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Volume 15
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Sustainability, Volume 15, Issue 6 (March-2 2023) – 916 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): As the world grapples with the consequences of environmental degradation, South and East Asian countries continue to face similar significant challenges due to their reliance on coal as a primary energy source. With coal consumption on the rise, the region is becoming a hub of environmental challenges, posing a threat to sustainable development. In this paper, we explore whether the environmental Kuznets curve holds for coal consumption or not. The results indeed show that the EKC holds for coal consumption, and reducing coal consumption is not enough to achieve environmental sustainability. There also needs to be a diversion of foreign investment inflow to sustainable, environmentally friendly projects. Additionally, the results reveal that increasing the renewable energy share can foster a more prosperous and resilient future for the region. View this paper
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19 pages, 461 KiB  
Article
Environmental Identities and Attitude towards Crude Oil Pipeline Vandalism in Niger Delta Oil-Producing Communities
by Peterval E. Ozougwu, Christian N. Madu, Johnbosco C. Chukwuorji, Augustine O. Ozougwu and Stella U. Ozougwu
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5610; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065610 - 22 Mar 2023
Viewed by 2948
Abstract
Environmental identities and attitude towards oil pipeline vandalism in Niger Delta oil-producing communities were examined to show whether low environmental identity is associated with an environmentally destructive attitude, as well as how such issues may be connected with incidents of oil pipeline vandalism [...] Read more.
Environmental identities and attitude towards oil pipeline vandalism in Niger Delta oil-producing communities were examined to show whether low environmental identity is associated with an environmentally destructive attitude, as well as how such issues may be connected with incidents of oil pipeline vandalism in the area. A survey of youths (N = 603) from selected oil-producing communities in the Niger Delta area was conducted. A subset of the sample participated in focus group discussions, and ten experts were interviewed. Socioeconomic and demographic factors of participants were also investigated, as they might be associated with environmental identities and attitudes. The study found that the youths who scored medium to high on the environmental identity scale are more likely to be pro-environmental. There was also a significant association between gender and environmental identity scores. Occupation, education, and income levels were also associated with attitude towards oil pipeline vandalism. However, there was no significant association between environmental identity and attitude towards oil pipeline vandalism. The strong associations between socioeconomic factors, environmental identity, and attitude towards pipeline vandalism suggest that improved socioeconomic status may help to curb oil pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovation in Planning and Governance for Urban Sustainability)
16 pages, 4182 KiB  
Article
Optimal Control of Industrial Pollution under Stochastic Differential Models
by Lu Xiao, Huacong Ding, Yu Zhong and Chaojie Wang
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5609; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065609 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1840
Abstract
Considering that the amount of waste generated by an industrial enterprise is affected by many uncertain factors, such as the quality of raw materials and the state of equipment. The process is not deterministic, as assumed in most existing studies. In this paper, [...] Read more.
Considering that the amount of waste generated by an industrial enterprise is affected by many uncertain factors, such as the quality of raw materials and the state of equipment. The process is not deterministic, as assumed in most existing studies. In this paper, we propose a stochastic impulse control model to characterize the process of pollution control. The Quasi-Variational Inequality (QVI) method is implemented to solve the optimization problem. Our results show that the optimal control strategy for an industrial enterprise is to perform at a fixed intensity when the pollution reaches the threshold level. In addition, sensitivity analysis of parameters is implemented to illustrate the impact of higher growth rates and volatility on the optimal control strategy. The paper provides a decision basis for industrial enterprises to do pollution control efficiently. Full article
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<p>The impact of change in <span class="html-italic">x</span> for <span class="html-italic">x</span> ∈ (0, 2.5753).</p> Full article ">Figure 2
<p>The impact of change in <span class="html-italic">x</span> for <math display="inline"><semantics> <mrow> <mi>x</mi> <mo>∈</mo> <mfenced close=")" open="["> <mrow> <mn>2.5753</mn> <mo>,</mo> <mo>∞</mo> </mrow> </mfenced> </mrow> </semantics></math>.</p> Full article ">Figure 3
<p>Optimal pollution treatment intensity and threshold as σ increase.</p> Full article ">Figure 4
<p>Optimal pollution treatment intensity and threshold as θ increase.</p> Full article ">Figure 5
<p>Optimal pollution treatment intensity and threshold as c increase.</p> Full article ">Figure 6
<p>Optimal pollution treatment intensity and threshold as β increase.</p> Full article ">
17 pages, 492 KiB  
Article
Social Responsibility: Opportunities for Integral Assessment and Analysis of Connections with Business Innovation
by Olena Oliinyk, Halyna Mishchuk, Laszlo Vasa and Katalin Kozma
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5608; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065608 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 34 | Viewed by 3466
Abstract
The paper proposes an approach to the integrated assessment of the social responsibility of EU countries with a combination of data from three international indices most relevant to the monitoring of social responsibility at the macroeconomic level: the Global Sustainable Competitiveness Index, the [...] Read more.
The paper proposes an approach to the integrated assessment of the social responsibility of EU countries with a combination of data from three international indices most relevant to the monitoring of social responsibility at the macroeconomic level: the Global Sustainable Competitiveness Index, the Sustainable Development Goals Index and the Social Progress Index. Applying the method of taxonomic analysis on the example of index values for EU countries, we assessed the differences and leaders in ensuring social responsibility. The authors do not consider country-level social responsibility only as a consequence of the development of responsible practices at all levels. Taking into account that social responsibility should be a prerequisite for expanding opportunities in all spheres, in particular, in business, the authors conducted a correlational analysis of the relationship between the taxonomic indicator of social responsibility and the development of innovative business. As a result, we confirmed significant connections with “Business sophistication” indicators (as part of the Global Innovation Index) and the share of innovative firms of total SMEs (according to OESD statistics). The obtained results strengthen the grounds for considering social responsibility not only as an important socially oriented concept, but also as a reliable basis for the development of innovative business due to the created comfortable institutional environment of business development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Corporate Sustainability and Innovation in SMEs)
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<p>Ranking of EU countries by the level of social responsibility development in 2021. Source: author’s own research.</p> Full article ">
16 pages, 4985 KiB  
Article
Sustainable Development Optimization of a Plant Factory for Reducing Tip Burn Disease
by Yu Haibo, Zhang Lei, Yu Haiye, Liu Yucheng, Liu Chunhui and Sui Yuanyuan
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5607; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065607 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2321
Abstract
It is generally believed that stable airflow can effectively reduce tip burn, a common lettuce plant disease in closed plant factories that severely restricts the sustainable development of these factories. This study aims to achieve stable airflow in the cultivator by zoning the [...] Read more.
It is generally believed that stable airflow can effectively reduce tip burn, a common lettuce plant disease in closed plant factories that severely restricts the sustainable development of these factories. This study aims to achieve stable airflow in the cultivator by zoning the seedling and growth stage crops and installing differential fans, while ensuring comprehensive quality. In this study, a three-dimensional simulation plant factory model was created to simulate the airflow inside the cultivator, taking crop shading and heat dissipation from LED light sources into account. Experiments on photosynthetic physiology and airflow were used to determine environmental thresholds for crop growth, which were then used as CFD boundary conditions. After adopting the optimized cultivation model, the comprehensive quality of lettuce increased by 22.28% during the seedling stage, and the tip burn rate decreased to 26.9%; during the growth stage, the comprehensive quality increased by 25.72%, and the tip burn rate decreased to 23.2%. The zoning optimization cultivation method and differential fan arrangement used in this study to improve the airflow field of plant factories provide new ideas and reliable theoretical support for plant factories to combat lettuce tip burn disease. Full article
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<p>Photosynthetic physiology experiment schedule.</p> Full article ">Figure 2
<p>The hierarchical chart of the comprehensive quality of lettuce.</p> Full article ">Figure 3
<p>(<b>a</b>) Porous medium model of seedling stage, (▲) is seedling lettuce; (<b>b</b>) porous medium model of growth stage lettuce, (●) is growth stage lettuce; (<b>c</b>) layout of monitoring points, (■) is the measurement point; (<b>d</b>) airflow direction of aerodynamic experiments.</p> Full article ">Figure 4
<p>Geometric model of the plant factory.</p> Full article ">Figure 5
<p>Airflow test: (<b>a</b>) seedling stage airflow experiment, (<b>b</b>) growth stage airflow experiment. Vf is the top-to-bottom vertical airflow; Hf is the horizontal airflow.</p> Full article ">Figure 6
<p>Plant (∇P−v) curves: (<b>a</b>) seedling stage lettuce (∇P−v) curve, (<b>b</b>) growth stage lettuce (∇P−v) curve. Sx, Sy, and Sz are the pressure drop curves of the seedling porous media model in the xyz vector direction, respectively; Gx, Gy, and Gz are the pressure drop curves of the growth period porous media model in the xyz vector direction, respectively.</p> Full article ">Figure 7
<p>Schematic diagram of high and low airflow zones.</p> Full article ">Figure 8
<p>Cultivation pattern diagram. The seedling zone (low airflow speed zone) planting density is twice as high as the growing period (high airflow speed zone) planting density, and the seedling zone (low airflow speed zone) planting area is 0.5 times the growing period (high airflow speed zone) planting area.</p> Full article ">Figure 9
<p>Vector diagram of optimized airflow field.</p> Full article ">Figure 10
<p>Cultivation frame side view.</p> Full article ">Figure 11
<p>Vector diagram of cultivation frame canopy airflow field. The dotted line represents the low airflow speed zone; the rest of the area is the high airflow speed zone.</p> Full article ">Figure 12
<p>Comparison of monitoring points between measured value and simulated value.</p> Full article ">
16 pages, 1279 KiB  
Article
Identifying and Ranking the Dimensions of Urban Resilience and Its Effect on Sustainable Urban Development in Tongdejie, China
by Jiarong Xie
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5606; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065606 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1902
Abstract
Urban resilience strengthens urban sustainability and leads to sustainable solutions in the process of promoting sustainable development. Paying attention to the benefits of urban resilience to strengthen sustainable urban systems is vital to achieve our desired future. This study aims to identify and [...] Read more.
