Journal Description
Sustainability
Sustainability
is an international, peer-reviewed, open-access journal on environmental, cultural, economic, and social sustainability of human beings, published semimonthly online by MDPI. The Canadian Urban Transit Research & Innovation Consortium (CUTRIC), International Council for Research and Innovation in Building and Construction (CIB) and Urban Land Institute (ULI) are affiliated with Sustainability and their members receive discounts on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE and SSCI (Web of Science), GEOBASE, GeoRef, Inspec, AGRIS, RePEc, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Environmental Studies) / CiteScore - Q1 (Geography, Planning and Development)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 18.8 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Testimonials: See what our editors and authors say about Sustainability.
- Companion journals for Sustainability include: World, Sustainable Chemistry, Conservation, Future Transportation, Architecture, Standards, Merits and Wind.
Impact Factor:
3.9 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
4.0 (2022)
Latest Articles
Towards Expanding the Use of Paper Made from Recycled and Non-Woody Plants: Enhancing the Print Quality through the Application of Nano-Modified Offset Inks
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4785; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114785 (registering DOI) - 4 Jun 2024
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This study aims to investigate the feasibility of using paper made from eco-friendly recycled and non-woody plants in graphic technology, particularly in offset printing. Instead of changing the composition or modifying the surface properties of the paper, the focus was on enhancing the
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This study aims to investigate the feasibility of using paper made from eco-friendly recycled and non-woody plants in graphic technology, particularly in offset printing. Instead of changing the composition or modifying the surface properties of the paper, the focus was on enhancing the print quality by modifying the printing ink. By modifying the printing inks, the quality of the prints on recycled and non-woody paper can be optimized, which in turn reduces the need for paper made from primary fibers. This approach can expand the use of alternative materials in graphic technology and design. The objective was to optimize the print quality on these sustainable materials. Five types of uncoated paper were used, with high-quality uncoated offset paper based on virgin fibers serving as a reference. Laboratory tests of the basic and surface properties were carried out to measure the paper quality parameters that are important for offset printing. The influence of the paper composition on its optical and colorimetric properties was also investigated. The interaction between the selected papers and offset inks was examined through measurements of adhesion parameters and ink transfer, i.e., the paper’s ability to accept the ink. To enhance the applicability of the investigated papers as printing substrates in the graphic industry, SiO2 and TiO2 nanoparticles were added to the offset inks. The influence of the paper composition on the colorimetric properties of the prints was also investigated. The print uniformity, as an important quality characteristic, was determined by measuring the mottling index. The research findings indicate that incorporating SiO2 and TiO2 nanoparticles into offset inks can enhance the interaction between the paper and ink, leading to improved print quality. This study provides new perspectives on the possibilities of using recycled and non-woody plant paper in offset printing without significantly compromising the quality of the print.
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Open AccessArticle
Comparative Study of Pretreatments on Coconut Fiber for Efficient Isolation of Lignocellulosic Fractions
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Fabrícia Vieira, Hortência E. P. Santana, Meirielly Jesus, Fernando Mata, Preciosa Pires, Manuela Vaz-Velho, Daniel Pereira Silva and Denise Santos Ruzene
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4784; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114784 (registering DOI) - 4 Jun 2024
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Pretreatment is an essential step for breaking the recalcitrant structure of lignocellulosic biomass and allowing conversion to high-value-added chemicals. In this study, coconut fiber was subjected to three pretreatment methods to compare their impacts on the biomass’s structural characteristics and their efficiency in
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Pretreatment is an essential step for breaking the recalcitrant structure of lignocellulosic biomass and allowing conversion to high-value-added chemicals. In this study, coconut fiber was subjected to three pretreatment methods to compare their impacts on the biomass’s structural characteristics and their efficiency in fractionating the biomass. This comparative approach was conducted to identify mild biomass pretreatment conditions that efficiently extract lignin and recover cellulose-rich pulp for the production of bioproducts. To this end, autohydrolysis, alkaline, and organosolv pretreatments were performed under different experimental conditions, and the physicochemical properties of the samples were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and chemical characterization of the cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin fractions. Therefore, efficient experimental conditions were identified to pretreat coconut fibers with an extended understanding of the methods to process lignocellulose. Great delignification efficiency and pulp yield were obtained with organosolv > alkaline extraction > autohydrolysis under the selected conditions of 2 h at 185 °C in the presence of a catalyst, namely, 0.5 M NaOH, for 2 h at 55 °C and 20 min at 195 °C, respectively. FT-IR revealed a predominance of hydroxyl groups in fibers obtained from alkaline and organosolv pretreatment, showing higher lignin degradation and cellulose concentration in these samples. TGA revealed mass loss curves with similar behaviors but different patterns and intensities, and MVE analysis showed differences on the surfaces of each sample. The comparison of experimental parameters allowed the identification of suitable conditions for each extraction method, and structural analyses identified the specific characteristics of the fibers that could be obtained according to the method used. Therefore, the results are of great importance for developing sustainable and effective industrial processes.
