Research

29 pages, 2525 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Official Promotion Incentives on Urban Ecological Welfare Performance and Its Spatial Effect

by Can Zhang and Jixia Li

Sustainability 2024, 16(7), 3085; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16073085 - 08 Apr 2024

Viewed by 358

Economic growth, environmental protection, and welfare improvement are closely related to local officials. Therefore, exploring the paths that affect ecological welfare performance (EWP) from the perspective of official promotion incentives has certain practical significance. EWP is an indicator that measures the welfare relationship [...] Read more.

Economic growth, environmental protection, and welfare improvement are closely related to local officials. Therefore, exploring the paths that affect ecological welfare performance (EWP) from the perspective of official promotion incentives has certain practical significance. EWP is an indicator that measures the welfare relationship between ecological resource inputs and outputs, reflecting the sustainable development status of a region. First, considering the background of the dual carbon goals, the EWPs of 284 cities from 2007 to 2020 were measured by constructing an indicator system and using the super-SBM-DEA method. Second, by constructing a theoretical framework of “official promotion incentives-fiscal responsiveness-EWP”, we empirically tested the impact and mechanism of official promotion incentives on urban EWP; finally, based on regional and official age heterogeneity, we explored the differential impacts of official promotion incentives on urban EWPs. The results show that official promotion incentives inhibit the improvement of urban EWP by reducing financial responsiveness; in terms of spatial spillovers, under three types of spatial weight matrices, promotion incentives for officials in neighboring areas can significantly improve the EWPs of local cities. From the perspective of regional differences, official promotion incentives in the eastern region significantly improved urban EWP, official promotion incentives in the western and northeastern regions significantly inhibited urban EWP, and official promotion incentives in the central region had no significant impact on urban EWP. From the perspective of official age, local officials aged 53 and 54 intensified the inhibitory effect of promotion incentives on urban EWP. By constructing a theoretical framework and empirical testing, this paper provides theoretical support and empirical evidence for the impact of official promotion incentives on urban EWP. The results help to understand the relationship between official promotion incentives and sustainable development, and promotes sustainable urban development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Multidisciplinary Approach to Sustainability)

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11 pages, 5386 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Biomonitoring: Developing a Beehive Air Volatiles Profile as an Indicator of Environmental Contamination Using a Sustainable In-Field Technique

by Daria Ilić, Boris Brkić and Maja Turk Sekulić

Sustainability 2024, 16(5), 1713; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16051713 - 20 Feb 2024

Viewed by 768

Abstract

The wellbeing of the honey bee colonies and the health of humans are connected in numerous ways. Therefore, ensuring the wellbeing of bees is a crucial component of fostering sustainability and ecological harmony. The colony collapse disorder (CCD) phenomenon was first reported in [...] Read more.

The wellbeing of the honey bee colonies and the health of humans are connected in numerous ways. Therefore, ensuring the wellbeing of bees is a crucial component of fostering sustainability and ecological harmony. The colony collapse disorder (CCD) phenomenon was first reported in 2006 when the majority of bee colonies in Europe died out, due to an increase in infections, contamination of hives with agrochemical pesticides, and persistent organic pollutants (POPs). Only 6 years after the emergence of CCD, more than 6.5 million premature deaths were reported, as a consequence of persistent human exposure to air pollution. The insect species such as the honey bee Apis mellifera L. and the air matrix inside the beehive can be used as tools in biomonitoring, instead of traditional monitoring methods. This may have advantages in terms of cost-effective bioindicators of the environmental health status, showing the ability to record spatial and temporal pollutant variations. In this study, we present the sustainable in-field usage of the portable membrane inlet mass spectrometry (MIMS) instrument for an instant and effective determination of the level of environmental pollution by analytical identification of hive atmosphere volatile organic compound (VOC) contaminants, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), monocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (BTEX) compounds, and pesticides. The samples were taken from hives located in urbanized and rural regions, highlighting variations in contamination. The MIMS results were benchmarked against a conventional laboratory sampling technique, such as GC-MS. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Multidisciplinary Approach to Sustainability)

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16 pages, 5171 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Biotechnological Potential of Oil-Tolerant Strains for Possible Use in Bioremediation

by Barbara Bertović, Monika Šabić Runjavec, Nolla Todorović, Ivan Zgrebec and Marija Vuković Domanovac

Sustainability 2024, 16(2), 563; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16020563 - 09 Jan 2024

Viewed by 804

Abstract

The release of oil into the environment represents a pervasive problem stemming from oil exploration, accidents, transportation and releases from landfills, storage facilities or industrial plants. Compared to conventional and costly techniques, bioremediation is an attractive and promising alternative, as it can selectively [...] Read more.