Urban resilience strengthens urban sustainability and leads to sustainable solutions in the process of promoting sustainable development. Paying attention to the benefits of urban resilience to strengthen sustainable urban systems is vital to achieve our desired future. This study aims to identify and classify the key indicators of resilience in Tongdejie, a residential area in Guangzhou, China, as well as to examine and compare these indicators with sustainable development indicators. Fuzzy AHP was used to rank the most important indicators in Tongdejie. The results showed that the first three important indicators were economic indicators, and the economic dimension with a weight of 0.41 was higher than the other four indicators. Then, social and cultural indicators took second place with a weight of 0.194, and the management and institutional indicators took third place with a weight of 0.194. Structural–physical and environmental dimensions were ranked fourth and fifth, respectively. From the obtained results and their comparison with the sustainable indicators, in addition to ranking the importance of these indicators and incorporating the research related to urban construction development indicators, it can be concluded that these two concepts have a direct relationship with each other. In order to attain a desired and resilient urban future, it is important to pay attention to the indications and advantages of resilience. This leads to the development and stability of urban systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Land Use Sustainability and Environmental Impacts in Urban Renewal)
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<p>General stages of research.</p> Full article ">Figure 2
<p>Representation of triangular fuzzy number.</p> Full article ">Figure 3
<p>Weight and final priority of criteria.</p> Full article ">
20 pages, 20563 KiB  
Article
Configuration Planning of Expressway Self-Consistent Energy System Based on Multi-Objective Chance-Constrained Programming
by Xian Huang, Wentong Ji, Xiaorong Ye and Zhangjie Feng
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5605; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065605 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1911
Abstract
Regarding the problem of the optimal configuration of self-consistent energy systems based on a 100% renewable energy supply for expressway electricity demand in no-grid areas, this paper proposes a multi-objective planning model based on chance-constrained programming (CCP) to achieve the optimization objectives of [...] Read more.
Regarding the problem of the optimal configuration of self-consistent energy systems based on a 100% renewable energy supply for expressway electricity demand in no-grid areas, this paper proposes a multi-objective planning model based on chance-constrained programming (CCP) to achieve the optimization objectives of low cost and high reliability. Firstly, the number of units of different types of wind turbines (WT), the capacity of photovoltaic (PV) cells, and the number of sets of energy storage systems (ESS) are selected for the design variables in our configuration plan. After defining the load grading shedding and ESS scheduling strategy, the Monte Carlo Simulation (MCS) method and the backward reduction method are applied to model the uncertainties of electric load and renewable energy sources. Finally, the set of Pareto solutions are optimized by the non-dominated sorted genetic algorithm-II (NSGA-II) and its unique best solution is determined by the Criteria Importance Though Intercriteria Correlation (CRITIC) and the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) approach. Making use of the wind speed and solar radiation intensity historical data of an area in northwest China in the last five years, eight case studies of two typical scenarios are designed and carried out to explore in-depth the impact of different confidence levels and load fluctuation ranges on the planning results. The results verify that the proposed method can effectively improve the robustness of the system and satisfy the power demand in confidence scenarios. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Transition in Transport Energy Consumption: The Charging/Discharging Infrastructure and Self-Containing Transport Energy System of New Energy Vehicles)
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<p>Schematic of expressway self-consistent energy system.</p> Full article ">Figure 2
<p>Operating strategy of expressway self-consistent energy system.</p> Full article ">Figure 3
<p>The Probability density function of the renewable resource. (<b>a</b>) PDF of wind speed; (<b>b</b>) PDF of solar radiation.</p> Full article ">Figure 4
<p>Wind speed scene set. The 24-h wind speed scenarios represented by colorful lines. (<b>a</b>) Before reduction (there are 2000 scenarios represented by 2000 colorful lines); (<b>b</b>) After reduction (there are 20 scenarios represented by 20 colorful lines).</p> Full article ">Figure 5
<p>Algorithm flow chart.</p> Full article ">Figure 6
<p>Pareto solutions. (<b>a</b>) Objective function; (<b>b</b>) design variables.</p> Full article ">Figure 7
<p>Distributed energy output and load shedding results in Scenario I.</p> Full article ">Figure 8
<p>The EC of battery changes in a year.</p> Full article ">Figure 9
<p>The total cost of optimum solutions of different RS for different confidence levels.</p> Full article ">Figure 10
<p>Pareto value of design variable under different k values which are represented by different colors. (<b>a</b>) Type I wind turbine installed capacity; (<b>b</b>) type II wind turbine installed capacity; (<b>c</b>) PV installed capacity; (<b>d</b>) ESS installed capacity.</p> Full article ">
23 pages, 15680 KiB  
Article
Prediction of Potential Distribution Area of Two Parapatric Species in Triosteum under Climate Change
by Xumin Li, Zhiwen Yao, Qing Yuan, Rui Xing, Yuqin Guo, Dejun Zhang, Israr Ahmad, Wenhui Liu and Hairui Liu
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5604; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065604 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2094
Abstract
Climate change has a profound impact on global biodiversity and species geographical distribution, especially in alpine regions. The prediction of species’ habitat could help the understanding of species’ responses to potential climate threats. Triosteum L. (1753) is a typical mountain plant with medicinal [...] Read more.
Climate change has a profound impact on global biodiversity and species geographical distribution, especially in alpine regions. The prediction of species’ habitat could help the understanding of species’ responses to potential climate threats. Triosteum L. (1753) is a typical mountain plant with medicinal and ecological value. There are three species of this genus in East Asia. Triosteum Pinnatifidum Maxim. 1888 and Triosteum himalayanum Wall. 1829 are mainly distributed in the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau and its surroundings, and they are sensitive to climate changes. In this study, a MaxEnt model was used to predict the potential distribution of T. Pinnatifidum and T. himalayanum in the present time and at four different time periods in the future under two different Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs). Topographic factors were taken into account in the prediction. In the present study, the accuracy of the model’s prediction was verified (the AUC values are 0.975 and 0.974), and the results indicate that temperature is the key factor that affects the distribution of these two species. Compared with current distribution, the potential suitable area of T. Pinnatifidum will increase in the future under two types of SSPs (an average increase is 31%), but the potential suitable area of T. himalayanum will decrease significantly (the average area is 93% of what it was before). In addition, the overlap of potential suitable areas of these two species will also expand, potentially affecting their hybridization and interspecific competition. The centroids of T. Pinnatifidum will migrate to the east, but the trajectory of centroids of T. himalayanum is complex. This study could provide basic data for the resource utilization and biogeography research of Triosteum. It will also be helpful for conservation and sustainable use of mountain herbaceous plants under climate change. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainability, Biodiversity and Conservation)
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<p>Distribution records of <span class="html-italic">T. Pinnatifidum</span> (red) and <span class="html-italic">T. himalayanum</span> (green) in China. Outlines of national boundaries are shown.</p> Full article ">Figure 2
<p>ROC curves of MaxEnt models for (<b>A</b>) <span class="html-italic">T. Pinnatifidum</span> and (<b>B</b>) <span class="html-italic">T. himalayanum</span>.</p> Full article ">Figure 3
<p>Contribution rate of dominant environmental variables (<span class="html-italic">T. Pinnatifidum</span>).</p> Full article ">Figure 4
<p>Contribution rate of dominant environmental variables (<span class="html-italic">T. himalayanum</span>).</p> Full article ">Figure 5
<p>Relationship between the potential distribution probability of <span class="html-italic">T. Pinnatifidum</span> and essential environmental factors. (<b>A</b>) Temperature seasonality, bio4; (<b>B</b>) Temperature annual range, bio7; (<b>C</b>) Mean temperature of driest quarter, bio9; (<b>D</b>) Mean temperature of coldest quarter, bio11; and (<b>E</b>) altitude.</p> Full article ">Figure 6
<p>Relationship between the potential distribution probability of <span class="html-italic">T. himalayanum</span> and essential environmental factors. (<b>A</b>) Temperature seasonality, bio4; (<b>B</b>) Temperature annual range, bio7; (<b>C</b>) Mean temperature of driest quarter, bio9; (<b>D</b>) Mean temperature of coldest quarter, bio11; and (<b>E</b>) altitude.</p> Full article ">Figure 7
<p>Predicted habitat distribution of (<b>A</b>) <span class="html-italic">T. Pinnatifidum</span> and (<b>B</b>) <span class="html-italic">T. himalayanum</span> based on MaxEnt.</p> Full article ">Figure 8
<p>Potential suitable habitat of <span class="html-italic">T. Pinnatifidum</span> under future climate scenarios. (<b>A</b>) 2030s SSP2-4.5, (<b>B</b>) 2030s SSP5-8.5, (<b>C</b>) 2050s SSP2-4.5, (<b>D</b>) 2050s SSP5-8.5, (<b>E</b>) 2070s SSP2-4.5, (<b>F</b>) 2070s SSP5-8.5, (<b>G</b>) 2090s SSP2-4.5, (<b>H</b>) 2090s SSP5-8.5.</p> Full article ">Figure 9
<p>Change in the suitable habitat of <span class="html-italic">T. Pinnatifidum</span> in future climate. (<b>A</b>) 2030s SSP2-4.5, (<b>B</b>) 2030s SSP5-8.5, (<b>C</b>) 2050s SSP2-4.5, (<b>D</b>) 2050s SSP5-8.5, (<b>E</b>) 2070s SSP2-4.5, (<b>F</b>) 2070s SSP5-8.5, (<b>G</b>) 2090s SSP2-4.5, (<b>H</b>) 2090s SSP5-8.5.</p> Full article ">Figure 10
<p>Potential suitable habitat of <span class="html-italic">T. himalayanum</span> under future climate scenarios. (<b>A</b>) 2030s SSP2-4.5, (<b>B</b>) 2030s SSP5-8.5, (<b>C</b>) 2050s SSP2-4.5, (<b>D</b>) 2050s SSP5-8.5, (<b>E</b>) 2070s SSP2-4.5, (<b>F</b>) 2070s SSP5-8.5, (<b>G</b>) 2090s SSP2-4.5, (<b>H</b>) 2090s SSP5-8.5.</p> Full article ">Figure 11
<p>Change in the suitable habitat of <span class="html-italic">T. himalayanum</span> in future climate. (<b>A</b>) 2030s SSP2-4.5, (<b>B</b>) 2030s SSP5-8.5, (<b>C</b>) 2050s SSP2-4.5, (<b>D</b>) 2050s SSP5-8.5, (<b>E</b>) 2070s SSP2-4.5, (<b>F</b>) 2070s SSP5-8.5, (<b>G</b>) 2090s SSP2-4.5, (<b>H</b>) 2090s SSP5-8.5.</p> Full article ">Figure 12
<p>Changes in overlapping suitable habitat of two species of <span class="html-italic">Triosteum</span>. (<b>A</b>) Current, (<b>B</b>) 2030s SSP2-4.5, (<b>C</b>) 2030s SSP5-8.5, (<b>D</b>) 2050s SSP2-4.5, (<b>E</b>) 2050s SSP5-8.5, (<b>F</b>) 2070s SSP2-4.5, (<b>G</b>) 2070s SSP5-8.5, (<b>H</b>) 2090s SSP2-4.5, (<b>I</b>) 2090s SSP5-8.5.</p> Full article ">Figure 13
<p>The change trends in the gravity points of the suitable areas of <span class="html-italic">T. Pinnatifidum</span> under SSP2-4.5 (red circles) and SSP5-8.5 (green circles) climatic conditions.</p> Full article ">Figure 14
<p>The change trends in the gravity points of the suitable areas of <span class="html-italic">T. himalayanum</span> under SSP2-4.5 (red circles) and SSP5-8.5 (green circles) climatic conditions.</p> Full article ">
15 pages, 336 KiB  
Essay
Attentional Neurodiversity in Physical Education Lessons: A Sustainable and Inclusive Challenge for Teachers
by Miguel Villa-de Gregorio, Miriam Palomo-Nieto, Miguel Ángel Gómez-Ruano and Luis Miguel Ruiz-Pérez
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5603; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065603 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3962
Abstract
Attentional neurodiversity is evidenced in the majority of current schools. The role that physical education plays for the inclusion of students with attentional problems in the school is quite relevant. This essay aims to show the effectiveness of sports and physical exercise on [...] Read more.
