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
The Last but Not the Least Piece of Marine Debris Management: Decoding Factors in Consumers’ Intentions to Purchase Recycled Marine Debris Products
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3869; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093869 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024
Abstract
With a phenomenal amount of marine debris being retrieved from the coast and sea, an initiative to engage in marine debris recycling, particularly of plastic debris, has been on the governmental agenda in Taiwan in recent years. Consumers purchasing products made from marine
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With a phenomenal amount of marine debris being retrieved from the coast and sea, an initiative to engage in marine debris recycling, particularly of plastic debris, has been on the governmental agenda in Taiwan in recent years. Consumers purchasing products made from marine debris is a critical driver behind this initiative. It is therefore important to understand the factors influencing consumers’ purchase intentions towards these products. By employing the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), this paper aims to decode the factors and thereby infer potential measures to enhance consumers’ purchase intentions for these specific products in Taiwan, where recycling marine debris is at the beginning stage. By conducting a questionnaire survey, the study collected a total of 392 valid samples and found that a high percentage of respondents had not heard of marine debris labels as well as having never bought products made from marine debris. In addition, by testing the hypotheses using binary logit regression, the study found that ‘environmental attitude’, ‘perceived price’, ‘availability’, and ‘marine debris label’ were the major factors that significantly influenced consumers’ intentions to purchase these products. With a view to increasing market penetration of these products, this paper highlights the need to strengthen environmental education, subsidize manufacturers in the production of products, promote labels and enhance product availability, and enhance public participation in marine conservation activities.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Waste Recycling and Circular Economy: From Trash to Treasure)
Open AccessArticle
Always with the Best Intentions? Interrogating the Use of Sustainable Building Assessment Systems in Developing Countries: Kenya
by
Faith Ng’eno Chelang’at and Ranald Lawrence
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3868; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093868 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024
Abstract
Assessment methodologies such as BREEAM and LEED allocate points based on prescribed interventions that promote design features or strategies considered to be more sustainable than others. A focus on accumulating numerical scores, however, often fails to address pertinent contextual issues, particularly within developing
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Assessment methodologies such as BREEAM and LEED allocate points based on prescribed interventions that promote design features or strategies considered to be more sustainable than others. A focus on accumulating numerical scores, however, often fails to address pertinent contextual issues, particularly within developing countries. This paper examines the use of four assessment systems in Kenya—two international systems, LEED-US and Green Star SA-Kenya; and two locally developed systems, Green Mark Kenya and the Safari Green Building Index. The paper compares the relative weighting of different categories under each system, and assesses their appropriateness to a Kenyan context, with reference to the suitability of active technology versus passive design approaches. The paper examines selected examples of ‘green’ buildings in Nairobi, reflecting on the influence of different methods of assessment on the adopted design approaches. The paper argues that international rating systems, such as LEED, often focus on a Western construct of sustainability featuring a systematic bias towards global rather than local perspectives, with an emphasis on physical environmental factors. In pursuit of objectivity, the measurement of non-contextual parameters untailored to local circumstances (e.g., energy performance) is prioritised at the expense of those contingent on local conditions or climate.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable and Smart Building)
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Open AccessArticle
Which Values Matter Most to Romanian Consumers? Exploring the Impact of Green Attitudes and Communication on Buying Behavior
by
Răzvan-Andrei Corboș, Ovidiu-Iulian Bunea, Monica Triculescu and Sorina Ioana Mișu
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3866; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093866 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024
Abstract
The increasing commitment to sustainable consumption has intensified the scholarly focus on the determinants of environmentally friendly consumer behavior. This investigation provides an insight into the intricate interplay between green consumer values, functional (FV), conditional (CV), social (SV), and emotional (EV), and their
