Sustainability

17 pages, 526 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Does Information Transparency Moderate the Relationship Between ESG and Green Innovation? Empirical Evidence from China

by Mengdi Qin and Eunmi Tatum Lee

Sustainability 2024, 16(23), 10245; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162310245 - 22 Nov 2024

The results regarding whether the relationship between environmental, social, and governance activities and green innovation is linear or non-linear are inconsistent. Therefore, by drawing on stakeholder theory and neoclassical perspective, we re-examined the relationship and con-firmed the non-linear relationship between environmental, social, and [...] Read more.

The results regarding whether the relationship between environmental, social, and governance activities and green innovation is linear or non-linear are inconsistent. Therefore, by drawing on stakeholder theory and neoclassical perspective, we re-examined the relationship and con-firmed the non-linear relationship between environmental, social, and governance activities and green innovation, which constitutes the academic contribution of this paper. In particular, we investigated the moderating effect of information transparency on the relationship by constructing an index using five indicators from Chinese databases. By merging Chinese local databases, more than 3000 companies listed on the Shanghai and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges in China were analyzed, with the fixed-effect estimation methods confirming a U-shaped relationship. The results further showed that information transparency strengthens the U-shaped relationship between environmental, social, and governance activities and green innovation. Our study provides an important implication that a high level of information transparency enhances this relationship in emerging economies such as China, where information transparency is relatively less developed. Full article

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

19 pages, 1163 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Historical and Future Changes in Water Temperature in the Pilica River (Central Europe) in Response to Global Warming

by Mariusz Ptak, Teerachai Amnuaylojaroen and Mariusz Sojka

Sustainability 2024, 16(23), 10244; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162310244 - 22 Nov 2024

Abstract

This study analyzes changes in the water temperature in the Pilica River (Poland), encompassing both historical data (1958–2023) and projections extending to the year 2100. We use multi-model ensembles (MMEs) with Bayesian Model Averaging (BMA) to integrate various Global Climate Model (GCM) datasets [...] Read more.

This study analyzes changes in the water temperature in the Pilica River (Poland), encompassing both historical data (1958–2023) and projections extending to the year 2100. We use multi-model ensembles (MMEs) with Bayesian Model Averaging (BMA) to integrate various Global Climate Model (GCM) datasets for current and projected climate data. Additionally, a Random Forest (RF) machine learning method is applied to project future water temperatures in the Pilica River. It has been demonstrated that over a period of more than sixty years, the average annual water temperature has increased by nearly 2 °C. Further changes are expected to continue in a similar direction with a gradual rise in this parameter, reaching a temperature increase of 3 °C by the end of the 21st century (SSP585). In the distant future, with average monthly water temperature changes at the Przedbórz station ranging from 0.27 °C to 0.87 °C·decade⁻¹ and at the Białobrzegi station from 0.22 °C to 1.06 °C·decade⁻¹. The results of these changes are concerning, especially considering the crucial role of water temperature in shaping seasonality and the dynamics of processes occurring within the river. In the context of the sustainability of the river itself, but also of the entire catchment area, strategies developed by relevant public administration bodies are needed to mitigate the impacts of global warming observed in the thermal regime of the Pilica River. Full article

25 pages, 1842 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Resilience Assessment of Flood Disasters in Zhengzhou Metropolitan Area Based on the PSR Model

by Shubo Cheng and Haoying Li

Sustainability 2024, 16(23), 10243; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162310243 - 22 Nov 2024

Abstract

Flood disasters occur frequently and cause great losses. Improving the resilience of urban flood disasters is of great significance to improving disaster prevention and mitigation in the region. The metropolitan area is the center of regional economic development and the key to strengthening [...] Read more.

Flood disasters occur frequently and cause great losses. Improving the resilience of urban flood disasters is of great significance to improving disaster prevention and mitigation in the region. The metropolitan area is the center of regional economic development and the key to strengthening the construction of local resilience. However, there is little research on resilience in the metropolitan area. Taking nine cities in the Zhengzhou metropolitan area as the research object, this paper uses the pressure state response (PSR) model to build the evaluation system of the Zhengzhou metropolitan area’s flood disaster resilience and comprehensively uses the entropy weight method, analytic hierarchy process, kernel density estimation method, and factor contribution model to measure the temporal and spatial evolution characteristics of Zhengzhou metropolitan area’s flood disaster resilience from 2010 to 2022, excavating the development trend of the level of flood disaster resilience of members in the Zhengzhou metropolitan area, and explore the driving factors affecting the resilience of the Zhengzhou metropolitan area’s flood disaster. The results show that (1) from 2010 to 2022, the development trend of flood disaster resilience among the Zhengzhou metropolitan area members has obvious differences, the change of pressure resilience is stable, and the state resilience and response resilience increase as a whole; (2) the results show that the resilience of flood disaster in the Zhengzhou metropolitan area has obvious change characteristics in time and space, and the overall trend is to take Zhengzhou as the core to drive the surrounding members’ upward development; (3) in the driving factor analysis, the number of ordinary colleges and universities and the proportion of public security expenditure in fiscal expenditure are the main influencing factors in the resilience evaluation index. The Zhengzhou metropolitan area is the key area of economic development in Henan Province. The research results provide a reference for improving the resilience level of the Zhengzhou metropolitan area and strengthening the prevention and control of flood disasters. Full article