Attentional neurodiversity is evidenced in the majority of current schools. The role that physical education plays for the inclusion of students with attentional problems in the school is quite relevant. This essay aims to show the effectiveness of sports and physical exercise on the core symptoms of schoolchildren and adolescents with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). What is more, this proposal sheds light the key differences between clinical conditions of physical exercise and/or sport interventions and the ecological conditions of physical education lessons where the students with attentional problems should be included. Finally, this essay puts forward the real need for bridging the gap between physical education and science by changing the curriculum based programs, re-designing the teachers’ training programs, and acquiring the scientific recommendations in order to ensure the inclusion of all students according to Agenda 2030. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Physical Activity and Student’s Health)
16 pages, 7170 KiB  
Article
Innovative Design Method of Jet Grouting Systems for Sustainable Ground Improvements
by Sudip Shakya, Shinya Inazumi, Kuo Chieh Chao and Ricky K. N. Wong
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5602; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065602 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3256
Abstract
The major focus of this study was determining the effectiveness of new construction specifications regarding the method of cement grout injection for the jet grouting system (high-pressure injection stirring method), with the objective of developing a sustainable ground improvement method. The recent innovative [...] Read more.
The major focus of this study was determining the effectiveness of new construction specifications regarding the method of cement grout injection for the jet grouting system (high-pressure injection stirring method), with the objective of developing a sustainable ground improvement method. The recent innovative jet grouting techniques allow for improvement at middle pressure, but the mud discharge amount is drastically increased. This produces a serious environmental and financial burden during the disposal of mud discharge. This study attempts to develop a sustainable jet grouting method. The simulation model was prepared by the 3D AutoCAD software, and the analysis was conducted using the moving particle semi-implicit method (MPS method). The study focused on the changes that occurred in the mixing ratio of cement slurry and soil due to the changes made in cement milk spraying during the construction phase and compared it with the traditional method of cement milk spraying. All other construction parameters were kept the same for both cases, and the comparison result shows that the modified construction specification provides a denser and larger improved soil body than the traditional method. Furthermore, the density of the number of particles was determined at the upper, middle, and lower portions of the improved body for comparison. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Engineering and Science)
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<p>Construction procedure of jet grouting system.</p> Full article ">Figure 2
<p>Assumed mechanism of mud discharge due to jet grouting system.</p> Full article ">Figure 3
<p>Concept of bi-viscosity model.</p> Full article ">Figure 4
<p>Viscoelastic model concept.</p> Full article ">Figure 5
<p>Highly viscous fluid model concept.</p> Full article ">Figure 6
<p>Images of overall and enlarged sections of the analyzed model.</p> Full article ">Figure 7
<p>Images of overall and enlarged sections of the analyzed model.</p> Full article ">Figure 7 Cont.
<p>Images of overall and enlarged sections of the analyzed model.</p> Full article ">Figure 8
<p>Trendline for the ground flow test.</p> Full article ">Figure 9
<p>Condition of improved body construction.</p> Full article ">Figure 10
<p>Comparison of improved bodies.</p> Full article ">Figure 11
<p>Transition of particle number density of cement milk in each region.</p> Full article ">Figure 12
<p>Transition of each region and improved mixture ratio.</p> Full article ">Figure 13
<p>Comparison of upper, middle, and lower mixture ratios for each case.</p> Full article ">Figure 14
<p>State of mud drainage obtained as analysis results.</p> Full article ">
18 pages, 9276 KiB  
Article
Mechanical Behavior of Hydrated-Lime–Liquid-Stabilizer-Treated Granular Lateritic Soils
by Kangwei Tang, Feng Zeng, Liang Shi, Long Zhu, Zining Chen and Feng Zhang
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5601; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065601 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2430
Abstract
Granular lateritic soil is commonly used for road construction in humid tropical and subtropical regions. However, the high plastic clay content and poor particle distribution of some laterite materials make them unsuitable for bases and subbases. Lime treatment is a widely used method [...] Read more.
Granular lateritic soil is commonly used for road construction in humid tropical and subtropical regions. However, the high plastic clay content and poor particle distribution of some laterite materials make them unsuitable for bases and subbases. Lime treatment is a widely used method for improving problematic lateritic soil, and liquid ionic stabilizers are considered an environmentally friendly solution for reinforcing such soils. However, using only lime or only stabilizers may not be optimal. This study investigated the effect of treating granular lateritic soil with hydrated lime and a new liquid stabilizer, Zhonglu-2A (ZL-2A). A series of indoor tests, including compaction, California bearing ratio, and unconfined compressive strength tests, were conducted to evaluate the effects of hydrated lime content and stabilizer content on the mechanical properties, mineralogical composition, and microstructure of the soil. The results show that an increase in hydrated lime dosage increases the optimal moisture content and decreases the maximum dry density. The CBR of lime-stabilizer-treated laterite was at least 2–3 times higher than that of the only-lime-treated soil. The highest CBR was observed in samples treated with 0.2‰ ZL-2A stabilizer. The sample with 6% lime and 0.2‰ ZL-2A stabilizer exhibited the highest unconfined compressive strength, and a nearly linear increase was observed between the unconfined compressive strength and CBR. Further investigation of the stabilization mechanism using X-ray diffraction mineralogy analysis and scanning electron microscopy revealed that the inorganic substances of the ZL-2A stabilizer and the hydrated lime provided the basic conditions for the reaction and generated cementitious hydrates on the clay particles. The mixture of granular lateritic soil and hydrated lime was wrapped by the ZL-2A stabilizer, forming a complex spatial structure and improving the strength of the soil. To improve the bearing capacity of subgrades in actual subgrade engineering, a combination of a liquid ionic stabilizer and lime should be used to treat laterite. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Subgrade Stability in Complex Environment for Sustainable Road)
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<p>Granular lateritic soil.</p> Full article ">Figure 2
<p>Grain size distribution of the granular lateritic soil sample.</p> Full article ">Figure 3
<p>Free swell ratio of the lateritic soil.</p> Full article ">Figure 4
<p>Flowchart.</p> Full article ">Figure 5
<p>Compaction curves of laterite with varying lime content.</p> Full article ">Figure 6
<p>Variations in the optimum moisture content and maximum dry density of laterite with the change in lime content.</p> Full article ">Figure 7
<p>CBRs of the lime- and ZL-2A-stabilizer-treated granular lateritic soils.</p> Full article ">Figure 8
<p>Swellings of lime- and ZL-2A-stabilizer-treated granular lateritic soils.</p> Full article ">Figure 9
<p>UCS test (S5): (<b>a</b>) early stage of loading; (<b>b</b>) mid stage of loading; (<b>c</b>) end of loading.</p> Full article ">Figure 10
<p>Stress–strain curves for the lime- and ZL-2A-stabilizer-treated granular lateritic soils: (<b>a</b>) 3% lime + ZL-2A stabilizer; (<b>b</b>) 6% lime + ZL-2A stabilizer; and (<b>c</b>) 9% lime + ZL-2A stabilizer.</p> Full article ">Figure 11
<p>UCSs and failure strains of the lime- and ZL-2A-stabilizer-treated granular lateritic soils: (<b>a</b>) UCSs and (<b>b</b>) failure strain.</p> Full article ">Figure 12
<p>Relationship between the CBR and UCS [<a href="#B18-sustainability-15-05601" class="html-bibr">18</a>,<a href="#B21-sustainability-15-05601" class="html-bibr">21</a>,<a href="#B37-sustainability-15-05601" class="html-bibr">37</a>].</p> Full article ">Figure 13
<p>Infrared spectrum of the ZL-2A stabilizer.</p> Full article ">Figure 14
<p>XRD patterns of the stabilized soils.</p> Full article ">Figure 15
<p>SEM images of the raw granular lateritic soil, hydrated lime, and ZL-2A stabilizer: (<b>a</b>) lateritic soils (×1000); (<b>b</b>) lateritic soil (×20,000); (<b>c</b>) hydrated lime (×5000); (<b>d</b>) hydrated lime (×10,000); (<b>e</b>) ZL-2A stabilizer (×1000); and (<b>f</b>) ZL-2A stabilizer (×5000).</p> Full article ">Figure 16
<p>SEM images of the hydrated lime soil at different magnifications: (<b>a</b>) hydrated lime soil (×3000) and (<b>b</b>) hydrated lime soil (×5000).</p> Full article ">Figure 17
<p>SEM images of hydrated lime + ZL-2A stabilizer + soil at different magnifications: (<b>a</b>) ×2000; (<b>b</b>) ×10,000; (<b>c</b>) ×10,000; (<b>d</b>) ×20,000; (<b>e</b>) ×20,000; and (<b>f</b>) ×50,000.</p> Full article ">Figure 17 Cont.