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The increasing commitment to sustainable consumption has intensified the scholarly focus on the determinants of environmentally friendly consumer behavior. This investigation provides an insight into the intricate interplay between green consumer values, functional (FV), conditional (CV), social (SV), and emotional (EV), and their impact on buying behavior (BB). Using survey data, we scrutinized the mediating roles of attitudes toward purchasing green products (APGP) and receptivity to green communication (RGC). Using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), the empirical analysis yielded a mix of supported and unsupported claims about the mediation effects on the relationship between consumer values and buying behavior. Direct effects of FV on BB were significant, but the indirect effect through APGP was not, suggesting that APGP does not mediate the relationship between FV and BB, and that consumers’ functional value perceptions influence their buying behavior independently of their attitudes toward green products. Both direct and indirect effects of EV and FV on BB through APGP and RGC were significant, suggesting partial mediation. The results suggest that APGP and RGC partially mediate the effects of EV and FV on BB but do not mediate the effects of CV and SV on BB. Comparing these findings with previous research, we observe some parallels and divergences. Our study confirms the significant direct effect of FV on buying behavior, consistent with previous studies that underscore the importance of tangible benefits in influencing consumer decisions. Furthermore, the significant direct and indirect effects of EV on BB and APGP in our results are consistent with previous research, suggesting that emotional factors play a decisive role in green purchasing behaviors. However, factors such as CV and SV were found to have no impact in our research compared to previous studies. These discrepancies suggest that while CV influences attitudes, it may not strongly influence purchasing behavior through the mediating constructs in our model. Furthermore, the results imply that social factors may influence attitudes but do not necessarily translate into actual purchasing behavior in our context. Our study also reveals that RGC plays a substantial role in influencing buying behavior, indicating a significant total effect greater than indicated in previous research. These insights illuminate the complex mechanisms by which consumer attitudes and communication receptivity shape eco-conscious purchasing choices. Theoretical contributions enrich the discourse on green consumer behavior, while practical implications guide marketers in crafting communication strategies that resonate with consumer values and attitudes, thus fostering sustainable consumption patterns.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Consumer Behaviour and Environmental Sustainability)
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Open AccessArticle
Classification of Roadway Context and Target Speed for Multilane Highways in Thailand Using Fuzzy Expert System
by
Chomphunut Sutheerakul, Nopadon Kronprasert, Wichuda Satiennam and Moe Sandi Zaw
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3865; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093865 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024
Abstract
The classification of roadway contexts and speeds is a critical step in the planning, design, and operation of highway infrastructure. In developing countries, road users encounter safety and operational issues due to poorly defined roadway contexts and inappropriately determined target speeds for a
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The classification of roadway contexts and speeds is a critical step in the planning, design, and operation of highway infrastructure. In developing countries, road users encounter safety and operational issues due to poorly defined roadway contexts and inappropriately determined target speeds for a highway network. This study developed an expert system for classifying roadway contexts and target speeds of multilane highway segments and applied the classification process to 16,235 km of multilane highways in Thailand’s highway network. The proposed methodology used a fuzzy decision mechanism to deal with subjective and imprecise expert judgment (e.g., low, high), many variables, and a complex evaluation process. This study used the Fuzzy Delphi method to identify the possible important factors influencing contexts and speeds and the Fuzzy Inference System method to reason factors to categorize multilane highway segments in Thailand into different classes of roadway contexts (e.g., rural, low-density suburban, high-density suburban, and urban highways) and target speeds (e.g., ≤50 km/h, 50–60 km/h, 60–70 km/h, 70–80 km/h, 80–90 km/h, 90–100 km/h, and 100 km/h). The study was based on data from questionnaire surveys of experts and field investigations of 120 highway segments. The results showed that roadside environments and activities influence the roadway contexts, while the target speeds are sensitive to the roadway characteristics and contexts. These findings support the need for changes in context-adapted highway design and speed management. The proposed expert system provided high accuracy (90.8%) in classifications of both roadway contexts and target speeds. The fuzzy expert system provides a systematic and structural framework for analyzing imprecise data in highway contextual and speed classifications and improving the clarity and accuracy of the evaluation process. The implementation of the fuzzy expert system has the potential to revolutionize the highway classification decision-making problem under uncertainty.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Transportation: Strategies for Enhancing Safety and Reliability)
Open AccessArticle
Research on Summer Indoor Air Conditioning Design Parameters in Haikou City: A Field Study of Indoor Thermal Perception and Comfort
by
Jiaxi Hu, Chengxi Lyu, Yinzhen Hou, Neng Zhu and Kairui Liu
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3864; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093864 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024
Abstract
Escalating global climate change and the intensification of urban heatwaves have led to an increase in summer air conditioning cooling energy consumption. This phenomenon is particularly critical in tropical regions, as it may trigger an energy crisis. The rational setting of indoor thermal