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Open AccessArticle
An Emissions Offset Strategy to Accomplish 2 °C Long-Term Mitigation Goals in the European Union
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Ilaria Perissi and Aled Jones
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4783; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114783 (registering DOI) - 4 Jun 2024
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Regional carbon budgeting in policymaking is underutilized despite its importance for achieving global climate goals, particularly the Paris Agreement’s target of limiting global warming to 2 °C by 2050. In this work, we present the model PLEDGES, a novel system dynamic-based simulation tool
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Regional carbon budgeting in policymaking is underutilized despite its importance for achieving global climate goals, particularly the Paris Agreement’s target of limiting global warming to 2 °C by 2050. In this work, we present the model PLEDGES, a novel system dynamic-based simulation tool that focuses on the European Union region to equitably distribute carbon budgets among the Member States and activate emissions offset strategies to manage unexpected deviations from the EU27 carbon budget. The emissions trading dynamic is based on the “Gains from Trade” approach. The tool also calculates the cost of the offset strategies based on the use of the abatement cost curves for the Member States. Using a case study of the recent increase in carbon emissions in Germany in response to reduced Russian gas supplies, different emissions scenarios for Germany’s quota redistribution among the Member States are explored. The study reveals varied cost implications of between 30–60 Eur/ton CO2eq to offset the emissions increase across other Member States. Final recommendations include promoting cross-border collaboration at the EU27 level.
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Open AccessArticle
Effect of Farming System Type on Broilers’ Antioxidant Status, Performance, and Carcass Traits: An Industrial-Scale Production Study
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Evgenia Fotou, Vasiliki Moulasioti, Georgios A. Papadopoulos, Dimitra Kyriakou, Maria-Eleni Boti, Vassilios Moussis, Maria Papadami, Constantinos Tellis, Apostolos Patsias, Ioannis Sarrigeorgiou, Alexandros Theodoridis, Peggy Lymberi, Vasileios Tsiouris, Vassilios Tsikaris and Demokritos Tsoukatos
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4782; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114782 (registering DOI) - 4 Jun 2024
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The global demand for improvement in the welfare conditions of broilers has generated the necessity to implement alternative rearing systems as well as less intensive growth hybrids. The majority of the data on alternative farming methods, notwithstanding their abundance, are the result of
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The global demand for improvement in the welfare conditions of broilers has generated the necessity to implement alternative rearing systems as well as less intensive growth hybrids. The majority of the data on alternative farming methods, notwithstanding their abundance, are the result of small-scale experiments. The present extended field study examined the effect of two different industrial farming systems on broilers’ antioxidant status, performance, and meat quality, including 13 replicates of each industrial breeding system (intensive conventional; free range) and two different chicken genotypes (fast growth; slow growth). The duration of the study was 51 months, and the total number of broilers was 260.000 for the conventional and 78.000 for the free-range system. The results showed that fast-growth chicks demonstrated a more satisfactory performance (in terms of body weight gain (BWG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) with p ≤ 0.001), reduced serum lipid oxidation (p ≤ 0.05), and more tender meat. Contrarily, slow-growth chickens presented significantly higher total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in serum and thigh muscle (p ≤ 0.001), significantly lower (p ≤ 0.05) thigh muscle oxidation (in terms of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, TBARS), increased protein and decreased fat content (p ≤ 0.05), and better smell, taste, color, and texture. In conclusion, the free-range farming system for slow-growth chickens may result in an overall higher nutritional value, sensory score, and serum and thigh muscle antioxidant profile than the conventional farming system for fast-growth broilers. However, fast-growth broilers exhibit better performance and might undergo less stress.