The release of oil into the environment represents a pervasive problem stemming from oil exploration, accidents, transportation and releases from landfills, storage facilities or industrial plants. Compared to conventional and costly techniques, bioremediation is an attractive and promising alternative, as it can selectively degrade pollution without affecting the natural features of the site and the flora and fauna living there. In this study, the isolation, identification and characterization of autochthonous bacterial strains from a crude oil-contaminated soil sample was carried out under batch conditions over a period of 28 days. The initial colony forming units value for bacteria was 1.15 × 10⁹/g of soil. The results show that the activity of bacteria was highest at a pH of 7.25. Based on morphology, biochemical tests and an analysis of MALDI TOF, isolated autochthonous bacterial species were identified as Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus licheniformis, Bacillus cereus and Pseudomonas chlororaphis. Since allochthonous bacteria are not highly efficient in a new environment due to their low adaptability and competition with indigenous microorganisms, these autochthonous microorganisms play a pivotal role in enhancing the bioremediation process on an applicable, industrial scale. This advancement aligns with the principles of sustainable development and the green economy, as purified soil is suitable for rational reuse in the environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Multidisciplinary Approach to Sustainability)

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17 pages, 11267 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Measurements of Electromagnetic Radiation Propagation through Biomaterial Samples Based on Harvest Residues

by Slavko Rupčić, Vanja Mandrić, Đurđica Kovačić and Maja Varga

Sustainability 2024, 16(2), 499; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16020499 - 05 Jan 2024

Viewed by 666

Abstract

The aim of this research was to determine the efficiency of electromagnetic (EM) radiation absorbers based on biomaterials from harvest residues (soybean straw, wheat straw, and clover straw) for the additional protection and/or construction of residential buildings. To determine their protective properties, the [...] Read more.

The aim of this research was to determine the efficiency of electromagnetic (EM) radiation absorbers based on biomaterials from harvest residues (soybean straw, wheat straw, and clover straw) for the additional protection and/or construction of residential buildings. To determine their protective properties, the transmission parameter S₂₁ was measured through harvest residues in the frequency range from 300 MHz to 5 GHz. Important parameters of the tested samples included sample type, sample thickness, and humidity. The measurement results showed that the transmission parameters decreased with an increase in the sample thickness, moisture, and frequency. Regarding this type of substrate, soybean straw showed the lowest values of parameter S₂₁ for all measurements except for the case of the highest amount of moisture (34.48%), for which clover straw showed the lowest value of the transmission parameter. The greatest reduction in the S₂₁ transmission parameter was 43.80 dB for a soybean sample of 300 mm thickness at a frequency of 4.93 GHz. These tests were performed on samples that were not additionally structured (additives, pressing, additional shredding, etc.), so it was possible to optimize their structure and conduct further research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Multidisciplinary Approach to Sustainability)

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13 pages, 1757 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Optimisation of Storage Conditions for Pomegranate Juice during Its Maritime Transport

by Aneta Ocieczek, Tomasz Pukszta, Adam Kaizer and Renata Korzeniowska-Ginter

Sustainability 2024, 16(1), 375; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16010375 - 31 Dec 2023

Viewed by 804

Abstract

It is estimated that the transport of plant-based food may be responsible for 50% of total CO₂ emissions. The situation becomes highly unfavourable when the transported cargo deteriorates. Therefore, the optimisation of storage conditions during transport is a part of the concept [...] Read more.

It is estimated that the transport of plant-based food may be responsible for 50% of total CO₂ emissions. The situation becomes highly unfavourable when the transported cargo deteriorates. Therefore, the optimisation of storage conditions during transport is a part of the concept of reducing food loss and waste. Moreover, it is an essential element of sustainable development. This study aimed to compare the stability of selected quality parameters of pomegranate juice under simulated conditions imitating maritime transport. The content of polyphenols and the ability to reduce free radicals were considered the critical quality parameters of this juice. The Folin–Ciocalteu method (polyphenols content) and the Brand-Williams method (ability to reduce free radicals) were used during the study. The simulation of maritime transport conditions consisted of different juice storage conditions. The differentiation was conducted regarding temperature, type of gas that filled the packaging, and mixing related to the ship’s motions during transport. The highest quality of pomegranate juice was ensured by modifying the atmosphere with nitrogen and lowering the temperature. It is also important that mixing the juice does not reduce its quality but stabilises it. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Multidisciplinary Approach to Sustainability)

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21 pages, 8254 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Digital Technologies Can Support Sustainability of the Waterborne Passenger Mobility Ecosystem: A Case Study Analysis of Smart Circular Practices in Northern Europe

by Laura Pirrone, Arianna Bionda and Andrea Ratti

Sustainability 2024, 16(1), 353; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16010353 - 30 Dec 2023

Viewed by 728

Abstract

To tackle the significant increase in traffic congestion and pollution in urban areas, waterborne transport systems can offer a more efficient and environmentally friendly alternative, decreasing traffic congestion on roads, noise, and pollution emissions, with reduced infrastructure requirements. Developing a sustainable waterborne passenger [...] Read more.

