Sustainability

18 pages, 3445 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Micro- and Small-Sized Enterprises’ Sustainability-Oriented Innovation for COVID-19

by Weilun Huang, Hengbin Yin, Seongjin Choi and Mohsin Muhammad

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7521; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127521 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3095

The economic impact of a public emergency, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, is often reduced by micro and small businesses (MSEs) undertaking sustainability-oriented innovation for public emergencies (SOIPE), which includes production and service innovation, information innovation, marketing innovation, and labor innovation. The originality [...] Read more.

The economic impact of a public emergency, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, is often reduced by micro and small businesses (MSEs) undertaking sustainability-oriented innovation for public emergencies (SOIPE), which includes production and service innovation, information innovation, marketing innovation, and labor innovation. The originality of this study lies in its prediction and evaluation of COVID-19′s challenges and SOIPE’s requirements to have a keen observation and discovery ability. In this paper, we combined nominal group technique, fuzzy analytical hierarchy process, least squares, and a case study to investigate governance, economic, financial, sociocultural, and environmental sustainability and demonstrate the MSEs’ sustainability evaluation model. In a qualitative study and literature review, MSEs were found to use SOIPE in a variety of ways. Some studies focused on marketing innovation, while others were hampered by their limited understanding. From both a theoretical and empirical perspective, this study suggests that MSEs should identify their optimal SOIPE based on the impact and volatility of a public emergency. In addition, this study presents an assessment of the impact and environmental volatility of a public emergency, as well as MSEs’ SOIPE, which is more helpful for enterprises. Finally, this study creatively introduces the SOIPE of MSEs, which has important policy ramifications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability-Oriented Innovation of SMEs)

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26 pages, 521 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Transforming Innovation Systems into Innovation Ecosystems: The Role of Public Policy

by Xiaoran Zheng and Yuzhuo Cai

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7520; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127520 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4969

Abstract

This study investigated the role of public policy in transforming innovation systems into innovation ecosystems. Despite the numerous studies that examined the role of innovation policies in promoting innovation systems and the increasing attention paid to the transition from innovation systems to innovation [...] Read more.

This study investigated the role of public policy in transforming innovation systems into innovation ecosystems. Despite the numerous studies that examined the role of innovation policies in promoting innovation systems and the increasing attention paid to the transition from innovation systems to innovation ecosystems in the literature, research on the role of public policy in facilitating this transition is sparse. To develop an analytical framework that identifies factors to be considered in policies that facilitate the transition towards innovation ecosystems, we synthesised the literature that investigated (1) the role of policy in innovation systems, (2) new features of innovation ecosystems and (3) the relations between (transformative) policies and innovation ecosystems. To identify these factors, we also drew on the concept of policy layering and the neo-Triple Helix model of innovation ecosystems. Specifically, we identified the following factors: the willingness and capacity of innovation actors to develop cross-boundary interactions on a global scale; an institutionalised civil society based on bottom-up media; and the prevailing sustainability ethos in economic, social and environmental dimensions. These can be used to design and evaluate policies that promote sustainable innovation and development as core features of innovation ecosystems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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19 pages, 1723 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quality 4.0 Maturity Assessment in Light of the Current Situation in the Czech Republic

by Jaroslav Nenadál, David Vykydal, Petra Halfarová and Eva Tylečková

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7519; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127519 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 3236

Abstract

Production companies throughout the world are currently facing challenges with the extensive transformation of their processes with regard to digitalisation and other features of Industry 4.0. Simultaneously, traditional quality management processes must be significantly changed, and the umbrella term “Quality 4.0” is used [...] Read more.

Production companies throughout the world are currently facing challenges with the extensive transformation of their processes with regard to digitalisation and other features of Industry 4.0. Simultaneously, traditional quality management processes must be significantly changed, and the umbrella term “Quality 4.0” is used to represent this transformation. Many companies, including Czech enterprises, are still struggling with the concept of Quality 4.0, as there are a lot of uncertainties, misunderstandings, and false approaches. Additionally, a lot of questions arise about how to provide an objective and comprehensive assessment of the company’s maturity or readiness for Quality 4.0. Therefore, the main objective of this article is to present our proposal of a framework and methodology on how to assess and measure the maturity level for the implementation of Quality 4.0. This proposal will be supplemented by a presentation of the main results obtained from a special field study, which was conducted at Czech production companies with the aim of obtaining a representative set of information showing their readiness to adopt Quality 4.0 and convert existing quality management systems into the new era. The authors also identify some research gaps, including the necessity to confirm the mutual relationship between the dimensions and items of Quality 4.0 and the sustainable development of companies or society. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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20 pages, 1506 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Degree of Adoption of Business Intelligence in Romanian Companies—The Case of Sentiment Analysis as a Marketing Analytical Tool

by David-Florin Ciocodeică, Raluca-Giorgiana (Popa) Chivu, Ionuț-Claudiu Popa, Horia Mihălcescu, Gheorghe Orzan and Ana-Maria (Dumitrache) Băjan

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7518; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127518 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3558

Abstract

The structural changes in the public communication space through the advent of the Internet and the further development of online commerce culminate today with the explosion of blockchain techniques and social networks. This communication space was quickly taken over by marketing tools, as [...] Read more.