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(This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Livestock Production and Management)
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Open AccessArticle
Potential of Modified Reduced Tillage with Cover/Green Manure Crop for Climate Change Mitigation in a Smallholder Rainfed Farming System
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Nabeeha Javed, Shahzada Sohail Ijaz, Qaiser Hussain, Muhammad Ansar, Abdulwahed Fahad Alrefaei, Bader O. Almutairi, Wajid Zaman and Munazza Yousra
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4781; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114781 (registering DOI) - 4 Jun 2024
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Soil can function as a reservoir and a source of greenhouse gases (GHGs), contingent on its management. This study assesses the potential of a modified reduced tillage (MRT) approach involving the use of cover or green manure crops as a substitute for crop
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Soil can function as a reservoir and a source of greenhouse gases (GHGs), contingent on its management. This study assesses the potential of a modified reduced tillage (MRT) approach involving the use of cover or green manure crops as a substitute for crop residues to mitigate GHG emissions from soil within smallholder rainfed farming systems. A two-year field experiment with different tillage techniques (moldboard plow, tine cultivator, and modified reduced tillage) and crop rotations (summer fallow–wheat and cover/green manure–wheat) was conducted at Rawalpindi, Pakistan. The results showed that MRT reduced carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions by 8% and 15.3%, respectively, from soil while maintaining consistently higher soil moisture than conventional tillage techniques. The modified reduced tillage reduced the global warming potential (GWP) and greenhouse gas intensity (GHGI) by 15.8% and 20.7%, respectively. The net ecosystem exchange (NEE) was unaffected by the tillage systems. Therefore, adopting the MRT technique and incorporating green manure is a viable strategy for curtailing GHG emissions from soil, particularly in the context of smallholder rainfed farming systems. Extended, multi-year studies under various climate scenarios and agronomic practices are needed to understand the long-term impacts of MRT and crop rotations on GHG emissions.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Climate Change Impacts and Adaptation: Interdisciplinary Perspectives)
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Resilience Assessment and Enhancement Strategies for Urban Transportation Infrastructure to Cope with Extreme Rainfalls
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Qiuling Lang, Ziyang Wan, Jiquan Zhang, Yichen Zhang, Dan Zhu and Gexu Liu
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4780; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114780 (registering DOI) - 4 Jun 2024
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As climate change intensifies, urban transportation infrastructure faces unprecedented challenges from extreme weather events, such as floods. This study investigates the resilience and vulnerability of such infrastructure under extreme rainfall conditions in Changchun City. Utilizing Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Analysis (MCDM) and Geographic Information System
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As climate change intensifies, urban transportation infrastructure faces unprecedented challenges from extreme weather events, such as floods. This study investigates the resilience and vulnerability of such infrastructure under extreme rainfall conditions in Changchun City. Utilizing Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Analysis (MCDM) and Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques, we comprehensively assess the physical, functional, and service vulnerabilities of the transportation network. Our analysis reveals that only 3.57% of the area is classified as highly resilient, demonstrating effective flood management capabilities. In contrast, a significant 61.73% of the area exhibits very low resilience, highlighting substantial vulnerabilities that could impact urban operations. Based on our findings, we propose specific strategies to enhance resilience, including optimizing drainage systems, upgrading infrastructure standards, implementing green infrastructure initiatives, and integrating disaster risk factors into urban planning. These strategies and insights provide valuable references for global cities facing similar climatic challenges.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transport Planning and Governance for Resilient Cities)
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Research on the Coordinated Development of Digital Economy, Green Technology Innovation, and Ecological Environment Quality—A Case Study of China
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Xiaomei Li, Huchuan Deng, Xuanrui Yu, Jiehong Li and Yang Yu
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4779; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114779 (registering DOI) - 4 Jun 2024
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Based on panel data from 285 prefecture-level cities in China from 2019 to 2023, the synergistic effects of the digital economy, green technology innovation, and ecological environment quality were analyzed. First, using the entropy method, the measurement dimensions of the indicators of the
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Based on panel data from 285 prefecture-level cities in China from 2019 to 2023, the synergistic effects of the digital economy, green technology innovation, and ecological environment quality were analyzed. First, using the entropy method, the measurement dimensions of the indicators of the digital economy, green technology innovation, and ecological environment quality were obtained. Second, employing a neural network model with these measurements as input variables, the interactive relationship among the digital economy, green technology innovation, and ecological environment quality was explored. Finally, based on the calculation results of the neural network model, the importance and impact of each input parameter on ecological environment quality were determined using weight analysis methods. The research findings indicate: (1) Utilizing the entropy method, the measurement dimensions of the indicators of the digital economy, green technology innovation, and ecological environment quality were obtained. Analysis of each indicator measurement reveals that environmental pressure has a significant impact on ecological environment quality, with significant differences in environmental pressure among different regions. Industrial digitization emerges as the core factor influencing the digital economy, being the most significant driving effect, followed by digital industrialization. Green technology innovation is crucial for promoting environmental protection and achieving high-quality green economic development. (2) Based on the neural network model, the interactive relationship among the digital economy, green technology innovation, and ecological environment quality was revealed. The results indicate that the digital economy has a direct impact on improving ecological environment quality. The relationship between the digital economy and the ecological environment exhibits nonlinear effects, with the rate of change in environmental pressure and environmental status measurements initially increasing significantly and then gradually slowing down as the measurement levels of digital industrialization and industrial digitization increase. Improvement in digital governance and data value measurement levels will contribute to enhancing environmental status and environmental governance levels. (3) Through weight analysis, it was found that in terms of direct effects, industrial digitization, and digital industrialization have the most significant impact on environmental pressure, with importance coefficients of 0.45 and 0.3, respectively, while data valorization has the least impact. Regarding intermediary effects, industrial digitization and green technology innovation have the most significant impact on environmental pressure, while digital governance and green technology innovation have a relatively clear impact on environmental status and environmental governance. These results lay the foundation for promoting the coordinated cooperation between the digital economy and green technology innovation and for advancing the establishment of a win–win situation between economic development and environmental protection.