<p>SEM images of hydrated lime + ZL-2A stabilizer + soil at different magnifications: (<b>a</b>) ×2000; (<b>b</b>) ×10,000; (<b>c</b>) ×10,000; (<b>d</b>) ×20,000; (<b>e</b>) ×20,000; and (<b>f</b>) ×50,000.</p> Full article ">
25 pages, 1182 KiB  
Article
Evolution of the Coupling Coordination between the Marine Economy and Digital Economy
by Yang Liu, Yiying Jiang, Zhaobin Pei, Na Xia and Aijun Wang
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5600; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065600 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2842
Abstract
Accelerating the high-quality integrated development of digital economy and marine economy is vital for the development of the marine economy in coastal countries and regions. However, few scholars examined such coordination. Here, based on panel data from 2012 to 2019 and the spatial [...] Read more.
Accelerating the high-quality integrated development of digital economy and marine economy is vital for the development of the marine economy in coastal countries and regions. However, few scholars examined such coordination. Here, based on panel data from 2012 to 2019 and the spatial scale of China’s coastal provinces and cities, the entropy method, coupling harmonious degree model (CCDM), Theil index, and Tobit model were adopted to measure and calculate the interval index differences in the marine economic quality and digital economy level. Exploring the coordination between the marine economy and digital economy, the interval difference index, and the coordination impact factors were also important. First, we found that the quality level of the marine economy and digital economy moved forward in waves and spiraled up, but that the quality of development was relatively low. Second, the coordination between the marine economy and digital economy gradually increased. Third, the coordination gap between the regional marine economy and digital economy was obvious. Fourth, the main factors that affected the coordination between the marine economy and digital economy were the level of digital infrastructure construction, the scale of the marine economy, the level of the marine industry, and industrial digitalization. The results have value for the sustainable development of the marine economy of coastal countries and regions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Business Analytics and Big Data for Business Sustainability II)
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<p>Coupling coordination relationship between the marine economy and digital economy.</p> Full article ">Figure 2
<p>Coordination between the marine economy and the digital economy in China’s coastal provinces.</p> Full article ">Figure 3
<p>Spatial pattern of coordination between the marine economy and digital economy in China in typical years.</p> Full article ">
16 pages, 473 KiB  
Article
Energy Assessment of a Tannery to Improve Its Sustainability
by Josep M. Morera, Emiliano Borri, Gabriel Zsembinszki, David Vérez, Gemma Gasa, Esther Bartolí and Luisa F. Cabeza
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5599; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065599 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2802
Abstract
The tanning industry is one of the highly polluting sectors, and it is only in the last few years that studies on the energy improvement of tanneries started to proliferate in the literature. Even though the energy cost of a tannery is only [...] Read more.
The tanning industry is one of the highly polluting sectors, and it is only in the last few years that studies on the energy improvement of tanneries started to proliferate in the literature. Even though the energy cost of a tannery is only a small fraction of the total cost, many tanners became aware of the importance of improving energy efficiency and reducing the environmental footprint to keep the business afloat and be more competitive in the market. This paper presents a study on increasing the sustainability of a tannery located in the region of Catalonia, Spain. Several measures to increase its energy efficiency and reduce its primary energy consumption were proposed and analysed including, among others, the implementation of solar thermal collectors and photovoltaic panels. A cost analysis of the most promising solutions was carried out and discussed. The results show that the tannery should invest between EUR 2 to 2.5 M to obtain the highest energy savings, with an estimated payback period between 5 and 7 years. However, acceptable energy savings can be obtained with a lower investment cost of between EUR 1 to 1.5 M, with a shorter payback period of between 2 and 4 years. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)
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<p>Summary of all proposed options, including payback period, initial investment, and LWG category.</p> Full article ">
21 pages, 2546 KiB  
Article
Allotment Garden Products as Contribution to Sustainable and Resilient Cities: An Analysis in Leipzig, Germany
by Lotta Schäfer, Janina Kleemann and Marcin Spyra
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5598; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065598 - 22 Mar 2023
Viewed by 2449
Abstract
The food supply and the consumption of resources are already central challenges for the growing world population and increasing demands. Urban areas in particular face problems of resilience and sustainability. The development of alternative food systems by, e.g., urban gardening, can contribute to [...] Read more.
The food supply and the consumption of resources are already central challenges for the growing world population and increasing demands. Urban areas in particular face problems of resilience and sustainability. The development of alternative food systems by, e.g., urban gardening, can contribute to meet targets of sustainable consumption, inclusive economy, and resilient food systems of cities. Our research presents insights into the available harvest of products from allotments. In addition, the interest and motivation of gardeners to distribute products from their allotments was investigated. The analysis was based on a structured and standardized questionnaire with more than 90 allotment gardeners in Leipzig. Data were analyzed by means of descriptive statistics. Our results showed that especially zucchinis, tomatoes, berries, and apples could be distributed to consumers; however, the greatest obstacle involves the legal framework to economically distribute products from these allotments. On the other hand, some respondents showed that income generation from allotment products is less important than the enjoyment of the garden and the charitable goal of action. They suggested an organized distribution system of surplus from allotments to particularly disadvantaged people. This paper encourages re-examination of the conventional urban–rural relations, the production–consumption relationships, and the norms of economic activity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food, Supply Chains, and Sustainable Development)
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<p>(<b>a</b>) The location of Leipzig in Germany, and (<b>b</b>) the location of allotments in Leipzig and the selected city districts Möckern, Schönefeld-Ost, and Baalsdorf (own representation in QGIS 3.28. Data source: Open Street Maps, 2023).</p> Full article ">Figure 2
<p>The most commonly grown fruits and vegetable varieties/species and their surplus (by counts in absolute numbers; multiple response). The categories “berries“, “herbs“, and “flowers“ were created though summarizing different kinds of berries, herbs, and flowers. Own representation. Data source: own survey, 2022.</p> Full article ">Figure 3
<p>Participant’s estimation of the frequency of their own surplus on a 1–10 numeric scale (1 = Never, 10 = Very often (Question: “How often do you harvest more than you consume?”, translated from the questionnaire in German).</p> Full article ">Figure 4
<p>Self-perceived share of the surplus of garden products (Open-ended question: “Approximately what percentage of the total harvest is the surplus that you do not consume yourself?”, translated from the questionnaire in German).</p> Full article ">Figure 5
<p>Willingness for giving away or selling garden products. Question (<b>a</b>): If selling garden products would be allowed, would you generally find a system useful that organizes the distribution of surplus to potential consumers? Question (<b>b</b>): Even if you could only earn a small amount of money, would it still be attractive for you personally to sell products from your garden? (Translated from the questionnaire in German, Own representation. Data source: own survey, 2022).</p> Full article ">Figure A1
<p>The distribution of the participant’s age in comparison with normal distribution. Data source: own survey, 2022.</p> Full article ">Figure A2
<p>QQ-Diagram to test the variable “age“ for normal distribution (own representation. Data source: own survey, 2022.</p> Full article ">Figure A3
<p>Mentioned counts for the different berry types. Data source: own survey, 2022.</p> Full article ">
22 pages, 1133 KiB  
Article
Nexuses among Green Supply Chain Management, Green Human Capital, Managerial Environmental Knowledge, and Firm Performance: Evidence from a Developing Country
by Naila Nureen, Da Liu, Muhammad Irfan, Maida Malik and Usama Awan
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5597; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065597 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3470
Abstract
The growing pressures from the government, buyers, consumers, suppliers, and the general public have recently compelled manufacturing firms to enhance their production methods by becoming more environmentally friendly and pursuing new innovative methods for producing green goods in developing countries. However, the relationship [...] Read more.
The growing pressures from the government, buyers, consumers, suppliers, and the general public have recently compelled manufacturing firms to enhance their production methods by becoming more environmentally friendly and pursuing new innovative methods for producing green goods in developing countries. However, the relationship between green supply chain management (GSCM), green human capital (GHC), green innovation (GIN), managerial environmental knowledge (MEK), and firm performance (FPR) has received only a minimal amount of research focus. This study addresses this research gap by providing empirical evidence to motivate firms to implement GSCM, GHC, GIN, and MEK to enhance their FPR in developing countries substantially. A conceptual framework was developed to connect the concepts mentioned above. A questionnaire-based survey was used to collect the data. A total of 736 respondents from manufacturing firms in China were selected. Utilizing structural equation modeling (SEM), the data were analyzed. The findings indicate that neither GHC nor GSCM directly affects FPR; rather, GIN mediates the connection between GHC, GSCM, and FPR. In addition, the findings showed that MEK directly affects FPR and moderates the link between GIN and FPR. This study examined several theoretical and managerial implications and expanded research in the related fields. The results may help practitioners and managers comprehend how GSCM practices impact GIN and FPR. The outcomes of this research will benefit experts, policy makers, and stakeholders who seek to encourage FPR enhancements. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Technologies Enabling Sustainability in Manufacturing and Supply Chain)
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<p>Confirmatory factor analysis representing the measurement model. Source: Authors’ calculations.</p> Full article ">Figure 2
<p>Path diagram of structural equation modeling. * <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.1, ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, *** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01. Source: Authors’ calculation.</p> Full article ">
15 pages, 822 KiB  
Article
Micro-Videos as a Learning Tool for Professional Practice during the Post-COVID Era: An Educational Experience
by Pilar Ester, Isabel Morales and Laura Herrero
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5596; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065596 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2598
Abstract
With the arrival of the pandemic, many education students in higher education classrooms saw how their internships were cancelled, making it impossible for them to access real contexts that would let them know how their everyday professional life would be. Consequently, it was [...] Read more.
With the arrival of the pandemic, many education students in higher education classrooms saw how their internships were cancelled, making it impossible for them to access real contexts that would let them know how their everyday professional life would be. Consequently, it was necessary to make a methodological change. To bridge the gap between theoretical and practical training, we conducted an educational experience at a private university where several educational videos were used to reflect the implementation of different educational methodologies in teaching mathematics by expert teachers. In the recorded practices, it was shown how four different methodologies were implemented in several contexts during the day-to-day classes: International Baccalaureate (IB), gamification, flipped classroom and project-based learning. We studied each methodology to measure their impact on primary students’ learning and guarantee that higher education students had visualized effective practices through micro-videos. The results of our study show that, in certain aspects of mathematics, the students’ own teaching capabilities have greater influence than the theoretical methodological instruction they generally receive in the classroom. Further, concerning students’ perceptions, we can conclude that their motivation increased towards the use of micro-videos, since they became active agents of their own learning. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Post-pandemic Digital Educational Scenarios)
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<p>Percentages of perceptions towards the video as an active methodology.</p> Full article ">Figure 2
<p>Percentages of their perception towards video as a tool to deepen content.</p> Full article ">Figure 3
<p>Percentages of their perception towards video as a tool to continuous evaluation.</p> Full article ">Figure 4
<p>Percentages of their perception towards using the video as a motivating tool.</p> Full article ">
21 pages, 293 KiB  
Article
Selecting Nomination Committee Members—Stakeholders’ Perspective
by Hildur Magnusdottir, Audur Arna Arnardottir and Throstur Olaf Sigurjonsson
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5595; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065595 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2063
Abstract
Sustainability is a critical issue for businesses today, and corporate boards and nomination committees play a vital role in promoting sustainable practices within organizations. Nomination Committees (NCs) have become important mechanisms for what has been coined as good or sustainable governance. Stakeholders, however, [...] Read more.