The structural changes in the public communication space through the advent of the Internet and the further development of online commerce culminate today with the explosion of blockchain techniques and social networks. This communication space was quickly taken over by marketing tools, as demonstrated by the many marketing campaigns dedicated to these new communication channels. The development of online commerce and the emergence of social networks have allowed consumers to efficiently search for brands/products/services, compare them, express their point of view on them, and even give them grades. Due to the explosion of relevant data online, the changing business environment needs attention to interpret and extract relevant information. The application of sentiment analysis to public reaction in the online environment provides the researcher with how the authors of the analyzed texts (clients/beneficiaries) express themselves regarding the studied reference (product/service/organization/social theme and a feature of them). Along with the other metrics present in marketing, including digital marketing, the reports in the analysis panels of google analytics and social networks, sentiment analysis instantly provides the general and competitive context in which the product/service/theme evolves. In this article, two types of research have been conducted to highlight the benefits felt, but also the degree of knowledge, implementation, and use of sentiment analysis in online marketing analysis. One of the types of research was qualitative, carried out on 10 participants (specialists in the field of marketing), with the help of an interview guide. Qualitative research aims to find out the level of knowledge of sentiment analysis and the general degree of digitalization of Romanian companies, an indicator considered critical in the new post-pandemic business environment. The second research was quantitative and used to develop analysis by structural equations. For this, a questionnaire applied to a sample of 108 respondents was used. Through the analysis by structural equations, a conceptual model was developed that presents the main factors that are related to others and that contribute to the satisfaction of the users of the analysis of feelings for obtaining marketing data. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Blockchain in Distance Learning Education)

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14 pages, 8078 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Simulation of the Liquefaction Phenomenon by MPSM-DEM Coupled CAES

by Koki Nakao, Shinya Inazumi, Tsuyoshi Takahashi and Supakij Nontananandh

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7517; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127517 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2046

Abstract

The mechanism of liquefaction and the factors that cause liquefaction behavior have previously been examined and evaluated, both analytically and experimentally; construction including liquefaction countermeasures is being implemented, based on these findings. This study presents a theoretical visualization of the mechanism of liquefaction [...] Read more.

The mechanism of liquefaction and the factors that cause liquefaction behavior have previously been examined and evaluated, both analytically and experimentally; construction including liquefaction countermeasures is being implemented, based on these findings. This study presents a theoretical visualization of the mechanism of liquefaction generation and evaluates the behavior of particles in the ground. Specifically, an MPSM-DEM coupled CAE system (CAES) is employed to view the events beneath the ground, modeled three-dimensionally when an external acceleration is applied to simulate seismic waves and reveals the behavior below the surface. The numerical simulation of the liquefaction phenomenon, as represented by an MPSM-DEM coupled CAES system, clearly showed the mechanism of liquefaction generation and contributed to the design and accountability of more economical and sustainable liquefaction countermeasures, regardless of the field of specialization. Full article

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12 pages, 1488 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Using Flowchart to Help Students Learn Basic Circuit Theories Quickly

by Jack Li

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7516; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127516 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 5273

Abstract

College education, especially engineering education, is facing big challenges nowadays. Somehow, the gap between quickly developed modern technology used in every field and fundamental theories may discourage some students from continuing their studies in an engineering field. Most fundamental theories are taught in [...] Read more.

College education, especially engineering education, is facing big challenges nowadays. Somehow, the gap between quickly developed modern technology used in every field and fundamental theories may discourage some students from continuing their studies in an engineering field. Most fundamental theories are taught in introductory courses in every field and are based on math, which is hard and tedious work to some students. Helping students to build a solid foundation of basic theories in engineering education not only aids students in the study of technical material but also keeps students interested in engineering education, which meets the requirement of sustainability and inclusivity in education. This article proposes a tool to help students quickly grasp basic theories in electronic engineering technology programs. It summarizes basic theories into a flowchart. Students can solve problems in DC and AC circuits following the flowchart with higher accuracy. The flowchart was used by different groups as a reference, and it helps students access to the material quickly according to student performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Education and Approaches)

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13 pages, 786 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pistol Shooting Performance Correlates with Respiratory Muscle Strength and Pulmonary Function in Police Cadets

by Emre Karaduman, Özgür Bostancı, Fatih Karakaş, Menderes Kabadayı, Ali Kerim Yılmaz, Zeki Akyildiz, Georgian Badicu, Stefania Cataldi and Francesco Fischetti

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7515; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127515 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3064

Abstract

Breathing patterns play a crucial role in shooting performance; however, little is known about the respiratory muscle strength and pulmonary capacities that control these patterns. The present study aimed to examine the relationship between shooting performance, respiratory muscle strength, and pulmonary function and [...] Read more.

Breathing patterns play a crucial role in shooting performance; however, little is known about the respiratory muscle strength and pulmonary capacities that control these patterns. The present study aimed to examine the relationship between shooting performance, respiratory muscle strength, and pulmonary function and to determine differences in respiratory capacities according to the shooting performance categories in police cadets. One hundred sixty-seven police cadets were recruited to assess respiratory muscle strength, pulmonary function, and shooting performance in a well-controlled environment. Measurements included maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), maximal expiratory pressure (MEP), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV₁), forced vital capacity (FVC), slow vital capacity (SVC), maximal voluntary ventilation (MVV), and pistol shooting scores. The shooting score had a moderate positive correlation with MIP (ρ = 0.33) and MEP (ρ = 0.45). FVC (ρ = 0.25), FEV₁ (ρ = 0.26), SVC (ρ = 0.26) (p < 0.001) and MVV (ρ = 0.21) (p < 0.05) were slightly correlated with shooting score. There were differences between shooting performance categories in MIP, MEP, FVC, FEV₁, SVC, and MVV (p < 0.001, p < 0.05). The results imply that both strong respiratory muscles and optimal pulmonary function may be one of the necessary prerequisites for superior shooting performance in police. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wellness Interventions for Sustainable Healthy Lifestyles Promotion in Tactical Populations)

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82 pages, 19120 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Air-Conditioning Systems Enabled by Artificial Intelligence: Research Status, Enterprise Patent Analysis, and Future Prospects

by Dasheng Lee and Liyuan Chen

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7514; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127514 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 6614

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies have developed rapidly since 2000. Numerous academic papers have been published regarding energy efficiency improvements for air-conditioning systems. This study reviewed 12 review papers and selected 85 specific cases of applications of AI for HVAC energy usage reduction. In [...] Read more.

Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies have developed rapidly since 2000. Numerous academic papers have been published regarding energy efficiency improvements for air-conditioning systems. This study reviewed 12 review papers and selected 85 specific cases of applications of AI for HVAC energy usage reduction. In addition to academic studies, 31,221 patents related to HVAC energy-saving equipment filed by 11 companies were investigated. In order to analyze the large amount of data, this study developed a resource description framework (RDF) as an analysis tool. This tool was used with a natural language processing (NLP) program to compare the contents of academic papers and patents. With the automated analysis program, this study aimed to link academic research and corporate research and development, mainly the enterprise patent applications, to analyze the reasons why AI can effectively save energy. This represents a complete analysis of the current status of academic and industrial development. Six methods were identified to save energy effectively, including model-based predictive control (MPC), thermal comfort control, model-free predictive control, control optimization, multi-agent control (MAC), and knowledge-based system/rule set (KBS/RS)-based control. The energy savings of these methods were quantified to be 8.8–25.5%. These methods are widely covered by the examined corporate patent applications. After using NLP to retrieve patent keywords, the landscapes of enterprise patents were constructed and the future research directions were identified. It is concluded that 10 topics, including novel neural network designs, smartphone-assisted machine learning, and transfer learning, can be used to increase the energy-saving effects of AI and enable sustainable air-conditioning systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Social Ecology and Sustainability)

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Graphical abstract

24 pages, 1953 KiB

Open AccessReview

Environmental Economics and the SDGs: A Review of Their Relationships and Barriers

by Widhayani Puri Setioningtyas, Csaba Bálint Illés, Anna Dunay, Abdul Hadi and Tony Susilo Wibowo

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7513; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127513 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 7694

Abstract

Recently, environmental issues have increased, whereas the Earth’s natural resources have deteriorated. These problems have forced people and companies to engage in environmental economics to achieve sustainability. However, several barriers have been identified in the implementation of environmental economics. This literature review provides [...] Read more.

Recently, environmental issues have increased, whereas the Earth’s natural resources have deteriorated. These problems have forced people and companies to engage in environmental economics to achieve sustainability. However, several barriers have been identified in the implementation of environmental economics. This literature review provides insights into environmental economics and the sustainable development goals (SDGs), as well as the correlation between these two subjects in general. Thus, information about potential barriers to the implementation of environmental economics and possible solutions will be presented. A total of 75 documents were analyzed, including articles, books, official reports, or paperwork from governments and/or related institutions. This study is beneficial, especially for developing countries that are just preparing for, or in the process of conducting, the initial implementation of environmental economics, as well as achieving the sustainable development goals. Interdisciplinary topics that integrate human aspects with environmental economics are limited yet crucial for future research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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20 pages, 828 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mobility as a Service (MaaS) as a Sustainability Concept for Tourist Destinations

by Ivana Martinčević, Predrag Brlek and Nives Domjan Kačarević

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7512; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127512 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3571

Abstract

In order to meet the needs and requirements of visitors in tourist destinations related to modes of transport, the offer in tourist destinations must satisfy travel habits. The introduction of the MaaS (Mobility as a Service) concept is reflected in the reduction of [...] Read more.

In order to meet the needs and requirements of visitors in tourist destinations related to modes of transport, the offer in tourist destinations must satisfy travel habits. The introduction of the MaaS (Mobility as a Service) concept is reflected in the reduction of dependence on private cars. The main objectives of this paper are (1) to explore the MaaS concept, awareness about the concept, its importance and benefits in general and related to tourism in the Republic of Croatia; and (2) to explore the connection between a multimodal mindset about mobility concepts on the very concept of MaaS under the influence of satisfaction using mobility-related applications in tourism. The results of the research confirm a statistically significant relationship between a multimodal mindset (way of thinking) and the MaaS service in the function of tourism, and that relationship is mediated by the satisfaction with the use of mobility-related applications, but also the lack of awareness about the concept itself. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Tourism, Culture, and Heritage)

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18 pages, 395 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Lightly Robust Max-Ordering Solution Concept for Uncertain Multiobjective Optimization Problems: An Ambulance Location Problem with Unavailability

by Pornpimon Boriwan, Thanathorn Phoka and Narin Petrot

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7511; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127511 - 20 Jun 2022

Viewed by 2211

Abstract

This study introduces a robust concept for considering uncertain multiobjective optimization problems, called the lightly robust max-ordering solution. This introduced solution concept offers the best option for solving issues based on the maximum cost in the worst-case scenario. Introducing a tolerable relaxation parameter [...] Read more.

This study introduces a robust concept for considering uncertain multiobjective optimization problems, called the lightly robust max-ordering solution. This introduced solution concept offers the best option for solving issues based on the maximum cost in the worst-case scenario. Introducing a tolerable relaxation parameter can be used to increase the robustness of the solution but, at the same time, the desirable property of such a solution with respect to the nominal scenario might be decreased. Subsequently, the two measurements, which are the ‘gain in robustness’ and the ‘price to be paid for robustness’, are considered. These measurements are needed to support a decision maker to find more desirable lightly robust max-ordering solutions with a beneficial trade-off between the robustness of solutions and the quality of solutions in an undisturbed situation. Moreover, an algorithm for finding the proposed solution is presented and discussed. An instance of the benefits of the suggested solution concept is used on an example of ambulance location planning if ambulances may be unavailable. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Public Administration)

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20 pages, 1114 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Organizational Environmental Culture, Environmental Sustainability and Performance: The Mediating Role of Green HRM and Green Innovation

by Mohammed A. Al Doghan, Nadia Abdelhamid Abdelmegeed Abdelwahed, Bahadur Ali Soomro and Mahmoud Mohamed Hussein Ali Alayis

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7510; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127510 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 5706

Abstract

This study investigated Environmental Sustainability (ES) and Environmental Performance (EP) through the direct and indirect use of Organizational Environmental Culture (OEC). This study focused on top managers, namely, the CEOs and directors of SMEs, along with their middle managers. In this study, the [...] Read more.