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Open AccessArticle
A Graph-Based Scheme Generation Method for Variable Traffic Organization in Parking Lots
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Jing Cao, Haichao Ling, Tao Li, Shiyu Wang, Shengchuan Jiang and Cong Zhao
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4778; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114778 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
To deal with the traffic congestion issues caused by the imbalance between supply and demand in parking lots, this study proposes a graph-based scheme generation method for variable traffic organization in parking lots. A graph-based methodological framework is developed to dynamically generate feasible
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To deal with the traffic congestion issues caused by the imbalance between supply and demand in parking lots, this study proposes a graph-based scheme generation method for variable traffic organization in parking lots. A graph-based methodological framework is developed to dynamically generate feasible traffic organization schemes and adapt the road networks of parking lots based on fluctuating demands. First, we design a parking lot-tailored enhanced primal approach by adding a directedness attribute while maintaining road continuity to ensure correspondence between generated graphs and traffic organization schemes. A graph generation algorithm is then designed to generate all feasible schemes in the scenario, deploying the depth-first search algorithm to check the connectivity of each graph and narrowing down feasible options based on domain knowledge. Finally, the initial parking space distribution and parking demand are used as inputs to calculate the total vehicle cruising time under each scheme, serving as the key indicator to select the optimal organization scheme. A single-level parking lot model is developed to verify the performance of our method under six initial parking space distributions. This model is built using the multi-agent simulation platform AnyLogic version 8.8.6, which enables the quick transformation of organization schemes by customizing the behavior of different agents. The results show that the optimal organization scheme generated by the proposed method can reduce vehicle cruising time by 15–46% compared to conventional traffic organization, varying according to parking space distributions. The significance of this study lies in its potential to mitigate traffic congestion in parking lots, thereby enhancing overall efficiency and user satisfaction. By dynamically adapting to fluctuating parking demands, this method provides a robust solution for urban planners and parking lot operators aiming to optimize traffic flow and reduce unnecessary delays.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Traffic and Mobility)
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Investigation of Analyzable Solutions for Left-Turn-Centered Congestion Problems in Urban Grid Networks
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Taraneh Ardalan, Denis Sarazhinsky, Nemanja Dobrota and Aleksandar Stevanovic
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4777; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114777 (registering DOI) - 4 Jun 2024
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Traffic congestion caused by left-turning vehicles in a coordinated corridor is a multifaceted problem requiring tailored solutions. This study explores the impact of shared left-turn lanes within one-way couplets, particularly during peak hours, where high left-turn volumes, limited side street storage, and the
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Traffic congestion caused by left-turning vehicles in a coordinated corridor is a multifaceted problem requiring tailored solutions. This study explores the impact of shared left-turn lanes within one-way couplets, particularly during peak hours, where high left-turn volumes, limited side street storage, and the overlapped green time between pedestrians and left-turners contribute to queue spillbacks, coordination interruption, and network congestion. The focus of this paper is on the solutions that can be easily analyzed by practitioners, here called “analyzable solutions”. This approach stands in contrast to solutions derived from “non-transparent” optimization tools, which do not allow for a clear assessment of the solution’s adequacy or the ability to predict its impact in real-world applications. This paper investigates the effects of employing two analyzable signal timing strategies: Lagging Pedestrian (LagPed) phasing and Left-Turn Progression (LTP) offsets. Using high-fidelity microsimulation, the authors evaluated different scenarios, assessing pedestrian delays, queue lengths, travel time index, area average travel time index, and environmental impacts such as Fuel Consumption (FC) and CO2 emissions. The effectiveness of the proposed strategies was comprehensively evaluated against the base case scenario, demonstrating considerable improvements in various performance measures, including approximately a 5% reduction in FC and CO2 emissions. Implementation of the LTP strategy alone yields substantial reductions in delays, the number of stops, the queue length for left-turning vehicles, travel times for all road users, and ultimately FC and CO2 emissions. This study offers innovative approach to addressing the complex and multifaceted problem of left-turn-centered congestion in urban grid networks using efficient and down-to-earth analyzable solutions.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Emerging Simulation Technologies in Achieving Sustainable Transportation Systems)
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Open AccessArticle
Employee Readiness for GHRM and Its Individual Antecedents: Instrumental and Change-Based Approach
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Marek Matejun, Bożena Ewa Matusiak and Izabela Różanska-Bińczyk
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4776; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114776 - 4 Jun 2024
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The aim of this paper is to identify and assess the formation of employees’ readiness to implement the green human resources management (GHRM) concept according to two research approaches: an instrumental and change-based approach, as well as to demonstrate the influence of selected