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Escalating global climate change and the intensification of urban heatwaves have led to an increase in summer air conditioning cooling energy consumption. This phenomenon is particularly critical in tropical regions, as it may trigger an energy crisis. The rational setting of indoor thermal design parameters can help conserve energy to the maximum extent while ensuring thermal comfort for occupants. This study selected Haikou City, a unique tropical city in China, as the research location. Indoor environment measurements and a questionnaire survey were conducted with participants, and the outdoor thermal environment sensitivity, population attributes and differences in thermal sensation, thermal neutral temperature, and comfort range were calculated and analyzed. The following results were obtained. Based on the overall population, long-term residence, and temporary residence classification, the indoor thermal comfort needs of residents in tropical cities in Haikou were effectively identified. The actual thermal neutral temperature of the overall population is 25.7 °C, and 90% of the acceptable thermal comfort temperature range is 23.2 °C–28.0 °C. The actual thermal neutral temperature of the regular residents is 27.3 °C, and 90% of the acceptable thermal comfort temperature range is 23.3 °C–31.4 °C. The actual thermal neutral temperature of the temporary population is 25.5 °C, and 90% of the acceptable thermal comfort temperature range is 23.0 °C–28.0 °C. These research results have an important reference value for improving the setting of the temperature of air conditioning in tropical areas in summer and further reducing energy consumption, which is conducive to sustainable development.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Energy Systems and Technologies for Building Energy Efficiency to Achieve Sustainability)
Open AccessArticle
Environmental Impact Assessment of Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Power Generation System Based on Life Cycle Assessment—A Case Study in China
by
Yilin Shen, Yantao Yang, Lei Song and Tingzhou Lei
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3863; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093863 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024
Abstract
To progress towards the “dual carbon” goal and reduce the cost and increase the efficiency of solid oxide fuel cells, this study conducts a full life cycle analysis of solid oxide fuel cells, in which the environmental impact caused by the operating devices’
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To progress towards the “dual carbon” goal and reduce the cost and increase the efficiency of solid oxide fuel cells, this study conducts a full life cycle analysis of solid oxide fuel cells, in which the environmental impact caused by the operating devices’ manufacturing, fuel gas catalyst reforming, single-cell manufacturing, cell stack manufacturing, and energy consumption and emissions are systematically analysed. In this study, we establish an assessment model for solid oxide fuel cells by using the cut-off criterion. The results show that 96.5% of the global warming potential in the use of solid oxide fuel cells comes from the stack operating subsystem. The stack manufacturing subsystem, operating device manufacturing subsystem, and waste stack processing subsystem all contribute greatly to acidification, accounting for 32.89%, 44%, and 35.82% of the total acidification, respectively. These three subsystems also contribute significantly to eutrophication, contributing 23.11%, 22.03%, and 42.15%, respectively. Compared with traditional thermal power generation systems, solid oxide fuel cell power generation systems have slightly higher overall environmental benefits, and the reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and acidification potential reach 6.22% and 18.52%, respectively. The research results have guiding significance and reference value for subsequent energy-saving and emission reduction design and improvement efforts for solid oxide fuel cells.
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(This article belongs to the Collection Environmental Assessment, Life Cycle Analysis and Sustainability)
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An Investigation of Circular Fashion: Antecedents of Consumer Willingness to Rent Clothes Online
by
Aistė Dovalienė and Leja Salciute
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3862; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093862 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024
Abstract
Circular fashion has gained attention among practitioners and academics. We further contribute to this debate by investigating leasing in the context of rented online clothing in greater depth. First, we conduct a qualitative study and identify several themes important to individuals when renting
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Circular fashion has gained attention among practitioners and academics. We further contribute to this debate by investigating leasing in the context of rented online clothing in greater depth. First, we conduct a qualitative study and identify several themes important to individuals when renting clothing online. The findings are as follows: social representation, green value, familiarity and innovativeness. Several categories emerged from the interviews with the respondents in relation to social representation: use of technology, feeling good when renting clothing online and renting clothing online as a necessity. Familiarity factors relate to circular fashion’s role in reducing perceived risks associated with a relatively new service in the market. Green value perceptions have emerged among respondents that reflect a growing environmental consciousness. Second, based on the initial qualitative findings, we introduce an ad-hoc theoretical model and put forward propositions. Our theoretical model emphasises the role of four antecedents (i.e., social representation, green value, familiarity and innovativeness) when influencing consumer willingness to rent clothing online and a shift towards circular consumption. We develop theoretical propositions and provide recommendations to marketing managers and public policy makers regarding how to encourage a change towards circular consumption behaviour among individuals.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Consumption and Circular Economy)
Open AccessArticle
Can Creating an Agro-Product Regional Public Brand Improve the Ability of Farmers to Sustainably Increase Their Revenue?