This study investigated Environmental Sustainability (ES) and Environmental Performance (EP) through the direct and indirect use of Organizational Environmental Culture (OEC). This study focused on top managers, namely, the CEOs and directors of SMEs, along with their middle managers. In this study, the researchers employed green HRM and Green Innovation (GI) as mediators. We applied a quantitative approach that utilized cross-sectional data collected from Saudi Arabian Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). We used a survey questionnaire with a convenience sampling technique and succeeded in obtaining replies from 236 respondents. By using the Structural Equation Model (SEM), this study’s findings demonstrate that OEC has a positive and significant effect on green HRM and GI. This study’s findings support the development of policies that promote ES and EP through green environmental practices. Further, green HRM and GI are significant predictors of ES and EP. This study’s findings also show that green HRM and GI have a mediating effect in developing the associations between OEC and ES and EP. Ultimately, this study’s findings make a significant contribution to the depth of the empirical evidence about SMEs in the context of Saudi Arabia. Full article

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19 pages, 4702 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effects of the COVID-19 Outbreak on the Use and Perceptions of Metropolitan Agricultural Parks—Evidence from Milan and Naples of Urban and Environmental Resilience

by Vincenzo Rusciano and Andrea Gatto

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7509; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127509 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2609

Abstract

This article describes the multi-function of the metropolitan agricultural parks (MAPs) in Milan (Parco Agricolo Sud Milano) and Naples (Parco De Filippo) and their resilience within the last COVID-19 lockdown period. These parks play an important role in the urban regeneration and social [...] Read more.

This article describes the multi-function of the metropolitan agricultural parks (MAPs) in Milan (Parco Agricolo Sud Milano) and Naples (Parco De Filippo) and their resilience within the last COVID-19 lockdown period. These parks play an important role in the urban regeneration and social inclusion processes in their relative metropolitan areas. Nevertheless, the restrictions imposed to limit COVID-19 contagions have imposed their closure or severely limited their activities, with evident consequences for the local population’s well-being. This study’s novelty is twofold: it is the first study examining the resilience and sustainability impact of MAPs during COVID-19; additionally, it is the first survey making use of Milan and Naples practices. The work uses primary and secondary data and mixed methods. Exploiting a document analysis and the elaboration of a semi-structured interview with the directors, the article lists the multiple functions of the parks and underlines their multidimensional governance vocations for fostering sustainable development—environmental, economic and social functions. The study also reveals that, during the lockdown, the parks’ activities were strongly reduced or restructured. Recreational and educational activities were lifted in Parco Agricolo Sud in Milan whilst local farms restructured their food supply and fostered their network and linkages with the urban distribution channels. MAP in Naples had to stop its activities and reorganize into a smart-working system. Lastly, our study found that economic and farm network activities were resumed with greater urgency in Milan, whereas in Naples the recovery of the social practices has taken on greater importance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Spatial Planning and Territorial Governance)

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17 pages, 2749 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Study of the Spatial Structure and Regional Interaction of Agricultural Green Total Factor Productivity in China Based on SNA and VAR Methods

by Haisheng Chen, Shuiping Zhu, Jianjun Sun, Kaiyang Zhong, Manhong Shen and Xiaoli Wang

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7508; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127508 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2451

Abstract

As regional interaction increases in an open economy, a region’s green total factor productivity in agriculture must be considered alongside relationships with other regions. In this study, the slack-based model (SBM) global Malmquist–Luenberger (GML) index is used to measure the green total factor [...] Read more.

As regional interaction increases in an open economy, a region’s green total factor productivity in agriculture must be considered alongside relationships with other regions. In this study, the slack-based model (SBM) global Malmquist–Luenberger (GML) index is used to measure the green total factor productivity of agriculture in each province of China, and the social network analysis (SNA) and vector autoregressive model (VAR) impulse response function (IRF) are used to examine the spatial network structure and regional interactivity. The research confirms that the absolute value and concentration of agricultural green total factor productivity are generally higher in the south than in the north of China, but the peak is lower in the south than in the north. The network density of agricultural green total factor productivity in China from 2008 to 2019 shows an increase, with the cut-off values of mean, 10, 50, and 100 treated as 4.97%, 2.57%, 3.30%, and 2.43%, respectively. From 2008 to 2019, the central potentials of network entry and network exit of green total factor productivity in China’s agriculture show a “V”-shaped and inverted “V”-shaped evolution path, respectively, with the density of cohesive subgroups growing, which demonstrates that the spatial structure of green total factor productivity in Chinese agriculture has experienced an evolutionary path from polycentric to monocentric to polycentric conditions. The spatial interaction of different cohesive subgroups is intensifying and has a certain degree of self-stability. In terms of regional interaction, the siphon effect of the east on the green development of agriculture in the central and western regions is significant, but the trickle-down effect is not obvious, and the interaction between the central and western regions has a catalytic effect on the efficiency of the green economy of agriculture in both regions. It is recommended that targeted policies be introduced to support the flow of agricultural factors and industrial division of labour between the central and western regions and the south and north, taking into account the actual situation. The novelty of this paper is that it focuses on the green total factor productivity of Chinese agriculture and combines the innovative use of the social network analysis paradigm to analyse the green development of agriculture in a country from a spatial dynamic evolutionary perspective. A limitation of the research methodology in this paper is its poor applicability to closed economy analysis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability and Ecosystem Health: How to Balance Development and Conservation with Rapid Global Changes?)

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16 pages, 1543 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Review of the Impacts of Climate Change on Ports and Harbours and Their Adaptation in Spain

by Nerea Portillo Juan, Vicente Negro Valdecantos and Jose María del Campo

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7507; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127507 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 4384

Abstract

Climate change is one of the issues of greatest concern to today’s society. The increase in temperatures has affected sea levels, polar masses and extreme events, among others. There are many scientific studies that analyze the impacts of climate change on coastal communities, [...] Read more.

Climate change is one of the issues of greatest concern to today’s society. The increase in temperatures has affected sea levels, polar masses and extreme events, among others. There are many scientific studies that analyze the impacts of climate change on coastal communities, but most of them focus on beach erosion and coastal recession. Scientific literature on the effects of climate change on ports and harbors and their adaptation is much less abundant. Ports are essential for the economy and society of their cities, so studying the impact of climate change on them is an urgent need. The Mediterranean and the Spanish Mediterranean coast is one of the areas that will be most affected by climate change in the future. In addition, the Spanish economy depends a lot on its tourism and, thus, on its coastal cities. Therefore, the study of the impact of climate change on Spanish ports and coastal communities is essential. This article presents a review of the studies carried out until now on the effects of climate change on Spanish ports, and it identifies research gaps and weaknesses and suggests new research lines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Addressing Climate Change Impacts on the Sustainable Provision of Transport Infrastructure and Services)

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17 pages, 2942 KiB

Open AccessReview

Review of Thermochemical Technologies for Water and Energy Integration Systems: Energy Storage and Recovery

by Miguel Castro Oliveira, Muriel Iten and Henrique A. Matos

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7506; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127506 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3610

Abstract

Thermochemical technologies (TCT) enable the promotion of the sustainability and the operation of energy systems, as well as in industrial sites. The thermochemical operations can be applied for energy storage and energy recovery (alternative fuel production from water/wastewater, in particular green hydrogen). TCTs [...] Read more.