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The aim of this paper is to identify and assess the formation of employees’ readiness to implement the green human resources management (GHRM) concept according to two research approaches: an instrumental and change-based approach, as well as to demonstrate the influence of selected individual antecedents on the formation of this readiness in business practice. The aim of the study was achieved through empirical research conducted using a survey method on a sample of 214 employees and managers from Poland. The results obtained indicate a high level of readiness of the respondents to implement the GHRM concept in their companies, regardless of the measurement method used. Moreover, it was shown that personal environmental norms, following the new environmental paradigm as well as organizational citizenship behaviors towards the environment (OCBE), significantly and positively shape the level of readiness for GHRM in the surveyed group. In contrast, there was no significant effect of individual readiness for change on employees’ readiness levels. This study makes an original and novel contribution to the literature by proposing different approaches to measuring employees’ GHRM readiness. The conclusions formulated address the implementation factors of the GHRM, enabling a more effective implementation of this concept into business practice.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Leadership and Human Resource Management in Sustainable Economic Development)
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Digital Financial Inclusion, Land Circulation and High-Quality Development of Agriculture
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Qi Xiong, Xiaoyang Guo and Jingyi Yang
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4775; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114775 (registering DOI) - 4 Jun 2024
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With the deep integration of digital technology and inclusive finance, digital inclusive finance has provided a new opportunity for agricultural high-quality development through “overtaking on curves”. This article empirically examines the impact of digital inclusive finance on agricultural high-quality development and the dynamic
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With the deep integration of digital technology and inclusive finance, digital inclusive finance has provided a new opportunity for agricultural high-quality development through “overtaking on curves”. This article empirically examines the impact of digital inclusive finance on agricultural high-quality development and the dynamic mechanism of land circulation in its transmission process, utilizing panel data from various provinces in China from 2011 to 2021. The research indicates that digital inclusive finance has a significant improvement effect on agricultural high-quality development, and this conclusion remains valid after a series of endogenous treatments and robustness tests. Meanwhile, intelligent manufacturing has a more pronounced role in promoting agricultural high-quality development in China’s eastern regions, regions with sound infrastructure, and regions with high environmental regulation intensity. Further research reveals that digital inclusive finance can promote agricultural high-quality development through the mechanism of promoting land circulation. The research conclusions provide important empirical evidence and policy implications for achieving coordinated development of agricultural economic growth and environmental protection, thereby realizing the beautiful vision of comprehensive rural revitalization.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Agricultural Economic Transformation and Sustainable Development)
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From Bin to Binder: Unleashing Waste Butter’s Potential as a Pioneering Bio-Modifier for Sustainable Asphalt Engineering
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Nader Nciri and Namho Kim
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4774; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114774 (registering DOI) - 4 Jun 2024
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Exploring the interface of environmental sustainability and civil infrastructure development, this study introduces waste butter (WB), a byproduct of animal fat processing, as a novel bio-modifier in asphalt production. This approach not only recycles animal waste but also charts a course for sustainable
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Exploring the interface of environmental sustainability and civil infrastructure development, this study introduces waste butter (WB), a byproduct of animal fat processing, as a novel bio-modifier in asphalt production. This approach not only recycles animal waste but also charts a course for sustainable infrastructural development, contributing to a reduced environmental impact and promoting circular economy practices. The experiments incorporated varying WB concentrations (e.g., 3%, 6%, and 9% by weight of binder) into standard AP-5 asphalt, employing advanced analytical tools for comprehensive characterization. These included thin-layer chromatography–flame ionization detection (TLC-FID), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). The critical properties of the asphalt blends, such as penetration, softening point, viscosity, ductility, rutting factor (Dynamic Shear Rheometer), and thermal susceptibility (Penetration Index, Penetration–Viscosity Number), were assessed. FT-IR analysis indicated negligible chemical alteration with WB addition, suggesting predominantly physical interactions. TLC-FID showed a decrease in aromatic and asphaltene components but an increase in resin content, highlighting the influence of WB’s fatty acids on the asphalt’s chemical balance. The colloidal instability index (IC) confirmed enhanced stability due to WB’s high resin concentration. Meanwhile, SEM analysis revealed microstructural improvements with WB, enhancing binder compatibility. TGA demonstrated that even a minimal 3 wt. % WB addition significantly improved thermal stability, while the DSC results pointed to improved low-temperature performance, reducing brittleness in cold conditions. Rheologically, WB incorporation resulted in increased penetration and ductility, balanced by decreased viscosity and softening point, thereby demonstrating its multi-faceted utility. Thermal susceptibility tests emphasized WB’s effectiveness in cold environments, with further evaluation needed at higher temperatures. The DSR findings necessitate careful WB calibration to meet Superpave rutting standards. In conclusion, this research positions waste butter as a superior, environmentally aligned bio-additive for asphalt blends, contributing significantly to eco-friendly civil engineering practices by repurposing animal-derived waste.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Revolutionizing Road Infrastructure: A Nexus of Bioengineering, Waste Valorization, and Intelligent Systems)
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Effective Preservation of Traditional Malay Houses: A Review of Current Practices and Challenges
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Sara Alsheikh Mahmoud, Huzaifa Bin Hashim, Mohd Fazaulnizam Shamsudin and Hamza Alsheikh Mahmoud
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4773; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114773 (registering DOI) - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