To tackle the significant increase in traffic congestion and pollution in urban areas, waterborne transport systems can offer a more efficient and environmentally friendly alternative, decreasing traffic congestion on roads, noise, and pollution emissions, with reduced infrastructure requirements. Developing a sustainable waterborne passenger system requires a multidisciplinary approach and a systemic view, which involves various stakeholders and knowledge. Digital transition can encourage a better management of resources and enables systems integration promoting circular economy and ecosystem models, which create interrelations among systems. The aim of this study is to identify circular practices adopted in the waterborne passenger mobility (WPM) ecosystem driven by digital technologies. A holistic perspective which considers all the system of actors and their mutual interactions has been adopted. Five case studies have been selected in Northern Europe and analyzed by applying the Smart Circular WPM Ecosystem framework, previously developed by the authors. The analysis identifies a list of Smart Circular practices resulting from the application of digital technologies during specific lifecycle stages, involving certain actors’ categories, and enabling circular principles. The case studies analysis also highlighted unexplored or under-considered fields of action which can be the base for further research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Multidisciplinary Approach to Sustainability)

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13 pages, 2950 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Battery of Simple Bioassays for Domestic and Industrial Wastewater Treatment Plants in Konya, Turkey

by Süheyla Tongur and Hande Atmaca

Sustainability 2024, 16(1), 316; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16010316 - 29 Dec 2023

Viewed by 736

Abstract

Wastewater ingredients present risks to the environment and can cause health problems. The aim of this study was to identify the toxicological effects of influent and effluent wastewater from Konya Urban Wastewater Treatment Plant (KU WWTP) and Konya Organized Industrial Zone Wastewater Treatment [...] Read more.

Wastewater ingredients present risks to the environment and can cause health problems. The aim of this study was to identify the toxicological effects of influent and effluent wastewater from Konya Urban Wastewater Treatment Plant (KU WWTP) and Konya Organized Industrial Zone Wastewater Treatment Plant (KOI WWTP). Three different trophic level toxicity tests were conducted to determine the possible harmful effects of wastewater on the environment. The base toxic unit values of the Lepidium sativum toxicity test for the inlet and outlet samples of KU WWTP were found to be 1.43 and 1.10, respectively. Both values classified the analyzed wastewater into the “toxic” category. Wastewater entering the KU wastewater treatment facility was classified as “toxic” for the presence of toxic substances according to the Vibrio fischeri toxicity testing. Influent samples from the KOI wastewater treatment plant were classified as “toxic” with the Vibrio fischeri toxicity test. In addition, based on the fish bioassay value (TDF), wastewater from the KOI treatment facility was also classified as “toxic”. It was concluded that increased chemical oxygen demand and concentrations of total nitrogen and phosphorus and of certain heavy metals above the limits played a decisive role in classifying the samples as “toxic”. The results of this study suggest that all three tests have the potential to assess wastewater toxicity and that changes in wastewater properties may result in differences in test sensitivity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Multidisciplinary Approach to Sustainability)

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21 pages, 1360 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Readability of Sustainability Reports: A Bibliometric Analysis and Systematic Literature Review

by Miguel Pombinho, Ana Fialho and Jorge Novas

Sustainability 2024, 16(1), 260; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16010260 - 27 Dec 2023

Viewed by 985

Abstract

This paper aims to investigate the latest scientific developments, map research networks and topics, and present a critical analysis of the gaps and future opportunities in the literature on the readability of sustainability reports. Through data collection and filtering processes, the final sample [...] Read more.

