support tool for the individualised selection of training for employees. The concept was tested in customised training to improve employees’ skills and motivation for lifelong learning at the selected industrial partner. The developed assessment algorithm was used to monitor the progress of individual employees’ skills development before and after their training participation. The results of the assessment help human resource departments make decisions for selecting the most effective and optimal training for employees to improve their sustainability-related competences. Such a systematic approach can improve and evaluate competences that companies need to transition to a circular economy. Full article
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18 pages, 1391 KiB  
Article
A Conceptual Model for Measuring a Circular Economy of Seaports: A Case Study on Antwerp and Koper Ports
by Rebeka Kovačič Lukman, Kristijan Brglez and Damjan Krajnc
Sustainability 2022, 14(6), 3467; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14063467 - 16 Mar 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2319
Abstract
This paper introduces a conceptual model for evaluating seaports’ acceleration towards the circular economy. The model is based on the identification and definition of circular economy indicators, weighted according to the 9 R-strategy transitions towards the circular economy. We have employed the analytical [...] Read more.
This paper introduces a conceptual model for evaluating seaports’ acceleration towards the circular economy. The model is based on the identification and definition of circular economy indicators, weighted according to the 9 R-strategy transitions towards the circular economy. We have employed the analytical hierarchy process for weight detection and further calculations of the final seaport circularity value. Our results suggest conceptual validity and provide a detailed insight into the circular activities of the seaports from the indicators, as well as 9 Rs and sustainability perspectives. Full article
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15 pages, 1637 KiB  
Article
Developing a Framework for Closed-Loop Supply Chain and Its Impact on Sustainability in the Petrochemicals Industry
by Lubna El-Sheikh and Rebeka Kovačič Lukman
Sustainability 2022, 14(6), 3265; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14063265 - 10 Mar 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2627
Abstract
Companies rely on formulating, implementing, and monitoring strategies in social, environmental and economic aspects to ensure that they achieve their goals and keep abreast of developments related to sustainability requirements. Therefore, our study develops a system to integrate the closed-loop supply chain approach [...] Read more.
Companies rely on formulating, implementing, and monitoring strategies in social, environmental and economic aspects to ensure that they achieve their goals and keep abreast of developments related to sustainability requirements. Therefore, our study develops a system to integrate the closed-loop supply chain approach in the petrochemical sector. The research follows the quantitative-based approach by collecting data through a questionnaire directed to employees in the supply chain departments, including 230 questionnaires that were collected. Correlation and structural equation models (SEM) were used. This technique consists of multiple regression analysis and factor analysis and analyses the structural relationship between the underlying structures and the measured variables. The results indicated a significant relationship between the supply chains that have a loop from the following perspectives: economic motivations, customer awareness, environmental legislation, and sustainability. By increasing financial reasons, customer awareness and environmental legislation, sustainability will increase as they all move in the same direction. Therefore, the overall effect of a closed-loop supply chain is positive and significant. Full article
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2021

Jump to: 2023, 2022, 2020

24 pages, 358 KiB  
Review
Evolution and Current Challenges of Sustainable Consumption and Production
by Peter Glavič
Sustainability 2021, 13(16), 9379; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13169379 - 20 Aug 2021
Cited by 34 | Viewed by 10779
Abstract
This review paper examines the past, present, and future of sustainable consumption and production (SCP). The history of the Sustainable Development Goal No. 12 (i.e., to ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns) is presented and analyzed. A definition of the sustainable consumption is [...] Read more.