Thermochemical technologies (TCT) enable the promotion of the sustainability and the operation of energy systems, as well as in industrial sites. The thermochemical operations can be applied for energy storage and energy recovery (alternative fuel production from water/wastewater, in particular green hydrogen). TCTs are proven to have a higher energy density and long-term storage compared to standard thermal storage technologies (sensible and latent). Nonetheless, these require further research on their development for the increasing of the technology readiness level (TRL). Since TCTs operate with the same input/outputs streams as other thermal storages (for instance, wastewater and waste heat streams), these may be conceptually analyzed in terms of the integration in Water and Energy Integration System (WEIS). This work is set to review the techno-economic and environmental aspects related to thermochemical energy storage (sorption and reaction-based) and wastewater-to-energy (particular focus on thermochemical water splitting technology), aiming also to assess their potential into WEIS. The exploited technologies are, in general, proved to be suitable to be installed within the conceptualization of WEIS. In the case of TCES technologies, these are proven to be significantly more potential analogues to standard TES technologies on the scope of the conceptualization of WEIS. In the case of energy recovery technologies, although a conceptualization of a pathway to produce usable heat with an input of wastewater, further study has to be performed to fully understand the use of additional fuel in combustion-based processes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Strategies for the Decarbonisation of Industrial Thermal Processes)

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17 pages, 1459 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Practicalities towards Good Governance in Fish Townships and Villages by Ethics-Based Approach

by Yuru He, Shuolin Huang and Yi Tang

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7505; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127505 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3212

Abstract

As humanity’s moral failure leads to wild aquatic resources decline, habitat destruction and community tension, an ethically sound path towards good governance is increasingly needed globally. To epitomize sustainable paradigm shifts of grassroots practicalities in the fish sector, an ethical governance framework is [...] Read more.

As humanity’s moral failure leads to wild aquatic resources decline, habitat destruction and community tension, an ethically sound path towards good governance is increasingly needed globally. To epitomize sustainable paradigm shifts of grassroots practicalities in the fish sector, an ethical governance framework is initially conceptualized with a meta-governance infrastructure and a value-based decision-making mechanism. The ethical approach is then contextualized by using fish-specific evidence and outlining evolution of participatory fisheries and aquaculture management in rural China as a case study. The empirical investigation of socio-ecological justice manifested in social empowerment, ethical conduct and ecological resilience reveals that in China: fisheries and aquaculture governance models have been transforming from hierarchical governance to integrated governance combining hierarchy, market and community; participatory ethics are embedded in civil organizations upgraded from fishery association, offices, leagues to societies and cooperatives, indicating a multi-stakeholder governance mechanism steered by the government as meta-governor; villagers’ committees play a critical intermediary role in extending township governance and promoting autonomy of fishermen (farmers); local knowledge and traditional code of conduct regulates fish activities of fishermen (farmers) ready for community cooperation and mutual assistance; fish communities adopt socio-ecological measures to ensure property rights to fish (farm) and conserve aquatic resources. The current study aims to provide value reference in leveraging justified policy tools while promoting legitimacy of fish grassroots governance, in hope of contributing to a greener future of fisheries and aquaculture worldwide. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Management)

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13 pages, 277 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Voluntary Disclosure of Carbon Emissions Information, Managerial Ability, and Credit Ratings

by Jaehong Lee

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7504; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127504 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2914

Abstract

This paper examines the relationship between the voluntary disclosure of carbon emissions information and credit ratings, and whether managerial ability affects this association. I examine a sample of 7996 non-financial companies with fiscal year-end in December listed in the Korea Stock Exchange Market [...] Read more.

This paper examines the relationship between the voluntary disclosure of carbon emissions information and credit ratings, and whether managerial ability affects this association. I examine a sample of 7996 non-financial companies with fiscal year-end in December listed in the Korea Stock Exchange Market (KSE) for the period of 2011–2019. Using CDP reports to measure the voluntary disclosure of carbon emissions information, this study reports that, on average, credit ratings can be increased through the proactive disclosure activities of environmental problems in South Korea. Moreover, in companies managed by competent managers, the positive association between the voluntary disclosure of carbon emissions information and credit ratings is pronounced, implying that competent managers encourage the disclosure of qualitative information to assess the intrinsic corporate value. These results are robust even after analyses with different empirical models. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

15 pages, 2150 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Investigation of Hydrodynamic Parameters in an Airlift Photobioreactor on CO₂ Biofixation by Spirulina sp.

by Zahra Zarei, Peyman Malekshahi, Antoine P. Trzcinski and Mohammad Hossein Morowvat

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7503; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127503 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2656

Abstract

The rise of CO₂ concentration on Earth is a major environmental problem that causes global warming. To solve this issue, carbon capture and sequestration technologies are becoming more and more popular. Among them, cyanobacteria can efficiently sequestrate CO₂, which is [...] Read more.