by
Zhiyan Ma and Guanghua Qiao
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3861; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093861 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024
Abstract
Through the analysis of various typical cases, this study examines whether the establishment of an agro-product regional public brand (ARPB) can effectively boost the revenue of farmers and increase their share in the supply chain. The findings suggest that an early-stage ARPB can
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Through the analysis of various typical cases, this study examines whether the establishment of an agro-product regional public brand (ARPB) can effectively boost the revenue of farmers and increase their share in the supply chain. The findings suggest that an early-stage ARPB can command a price premium for products, yet its overall contribution to farmers’ revenue remains limited due to scale constraints. The premium ability of an ARPB is influenced by product characteristics and sales strategies, underscoring the need to enhance control over terminal sales. Although the revenue of all operators in an ARPB supply chain shows an increase compared to that of a non-ARPB supply chain, the ratios of revenue allocated to farmers diminish. The Shapley value method was utilized to optimize the revenue-sharing in the supply chain, indicating a need to increase the share of revenue for farmers. This optimization necessitates the formation of a community of interests between farmers, processing enterprises, and sellers to facilitate the upstream movement of brand premiums. Furthermore, enhancing the government’s mediation and regulatory functions can provide farmers with more opportunities to partake in brand benefits.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Agriculture)
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Optimal Preventive Maintenance Policy for Equipment Rented under Free Leasing as a Contributor to Sustainable Development
by
Lazhar Tlili, Anis Chelbi, Rim Gharyani and Wajdi Trabelsi
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3860; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093860 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024
Abstract
Leasing has proven to be a business model that is perfectly suited to the circular economy. It significantly contributes to sustainable development by enabling the reuse of machinery and equipment after each lease period and by including preventive maintenance and overhauls within and
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Leasing has proven to be a business model that is perfectly suited to the circular economy. It significantly contributes to sustainable development by enabling the reuse of machinery and equipment after each lease period and by including preventive maintenance and overhauls within and between lease terms. This helps to extend the life cycle of equipment, promote value recovery, and reduce waste. This paper examines an imperfect preventive maintenance (PM) strategy applied to equipment rented under the terms of “free leasing.” In free leasing, the lessor makes the equipment available to the customer for a specified period of time without charging rent. In return, the customer is required to purchase the equipment’s consumables exclusively from the lessor. The lessor is also responsible for the maintenance of the equipment at the customer’s premises. The greater the quantity of consumables used by the customer, the more the equipment will deteriorate. Consequently, the lessor must be able to determine the most effective approach to preventive maintenance, ensuring that it aligns with the customer’s planned usage rate while maximizing profit. This work proposes a PM strategy to be adopted by the lessor during the free lease period. This strategy involves the performance of imperfect PM actions just before the start of the lease period and then periodically. Different packages of preventive actions can be applied each time, with each package having a different cost depending on the level of effectiveness in terms of rejuvenating the equipment. Minimal repairs are performed in the event of equipment failure. The decision variables are the PM period to be adopted and the maintenance efficiency level to be chosen for each preventive intervention. The objective is to determine, for a given customer with an estimated consumption rate profile of consumables, the optimal values of these decision variables so that the lessor maximizes their profit. A mathematical model is developed to express the lessor’s average profit over each lease period. A solution procedure is developed for small instances of the problem, and an Artificial Bee Colony algorithm is implemented for larger instances. A numerical example and a sensitivity analysis are presented.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modeling and Optimization with Industrial Considerations and Risk Assessment of Sustainable Systems and Services)
Open AccessArticle
The Enabling Effect of Digital Economy on High-Quality Agricultural Development-Evidence from China
by
Junguo Hua, Jijie Yu, Yu Song, Qi Xue and Yujia Zhou
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3859; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093859 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024
Abstract
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In recent years, the digital economy has shown great potential in regard to in driving social production and development. In the context of the construction of digital villages, the deep integration of the digital economy and agricultural development has injected new vitality into
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In recent years, the digital economy has shown great potential in regard to in driving social production and development. In the context of the construction of digital villages, the deep integration of the digital economy and agricultural development has injected new vitality into improving the quality and efficiency of agricultural production, becoming an important way to promote sustainable agricultural development. Based on the panel data of 31 provinces in China from 2012 to 2021, the study utilizes the entropy method to measure the level of the digital economy and the high-quality development of agriculture. Additionally, this study explores the impact and mechanism of the digital economy on the high-quality development of agriculture by the fixed effect, mediation effect, and the spatial spillover models. In summary, the digital economy can significantly drive the high-quality development of agriculture, which is still valid after considering endogeneity and robustness. Mechanistically, the rationalization of industrial structure is an important path for the digital economy in regard to driving the high-quality development of agriculture. Regionally, the dividends of the digital economy for high-quality agricultural development in the central and western regions are greater than those in the eastern region. Spatially, the digital economy has a spatial spillover effect on the high-quality development of agriculture. Moreover, it can promote the synergistic development of adjoining regions. Therefore, policy recommendations are made in terms of strengthening rural infrastructure, emphasizing the development of regional shortcomings, and strengthening internal with external regional linkages.