Sustainability is a critical issue for businesses today, and corporate boards and nomination committees play a vital role in promoting sustainable practices within organizations. Nomination Committees (NCs) have become important mechanisms for what has been coined as good or sustainable governance. Stakeholders, however, have different opinions on the merits of these committees. Amongst other things, there is disagreement about whom to select for NCs and the criteria for selection. The composition of NCs can influence board nominations and determine whether the necessary knowledge and skills reside within a board to deal with sustainability and good corporate governance. The aim of this research is to provide insights into stakeholders’ perspectives on what matters when profiling nomination committees’ members. The literature on NCs is underdeveloped, and this research importantly addresses the issue by interviewing 13 individuals who are either shareholders, board members of listed companies, or members of NCs. Additionally, a questionnaire was sent to shareholders, board members, and NC members of the 300 largest companies in Iceland. A total of 138 responses were received. The results show that stakeholders believe it is important to decide upon an NC’s composition prior to electing its members. NC members should have either management or board membership experience. Diversity within the committees is also seen to be important, as it can influence diversity and inclusion overall at the board level. These research results provide important insights and understanding for shareholders and boards of directors when composing nomination committees. Full article
19 pages, 4679 KiB  
Article
Mechanical Characteristics and Durability of HMA Made of Recycled Aggregates
by Kiran Sapkota, Ehsan Yaghoubi, P. L. P. Wasantha, Rudi Van Staden and Sam Fragomeni
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5594; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065594 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2310
Abstract
The application of recycled aggregates in the asphalt industry has been investigated in recent decades. However, low percentages of these materials have practically been used in asphalt mixtures because of the limitations set by the relevant specifications due to their performance uncertainties. This [...] Read more.
The application of recycled aggregates in the asphalt industry has been investigated in recent decades. However, low percentages of these materials have practically been used in asphalt mixtures because of the limitations set by the relevant specifications due to their performance uncertainties. This research investigates the feasibility of increasing the percentage of recycled aggregates to 100% in hot mix asphalt (HMA). Recycled concrete aggregate (RCA), recycled glass (RG), and reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) were used to develop HMAs suitable for roads with light to medium traffic. First, potential mix designs were proposed using an innovative approach considering the industry’s needs. Next, the volumetric properties, tensile strength, moisture sensitivity and resilient modulus response of the mixtures under different temperature conditions were determined and compared. In general, the proposed recycled material HMA exhibited superior mechanical and resilient modulus performances, i.e., 45 to 145% increase in stiffness, and up to 99% higher in Marshall stability. Furthermore, higher tensile strength ratios of the recycled material mixtures indicated a greater resistance to water damage, and hence greater durability. The findings of this research provide evidence-based insights into the increased proportion of recycled materials in the construction of asphalt pavements, thereby promoting sustainable pavement construction materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Sustainable Paving Materials and Pavement Construction)
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<p>Natural, RAP, RG and RCA aggregates used in this research.</p> Full article ">Figure 2
<p>Particle size distribution curves of the aggregates.</p> Full article ">Figure 3
<p>Apparent particle density and water absorption test results of all aggregates.</p> Full article ">Figure 4
<p>Flakiness index of the different aggregates used in this study.</p> Full article ">Figure 5
<p>Aggregate gradation of (<b>a</b>) 10 mm (<b>b</b>) 20 mm mixtures.</p> Full article ">Figure 6
<p>The modular testing machine and the IDT test set-up.</p> Full article ">Figure 7
<p>Example Marshall charts for the evaluation of the OBC of 10NA. (<b>a</b>) Marshall stability; (<b>b</b>) flow; (<b>c</b>) air voids; (<b>d</b>) unit weight; (<b>e</b>) VMA; and (<b>f</b>) VFB, versus bitumen content.</p> Full article ">Figure 8
<p>Comparison of (<b>a</b>) bulk density, (<b>b</b>) OBC, (<b>c</b>) VFB, (<b>d</b>) Stability, (<b>e</b>) Flow value, and (<b>f</b>) VMA of the 10 mm mixtures.</p> Full article ">Figure 9
<p>Comparison of (<b>a</b>) bulk density, (<b>b</b>) OBC, (<b>c</b>) VFB, (<b>d</b>) Stability, (<b>e</b>) Flow value, and (<b>f</b>) VMA of the 20 mm mixtures.</p> Full article ">Figure 10
<p>The IDT test results of the mixtures at their respective OBC for both 10 and 20 mm mixtures.</p> Full article ">Figure 11
<p>Dry (unconditioned) and wet (conditioned) tensile strength of (<b>a</b>) 10 mm, and (<b>b</b>) 20 mm asphalt mixes.</p> Full article ">
17 pages, 2347 KiB  
Article
Analysis of the Effect of Modified Biochar on Saline–Alkali Soil Remediation and Crop Growth
by Chunyu Li, Zhichao Wang, Yutao Xu, Jingfei Sun, Xinyi Ruan, Xuanwen Mao, Xiangyun Hu and Peng Liu
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5593; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065593 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3497
Abstract
To solve the problem of soil degradation in coastal saline–alkali land, three different types of biochar (rice straw biochar, magnetic biochar, and humic acid–magnetic biochar) were prepared to remedy the saline–alkali soil under different mixing ratios. The effects of biochar on the growth [...] Read more.
To solve the problem of soil degradation in coastal saline–alkali land, three different types of biochar (rice straw biochar, magnetic biochar, and humic acid–magnetic biochar) were prepared to remedy the saline–alkali soil under different mixing ratios. The effects of biochar on the growth of crops in saline–alkali soil were explored through a pot experiment on Chinese cabbage. The experimental results showed that the soil leaching treatment combined with humic acid–magnetic biochar could effectively repair the coastal saline–alkali soil. After adding 5% humic acid–magnetic biochar, the content of soil organic matter was 33.95 g/kg, the water content was 13.85%, and the contents of available phosphorus and available potassium were 9.43 mg/kg and 29.51 mg/kg. After adding 5% humic acid–magnetic biochar, the plant height of Chinese cabbage was 9.16 ± 0.19 cm, and the plant germination rate reached 83.33 ± 5.54%. The incorporation of biochar could effectively increase the chlorophyll content and soluble protein content of pakchoi and reduce the soluble sugar content of pakchoi. The study analyzed the effect of different modified biochar on saline–alkali land restoration and crop growth and explored the action rule of hydrochloric acid magnetic biochar on saline–alkali land restoration, which has important practical value for improving coastal saline–alkali land. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Technology and Related Macro-Policy Regulation for Soil Remediation, Water Treatment, and CO2 Abatement)
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<p>Preparation process of three kinds of biochar.</p> Full article ">Figure 2
<p>Biochar’s basic physical properties as well as chemical properties. (<b>a</b>) Difference between pH, Productivity, Ash content. (<b>b</b>) Difference between Specific surface area, Pore volume.</p> Full article ">Figure 3
<p>Element analysis results of three kinds of biochar.</p> Full article ">Figure 4
<p>Three kinds of biochar’s infrared spectra.</p> Full article ">Figure 5
<p>Biochar’s effect on the leaching rate of saline–alkali soil. (<b>a</b>) Blank group. (<b>b</b>) 1% incorporation. (<b>c</b>) 5% incorporation.</p> Full article ">Figure 6
<p>Biochar’s effect on the pH value of soil leachate. (<b>a</b>) RBC. (<b>b</b>) MBC. (<b>c</b>) HA-MBC.</p> Full article ">Figure 7
<p>Biochar’s effect on the cation concentration of soil leachate. (<b>a</b>) RBC. (<b>b</b>) MBC. (<b>c</b>) HA-MBC.</p> Full article ">Figure 8
<p>Effects of three kinds of biochar on the physical properties as well as chemical properties of saline–alkali soil. (<b>a</b>) 1% content. (<b>b</b>) 5% content.</p> Full article ">Figure 9
<p>Effects of three kinds of biochar on nitrogen forms in saline–alkali soil. (<b>a</b>) 1% content. (<b>b</b>) 5% content.</p> Full article ">Figure 10
<p>Biochar’s effects on the distribution of soil cations after leaching treatment. (<b>a</b>) Soil Na<sup>+</sup> distribution. (<b>b</b>) Soil K<sup>+</sup> distribution. (<b>c</b>) Soil Mg<sup>2+</sup> distribution.</p> Full article ">Figure 11
<p>Effects of three kinds of biochar on the growth and biological characteristics of Chinese cabbage. (<b>a</b>) 1% content. (<b>b</b>) 5% content.</p> Full article ">Figure 12
<p>Biochar’s effect on the quality of Chinese cabbage.</p> Full article ">
9 pages, 4743 KiB  
Communication
Annual Mangrove Vegetation Cover Changes (2014–2020) in Indian Sundarbans National Park Using Landsat 8 and Google Earth Engine
by Gwendolyn Karsch, Sharif A. Mukul and Sanjeev Kumar Srivastava
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5592; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065592 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2749
Abstract
Mangrove ecosystems have high ecological and economic value mainly because of their ability to sequester large amounts of carbon and protect shorelines. Monitoring such ecosystems with earth observation data analytics is necessary to achieve deeper insight and subsequent conservation strategies. The Sundarbans is [...] Read more.