The rise of CO₂ concentration on Earth is a major environmental problem that causes global warming. To solve this issue, carbon capture and sequestration technologies are becoming more and more popular. Among them, cyanobacteria can efficiently sequestrate CO₂, which is an eco-friendly and cost-effective way of reducing carbon dioxide, and algal biomass can be harvested as valuable products. In this study, the hydrodynamic parameters of an airlift photobioreactor such as gas holdup, mean bubble diameter and liquid circulation velocity were measured to investigate CO₂ biofixation by Spirulina sp. The total gas holdup was found to increase linearly with the increase in the gas velocity from 0.185 to 1.936 cm/s. The mean bubble velocities in distilled water only and in the cyanobacterial culture on the first and sixth days of cultivation were 109.97, 87.98, and 65.89 cm/s, respectively. It was found that shear stress at gas velocities greater than 0.857 cm/s led to cyanobacterial death. After 7 days of batch culture, the maximum dry cell weight reached 1.62 g/L at the gas velocity of 0.524 cm/s, whereas the highest carbon dioxide removal efficiency by Spirulina sp. was 55.48% at a gas velocity of 0.185 cm/s, demonstrating that hydrodynamic parameters applied in this study were suitable to grow Spirulina sp. in the airlift photobioreactor and remove CO₂. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Carbon Capture, Storage and Utilisation Technologies (CCS/CCU))

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22 pages, 2815 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Psychometric Properties of Intercultural Competences in a Central European Context

by Osama Alhendi, Péter Lengyel, Péter Balogh and József Tóth

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7502; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127502 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2280

Abstract

This study aims to validate Fantini’s intercultural competence scale in a sample of foreign students in a Central European context, and to figure out the pathways which are critical in improving the intercultural competence of foreign students. To achieve that, the study used [...] Read more.

This study aims to validate Fantini’s intercultural competence scale in a sample of foreign students in a Central European context, and to figure out the pathways which are critical in improving the intercultural competence of foreign students. To achieve that, the study used confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to construct the structural equation model (SEM). The results indicate that the scale is reliable and valid for assessing foreign students’ intercultural competence. In addition, using the first-order CFA as a baseline model, the SEM indicates that each intercultural knowledge, attitude, and skills are essential in predicting the intercultural awareness of the students. On the other hand, enhanced awareness plays an important role in promoting the development of these factors. Based on that, the study provides university decision-makers with valuable information which can be helpful in formulating related policies and rules aiming to enhance the integration and intercultural contact between foreign and Hungarian students at the university environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Cultural Management: From Theory to Practice)

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16 pages, 3145 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Teaching and Learning Experience during COVID-19 Pandemic in Engineering Education

by Mohammad Taufiqul Arif and GM Shafiullah

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7501; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127501 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2790

Abstract

The education system is continuously modernizing by accommodating the need due to the industrial revolution. Various teaching modes are also introduced including a diverse range of students, particularly in engineering education. The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted normal education worldwide, forced to shut down [...] Read more.

The education system is continuously modernizing by accommodating the need due to the industrial revolution. Various teaching modes are also introduced including a diverse range of students, particularly in engineering education. The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted normal education worldwide, forced to shut down campus activity for an extended period which forced Universities to adopt alternative approaches to continue student’s academic year. Engineering education faced significant challenges to find a realistic substitution for lab-based hands-on activity as well as group or team-based learning experiences. It is therefore very important to know the challenges and ways to address them. This paper evaluates the teaching and learning experiences observed in engineering education in Australia and abroad during the COVID-19 period compared to the pre-COVID period. The key motivation of this study is to identify key challenges arises due to COVID-19, develop Teaching & Learning (T & L) approaches to address these challenges and evaluate the effectiveness of the applied changes in the T & L approach, identify shortcomings, and find ways to improve them. The student feedback on selected engineering units have been collected from Deakin and Murdoch university in Australia to evaluate the performances of the applied changes. This data is considered as an authentic source of information to compare and identify the key challenges and effectiveness for students’ learning in pre-COVID and during COVID condition. This study later explored various literatures to gather experiences from other universities across the globe and by analysing all findings including academic experiences finally developed constructive recommendations for improvement. It is found that the current form of online mode of teaching has room to improve further as one segment of students finds it challenging and some others like a few approaches. It is also found that the online infrastructure, staff skills to innovate new unit designs, and motivating students are the other challenging areas. Therefore, a new teaching and learning framework is required to overcome all the challenges for future learning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Impact of Covid-19 on Students and Teachers in Higher Education Institutions. Proposals and Policies for Improvement)

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18 pages, 900 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Determinants of Impulsive Buying Behavior in Electronic Commerce

by Ying Wang, Jialing Pan, Yizhi Xu, Jianli Luo and Yongjiao Wu

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7500; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127500 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 14351

Abstract

Consumers’ online impulsive buying behavior has become more and more frequent in the digital era. There is increasing concern regarding the adverse consequences that impulsive buying has generated for consumer wellbeing and the sustainability of our society and environment. In search of a [...] Read more.

Consumers’ online impulsive buying behavior has become more and more frequent in the digital era. There is increasing concern regarding the adverse consequences that impulsive buying has generated for consumer wellbeing and the sustainability of our society and environment. In search of a way to decreasing impulsive consumption, this article proposes a comprehensive framework to explore the potential determinants of online impulsive buying behavior from the perspective of consumer characteristics grounded on the literature on sustainability, psychology and consumer behavior. Through an online survey, a total of 425 valid responses were obtained. Extroversion and neuroticism in personality, negative emotions, collectivism in culture and the cognitive and affective factors of impulsive buying tendency are found to be positively correlated with impulsive buying behavior, whereas self-control shows a negative impact on impulsive buying behavior. Furthermore, this study identifies the mediating roles that negative emotions and collectivism play. Specifically, in addition to the direct routes, neuroticism, self-control and the affective factor of impulsive buying tendency can indirectly influence impulsive buying behavior through the mediation of negative emotions, whereas extroversion can indirectly affect impulsive buying behavior with collectivism as the mediator. To conclude, theoretical and practical implications of this research are elaborated to promote sustainable consumption from both the micro and macro perspectives. Full article

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18 pages, 1078 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Gender and Other Vulnerabilities to Water–Energy Accessibility in Rural Households of Katsina State, Northern Nigeria

by Yahaya Sani and Miklas Scholz

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7499; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127499 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2433

Abstract

Water and energy are essential resources for all people. However, despite the availability of sufficient water and energy resources, men and women continue to be subject to unequal rights to both water and energy in terms of access, allocation, gathering, and quality of [...] Read more.