This review paper examines the past, present, and future of sustainable consumption and production (SCP). The history of the Sustainable Development Goal No. 12 (i.e., to ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns) is presented and analyzed. A definition of the sustainable consumption is given and the role of education is explained. The present status and existing trends of SCP are introduced by analyzing unsustainable behavior and the existing dilemma, namely sustainable growth or degrowth. A very broad range of methods is used for measuring and evaluating SCP within sustainable development. To forecast the future of SCP, important trends are presented. The future development of SCP will follow several megatrends and it will require reduced personal and collective consumption (degrowth). Energy usage in buildings, renewable energy sources, and energy storage will be important in that respect. Transportation emissions will continue to be lowered. Waste, especially food waste, shall be reduced, and consumer products shall become more durable. All waste must be collected and separated to be reused. SPC is elaborated in view of the two approaches—Industry 4.0 (smart factory), and the “Sixth Wave” evolution. Net-zero greenhouse gas emissions, resource efficiency, and zero waste will be at the forefront of future activities. A circular economy requires extension of product lifetimes, and the reuse and recycling of products. Reducing emissions, pollution and specific energy, water, and raw material usage (especially critical raw materials), as well as the role of digitalization, will be important. Full article
23 pages, 2528 KiB  
Article
Determinants of Success of Businesses of Female Entrepreneurs in Taiwan
by Lisa-Marie Schröder, Vito Bobek and Tatjana Horvat
Sustainability 2021, 13(9), 4842; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13094842 - 26 Apr 2021
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3753
Abstract
This paper deals with the topic area “female entrepreneurship,” and the research focuses on the determinants of female entrepreneurs’ business success and sustainability, together with their impact on Taiwan’s economic development. According to the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) and the Financial Times [...] Read more.
This paper deals with the topic area “female entrepreneurship,” and the research focuses on the determinants of female entrepreneurs’ business success and sustainability, together with their impact on Taiwan’s economic development. According to the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) and the Financial Times Stock Exchange (FTSE) classification, Taiwan can be considered an emerging economy. Various liberal and social theories and Hofstede’s cultural dimensions were analyzed to develop some hypotheses, including some relevant success factors connected to female entrepreneurship in Taiwan. The Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) and the Female Entrepreneurship Index (FEI) were relevant for the data analysis because the research was based on secondary data with 1098 observations, and a logistic regression model was performed. The factors of fear of failure and personal network correlated significantly to female entrepreneurs’ business success in Taiwan and the level of education had no significant correlation. Further research is recommended to include additional factors to achieve a higher accuracy of the model. A comparison of Taiwan with another region/country might also deliver some interesting insights. Full article
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22 pages, 5478 KiB  
Article
Sustainability Assessment with Integrated Circular Economy Principles: A Toy Case Study
by Rebeka Kovačič Lukman, Vasja Omahne and Damjan Krajnc
Sustainability 2021, 13(7), 3856; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13073856 - 31 Mar 2021
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4381
Abstract
When considering the sustainability of production processes, research studies usually emphasise environmental impacts and do not adequately address economic and social impacts. Toy production is no exception when it comes to assessing sustainability. Previous research on toys has focused solely on assessing environmental [...] Read more.
When considering the sustainability of production processes, research studies usually emphasise environmental impacts and do not adequately address economic and social impacts. Toy production is no exception when it comes to assessing sustainability. Previous research on toys has focused solely on assessing environmental aspects and neglected social and economic aspects. This paper presents a sustainability assessment of a toy using environmental life cycle assessment, life cycle costing, and social life cycle assessment. We conducted an inventory analysis and sustainability impact assessment of the toy to identify the hotspots of the system. The main environmental impacts are eutrophication, followed by terrestrial eco-toxicity, acidification, and global warming. The life cycle costing approach examined the economic aspect of the proposed design options for toys, while the social assessment of the alternative designs revealed social impacts along the product life cycle. In addition, different options based on the principles of the circular economy were analysed and proposed in terms of substitution of materials and shortening of transport distances for the toy studied. Full article
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16 pages, 2380 KiB  
Article
Assessment of Factors Affecting the Amount of Food Waste in Households Run by Polish Women Aware of Well-Being
by Jagoda Jungowska, Bartosz Kulczyński, Andrzej Sidor and Anna Gramza-Michałowska
Sustainability 2021, 13(2), 976; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13020976 - 19 Jan 2021
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5597
Abstract
Food waste is a pressing problem in Western countries. Increased food waste production directly affects environmental changes and pollution, including greenhouse gas emissions and contamination with packaging. In Poland, 9.2 million tons of food is lost annually, 53% of which is produced by [...] Read more.