Traditional Malay houses are a significant part of Malay cultural heritage. They depict local culture, customs, and philosophy and symbolize national identity. As a tourism-based facility, traditional Malay houses contribute to the growth of the economic and tourism sectors in Malaysia. Over time,
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Traditional Malay houses are a significant part of Malay cultural heritage. They depict local culture, customs, and philosophy and symbolize national identity. As a tourism-based facility, traditional Malay houses contribute to the growth of the economic and tourism sectors in Malaysia. Over time, Malay houses have deteriorated owing to human and natural factors. Modernization and urbanization also threaten the existence of Malay houses. These factors, along with the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, are the main drivers for Malay houses preservation. The aim of this study is to investigate the state of the art in the preservation of traditional Malay houses through a critical review of current practices and challenges. The results show that considerable efforts have been made by different parties to preserve Malay houses. However, the preservation of Malay houses has neither reached a comprehensive status nor achieved the desired goals. For holistic preservation of Malay houses, a multidimensional preservation approach is recommended, in which engineering and technology, socioeconomic, planning, and management dimensions are all addressed simultaneously, consistent with sustainability principles and local objectives. This study identifies key areas where strategic support and improvements are needed to meet the desired outcomes in traditional Malay houses preservation. These include challenges and aspects overlooked in current practices. Therefore, the study findings can be used by policy and decision makers to guide the planning and management of traditional Malay houses preservation. It also contributes to knowledge translation in practice by discussing current preservation practices and recommending a potential preservation approach. This study highlights future research directions.
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(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Engineering and Science)
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The Impact of Urban Migration on the Mental Well-Being of Young Women: Analyzing the Roles of Neighborhood Safety and Subjective Socioeconomic Status in Shaping Resilience against Life Stressors
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Yang Gao, Lisha Fu and Yang Shen
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4772; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114772 (registering DOI) - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
This study evaluates the impact of urban migration on the mental health of young women, focusing specifically on how objective life stressors, perceived neighborhood safety, and subjective socioeconomic status influence depression. Depression is the main outcome measure in this research, serving as a
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This study evaluates the impact of urban migration on the mental health of young women, focusing specifically on how objective life stressors, perceived neighborhood safety, and subjective socioeconomic status influence depression. Depression is the main outcome measure in this research, serving as a critical indicator of mental health in the context of urban migration. Utilizing a stratified cluster sampling approach, we collect data from 2138 young female migrants in Bao’an District, Shenzhen, employing the Life Stress Scale, Patient Health Questionnaire-9 items, Perceived Neighborhood Safety Scale, and Subjective Social Economic Status Scale to assess the corresponding constructs. Our findings highlight that life stressors directly contribute to increased depression levels among young female migrants, with perceived neighborhood safety significantly mediating this relationship. Furthermore, subjective socioeconomic status moderates the impact of life stressors on perceived neighborhood safety, underlining the intricate dynamics between objective life stressors and the social-environmental context in shaping mental health outcomes. This research underscores the importance of creating supportive and inclusive social environments to mitigate the adverse psychological effects of life stressors on young female migrants, thereby contributing to discussions on sustainability and social welfare.
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(This article belongs to the Section Health, Well-Being and Sustainability)
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Spatial Distribution Characteristics of Fugitive Road Dust Emissions from a Transportation Hub City (Jinan) in China and Their Impact on the Atmosphere in 2020
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Xiangyang Li, Nana Wang, Xinyue Qu and Baodong Jiang
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4771; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114771 (registering DOI) - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
Road silt loading (sL) directly affects the fugitive road dust (FRD) emission factor, which is an important parameter in the study of FRD emissions. In this study, an improved collection method combined with the AP−42 method was newly developed to estimate the sL
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Road silt loading (sL) directly affects the fugitive road dust (FRD) emission factor, which is an important parameter in the study of FRD emissions. In this study, an improved collection method combined with the AP−42 method was newly developed to estimate the sL of asphalt roads in Jinan, China. The characteristics of sL in Jinan followed the order National highway (NH) > Branch road (BR) > Provincial highway (PH) > Country highway (CH) > Minor arterial (MiA) > Major arterial (MaA) > Urban expressway (UE) with 3.9 ± 2.5, 3.9 ± 1.9, 3.8 ± 2.8, 3.8 ± 0.9, 2.1 ± 1.4, 1.7 ± 1.2, and 1.4 ± 1.2 g/m2, respectively. The size orders of PM2.5 and PM10 emission factors are consistent with total suspended particulate (TSP). The characteristics of the TSP emission factor of FRD followed the order NH > PH > CH > Expressway (EW) > MiA > BR > MaA > UE with 27.3, 23.4, 19.4, 13.7, 7.7, 7.4, 6.2, and 3.0 g/VKT (vehicle kilometers traveled), respectively. The annual emissions of TSP, PM10, and PM2.5 from FRD in Jinan in 2020 were about 985.2, 209.8, and 57.8 kt, respectively. Laiwu, Jiyang, and Licheng districts show the top three TSP emissions of FRD; the sum of their emissions accounts for 44.7% of the TSP emissions from FRD in Jinan. TSP emissions from municipal roads and administrative roads accounted for about 29.2% and 70.8% of the total emissions in Jinan, respectively, of which emissions from MiA accounted for the largest proportion of TSP emissions from municipal roads, contributing about 37.9%, while TSP emissions from NH made the largest contribution to TSP emissions from administrative roads, with a contribution of about 35.8%. Based on Monte Carlo simulation results using Crystal Ball, the uncertainty range of the emission inventory of FRD in Jinan ranged from −79.9 to 151.8%. In 2020, about 985,200 tons of road particulate matter in Jinan City entered the atmosphere, having an adverse effect on air quality and human health.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Accessing and Analyzing Air Quality and Atmospheric Environment)