Water and energy are essential resources for all people. However, despite the availability of sufficient water and energy resources, men and women continue to be subject to unequal rights to both water and energy in terms of access, allocation, gathering, and quality of resources. Socio-economic parameters, which include gender, income, and location, are determinant factors of water and cooking energy accessibility in this study. The research aims to assess the accessibility of water and cooking fuels across female-headed households, and evaluate particular vulnerabilities and challenges faced by women and children in rural areas of Katsina State in circumstances of water and energy insecurities. A study involving a questionnaire covering 550 rural households across 11 areas in Katsina State, north-western Nigeria, was conducted. A Pearson product correlation analysis was performed to measure the strength of association between the respondents educational level and income. A chi-square test of independence was carried out to measure the degree of dependence of the households’ resources accessibility. The authors assessed the disproportionate threats and health risks linked to fetching water and gathering of fuel resources. The research findings indicate that water and energy uncertainty among women in rural households is due to unequal responsibilities associated with water- and energy-related household duties that are potentially linked to disadvantages for females, including violence, security threats, diseases, and disempowerment. To address these challenges, water and energy interventions, and important pathways for beneficial change, are proposed for rural regions in sub-Saharan Africa. This should lead to more gender equity associated with water and energy. Full article

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27 pages, 2049 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Driving Factors of Urban Music Festival Tourism and Service Development Strategies Using the Modified SIA-NRM Approach

by Jung-Jung Chang, Ruey-Feng Chen and Chia-Li Lin

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7498; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127498 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 5950

Abstract

Urban music festivals play an important role in tourism. Festival tourism attracts fans and event participants from all over the world. They can contribute not only to the tourism industries but also to local and regional economic development. This study focuses on how [...] Read more.

Urban music festivals play an important role in tourism. Festival tourism attracts fans and event participants from all over the world. They can contribute not only to the tourism industries but also to local and regional economic development. This study focuses on how urban music festival tourism can successfully attract tourist participation. It explores the service needs and the critical factors that affect tourists’ favorable participation decisions. The SIA (Satisfaction Importance Analysis) approach was applied to evaluate the service performance aspects/criteria for urban music festival tourism. The study used the NRM (Network Relation Map) approach to determine the acceptation paths. This study also provides sustainable development strategies and suitable development paths through the SIA-NRM approach. The findings of this study reveal the ranking of importance of service attributes and performance qualities perceived by tourists of urban music festivals. It provides recommendations to the music festival organizers and for local governments’ strategic directions, leading to successful music festival tourism. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development of the City’s Tourism)

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20 pages, 282 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Can Digital Transformation Promote Green Technology Innovation?

by Long Xue, Qianyu Zhang, Xuemang Zhang and Chengyu Li

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7497; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127497 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 135 | Viewed by 12423

Abstract

Using the index of the degree of digital transformation of enterprises constructed based on text analysis, and combining the data of Shanghai and Shenzhen A-share listed companies from 2007 to 2020, a panel data model was established to empirically study the impact of [...] Read more.

Using the index of the degree of digital transformation of enterprises constructed based on text analysis, and combining the data of Shanghai and Shenzhen A-share listed companies from 2007 to 2020, a panel data model was established to empirically study the impact of digital transformation on green technology innovation and the mechanism of action and to further analyze the impact of heterogeneity. The results show that digital transformation can significantly promote green technology innovation, and its internal mechanism is that digital transformation can improve the level of green technology innovation by alleviating financing constraints and attracting government subsidies. Compared with nonstate-owned enterprises and small and medium-sized enterprises, digital transformation plays a more significant role in promoting green technology innovation in state-owned enterprises and large-scale enterprises. Therefore, the government should regulate the market order and formulate reasonable financial policies to provide policy and financial support for enterprises to carry out digital transformation, mobilize the willingness of enterprises to carry out green technology innovation and improve the level of green technology innovation in China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Transformation Path: Energy Management Optimization and Environmental Performance Improvement)

19 pages, 1664 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Housing Sustainability: The Effects of Speculation and Property Taxes on House Prices within and beyond the Jurisdiction

by Muhammad Adil Rauf and Olaf Weber

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7496; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127496 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4711

Abstract

Housing plays an essential role in sustainable governance due to its socio-economic and environmental connection. However, the relationship between governance policies, market behavior, and socio-economic outcomes varies geographically and demographically. Therefore, segregated policies developed and implemented may fail to achieve their desired objectives [...] Read more.

Housing plays an essential role in sustainable governance due to its socio-economic and environmental connection. However, the relationship between governance policies, market behavior, and socio-economic outcomes varies geographically and demographically. Therefore, segregated policies developed and implemented may fail to achieve their desired objectives because of the sensitivity of housing policies for their connection to human wellbeing. The effectiveness of housing policies in geographically connected regions is one of the areas that has received little attention in the Canadian context. The study follows a multi-step empirical method using a multiple linear regression model and a difference-in-difference approach to assessing the geographical variation of speculation and property taxes on housing markets. The study confirms that speculation taxes are not an effective tool in curbing house prices. Similarly, considering the role of property taxes in providing public services, delinking property taxes from a potential contributor to house prices would provide a better lens to develop local housing policies. Furthermore, the study also confirms that the housing market can be better assessed at a local scale, considering geographical influence in conjunction with investment trends. Full article

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12 pages, 1854 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Developing a 3D Hydrodynamic and Water Quality Model for Floating Treatment Wetlands to Study the Flow Structure and Nutrient Removal Performance of Different Configurations

by Yan Wang, Xueping Gao, Bowen Sun and Yuan Liu

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7495; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127495 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1977

Abstract

Floating treatment wetlands (FTWs) are widely used in surface water. The nutrient removal performance depends on both physical processes and chemical/biological transformations in FTWs. However, research describing the coupling processes of hydrodynamic and water quality in the system remains limited. Therefore, a coupled [...] Read more.