Mangrove ecosystems have high ecological and economic value mainly because of their ability to sequester large amounts of carbon and protect shorelines. Monitoring such ecosystems with earth observation data analytics is necessary to achieve deeper insight and subsequent conservation strategies. The Sundarbans is the world’s largest contiguous mangrove forest, and Sundarbans National Park is a part of this world-famous mangrove forest in India. To examine vegetation change in this region, we used a planetary-scale tool, the Google Earth Engine. A time series of the surface reflectance product of Landsat 8 between 2014 and 2020 was analysed using annual median images. NDVI and dNDVI were derived to monitor vegetation cover change. While we noticed no major changes in the vegetation cover throughout the study area, the coastal regions, especially the southern end, showed significant changes. There were both mangrove vegetation gains due to land accretion and mangrove loss due to erosion and cyclone damage. This study will be useful for long-term monitoring of the imperiled Sundarbans ecosystem to measure any major changes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Frontiers in Wetland Ecology and Environmental Sustainability)
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<p>Geographical location of the Sundarbans across India and Bangladesh and the study area (dark color). This study uses part of the Indian Sundarbans that is subjected to cyclonic activities.</p> Full article ">Figure 2
<p>Mean NDVI maps of the study area for each year of the study period.</p> Full article ">Figure 3
<p>Results of statistical analysis (parameter: minimum, maximum, mean, and standard deviation) of the NDVI calculation for each year of the study period in the whole study area.</p> Full article ">Figure 4
<p>NDVI maps of the study area for each year of the study period (visually enhanced to show changes more clearly).</p> Full article ">
21 pages, 69004 KiB  
Article
Intelligent Damage Assessment for Post-Earthquake Buildings Using Computer Vision and Augmented Reality
by Zhansheng Liu, Jie Xue, Naiqiang Wang, Wenyan Bai and Yanchi Mo
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5591; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065591 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2946
Abstract
The most negative effects caused by earthquakes are the damage and collapse of buildings. Seismic building retrofitting and repair can effectively reduce the negative impact on post-earthquake buildings. The priority to repair the construction after being damaged by an earthquake is to perform [...] Read more.
The most negative effects caused by earthquakes are the damage and collapse of buildings. Seismic building retrofitting and repair can effectively reduce the negative impact on post-earthquake buildings. The priority to repair the construction after being damaged by an earthquake is to perform an assessment of seismic buildings. The traditional damage assessment method is mainly based on visual inspection, which is highly subjective and has low efficiency. To improve the intelligence of damage assessments for post-earthquake buildings, this paper proposed an assessment method using CV (Computer Vision) and AR (Augmented Reality). Firstly, this paper proposed a fusion mechanism for the CV and AR of the assessment method. Secondly, the CNN (Convolutional Neural Network) algorithm and gray value theory are used to determine the damage information of post-earthquake buildings. Then, the damage assessment can be visually displayed according to the damage information. Finally, this paper used a damage assessment case of seismic-reinforced concrete frame beams to verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed assessment method. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industry 4.0 Digital Transformation for Intelligent Construction, Operation and Maintenance)
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<p>The assessment process combines CV and AR.</p> Full article ">Figure 2
<p>The fusion mechanism of CV and AR in the damage assessment system. The Chinese characters in the picture on the bottom right means Concrete-Rectangular Beam.</p> Full article ">Figure 3
<p>The damage assessment process for RC beams.</p> Full article ">Figure 4
<p>The transformation relationship of coordinates.</p> Full article ">Figure 5
<p>The transformation of camera coordinates to image coordinates.</p> Full article ">Figure 6
<p>The transformation relationship between an image coordinate and a pixel coordinate.</p> Full article ">Figure 7
<p>The complete architecture of a CNN.</p> Full article ">Figure 8
<p>An example of data augmentation for an image of RC beams in the ratio of 1:20.</p> Full article ">Figure 9
<p>The seismic RC beams in the earthquake simulation laboratory.</p> Full article ">Figure 10
<p>The gray scale morphology of the cracks. (<b>a</b>) Image, (<b>b</b>) binarization, (<b>c</b>) corrosion, (<b>d</b>) expansion, (<b>e</b>) opening, and (<b>f</b>) closing.</p> Full article ">Figure 11
<p>The different gray values of different crack widths [<a href="#B50-sustainability-15-05591" class="html-bibr">50</a>]. (<b>a</b>) Width: 0.09 mm, (<b>b</b>) width: 0.15 mm, (<b>c</b>) width: 0.20 mm, (<b>d</b>) width: 0.50 mm, and (<b>e</b>) width: 1.00 mm.</p> Full article ">Figure 12
<p>The steps in the use process of the information collection terminal. (<b>a</b>) System login, (<b>b</b>) function selection, (<b>c</b>) measure shooting distance, and (<b>d</b>) take the image.</p> Full article ">Figure 13
<p>The illustration of the CNN model.</p> Full article ">Figure 14
<p>Experimental results of the CNN model on the damage type of crack.</p> Full article ">Figure 15
<p>Experimental results of the CNN model on the damage type of concrete.</p> Full article ">Figure 16
<p>The damage information displayed in the terminal.</p> Full article ">Figure 17
<p>Steps to viewing the damage model and information: (<b>A</b>) place the model, (<b>B</b>) view the model, (<b>C</b>) view detailed information on the damage, (<b>D</b>) identify the thumbnail, and (<b>E</b>) display the repair video [<a href="#B24-sustainability-15-05591" class="html-bibr">24</a>].</p> Full article ">Figure 18
<p>The IDEFO of the damage assessment method.</p> Full article ">
22 pages, 42935 KiB  
Article
Implementation of Urban Solution for New Faculty Facilities within Spatial Historical and Cultural Units—A Case Study of Belgrade, Serbia
by Nataša Danilović Hristić, Marija Lalošević and Nebojša Stefanović
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5590; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065590 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1937
Abstract
The focus of this study is buildings for public purposes, specifically for higher education, planned in zones of spatial cultural-historical units. Sustainable urban planning in areas with cultural-historical heritage is a particular challenge since the higher education facilities themselves have their own functional [...] Read more.
The focus of this study is buildings for public purposes, specifically for higher education, planned in zones of spatial cultural-historical units. Sustainable urban planning in areas with cultural-historical heritage is a particular challenge since the higher education facilities themselves have their own functional requirements, which are much easier to fulfill in “softer” locations. The research objective is to prove the hypothesis that it is possible to indicate a prescription for the practical application of the theoretical model and define the necessary steps to achieve the best sustainable quality results in practice. The paper analyses the associated process, relational settings, circumstances, participants, and timelines, and it presents the results of final designs based on two parallel case studies of new capital buildings for the University of Belgrade. Methodologically it gives an overview of the context, referring to other research and examples, detailing chosen case studies, and describing their backgrounds, conditions and requirements, frameworks, chronologies, approaches, and results. The discussion concludes with theoretical models originating from the comparison of implemented steps in the process of creation and evaluation of architectural ideas and summarized similarities and differences, aiming that there is a common model suitable for further applications. The practical result of the research is findings about the pathway for the best original planning solution emphasized through the institution of urban architectural competitions as a mandatory step, recommending wider participation of experts in the process of evaluation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Cultural Heritage in Promoting the Sustainable Development of Cities and Territories)
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<p>Illustration of the methodical workflow.</p> Full article ">Figure 2
<p>Location of spatial cultural-historical units and coverage of the urban and architectural competition for the two case studies—FAA and FEE+ (source: authors).</p> Full article ">Figure 3
<p>Timeline for the FAA case study (source: authors).</p> Full article ">Figure 4
<p>(<b>a</b>,<b>b</b>). The first prize-winning solution for the FAA project—View from Karadjordjeva Street and from the green, publicly accessible roof (authors Bojana Kovač Djurasinović and Miloš Djurasinović, source: WEB izložba—Konkurs FPU (WEB exhibition FAA competition)) (konkurs-fpu.rs).</p> Full article ">Figure 5
<p>Timeline for the FEE + case study (source: authors).</p> Full article ">Figure 6
<p>(<b>a</b>,<b>b</b>). First prize winning entry by the 4 MIND Studio—Model solution of the complex and rendering of the central part of the block of the University Center of Technical Faculties (Source: <a href="http://www.4mind.rs" target="_blank">www.4mind.rs</a> accessed on 29 June 2022).</p> Full article ">Figure 7
<p>Schematic, unified representation of key (milestone) methodological steps in the process leading to implementation, where A, B, C and D represent sequence of steps (source: authors).</p> Full article ">
13 pages, 1850 KiB  
Article
The Paddy Procurement System for Sustainability: Evidence from Bangladesh Agriculture Sector
by Md. Ashraful Islam, Md. Aminul Islam, Farid Ahammad Sobhani, Pradip Royhan, Md. Kausar Alam and Md. Sharif Hassan
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5589; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065589 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3216
Abstract
Bangladesh derives one-half of its agricultural GDP and one-sixth of its national income from paddy. It is crucial to the farmers’ ability to survive. This paper aims to investigate current paddy procurement system and farmer awareness in the Bangladeshi agricultural sector to ensure [...] Read more.
Bangladesh derives one-half of its agricultural GDP and one-sixth of its national income from paddy. It is crucial to the farmers’ ability to survive. This paper aims to investigate current paddy procurement system and farmer awareness in the Bangladeshi agricultural sector to ensure business sustainability. This paper utilised a quantitative approach to research. The research investigated farmers’ consciousness through perception and contentment. For the measurement, a survey of 210 farmers from three Upazilas was conducted using a closed-ended, pre-tested questionnaire. Version 20 of the SPSS programme was used for data analysis. Approximately 67.6% of respondents were unhappy with the current paddy procurement system, according to the study. Approximately 69.10% of respondents believe there is a middleman in the current paddy procurement system, approximately 94.30% of respondents believe the current system needs improvement, and 99.0% believe a new paddy procurement system could be beneficial. Furthermore, these findings led to the conclusion that there is room for improvement in the current paddy procurement system, which will increase the transparency and sustainability of paddy procurement activities for everyone, including farmers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Strategic Management of Business)
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<p>Standard Paddy Procurement System.</p> Full article ">Figure 2
<p>Current paddy Procurement System.</p> Full article ">Figure 3
<p>Farmers’ sale preferences.</p> Full article ">Figure 4
<p>Farmers’ happiness with the current paddy procurement system.</p> Full article ">Figure 5
<p>Farmers’ opinion on the involvement of middlemen in the current paddy procurement system.</p> Full article ">Figure 6
<p>Desire of the farmers for the new paddy procurement system.</p> Full article ">
24 pages, 2785 KiB  
Article
Two-Tier Cooperation Based High-Reliable and Lightweight Forwarding Strategy in Heterogeneous WBAN
by Jirui Li, Junsheng Xiao and Jie Yuan
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5588; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065588 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1650
Abstract
Due to the limited and difficult access to sensor energy, energy conservation has always been an important issue in wireless body area network (WBAN). How to make full use of the limited energy of heterogeneous sensors in WBAN to achieve lightweight and high-reliable [...] Read more.