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Solidification Mechanism of Bayer Red Mud under the Action of Calcium Hydroxide
by
Zhiwei Song, Guoju Ke, Pengju Qin, Suli Han, Xiuhua Guo and Zhiqiang Zhang
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4770; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114770 (registering DOI) - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
Because of the strong alkalinity of red mud, it is difficult to recycle, and the long-term accumulation of red mud causes environmental pollution. The study shows that the solidification characteristics of bayer red mud (RM) under the action of Ca(OH)2 (CH) are
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Because of the strong alkalinity of red mud, it is difficult to recycle, and the long-term accumulation of red mud causes environmental pollution. The study shows that the solidification characteristics of bayer red mud (RM) under the action of Ca(OH)2 (CH) are obvious. The mechanical properties of Bayer RM paste with different amounts of CH at different ages were tested. The strength of RMCH gradually increases with the increase in CH content and age, reaching a turning point in strength at 26.4% content of CH, with the highest strength at 28 days, reaching 2.73 MPa. The solidification products were characterized by XRD, FTIR, TG-DTG, and SEM-EDS. The results show that under the action of CH, the main solidification products of RM are C-(A)-S-H, hemicarboaluminate, and monocarboaluminate. In the solidification process, hydroxysodalite and faujasite-Na react with CH to generate C-S-H, Al(OH)4−, and Na+, then react to generate hemicarboaluminate, monocarboaluminate and C-(A)-S-H, among which hemicarboaluminate is transformed into monocarboaluminate in the presence of calcite, and further monocarboaluminate decomposes to generate calcite. It provides a basis for the study of the interaction mechanism between a single substance and RM and provides a research basis for the sustainable utilization of red mud.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Slope Stability Analysis and Landslide Disaster Prevention)
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Analyzing the Progress in Chinese Tourism Research over the Past Decade: A Visual Exploration of Keywords and Delphi Surveys
by
Mingge Tian, Hongmei Zhang, Yuangang Zhang, Yingying Li and Gemma Cànoves
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4769; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114769 (registering DOI) - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
Alongside the rapid development of China’s tourism sector, the continuous increase in the number of academic articles and research findings related to tourism in China has expanded the related research topics. Using a visual exploration of keywords and Delphi surveys, this paper systematically
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Alongside the rapid development of China’s tourism sector, the continuous increase in the number of academic articles and research findings related to tourism in China has expanded the related research topics. Using a visual exploration of keywords and Delphi surveys, this paper systematically summarizes the progress in tourism research in China. The findings show that the research topics of national parks, rural revitalization, virtual tourism, the tourism economy and all-for-one tourism were hotspots in Chinese tourism filed over the past decade. Research methodologies have evolved from qualitative concept clarification to combining qualitative and quantitative approaches. In the future, Chinese tourism research should be explored further to the unique theoretical underpinnings of tourism in China; innovative research should be fostered to achieve theoretical originality; and collaborations between academia and the tourism industry should be facilitated to enhance the practical implications of academic findings. The aforementioned research bottlenecks and corresponding measures, and research vision and prospects indicated in the paper can guide future research, and let Western scholars know the hotspots and future trends of tourism research from the Eastern perspective.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development in Different Fields of Tourism)
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Analysis of the Location Factors Affecting the Price of Tourist Houses: The Role of Accessibility to Public Transport Stations in Madrid
by
Patricia Valenzuela, Armando Ortuño, María Flor and Begoña Guirao
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4768; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114768 (registering DOI) - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
The location of tourist properties is a fundamental aspect in the determination of price, but in cities with dense and efficient public transport systems, the location being in the periphery can offer alternative advantages to central locations (such as better accessibility by private
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The location of tourist properties is a fundamental aspect in the determination of price, but in cities with dense and efficient public transport systems, the location being in the periphery can offer alternative advantages to central locations (such as better accessibility by private vehicles). This study analyses how the price of tourist housing is influenced by the characteristics of the accommodation itself and its location, using a hedonic pricing regression model estimated by ordinary least squares (OLS) in two periods of time: the high season (October 2022) and the low season (February 2023). The obtained results suggest that the characteristics of the properties, the local environment and the elements in the area influence the price of tourist accommodation. Similarly, the proximity to public transport stations and stops has a relevant influence on the choice of tourist properties. This latter factor is highly important for designing public policies that favour a denser public transport network in peripheral areas of the city. This would increase the number of tourist properties in these areas further away from the centre and, therefore, the number of reservations. In turn, the income of these more vulnerable areas would improve together with the social cohesion of the municipality.