Floating treatment wetlands (FTWs) are widely used in surface water. The nutrient removal performance depends on both physical processes and chemical/biological transformations in FTWs. However, research describing the coupling processes of hydrodynamic and water quality in the system remains limited. Therefore, a coupled three-dimensional model of hydrodynamic and water quality for FTWs was developed based on the Environmental Fluid Dynamics Code (EFDC). Additional plant drag terms were added to the momentum equations to simulate the suspended canopy effect, and the chemical/biological processes occurring in FTWs were integrated into the original water quality equations simultaneously. The fully calibrated model was used to compare the hydrodynamic characteristics and nutrient removal performance of seven FTW configurations. The modeling results showed that the main stream would turn to the bottom and side of the plant root zone because of the block in FTWs. The differences in the hydrodynamic characteristics among the seven configurations led to a difference in water quality improvement effects. Segmenting a single FTW into a pair of parallel FTWs could achieve the maximum nitrogen and phosphorus mass removal. The results of the study are useful for designing an optimal FTW configuration in surface water. Full article

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16 pages, 2031 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Employing Eye Tracking to Study Visual Attention to Live Streaming: A Case Study of Facebook Live

by Hsuan-Chu Chen, Chun-Chia Wang, Jason C. Hung and Cheng-Yu Hsueh

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7494; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127494 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4720

Abstract

In recent years, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to the development of a new business model, “Live Streaming + Ecommerce”, which is a new method for commercial sales that shares the goal of sustainable economic growth (SDG 8). As information technology finds its [...] Read more.

In recent years, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to the development of a new business model, “Live Streaming + Ecommerce”, which is a new method for commercial sales that shares the goal of sustainable economic growth (SDG 8). As information technology finds its way into the digital lives of internet users, the real-time and interactive nature of live streaming has overturned the traditional entertainment experience of audio and video content, moving towards a more nuanced division of labor with multiple applications. This study used a portable eye tracker to collect eye movement information from participants watching Facebook Live, with 31 participants who had experience using the live streaming platform. The four eye movement indicators, namely, latency of first fixation (LFF), duration of first fixation (DFF), total fixation durations (TFD), and the number of fixations (NOF), were used to analyze the distribution of the visual attention in each region of interest (ROI) and explore the study questions based on the ROIs. The findings of this study were as follows: (1) the fixation order of the ROIs in the live ecommerce platform differed between participants of different sexes; (2) the DFF of the ROIs in the live ecommerce platform differed among participants of different sexes; and (3) regarding the ROIs of participants on the live ecommerce platform, participants of different sexes showed the same attention to the live products according to the TFD and NOF eye movement indicators. This study explored the visual search behaviors of existing consumers watching live ecommerce and provides the results as a reference for operators and researchers of live streaming platforms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable and Human-Centric E-Commerce)

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31 pages, 6610 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Photovoltaic Solar Farms on Microclimate and Vegetation Diversity

by Jeffrey Vervloesem, Ernesto Marcheggiani, MD Abdul Mueed Choudhury and Bart Muys

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7493; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127493 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 8758

Abstract

The need for energy and the increasing importance of climate change mitigation are leading to a conversion from conventional to renewable energy sources. Solar photovoltaic (PV) power has seen the most significant increase among all renewable energy sources. However, most of these installations [...] Read more.

The need for energy and the increasing importance of climate change mitigation are leading to a conversion from conventional to renewable energy sources. Solar photovoltaic (PV) power has seen the most significant increase among all renewable energy sources. However, most of these installations are land-based, significantly changing global land use (LU). The real impacts, whether positive or negative, are poorly understood. This study was undertaken to have a better understanding of the impacts of solar parks on the microclimate and vegetation dynamics. First, different solar parks were visited to take measurements of the surface temperature (T_surf), photosynthetic active radiation (PAR), air temperature (T_air), and humidity (RH) to quantify the microclimate and perform a vegetation relevé. The measurements were taken at different positions: underneath, in between, and outside solar panels. For vegetation, the data were first converted to diversity indices, which in turn contributed to a multi-indicator land use impact assessment that evaluated effects on vegetation, biodiversity, soil and water. Solar parks had clear effects on microclimate: if the panels were high enough from the ground, they could lower the T_surf by providing shade and enough airflow. Additionally, the multidimensional functional diversity (FD) analysis of the vegetation indicated that there was less light at a higher humidity and lower temperature underneath the panels. Interestingly, the species underneath the panels also preferred a lower pH and a higher nitrogen level. Finally, the land use impact assessment found that the total land use impact for a wheat field was higher than that of the solar park, which suggests that the conversion of conventional intensive agriculture to a solar park would be beneficial. Full article

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16 pages, 1566 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Contrasting the COVID-19 Effects on Tourism Safety Perceptions and Coping Behavior among Young People during Two Pandemic Waves: Evidence from Egypt

by Ana Maria Caldeira, Cláudia Seabra and Miral Sabry AlAshry

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7492; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127492 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2482

Abstract

The aim of this study is to analyze the impact of COVID-19 on tourism safety perceptions, acceptance of restrictions, and the intention to change behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic among young people. Taking Egypt as a case study, a total of 386 respondents [...] Read more.

The aim of this study is to analyze the impact of COVID-19 on tourism safety perceptions, acceptance of restrictions, and the intention to change behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic among young people. Taking Egypt as a case study, a total of 386 respondents were surveyed in two different pandemic periods, with data being collected during the first wave, in April and May 2020, and during the second wave, in December 2020 and January 2021. Data was analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) with multigroup analysis (MGA). Results reveal significant differences between the first and the second coronavirus waves regarding the effects of perceived risk. Findings point to the heightened potential of the youth market segment in the current context and suggest that youngsters’ adaptive coping responses evolved towards self-regulatory behavior. Based on the results, theoretical and practical implications are drawn. Conceptually, the study has contributed to the clarification of the desensitization process experienced by youth over time, in the post-pandemic tourism context. Additionally, the activities’ safety perceptions being examined per se enlightened the relationship between risk susceptibility, safety perceptions, and coping attitudes and behavior. Findings suggest that special attention should be paid to crowded group settings, such as youth events, advising that authorities and tourism services should target their communication to different population segments and use appropriate safety messaging according to the evolution of health crises. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tourism in Times of Crisis—Is There a Sustainable Future?)

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