Food waste is a pressing problem in Western countries. Increased food waste production directly affects environmental changes and pollution, including greenhouse gas emissions and contamination with packaging. In Poland, 9.2 million tons of food is lost annually, 53% of which is produced by consumers. To minimize food waste by consumers, it is necessary to understand the factors affecting the behaviors associated with food wasting. This work is focused on investigating the causes and behaviors related to food wasting, and determining the kinds of food that are wasted in Polish households run by women that possess a high awareness of well-being. It was found that most of the respondents who took part in the survey admitted that their households did waste food. It was shown that there is a positive correlation between the number of people living in a household and the amount of food wasted. It was also confirmed that age has an impact on the amount of food discarded by Polish women, because respondents over 37 years of age wasted less food and more often declared a lack of wasting compared to others. In households, fresh food with short expiry dates, including vegetables, fruit, bread, and meat, was wasted the most. The most important factors directly influencing the amount of wasted food were: purchasing too much food, a lack of expiry-date control, a lack of planning of purchases and menus, and a lack of ideas for using food residues. The main element affecting waste is purchasing too much food, most often resulting from susceptibility to promotions, willingness to buy in stock, and a lack of prior planning. Understanding the mechanisms of waste allows households to take actions to effectively reduce it, and therefore ensure greater food security in the world. Full article
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2020

Jump to: 2023, 2022, 2021

22 pages, 3121 KiB  
Article
Danish Plastic Mass Flows Analysis
by Edward Vingwe, Edgar Towa and Arne Remmen
Sustainability 2020, 12(22), 9639; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12229639 - 19 Nov 2020
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4462
Abstract
In this paper, material flows and resource potentials for plastics at a national level in Denmark are mapped using an Environmentally Extended Multiregional Input-Output (EE-MRIO) database. EE-MRIO offers an operative improvement to current and prevalent methods for assessing the industrial and societal metabolism [...] Read more.
In this paper, material flows and resource potentials for plastics at a national level in Denmark are mapped using an Environmentally Extended Multiregional Input-Output (EE-MRIO) database. EE-MRIO offers an operative improvement to current and prevalent methods for assessing the industrial and societal metabolism of resources, including plastics. The Exiobase is applied to map (1) the major sources, (2) calculate the total supply, (3) uses of plastics and waste generation, and (4) end of life pathways in order to indicate the potentials of plastics in the circular economy in Denmark with a focus on recycling. Furthermore, it elaborates how and why this method for performing Mass Flow Analysis (MFA) differs from mainstream assessments of material flows and from default uses of national statistical data. Overall, the results are that Denmark has a total supply of ≈551 kilotonnes (Kt) of plastics, out of which ≈522 Kt are used domestically and ≈168 Kt of plastic waste are generated annually. Out of the yearly amount of plastic waste, ≈50% is incinerated and 26% is recycled. These results indicate significant potentials for applying circular economy strategies and identify relevant sectors for closing the plastic loops. However, other initiatives are necessary, such as improvements in product design strategies, in the collection and sorting systems as well as in cross-sectoral collaboration. Full article
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26 pages, 565 KiB  
Article
Impact of Education on Sustainable Economic Development in Emerging Markets—The Case of Namibia’s Tertiary Education System and its Economy
by Moritz Jellenz, Vito Bobek and Tatjana Horvat
Sustainability 2020, 12(21), 8814; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12218814 - 23 Oct 2020
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 5833
Abstract
The research’s fundamental investigation elaborates on interactions between tertiary educational factors and Namibia’s sustainable economic development. Sequential mixed-research-method guides the investigation towards its results: A quantitative statistical data analysis enables the selection of interrelated educational and economic factors and monitors its development within [...] Read more.