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(This article belongs to the Section Tourism, Culture, and Heritage)
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Towards Sustainable Internet Service Provision: Analyzing Consumer Preferences through a Hybrid TOPSIS–SEM–Neural Network Framework
by
Charmine Sheena Saflor, Klint Allen Mariñas, Princess Alvarado, Anelyn Baleña, Monica Shane Tanglao, Yogi Tri Prasetyo, Jazmin Tangsoc and Ezekiel Bernardo
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4767; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114767 - 3 Jun 2024
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In our increasingly digital world, grasping consumer preferences for internet service providers (ISPs) is paramount. This study was conducted in Occidental Mindoro, Luzon, the Philippines, and surveyed 280 respondents across ten municipalities with 81 in-person and online questionnaires. The research focused on twelve
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In our increasingly digital world, grasping consumer preferences for internet service providers (ISPs) is paramount. This study was conducted in Occidental Mindoro, Luzon, the Philippines, and surveyed 280 respondents across ten municipalities with 81 in-person and online questionnaires. The research focused on twelve latent variables: internet speed, assurance, tangibility, responsiveness, reliability, empathy, data privacy, service quality, value-added services, price, customer satisfaction, and customer loyalty. Methods such as Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS), Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), and an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) were integrated for the analysis. The study utilized TOPSIS to rank ISPs based on Service Quality (SERVQUAL) parameters, followed by SEM to delve into variable connections affecting preferences, and through as ANN, consumer behavior and loyalty were predicted. The SEM–ANN results revealed that assurance, responsiveness, empathy, and data privacy directly impacted service quality. Moreover, a significant correlation was found between customer satisfaction and service quality, influencing further customer loyalty alongside pricing. By integrating these methodologies, the study provides a comprehensive understanding of ISP preferences and emphasizes service quality as the most significant factor in industry decision-making.
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Research on the Design Strategy of Double–Skin Facade in Cold and Frigid Regions—Using Xinjiang Public Buildings as an Example
by
Xiang Liu, Wanjiang Wang, Yingjie Ding, Kun Wang, Jie Li, Han Cha and Yeriken Saierpeng
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4766; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114766 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
In the context of global warming, the focus on applying and researching double–skin facade (DSF) systems to reduce energy consumption in buildings has significantly increased. However, researchers have not thoroughly examined the performance and applicability of DSFs in severe cold regions with high
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In the context of global warming, the focus on applying and researching double–skin facade (DSF) systems to reduce energy consumption in buildings has significantly increased. However, researchers have not thoroughly examined the performance and applicability of DSFs in severe cold regions with high winter heating demands. This study aims to evaluate the potential application of DSFs in the harsh cold cities of Northwest China and investigate their role in enhancing energy efficiency in large public buildings. Through energy consumption simulation and a comprehensive evaluation using the TOPSIS entropy weight method, the effects of applying 20 DSF schemes in four cold cities in Xinjiang (Kashgar, Urumqi, Altay, and Turpan) were analyzed. The experimental results indicate that the average EUI energy–saving rates in Kashgar, Urumqi, Altay, and Turpan are 64.75%, 63.19%, 56.70%, and 49.41%, respectively. South–facing orientation is deemed optimal for DSF in Xinjiang cities, with the highest energy–saving rate reaching 15.19%. In Kashgar, the energy–saving benefits of west–facing DSF surpass those of north–facing DSF. Conversely, the order of orientation benefits for other cities is south, north, west, and east. An analysis of heating, cooling, and lighting energy consumption reveals that Box Windows exhibit superior heating energy efficiency, while Corridors are more effective for cooling. This characteristic is also evident in the optimal installation orientation of various types of curtain walls. Given the relatively higher demand for heating compared to cooling in urban areas, Box Windows yields significant benefits when facing south, west, or north; conversely, if there is a high demand for urban cooling, Corridors should be considered in these three directions. Multistorey DSF systems are suitable for east–facing buildings in Xinjiang cities. Selecting suitable DSF schemes based on specific conditions and requirements can reduce building energy consumption. The research findings offer theoretical guidance for designing and implementing DSF in diverse cities in cold regions.
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(This article belongs to the Section Green Building)
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