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Open AccessArticle
The Impact of AI in Sustainable Development Goal Implementation: A Delphi Study
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Simon Ofori Ametepey, Clinton Aigbavboa, Wellington Didibhuku Thwala and Hutton Addy
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3858; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093858 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024
Abstract
Artificial intelligence emerges as a powerful catalyst poised to reshape the global sustainability landscape by facilitating the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This comprehensive Delphi study meticulously probes the insights of domain experts, shedding light on the strategic utilization of AI to
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Artificial intelligence emerges as a powerful catalyst poised to reshape the global sustainability landscape by facilitating the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This comprehensive Delphi study meticulously probes the insights of domain experts, shedding light on the strategic utilization of AI to advance these critical sustainability objectives. Employing rigorous statistical techniques, encompassing measures of central tendency and interquartile deviation, this research scrutinizes consensus dynamics among experts and elucidates potential variations in their viewpoints. The findings resoundingly convey experts’ collective positive perspective regarding AI’s pivotal role in propelling the SDGs forward. Through two iterative rounds of extensive discussions, a compelling consensus crystallizes—AI indeed exerts an overall positive impact, exemplified by a robust mean score of 78.8%. Intriguingly, distinct SDGs manifest varied propensities toward AI intervention, with Goals 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 13, 14, and 15 basking in the radiance of highly positive impacts. Goals 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, and 12 exhibit positive impact scores, indicating a juncture ripe for positive advancements. Meanwhile, Goal 16 and Goal 17 languish with neutral scores, signifying a juncture demanding nuanced deliberations about AI’s impact on peace, justice, and strong institutions as well as on partnerships for the goals, respectively. This paper underscores AI as a formidable instrument poised to address humanity’s most pressing challenges while harmonizing seamlessly with the overarching SDG objectives. It gracefully dovetails into established practices across pivotal domains such as health, education, and resilient infrastructures, amplifying the collective global endeavor to navigate the path toward a more sustainable future.