This paper aims to investigate the latest scientific developments, map research networks and topics, and present a critical analysis of the gaps and future opportunities in the literature on the readability of sustainability reports. Through data collection and filtering processes, the final sample included 10 articles. Then, a bibliometric analysis was developed using Scopus metrics and AJG classification. VOSviewer software (Version 1.6.18) was used to develop bibliometric networks. Finally, we developed a systematic review analysis to answer our third objective. The results show that most studies on the readability of non-financial reports come from Europe and Oceania; the sample’s co-citations per author were classified into three clusters; most of the sample was linked to analyzing the quality and effectiveness of sustainability reports; and organizations tend to use low readability in sustainability reports. This study contributes to further scientific knowledge about the readability of sustainability reports and impression management techniques and to the research into the importance of sustainability reporting for managing stakeholder impressions. A wide range of implications for the academic community, regulatory bodies, organizations, and all users of the information disclosed through sustainability reports were identified. The main limitations may have been created by the sample’s size, exclusion criteria, and keywords selected. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Multidisciplinary Approach to Sustainability)

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24 pages, 7051 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Operational Control Model Based on Integrated Failure Analysis and Risk Assessment in Sustainable Technological Processes

by Tatiana Karkoszka

Sustainability 2023, 15(24), 16848; https://doi.org/10.3390/su152416848 - 14 Dec 2023

Viewed by 676

Abstract

The simultaneous fulfillment of quality, environmental, and occupational safety requirements is a difficult task. The process flow is influenced by numerous factors, and different operational objectives are pursued in different ways. Methodologies reflecting the use of various models, methods, and tools in the [...] Read more.

The simultaneous fulfillment of quality, environmental, and occupational safety requirements is a difficult task. The process flow is influenced by numerous factors, and different operational objectives are pursued in different ways. Methodologies reflecting the use of various models, methods, and tools in the integration and implementation of operational goals dedicated to sustainable operation are becoming increasingly important. The subject of the study is an operational control model considering the integrated risk and the steps taken under the conditions of “supervised risk” ensured by the monitoring of the operational criteria. The method was developed for coherent risk management, covering its identification, analysis, assessment, and acceptability estimation in the technological process. The methodology for the assessment, considering the quality, environmental, and occupational safety criteria, and based on the application of the unit risk ratio, allows for the determination of the key operational features, and the methodology of the identification of the key technological parameters applying the integrated risk ratio ensures that the crucial technological parameters are highlighted. The application of the algorithm in the heat treatment process confirms both the effectiveness of the proposed model and the correctness of the thesis: the different requirements set for the technological processes can be simultaneously fulfilled via the application of integrated operational control. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Multidisciplinary Approach to Sustainability)

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14 pages, 3072 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Potential Impact of Urban Land Use on Microplastic Atmospheric Deposition: A Case Study in Pristina City, Kosovo

by Arlinda Cakaj, Marta Lisiak-Zielińska, Kinga Drzewiecka, Anna Budka, Klaudia Borowiak, Maria Drapikowska, Arbnore Cakaj, Erjon Qorri and Piotr Szkudlarz

Sustainability 2023, 15(23), 16464; https://doi.org/10.3390/su152316464 - 30 Nov 2023

Viewed by 821

Abstract

Microplastics (MPs) pervade various ecosystems, including urban landscapes. The aim of this study was to determine whether the presence of MPs in atmospheric deposition samples is related to land use. For this purpose, atmospheric deposition was collected from 15 to 25 March 2021 [...] Read more.

Microplastics (MPs) pervade various ecosystems, including urban landscapes. The aim of this study was to determine whether the presence of MPs in atmospheric deposition samples is related to land use. For this purpose, atmospheric deposition was collected from 15 to 25 March 2021 at seven research sites in the city of Pristina (Kosovo). Each research site was characterized by different land use. Collected atmospheric deposition samples were analyzed in the laboratory, and then the filtered samples were assessed using a light microscope. The type and size of microplastics in the samples were defined and statistically analyzed. The highest number of total MPs was noted on the highway, while the lowest one was near to the park. A positive relationship was observed between the number of total MPs and the proportion of areas classified as “roads and associated areas” in the land use of the analyzed research sites. Furthermore, a negative relationship was found between the number of total MPs and the proportion of areas classified as “green urban areas”. Based on our preliminary research, it can be observed that the type of land use may have a key role in MPs’ atmospheric deposition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Multidisciplinary Approach to Sustainability)

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18 pages, 3215 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Applying the 12 Principles of Green Engineering in Low TRL Electronics: A Case Study of an Energy-Harvesting Platform

by Lucía Doyle, German Cavero and Mircea Modreanu

Sustainability 2023, 15(14), 11227; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151411227 - 19 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1872

Abstract

Energy harvesting has been identified as a key enabling technology for the Internet of Things as it allows a battery-less functioning of electronic devices. While the use of ambient sources of energy is commonly seen as sustainable due to their renewable nature, raw [...] Read more.