Due to the limited and difficult access to sensor energy, energy conservation has always been an important issue in wireless body area network (WBAN). How to make full use of the limited energy of heterogeneous sensors in WBAN to achieve lightweight and high-reliable data transmission has also become key to the sustainable development of telemedicine services. This paper proposes a two-tier cooperation based high-reliable and lightweight forwarding (TTCF) mechanism via minimizing the amount of transmitted data and optimizing forwarding performance, so as to improve the efficiency and reliability of WBAN and reduce system energy consumption. In TTCF, an adaptive semi-tensor product compressed sensing evolution (STPCSE) model is first constructed to minimize the amount of data to be transmitted and extend the lifetime of sensors. Then, the important factors closely related to the energy consumption of human body sensors, including sampling frequency, residual energy and their importance in the network, are analyzed and redefined, and a high-reliable and lightweight forwarding model based on a multi-factor dynamic fusion is built. Finally, the performance and energy-saving effect of TTCF in a dynamic WBAN environment are compared and analyzed. Simulation results show that the system with our TTCF always performs the best in terms of data reconstruct accuracy, cumulative delivery rata, energy consumption and throughput. For example, its cumulative delivery rate is about 12% and 20.8% higher than that of UC-MPRP and CRPBA, and its residual energy and throughput are 1.22 times and 1.41 times, 1.35 times and 1.6 times of the latter two, respectively. Full article
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<p>TTCF strategy in heterogeneous WBAN.</p> Full article ">Figure 2
<p>STPCSE model.</p> Full article ">Figure 3
<p>An example scenario of node distribution in WBAN.</p> Full article ">Figure 4
<p>(<b>a</b>) Influence on signal reconstruction when the measurement matrix is Gaussian matrix and Logistic chaotic matrix, respectively; (<b>b</b>) Influence on signal reconstruction when the auxiliary matrix is Gaussian matrix and Logistic chaotic matrix, respectively.</p> Full article ">Figure 5
<p>Comparison of cumulative delivery rate of data forwarding model with and without TTCF strategy.</p> Full article ">Figure 6
<p>Comparison of cumulative delivery rate of TTCF, UC-MPRP and CRPBA at different times.</p> Full article ">Figure 7
<p>Comparison of residual energy of each sensor node after applying TTCF strategy.</p> Full article ">Figure 8
<p>Comparison of residual energy of the networking between TTCF, UC-MPRP and CRPBA.</p> Full article ">Figure 9
<p>Throughput performance of each sensor node after applying TTCF strategy.</p> Full article ">Figure 10
<p>Comparison of networking throughput between TTCF, UC-MPRP and CRPBA.</p> Full article ">
11 pages, 584 KiB  
Commentary
Perspectives on Taiwan’s Pathway to Net-Zero Emissions
by Pin-Han Chen, Cheng-Han Lee, Jun-Yi Wu and Wei-Sheng Chen
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5587; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065587 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 5423
Abstract
For achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, countries worldwide are committed to setting ambitious carbon reduction targets. In 2022, the officially published report, “Taiwan’s Pathway to Net-Zero Emissions in 2050”, sets out a comprehensive transition plan based on four fundamental strategies: energy, industrial, lifestyle, [...] Read more.
For achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, countries worldwide are committed to setting ambitious carbon reduction targets. In 2022, the officially published report, “Taiwan’s Pathway to Net-Zero Emissions in 2050”, sets out a comprehensive transition plan based on four fundamental strategies: energy, industrial, lifestyle, and social. This transition will likely entail an infrastructure transformation in all sectors of the economy, embracing renewable energy, electricity, and low-carbon fuels. While the Taiwan government is rolling up its sleeves to accelerate the pace of carbon-emission reduction, it is risky to set targets without considering the full implications of net-zero emission and how it will be achieved. This paper provides four insights into Taiwan’s net-zero-emission plan from a perspective of the current understanding of decarbonization and the techniques urgently needed. Although many uncertainties and outstanding questions exist in our net-zero energy systems, and the required granular information for decision makers to track progress has not been clearly identified, this paper points out the characteristics that have been neglected and provides guidance for all stakeholders—governments, businesses, investors, and citizens—to work together on a coordinated plan to tackle climate change. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue EARTH 2022-Green Technologies for Waste Treatment and CO2 Reduction)
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<p>Taiwan’s 2050 net-zero emissions plan (Reprinted/adapted with permission from Ref. [<a href="#B13-sustainability-15-05587" class="html-bibr">13</a>]. Copyright 2022, National Development Council).</p> Full article ">
21 pages, 1038 KiB  
Article
Does ESG Impact Firms’ Sustainability Performance? The Mediating Effect of Innovation Performance
by Shukang Zhou, Md. Harun Ur Rashid, Shah Asadullah Mohd. Zobair, Farid Ahammad Sobhani and Abu Bakkar Siddik
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5586; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065586 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 32 | Viewed by 13121
Abstract
In this age of global warming, academics and policymakers are increasingly concerned about firm environmental sustainability success. Therefore, this study aims to investigate whether Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) performance impacts sustainability performance through the mediating effect of firm innovation. To this end, [...] Read more.
In this age of global warming, academics and policymakers are increasingly concerned about firm environmental sustainability success. Therefore, this study aims to investigate whether Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) performance impacts sustainability performance through the mediating effect of firm innovation. To this end, Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was deployed to analyze data collected from the employees of manufacturing industries in Bangladesh. The results revealed that ESG performance significantly enhances the innovation and sustainability performance of manufacturing industries, indicating that the higher the ESG performance of a firm, the greater its innovation and sustainability performance. Furthermore, the results confirmed that firm innovation performance fully mediates the relationship between ESG initiatives and sustainability performance. The findings of this study provide policymakers and industry authorities with valuable insight into the role of ESG and innovation performance in improving sustainability performance. Specifically, the study sheds knowledge on how firm ESG initiatives and innovation performance impact sustainability performance in the manufacturing sector of an emerging economy such as Bangladesh. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Corporate Social Responsibility and Environmental Resource Governance)
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<p>Proposed Model.</p> Full article ">Figure 2
<p>Measurement Model.</p> Full article ">Figure 3
<p>SEM outputs.</p> Full article ">
13 pages, 562 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Green Development of Aquaculture in China Based on Entropy Method
by Xing Ying and Ping Ying
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5585; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065585 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2202
Abstract
China is the world’s largest producer and consumer of aquatic products. With the rapid economic development of our country and the great improvement of people’s living standards, people have put forward higher requirements for beautiful water ecological environments and high-quality aquaculture products, and [...] Read more.
China is the world’s largest producer and consumer of aquatic products. With the rapid economic development of our country and the great improvement of people’s living standards, people have put forward higher requirements for beautiful water ecological environments and high-quality aquaculture products, and promoting aquaculture green development has become an important initiative to promote high-quality sustainable development of aquaculture. Therefore, the assessment and analysis of the current green development level of the aquaculture industry have important practical significance for comprehensively grasping the current green development status of the aquaculture industry in China, purposefully breaking the development bottleneck, and promoting green and sustainable development of the aquaculture industry. This paper obtains comprehensive evaluation results of the green development of aquaculture in China from 2012 to 2021 by constructing a green development index system of aquaculture and applying the entropy method. The results show that the green development level of aquaculture in China has a fluctuating upward trend, with a good development momentum. The production and living standards of fishermen are important aspects that affect its development. In order to further promote the green development of aquaculture in China, countermeasures and suggestions are put forward from the following aspects: improving the green subsidy policy, improving the level of supervision and service, strengthening scientific and technological innovation and the transformation of scientific and technological achievements, and making full use of the unique advantages according to local conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Agriculture)
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<p>Trend of assessment results of green development of aquaculture from 2012 to 2021.</p> Full article ">
20 pages, 11504 KiB  
Article
Early Highway Construction Cost Estimation: Selection of Key Cost Drivers
by Nevena Simić, Nenad Ivanišević, Đorđe Nedeljković, Aleksandar Senić, Zoran Stojadinović and Marija Ivanović
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5584; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065584 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4436
Abstract
Cost estimates in the early stages of project development are essential for making the right decisions, but they are a huge challenge and risk for owners and potential contractors due to limited information about the characteristics of a future highway project. Whereas previous [...] Read more.
Cost estimates in the early stages of project development are essential for making the right decisions, but they are a huge challenge and risk for owners and potential contractors due to limited information about the characteristics of a future highway project. Whereas previous studies were mainly focused on achieving the highest possible estimation accuracy, this paper aims to propose cost-estimation models that can provide satisfactory accuracy with the least possible effort and to compare the perspectives of owners and contractors as the key stakeholders on projects. To determine cost drivers (CDs) that have a high influence on highway-construction costs and require low effort for their establishment, a questionnaire survey was conducted. Based on the key stakeholders’ perceptions and collected data set, cost-estimation models were developed using multiple-regression analysis, artificial neural networks, and XGBoost. The results show that reasonable cost-estimation accuracy can be achieved with relatively low effort for three CDs for the owners’ perspective and five CDs for the contractors’ perspective. Additional inclusion of input CDs in models does not necessarily imply an increase in accuracy. Also, the questionnaire results show that owners are more concerned about environmental issues, whereas contractors are more concerned about the possible changes in resource prices (especially after recent high increases caused by COVID-19 and the Russia–Ukraine war). These findings can help owners and potential contractors in intelligent decision-making in the early stages of future highway-construction projects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Value Co-Creation in Sustainable Project Society)
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<p>The research process organized into three stages: STAGE 1—preliminary identification of CDs; STAGE 2—questionnaire survey; STAGE 3—cost-estimation modeling.</p> Full article ">Figure 2
<p>Likert scale used in the second and third sections.</p> Full article ">Figure 3
<p>The results of the questionnaire survey: (<b>a</b>) owners’ average perception; (<b>b</b>) contractors’ average perception; (<b>c</b>) general average perception.</p> Full article ">Figure 4
<p>The model results (MAPE and cumulative effort): (<b>a</b>) owners’ perspective; (<b>b</b>) contractors’ perspective; (<b>c</b>) general perspective.</p> Full article ">
22 pages, 1097 KiB  
Article
Managing Sustainable Sharing Economy Platforms: A Stimulus–Organism–Response Based Structural Equation Modelling on an Emerging Market
by Dan-Cristian Dabija, Luiela Magdalena Csorba, Florin-Lucian Isac and Sergiu Rusu
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5583; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065583 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 27 | Viewed by 4227
Abstract
Due to the rising appeal of travel, as well as the appearance of low-cost carriers that fly to both popular and exotic destinations, people nowadays tend to book their accommodation through the more convenient and flexible sharing economy platforms. The success of such [...] Read more.