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Open AccessArticle
Scientific and Practical Challenges for the Development of a New Approach to the Simulation of Remanufacturing
by
Pawel Pawlewski
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3857; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093857 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024
Abstract
This article explores the scientific and practical challenges associated with developing simulation modeling methods for remanufacturing within a circular economy framework. It aims to define this concept and identify the key hurdles that need to be overcome for its successful implementation. According to
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This article explores the scientific and practical challenges associated with developing simulation modeling methods for remanufacturing within a circular economy framework. It aims to define this concept and identify the key hurdles that need to be overcome for its successful implementation. According to the six principles of sustainable development, the key pillar is remanufacturing. Remanufacturing helps the environment in several different ways, including: saving energy, the conservation of raw materials, the conservation of space, landfills, the reduction of air pollution, and greater fuel efficiency. This process closes the loop in the supply chain, exemplifying the principles of a circular economy. The research methods used are primarily the analysis and criticism of literature, document examination—especially in relation to existing simulation programs and analysis—the logical construction method, and the heuristic method, used to define concept of simulation modelling. In response to scientific and practical challenges, the concept of a new modeling method was defined and presented. This concept uses the legacy of Lean and the author’s original ideas regarding the structuring of the remanufacturing factory and processes. The main contribution of this study is integration, embedding this concept into the simulation software. A comparison with existing solutions and the advantages of the new concept are also included in the article.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Sustainability Research from Poznan University of Technology)
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Charting the Sustainable Course: Navigating the Saudi Arabia Medical and Wellness Tourism Roadmap with Business Model Canvas (BMC)
by
Thaib Alharethi and Moaaz Kabil
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3856; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093856 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024
Abstract
Medical and wellness tourism has emerged as a pivotal sector with significant economic implications globally, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. This study delves into the landscape of Saudi Arabia’s medical and wellness tourism, recognizing its importance as a key player in the tourism
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Medical and wellness tourism has emerged as a pivotal sector with significant economic implications globally, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. This study delves into the landscape of Saudi Arabia’s medical and wellness tourism, recognizing its importance as a key player in the tourism industry. The study aims to elevate this sector to new heights on the global stage by employing the Business Model Canvas (BMC) as a strategic tool. BMC allows for a comprehensive analysis of the medical tourism industry in Saudi Arabia, breaking down key elements across its nine blocks: key partners, key activities, key resources, value propositions, customer segments, channels, customer relationships, cost structure, and revenue streams. The results of this study shed light on the unique selling proposition (USP) as a crucial strategic step for Saudi Arabia to distinguish itself and enhance its position in the international medical tourism arena. By identifying and maximizing the unique aspects within each BMC block, the study presents a roadmap for Saudi Arabia, navigating the challenges and capitalizing on the potential of the medical and wellness tourism sector. This research serves as a guide, emphasizing the strategic importance of a well-defined business model to shape the future of medical and wellness tourism in Saudi Arabia and establish a prominent global presence.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Meeting the Challenges and New Opportunities: Sustainable Development of Tourism and Hospitality Industry Following the COVID-19 Pandemic)
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Variation in Debris-Flow-Prone Areas with Ecosystem Stability: A Case Study of the Qipan Catchment in the Wenchuan Earthquake Region
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Xiaoyu Zhan, Xudong Hu, Zexin Jing, Wennian Xu, Dong Xia and Gujie Ding
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3855; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093855 (registering DOI) - 04 May 2024
Abstract
The spatial distribution of vegetation in a basin has a far-reaching influence on the potential for sediment separation and transport capacity. However, many landslides induced by strong earthquakes have greatly changed the existing pattern, which further increases the probability of debris flow in
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The spatial distribution of vegetation in a basin has a far-reaching influence on the potential for sediment separation and transport capacity. However, many landslides induced by strong earthquakes have greatly changed the existing pattern, which further increases the probability of debris flow in a basin during heavy rainfall and has a significant impact on the stability of the basin. Thus, this study selected the debris flow basin in the Qipan catchment of the Wenchuan earthquake area as the research object. Multisource and high-precision remote sensing images were used to analyze the land use changes in the basin, and the index of connectivity (IC) was introduced to analyze the evolution of sediment transport capacity. An ecosystem stability assessment method suitable for post-earthquake debris flow basins was proposed. Through quantitative assessment of the ecosystem stability of the basin after the Wenchuan earthquake in 2008 and the two debris flow events after the earthquake, the dynamic relationship between the debris-flow-prone area and the ecosystem stability of the basin was revealed. The results showed that the stability of the ecosystem in the Qipan catchment increased annually, indicating a stable and substable state. The spatial distribution characteristics were lower in the north and south and greater in the middle. By comparing the evaluation results with the actual terrain change trend, the accuracy and feasibility of the evaluation method are verified. The results of this study provide a scientific basis for the formulation of regional disaster prevention strategies and help to accelerate the improvement of regional stability in debris-flow-prone areas.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Protection of Ecosystem and Sustainable Development: Strategies and Practices for Ecological Restoration, Biodiversity Conservation, and Ecosystem Services)