27 pages, 673 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Does Carbon Emission Trading Affect China’s Green Innovation? An Exploration from the Perspective of the Enterprise Lifecycle

by Cuiyun Gao, Xin Li and Junjie Hou

Sustainability 2024, 16(23), 10242; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162310242 - 22 Nov 2024

Abstract

At different lifecycle stages, enterprises possess differentiated resource endowments and innovation needs, leading to variations in the effect of carbon emission trading policies on their green innovation. This study analyzes the impact of China’s carbon emission trading policy on green innovation, using A-share [...] Read more.

At different lifecycle stages, enterprises possess differentiated resource endowments and innovation needs, leading to variations in the effect of carbon emission trading policies on their green innovation. This study analyzes the impact of China’s carbon emission trading policy on green innovation, using A-share listed firms in Shanghai and Shenzhen between 2010 and 2022 as samples, from the perspective of the enterprise lifecycle. The results validate the Porter hypothesis, showing that the policy stimulates green innovation, especially in the growth and maturity stages of enterprises. However, the extent of this impact varies across enterprise scale heterogeneity, heterogeneity in the proportion of independent directors, heterogeneity in the level of green innovation and regional heterogeneity. The carbon emission trading policies can mitigate financing constraints and improve capital investment to foster green innovation, especially for mature enterprises. The findings not only enhance the theoretical investigation of flexible market-oriented environmental regulatory mechanisms but also provide valuable insights for advancing the growth of China’s low-carbon economy. Full article

27 pages, 24515 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Decoding Tianjin: How Does Urban Form Shape the Diurnal Cycle of Surface Temperature?

by Ting Wei, Wei Li and Juan Tang

Sustainability 2024, 16(23), 10241; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162310241 - 22 Nov 2024

Abstract

In the context of global climate change and the increasing severity of the urban heat island effect, it is particularly important to study the spatial variation mechanism of urban land surface temperature (LST). The LST data provided by ECOSTRESS offer a new perspective [...] Read more.

In the context of global climate change and the increasing severity of the urban heat island effect, it is particularly important to study the spatial variation mechanism of urban land surface temperature (LST). The LST data provided by ECOSTRESS offer a new perspective for deepening our understanding of the diurnal cycle and spatial variation of urban LST. In this study, based on a block scale, Tianjin is divided into nine block types, and a multi-scale geographic regression weighting (MGWR) model is used to comprehensively explore the relative contributions of urban 2D and 3D landscape indicators of different block types to the spatial changes in diurnal urban LST cycles. The results indicate that ① the thermal effect during the daytime is mainly influenced by the building density, while at night, it is more influenced by the building height and the heat retention effect; ② the building indicator and the water-body indicator had the most significant effect on surface temperature at different observation times; ③ the influence of urban morphology on land surface temperature shows significant spatial non-stationarity across different block types. This study enhances the understanding of the mechanisms driving urban heat island formation and provides a scientific basis for urban authorities to develop more effective urban planning and heat island mitigation strategies. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 1616 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluating the Anti-Corruption Factor in Environmental, Social, and Governance Indices by Sampling Large Financial Asset Management Firms

by Kenneth David Strang and Narasimha Rao Vajjhala

Sustainability 2024, 16(23), 10240; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162310240 - 22 Nov 2024

Abstract

Current Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) indices are flawed because the data are incomplete and not reported consistently, and some measured factors may be irrelevant to the industry. Regulators in the financial services industry emphasize reporting CO₂ emissions (environmental factor), yet the [...] Read more.

Current Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) indices are flawed because the data are incomplete and not reported consistently, and some measured factors may be irrelevant to the industry. Regulators in the financial services industry emphasize reporting CO₂ emissions (environmental factor), yet the key resources leveraged for production are rented offices, and internet–governance issues like money laundering, corruption, and unethical behavior would be more relevant. To investigate this problem, we sampled the finance and insurance industry firms in the USA with the greatest economic impact, i.e., those managing at least USD 1 trillion in assets. We used artificial intelligence to collect data about undisclosed legal decisions against firms to measure the ESG anti-corruption governance factor GRI 206-1, defined by the Global Reporting Institute (GRI) for global sustainable development goals (SDGs), which correspond to the United Nations’ SDGs. We applied Bayesian correlation with bootstrapping to test our hypotheses, followed by root cause analysis. We found that ESG ratings from providers did not reflect legal cases decided against firms; the Bayesian BF₊₀ odds ratio was 3005 (99% confidence intervals were 0.617, 0.965). Also, misconduct fines and arbitration legal case counts were significantly related for the same firm (the Vovk-Selke maximum p-ratio was 4411), but most ESG scores were significantly different for the same firm. We found three other studies in the literature that corroborated some of our findings that specific firms in our sample were considered to be unethical. We propose deeper study of the implications related to our findings based on public interest and stakeholder theory. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Performance Assessment, 2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 531 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of the Combined Application of Compost with the Spraying of Some Nano Fertilizers on the Performance of Mango