Due to the rising appeal of travel, as well as the appearance of low-cost carriers that fly to both popular and exotic destinations, people nowadays tend to book their accommodation through the more convenient and flexible sharing economy platforms. The success of such platforms among consumers depends on various factors, such as satisfaction and platform credibility, and on sustainable performance among contributors, increasing their relevance and visibility. This research proposes a conceptual model for measuring the success of sharing economy platforms in tourism, based on added value, unique experience, and enhanced social interactions, together with credibility and sustainable performance. In this vein, the authors conduct an empirical investigation in an emerging market—Romania—where the development of such sharing economy platforms is still in its infancy. Data gathered by the authors by means of a self-developed questionnaire distributed to 500 respondents are modelled via structural equations with SmartPLS. The results indicate that the platform credibility and sustainable performance of sharing economy platforms are key elements in generating their success. The research adds value to the stimulus–organism–response approach, highlighting some insights from a relevant emerging market, which in the future could become a turning point for inbound and outbound tourism. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Sustainable Rural Development through Tourism Strategies)
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<p>The conceptual model. Source: author’s own development.</p> Full article ">Figure 2
<p>Structural model.</p> Full article ">
23 pages, 5445 KiB  
Article
Improving the Efficiency of Rail Passenger Transportation Using an Innovative Operational Concept
by László Erdei, Péter Tamás and Béla Illés
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5582; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065582 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2516
Abstract
In an increasingly fast-paced world, emerging mobility demands must be met by competitive services that are in line with the principles of sustainable transportation concepts. It is not possible to know exactly what the mobility solution of the future will be, but it [...] Read more.
In an increasingly fast-paced world, emerging mobility demands must be met by competitive services that are in line with the principles of sustainable transportation concepts. It is not possible to know exactly what the mobility solution of the future will be, but it is certain that it will require a reduction in car use. A dramatic increase in energy prices will have an impact on the transportation sector, but making public transportation attractive to large numbers of people could reduce unit costs. Public transportation systems can be made more efficient through flexible transportation concepts and by combining individual passenger demand for travel. In the field of rail passenger transportation, practice uses fixed timetables, which do not take into account the changes in ad hoc travel needs. This results in significant losses due to unjustified unnecessary stops and longer travel times. This article presents an operational concept that enables ad hoc passenger demands to be met. The concept ensures minimum energy consumption and a higher level of passenger demand satisfaction through multilevel demand management. A case study was presented to prove the developed theory. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optimization of Logistics Systems Using Industry 4.0 Technologies)
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<p>The categorization of flexibility of different transportation services based on passenger demand or service provider supply (authors’ own).</p> Full article ">Figure 2
<p>Categories and levels of integration of the FTS concept (authors’ own based on [<a href="#B31-sustainability-15-05582" class="html-bibr">31</a>]).</p> Full article ">Figure 3
<p>Placement of A-FTS in the organization of PuT services (authors’ own).</p> Full article ">Figure 4
<p>Layout architecture of A-FTS (authors’ own).</p> Full article ">Figure 5
<p>VRTMS subsystem allocation layout model (authors’ own).</p> Full article ">Figure 6
<p>Rail tracking techniques (authors’ own).</p> Full article ">Figure 7
<p>A-FTS timetables based on (4) condition (authors’ own).</p> Full article ">Figure 8
<p>Logical operation of an ad hoc passenger demand management module (authors’ own).</p> Full article ">Figure 9
<p>Travel time variation between different flexible journey plans (authors’ own based on MÁV-START public dataset).</p> Full article ">Figure 10
<p>Case study <math display="inline"><semantics> <mrow> <msubsup> <mrow> <mover accent="true"> <mrow> <mi>S</mi> <mi>C</mi> <mi>H</mi> </mrow> <mo stretchy="true">¯</mo> </mover> </mrow> <mn>0</mn> <mrow> <mi>c</mi> <mi>s</mi> </mrow> </msubsup> </mrow> </semantics></math> and <math display="inline"><semantics> <mrow> <msubsup> <mrow> <mover accent="true"> <mrow> <mi>S</mi> <mi>C</mi> <mi>H</mi> </mrow> <mo stretchy="true">¯</mo> </mover> </mrow> <mrow> <mi>r</mi> <mi>e</mi> <mi>a</mi> <mi>l</mi> </mrow> <mrow> <mi>c</mi> <mi>s</mi> </mrow> </msubsup> </mrow> </semantics></math> schedule structure based on passenger demand (authors’ own based on calculated data of schedule plan).</p> Full article ">Figure 11
<p>Temporal distribution of the A-FTS timetable variants by processing the collected passenger demand against the departure time of the given flight (authors’ own).</p> Full article ">
23 pages, 4448 KiB  
Article
Characteristic Evaluation of Wind Power Distributed Generation Sizing in Distribution System
by Issarachai Ngamroo, Wikorn Kotesakha, Suntiti Yoomak and Atthapol Ngaopitakkul
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5581; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065581 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1881
Abstract
Energy consumption and environmental issues have become major drivers of increasing renewable energy penetration levels. The electricity generated from renewable energy sources is decentralized throughout distributed generation (DG), which is located at the distribution level. However, the presence of DG can change distribution [...] Read more.
Energy consumption and environmental issues have become major drivers of increasing renewable energy penetration levels. The electricity generated from renewable energy sources is decentralized throughout distributed generation (DG), which is located at the distribution level. However, the presence of DG can change distribution system characteristics and affect protection systems. Thus, this study aims to investigate the impact of DG in term of its sizing and placement on distribution systems under both normal and fault conditions. In addition, the effects on voltage improvement under normal conditions and current under fault conditions are also considered. The case study system in this study was modelled after an actual section of a 22 kV distribution line from the Provincial Electricity Authority of Thailand using PSCAD software. For DG, wind turbine generation was selected as a renewable energy source. The simulation results demonstrated that the presence of DG has a significant impact on both voltage and current characteristics under both normal and fault conditions. These impacts on the distribution system caused by DG can affect the operation of conventional distribution systems, which require further analysis and preventive measures in order to ensure good system reliability. Full article
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<p>The 22 kV distribution system used in the case study. (<b>a</b>) Single-line diagram; (<b>b</b>) PSCAD diagram.</p> Full article ">Figure 2
<p>Three-phase voltage waveform in case study distribution system. (<b>a</b>) STA substation; (<b>b</b>) SWA substation.</p> Full article ">Figure 3
<p>Voltage level of the case study distribution system.</p> Full article ">Figure 4
<p>Detail of the WTG used in the case study. (<b>a</b>) Simplified diagram of the WTG; (<b>b</b>) PSCAD diagram of the WTG.</p> Full article ">Figure 5
<p>Case study diagram with single DG placement on the distribution system. (<b>a</b>) Single-line diagram; (<b>b</b>) PSCAD model.</p> Full article ">Figure 5 Cont.
<p>Case study diagram with single DG placement on the distribution system. (<b>a</b>) Single-line diagram; (<b>b</b>) PSCAD model.</p> Full article ">Figure 6
<p>Sinusoidal voltage and current waveform for distribution system with 2 MW DG placement. (<b>a</b>) DG placement near STA substation; (<b>b</b>) DG placement near SWA substation; (<b>c</b>) DG placement in middle of distribution line.</p> Full article ">Figure 6 Cont.
<p>Sinusoidal voltage and current waveform for distribution system with 2 MW DG placement. (<b>a</b>) DG placement near STA substation; (<b>b</b>) DG placement near SWA substation; (<b>c</b>) DG placement in middle of distribution line.</p> Full article ">Figure 7
<p>Voltage profile of the distribution system with different 2 MW DG placements.</p> Full article ">Figure 8
<p>The sinusoidal voltage waveform in the case of DG connected at the middle of the distribution line. (<b>a</b>) 2 MW DG; (<b>b</b>) 8 MW DG.</p> Full article ">Figure 9
<p>The voltage profile of DG placement at the middle position of the distribution line.</p> Full article ">Figure 10
<p>Distribution system without DG under fault condition. (<b>a</b>) Single-line diagram; (<b>b</b>) PSCAD diagram.</p> Full article ">Figure 11
<p>Normal and fault condition waveforms without DG. (<b>a</b>) STA substation current waveform; (<b>b</b>) SWA substation current waveform; (<b>c</b>) Single-phase to ground fault; (<b>d</b>) Three-phase to ground fault.</p> Full article ">Figure 11 Cont.
<p>Normal and fault condition waveforms without DG. (<b>a</b>) STA substation current waveform; (<b>b</b>) SWA substation current waveform; (<b>c</b>) Single-phase to ground fault; (<b>d</b>) Three-phase to ground fault.</p> Full article ">Figure 12
<p>Distribution system with single DG placement under fault condition. (<b>a</b>) Single-line diagram; (<b>b</b>) PSCAD diagram.</p> Full article ">Figure 13
<p>Current waveform at the fault location at 5.5 km with DG placed at the middle of the distribution system. (<b>a</b>) Single-phase fault to ground; (<b>b</b>) three-phase fault to ground.</p> Full article ">Figure 14
<p>Current characteristics of the fixed fault location at L1 from 3 MW to 8 MW. (<b>a</b>) The 3 MW DG; (<b>b</b>) 4 MW DG; (<b>c</b>) 5 MW DG; (<b>d</b>) 6 MW DG; (<b>e</b>) 7 MW DG; and (<b>f</b>) 8 MW DG.</p> Full article ">Figure 14 Cont.
<p>Current characteristics of the fixed fault location at L1 from 3 MW to 8 MW. (<b>a</b>) The 3 MW DG; (<b>b</b>) 4 MW DG; (<b>c</b>) 5 MW DG; (<b>d</b>) 6 MW DG; (<b>e</b>) 7 MW DG; and (<b>f</b>) 8 MW DG.</p> Full article ">
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