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Open AccessArticle
More than 30 Years of PVC Recycling in Europe—A Critical Inventory
by
Uwe Lahl and Barbara Zeschmar-Lahl
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3854; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093854 (registering DOI) - 04 May 2024
Abstract
PVC has a special status, as chlorine is a component of the polymer molecule. The properties of chlorine are the reason why the polymer molecule needs additivation. PVC is the mass plastic to which the most diverse and quantitatively largest number of additives
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PVC has a special status, as chlorine is a component of the polymer molecule. The properties of chlorine are the reason why the polymer molecule needs additivation. PVC is the mass plastic to which the most diverse and quantitatively largest number of additives are added. This makes PVC difficult to recycle. More than three decades ago, the PVC industry announced its commitment to improve the sustainability of the material through material recycling. We analysed the latest figures from the European PVC industry, ensuring that the statistics included the quantities that enter the market as recyclate. We also analysed the significance of replacing virgin PVC with recyclates. We conclude from this that, after a good three decades, the recycling result is rather meagre. The lion’s share of PVC waste in Europe is still going to waste-to-energy plants, where it tends to be a nuisance. The many announcements to close the chlorine cycle via waste incineration have not got very far either. And the announcements to expand chemical recycling in parallel have not been successful. On the basis of this stocktaking, we have analysed, in a second separately published part, which conclusions can be drawn for regulatory measures, building on a current ECHA investigation report.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability: Resources and Waste Management)
Open AccessArticle
Use of Recycled Plastic Fibers to Control Shrinkage and Desiccation Cracking in Clayey Soils
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Carolina Hernández, Gloria Beltrán and Eduardo Botero
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3853; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093853 (registering DOI) - 04 May 2024
Abstract
Two main issues are addressed in this work. The first issue is environmental concerns about managing plastic waste on a large scale by promoting reuse with low energy requirements in the recycling processes. The second issue is the desiccation cracks in fine soils,
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Two main issues are addressed in this work. The first issue is environmental concerns about managing plastic waste on a large scale by promoting reuse with low energy requirements in the recycling processes. The second issue is the desiccation cracks in fine soils, induced by prolonged droughts, which have motivated the interest in mitigating the adverse effects on the stability of geotechnical works using recycled materials. Therefore, this work addresses a strategy based on the use of recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polypropylene (PP) fibers for the reinforcement of soils prone to cracking. To evaluate the effectiveness of plastic fibers in controlling soil volumetric changes and cracking during drying, several experiments were conducted in an environmental chamber to properly simulate and monitor the desiccation process. Image analysis and suction measurements provided several metrics and parameters, and their usefulness is discussed in detail, both for the unconventional determination of the optimum fiber content by weight with 100% effectiveness in preventing cracking and for correlating fiber content with reductions in shrinkage and cracking patterns, thus contributing to the understanding of the behavior of fiber-reinforced soils. Finally, examples of large-scale applications of recycled plastic fibers in geotechnical works are proposed, and the positive environmental impact is estimated.
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Open AccessReview
Application of Waste Tire in Construction: A Road towards Sustainability and Circular Economy
by
Mohammad R. Hassan and Denis Rodrigue
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3852; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093852 - 03 May 2024
Abstract
The global demand for rubber is on a steady rise, which is driven by the increasing production of automobiles and the growing need for industrial, medical, and household products. This surge in demand has led to a significant increase in rubber waste, posing
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The global demand for rubber is on a steady rise, which is driven by the increasing production of automobiles and the growing need for industrial, medical, and household products. This surge in demand has led to a significant increase in rubber waste, posing a major global environmental challenge. End-of-life tire (ELT) is a primary source of rubber waste, having significant environmental hazards due to its massive stockpiles. While landfilling is a low-cost and easy-to-implement solution, it is now largely prohibited due to environmental concerns. Recently, ELT rubber waste has received considerable attention for its potential applications in civil engineering and construction. These applications not only enhance sustainability but also foster a circular economy between ELT rubber waste with the civil engineering and construction sectors. This review article presents a general overview of the recent research progress and challenges in the civil engineering applications of ELT rubber waste. It also discusses commercially available recycled rubber-based construction materials, their properties, testing standards, and certification. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first time such a discussion on commercial products has been presented, especially for civil engineering applications.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Circular Economy in the Construction Sector)