Energy harvesting has been identified as a key enabling technology for the Internet of Things as it allows a battery-less functioning of electronic devices. While the use of ambient sources of energy is commonly seen as sustainable due to their renewable nature, raw material consumption and recyclability need to be assessed to ensure true sustainability. This is especially relevant in electronics, due to their high complexity stemming from the variety of components and materials in their composition. This work presents the case study of the application of the 12 Principles of Green Engineering to an energy-harvesting platform in the early technology development phase. Specifically, the technological areas of design for disassembly, materials for substitution, fabrication efficiency, and manufacturing processes that enable the use of recycled materials have been evaluated. This has allowed us to identify hazardous raw materials and recommend their substitution. Further recommendations include the adoption of mechanical fixtures to fasten lump components. Additional strategies have been identified but their application has been found out of reach of the technology developers, such as the increase in the manufacturing batch size or the inclusion of solvent recycling, which can only be implemented at larger manufacturing scales. Further strategies, such as the use of recycled Si wafers or dry adhesives as fixtures, represent future solutions for the reduction in the environmental impact which require further R&D efforts from different disciplines. This highlights the need for holistic and multidisciplinary research efforts to fully achieve the circular design. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Multidisciplinary Approach to Sustainability)

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22 pages, 720 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Environmental Law in Farmers’ Environment-Protecting Intentions and Behavior Based on Their Legal Cognition: A Case Study of Jiangxi Province, China

by Pinyi Su, Muhammad Imran, Muhammad Nadeem and Shamsheer ul Haq

Sustainability 2023, 15(11), 8571; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15118571 - 25 May 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1470

Abstract

Agriculture contributes to environmental degradation by using unsustainable farming practices, such as the intensive use of chemical fertilizers and fossil fuels. With China’s growing environmental concerns, new environmental laws have begun to disseminate information about environmental preservation among residents. This legislation plays a [...] Read more.

Agriculture contributes to environmental degradation by using unsustainable farming practices, such as the intensive use of chemical fertilizers and fossil fuels. With China’s growing environmental concerns, new environmental laws have begun to disseminate information about environmental preservation among residents. This legislation plays a major role in developing individual behavior. Thus, the purpose of this study was to investigate the moderating role of environmental laws in relation to environment-protecting intentions and behavior based on their legal cognition. Based on 1350 randomly selected farmers from Jiangxi Province, we confirm the theory of planned behavior through a structural equation model. The results demonstrate that the perceived behavior control, personal factors, and attitude of farmers directly contribute to both types of farmer’s intentions, i.e., citizen and activist; and indirectly to both types of farmer’s environmental-oriented behavior (citizen and activist). The inward attitude effect was stronger than the outward attitude in both types of intentions of farmers. The farmers’ legal cognition also moderated their environment-protecting intentions and behaviors. This implies that as the farmer’s legal familiarity grows, the direct effect of both types of farmer’s intentions on the farmer’s environmentally oriented behavior continues to increase. Awareness programs, financial support, and extension services should be enhanced in rural areas, which may develop the farmers’ proenvironmental behavior and lead to them adopting environmentally friendly farm practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Multidisciplinary Approach to Sustainability)

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18 pages, 1864 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Monitoring of Location Parameters with a Measurement Error under the Bayesian Approach Using Ranked-Based Sampling Designs with Applications in Industrial Engineering

by Imad Khan, Muhammad Noor-ul-Amin, Dost Muhammad Khan, Salman A. AlQahtani, Mostafa Dahshan and Umair Khalil

Sustainability 2023, 15(8), 6675; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15086675 - 14 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 982

Abstract

To detect sustainable changes in the production processes, memory-type control charts are frequently utilized. This study is conducted to assess the performance of the Bayesian adaptive exponentially weighted moving average (AEWMA) control chart using ranked set sampling schemes following two different loss functions [...] Read more.

To detect sustainable changes in the production processes, memory-type control charts are frequently utilized. This study is conducted to assess the performance of the Bayesian adaptive exponentially weighted moving average (AEWMA) control chart using ranked set sampling schemes following two different loss functions in the presence of a measurement error for posterior and posterior predictive distributions using conjugate priors. This study is based on the covariate model and multiple measurement methods in the presence of a measurement error (ME). The performance of the proposed Bayesian-AEWMA control chart with ME has been evaluated through the average run length and the standard deviation of the run length. Finally, a real-life application in semiconductor manufacturing was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed Bayesian-AEWMA control chart with a measurement error based on different ranked set sampling schemes. The results demonstrate that the proposed control chart, in the presence of a measurement error, performed well in detecting out-of-control signals compared to the existing control chart. However, the median ranked set sampling scheme (MRSS) proved to be better than the other two schemes in the presence of a measurement error. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Multidisciplinary Approach to Sustainability)

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