The research’s fundamental investigation elaborates on interactions between tertiary educational factors and Namibia’s sustainable economic development. Sequential mixed-research-method guides the investigation towards its results: A quantitative statistical data analysis enables the selection of interrelated educational and economic factors and monitors its development within Namibia’s last three decades. Subsequent qualitative interviews accumulate respondents’ subjective assessments that enable answering the fundamental interaction. Globally evident connections between a nation’s tertiary education system and its economic development are partially confirmed within Namibia. The domestic government recognizes the importance of education that represents a driving force for its sustainable economic development. Along with governmental NDP’s (National Development Program) and its long-term Vision 2030, Namibia is on the right track in transforming itself into a Knowledge-Based and Sustainable Economy. This transformation process increases human capital, growing GDP, and enhances domestic’s living standards. Namibia’s multiculturalism and its unequal resource distribution provoke difficulties for certain ethnicities accessing educational institutions. Namibia’s tertiary education system’s other challenges are missing infrastructures, lacking curricula’ quality, and absent international expertise. The authors’ findings suggest that, due to Namibia’s late independence, there is a substantial need to catch up in creating a Namibian identity. Socioeconomic actions would enhance domestic’s self-esteem and would enable the development of sustainable economic sectors. Raising the Namibian tertiary education system’s educational quality and enhancing its access could lead to diversification of economic sectors, accelerating its internationalization process. Besides that, Namibia has to face numerous challenges, including corruption, unemployment, and multidimensional poverty, that interact with its tertiary education system. Full article
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16 pages, 593 KiB  
Article
The Critical Factors Affecting the Consumer Reselling of Limited Edition Products: A Case in the Korean Fashion Sector
by Woodong Kim and Boyoung Kim
Sustainability 2020, 12(19), 8181; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12198181 - 04 Oct 2020
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 5355
Abstract
Since e-commerce has revitalized recently in the form of live commerce and Instagram shopping, both purchase and sales have become promoted among consumers while reselling has been facilitated in second-hand item markets and among consumers. Particularly, the new trend of consuming products, rather [...] Read more.
Since e-commerce has revitalized recently in the form of live commerce and Instagram shopping, both purchase and sales have become promoted among consumers while reselling has been facilitated in second-hand item markets and among consumers. Particularly, the new trend of consuming products, rather than merely owning products, has become a mainstream factor in the market. Accordingly, consumers show extraordinary consumption, focusing on the act of purchasing limited edition products of high scarcity and placing more importance on one-off experience rather than ordinary new products or premium products. This study suggests critical factors that facilitate the reselling of limited edition products among consumers for the purpose of examining the consumer reselling of limited edition products, which has been a rapidly growing trend in the fashion market. Based on relevant studies, this research presents four basic factor areas: personal needs, value, experience, and environment. It also defines 20 sub-factors and analyzes the weight of each factor by means of the AHP method. In conclusion, it turned out that factors of personal needs were of the most significant influence. Particularly, it was verified that the need for joining was the most critical factor facilitating consumers’ reselling of limited edition products. Full article
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21 pages, 1511 KiB  
Article
Exploring Paradoxical Tensions in Circular Business Models—Cases from North Europe
by Alberto Huerta Morales
Sustainability 2020, 12(18), 7577; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12187577 - 14 Sep 2020
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3883
Abstract
Circular Business Models (CBMs) are a tool that allows private sector organizations to reconcile circularity (i.e., narrowing, slowing and closing resource flows) and commercial value creation. However, these two elements are not always aligned; they can be contradictory. This makes the relationship between [...] Read more.
Circular Business Models (CBMs) are a tool that allows private sector organizations to reconcile circularity (i.e., narrowing, slowing and closing resource flows) and commercial value creation. However, these two elements are not always aligned; they can be contradictory. This makes the relationship between circularity and commercial value creation, in the context of CBMs, a paradoxical tension. These types of tensions are particularly challenging since the elements that create the tension cannot be removed, instead, both elements must remain in place and the tension between them must be continuously managed. This article explores the main paradoxical tensions and management strategies in the context of CBMs through an integrative literature review as well as an empirical study. The integrative review helped identify three literature streams that provide key insights regarding paradoxical tensions of CBMs, namely corporate sustainability, servitization and circular economy. The empirical study suggested six paradoxical tensions inherent to CBMs: (1) using waste as a resource; (2) design of circular products; (3) improving aesthetics of used products; (4) matching supply and demand; (5) Balancing costs in circular activities; and (6) managing resistance from the value chain. The findings from the literature review as well as the empirical study are compared and discussed. Overall, this article sheds light on the paradoxical tension between circularity and commercial value creation that sits at the core of CBMs as well as the potential managerial strategies suitable for dealing with this tension. Full article
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16 pages, 2873 KiB  
Article
Sustainable Move towards Flexible, Robotic, Human-Involving Workplace
by Brigita Gajšek, Saša Stradovnik and Aleš Hace
Sustainability 2020, 12(16), 6590; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12166590 - 14 Aug 2020
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3520
Abstract
The realisation of the ideas of smart factories and sustainable manufacturing can be quickly realised in companies where industrial production is high-volume, low-mix. However, it is more difficult to follow trends toward industry 4.0 in craft industries such as tooling. This kind of [...] Read more.