Open AccessArticle
Deep-Reinforcement-Learning-Based Vehicle-to-Grid Operation Strategies for Managing Solar Power Generation Forecast Errors
by
Moon-Jong Jang and Eunsung Oh
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3851; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093851 - 03 May 2024
Abstract
This study proposes a deep-reinforcement-learning (DRL)-based vehicle-to-grid (V2G) operation strategy that focuses on the dynamic integration of charging station (CS) status to refine solar power generation (SPG) forecasts. To address the variability in solar energy and CS status, this study proposes a novel
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This study proposes a deep-reinforcement-learning (DRL)-based vehicle-to-grid (V2G) operation strategy that focuses on the dynamic integration of charging station (CS) status to refine solar power generation (SPG) forecasts. To address the variability in solar energy and CS status, this study proposes a novel approach by formulating the V2G operation as a Markov decision process and leveraging DRL to adaptively manage SPG forecast errors. Utilizing real-world data from the Korea Southern Power Corporation, the effectiveness of this strategy in enhancing SPG forecasts is proven using the PyTorch framework. The results demonstrate a significant reduction in the mean squared error by 40% to 56% compared to scenarios without V2G. Our investigation into the effects of blocking probability thresholds and discount factors revealed insights into the optimal V2G system performance, suggesting a balance between immediate operational needs and long-term strategic objectives. The findings highlight the possibility of using DRL-based strategies to achieve more reliable and efficient renewable energy integration in power grids, marking a significant step forward in smart grid optimization.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vehicle to Grid—Energy Conversion and Conservation)
Open AccessArticle
Towards High-Efficiency Buildings for Sustainable Energy Transition: Standardized Prefabricated Solutions for Roof Retrofitting
by
Elisa Pennacchia, Carlo Romeo and Claudia Zylka
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3850; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093850 - 03 May 2024
Abstract
Enhancing energy efficiency in buildings plays a pivotal role in realizing the ambitious objective of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, as outlined in the European Green Deal. Roofs represent the technical element most affected by energy phenomena related to heat transfer: in winter,
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Enhancing energy efficiency in buildings plays a pivotal role in realizing the ambitious objective of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, as outlined in the European Green Deal. Roofs represent the technical element most affected by energy phenomena related to heat transfer: in winter, roofing can lose up to 35% of heat, and the summer heat flux can even be higher. This paper provides a catalogue of optimized and sustainable solutions, with a specific focus on standardization and prefabrication principles, for enhancing the energy efficiency of the most prevalent types of roofs that characterize the national residential building heritage. The methodological approach that guided the research presented in this article was based on the identification and study of the most common roofings in the diverse national residential building heritage, followed by their classification according to their construction era. In the context of essential energy retrofitting of deteriorated residential building stock, 21 optimized standardized solutions have been identified. The outcome of performance evaluations of the proposed solutions allowed the implementation of a matrix that can be a valuable support for designers in selecting the most efficient precalculated and prefabricated solutions for the national residential building heritage based on energy performance and sustainability criteria.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Construction through Utilization of Optimization Tools and Experimental Methods)
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Open AccessArticle
The Assessment of Residents’ Perception of Possible Benefits and Challenges of Home Vertical Gardens in Kigali, Rwanda
by
Rahman Tafahomi, David Nkurunziza, Gatoni Gwladys Benineza, Reihaneh Nadi and Regis Dusingizumuremyi
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3849; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093849 - 03 May 2024
Abstract
This paper aimed to provide a new insight into the application of home vertical gardens in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, through a pre-assessment of the inhabitants’ perceptions. There are several studies that indicated the awareness of the way residents think about the
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This paper aimed to provide a new insight into the application of home vertical gardens in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, through a pre-assessment of the inhabitants’ perceptions. There are several studies that indicated the awareness of the way residents think about the potential benefits and challenges of home gardens could make a considerable difference in designing and implementing these gardens. The Likert-scaled questionnaire (n = 558) was employed to evaluate how residents perceive vertical gardens, and what issues concern them most. The findings revealed that dwellers are almost familiar with the vertical garden concept and its possible effects on urban environments. The respondents mostly regarded vertical gardens as nice spots to socialize, relax, and interact with nature, and an opportunity for beautification, and recreation by growing ornamental and edible plants. However, they were rather apprehensive about some issues, more importantly, the extra expenses, the complicated operation and maintenance, and the type of structure installed on walls. In conclusion, small-scale and low-cost vertical gardens with lightweight structures and easy-to-use technologies are more likely to encourage householders to embrace home gardens. It is recommended that the vertical garden projects should be integrated into the urban green network strategy, leading to facilitating the processes of decision-making and financing.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Urban and Rural Development)
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