The realisation of the ideas of smart factories and sustainable manufacturing can be quickly realised in companies where industrial production is high-volume, low-mix. However, it is more difficult to follow trends toward industry 4.0 in craft industries such as tooling. This kind of work environment is a challenge for the deployment of sustainability and smart technologies because many stages involve the so-called “manual processing according to the worker’s feeling and experience.” With the help of literature review and testing in the production environment, we approach the design of a procedure for planning a sustainable technological upgrade of craft production. The best method proved to be a combination of a maturity model, process mapping with flowcharts, critical analysis, and customised evaluation model. Workplace flexibility, as a move towards sustainability, is presented in a laboratory environment on screwing performed by human wearing HoloLens and collaborative robot. Full article
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21 pages, 1495 KiB  
Article
A Methodological Framework for Sustainable Office Building Renovation Using Green Building Rating Systems and Cost-Benefit Analysis
by Nataša Šuman, Mojca Marinič and Milan Kuhta
Sustainability 2020, 12(15), 6156; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12156156 - 30 Jul 2020
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4027
Abstract
Sustainable development is a priority for the future of our society. Sustainable development is of particular importance to the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry, both for new buildings and for the renovation of existing buildings. Great potential for sustainable development lies in [...] Read more.
Sustainable development is a priority for the future of our society. Sustainable development is of particular importance to the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry, both for new buildings and for the renovation of existing buildings. Great potential for sustainable development lies in the renovation of existing office buildings. This paper introduces a new framework for identifying the best set of renovation strategies for existing office buildings. The framework applies selected green building rating system criteria and cost-effective sustainable renovation solutions based on cost-benefit analysis (CBA), and thus provides a novelty in decision-making support for the sustainable renovation of office buildings at an early-stage. The framework covers all necessary steps and activities including data collection, determination of the required level of renovation, selection of the green building rating system, identification of impact categories and criteria, and final evaluation and decision-making using CBA. The framework can be used in conjunction with different systems and according to different regional characteristics. The applicability of the addressing procedure is shown through a case study of a comprehensive renovation of an office building in the city of Maribor. Full article
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38 pages, 3331 KiB  
Article
Design Guidelines Developed from Environmental Assessments: A Design Tool for Resource-Efficient Products
by Siri Willskytt and Sergio A. Brambila-Macias
Sustainability 2020, 12(12), 4953; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12124953 - 17 Jun 2020
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3360
Abstract
The circular economy provides a potential solution to the take–make–dispose model of resource use that currently characterizes the economy. Guidelines for the circular economy often consist of prioritized lists of measures to achieve resource efficiency. However, for the purpose of designing products, such [...] Read more.
The circular economy provides a potential solution to the take–make–dispose model of resource use that currently characterizes the economy. Guidelines for the circular economy often consist of prioritized lists of measures to achieve resource efficiency. However, for the purpose of designing products, such general prioritizations of measures are less useful. Instead, the tool developed in this study is based on learnings from numerous life cycle assessments and provides design recommendations for the improved resource efficiency of products based on product characteristics. The tool includes measures over the whole lifecycle of different products that lead to improved resource efficiency. The tool also demonstrates how different product types, such as different varieties of durable and consumable products, can become more resource-efficient and when trade-offs occur over the lifecycle of a product. The tool was tested in a design case where its usefulness and usability were evaluated using a comparative life cycle assessment and a questionnaire. The evaluation shows the tool is informative and provides design suggestions that lead to improved resource efficiency. The tool is considered usable and could be implemented in design practice. Full article
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