by Walid F. A. Mosa, Adel M. Al-Saif, Lidia Sas-Paszt, Krzysztof Górnik and Ragheb M. Eladly

Sustainability 2024, 16(23), 10239; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162310239 - 22 Nov 2024

Abstract

The overuse of chemical fertilizers can harm soil decomposition organisms, decrease mycorrhizal colonization, and suppress nitrogen fixation through excessive nitrogen application. It is also expensive and contributes to environmental degradation, ecosystem instability, and the accumulation of heavy metals in soils and crops. Therefore, [...] Read more.

The overuse of chemical fertilizers can harm soil decomposition organisms, decrease mycorrhizal colonization, and suppress nitrogen fixation through excessive nitrogen application. It is also expensive and contributes to environmental degradation, ecosystem instability, and the accumulation of heavy metals in soils and crops. Therefore, it is important to the resurgence to apply organic fertilization and nano fertilizers to lessen the reliance on the utilization of chemical fertilizers, produce healthy products, improve fruit quality, maintain soil fertility and microbial biomass, and consequently improve soil fertility and fruit productivity. In the current study, organic compost was added to the soil at 0, 2, and 3 kg/tree singly and in combination with the spraying of nanoparticles from boron and zinc at 50, 100, and 150 mg/L and nano potassium (K) at 100, 200, and 300 mg/L. The results showed that the addition of 3 kg compost to the soil combined with 150 mg/L ZnO + 150 mg/L B₂O₃ + 300 mg/L K₂O (T12), or 100 mg/L ZnO + 100 mg/L B₂O₃ + 200 mg/L K₂O (T11), and the addition of 2 kg soil combined with 150 mg/L ZnO + 150 mg/L B₂O₃ + 300 mg/L K₂O (T8) and with 100 mg/L ZnO + 100 mg/L B₂O₃ + 200 mg/L K₂O (T7) greatly improved the vegetative growth, yield, fruit quality, soil fertility, and nutritional status of the trees compared to the other applied treatments, and the addition of 3 kg compost to the soil combined with 150 mg/L ZnO + 150 mg/L B₂O₃ + 300 mg/L K₂O (T12) was the superior formula in the two seasons. Full article

17 pages, 861 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Economic Feasibility of Biogas Microgeneration from Food Waste: Potential for Sustainable Energy in Northeastern Brazil

by Iván D. Roa, Jorge R. Henriquez, Emmanuel D. Dutra, Rômulo S. C. Menezes, Monaliza M. M. Andrade, Edvaldo P. Santos Junior, Luiz Célio S. Rocha and Paulo Rotella Junior

Sustainability 2024, 16(23), 10238; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162310238 - 22 Nov 2024

Abstract

This study evaluates three scenarios’ technical and economic viability for implementing a microgeneration power plant using biogas derived from the anaerobic digestion of food waste. The case study focuses on the Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE) campus in Recife, northeastern (NE) Brazil, targeting [...] Read more.

This study evaluates three scenarios’ technical and economic viability for implementing a microgeneration power plant using biogas derived from the anaerobic digestion of food waste. The case study focuses on the Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE) campus in Recife, northeastern (NE) Brazil, targeting the organic fraction of solid waste from food units (restaurants, canteens, and kiosks). The analysis was based on field data, the chemical composition of the waste, and the electric energy consumption. Biogas production of 166 m³/day from 1 ton/day of food waste was estimated using an anaerobic reactor of 126 m³. This amount of biogas could generate about 360 kWh/day of electricity if the plant operates at peak hours using a generator set with an alternative internal combustion engine of 120 kW, with a consumption of 66 m³/h and fuel efficiency of 30%. The system could generate 390 kWh/day of electrical energy using a microturbine, with a consumption of 78 m³/h and 30% efficiency. The scenario utilizing a tubular reactor and an internal combustion engine demonstrated the best economic viability. While this study focuses on financial aspects, the findings suggest significant potential contributions to sustainability, including reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and advancing renewable energy solutions. This model can be adapted for small NE Brazil municipalities, offering economic and environmental benefits. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Transition, Energy Economics, and Environmental Sustainability)

16 pages, 639 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Early Urban Migration and Long-Term Settlement Intention: Evidence from Migrants in China

by Jun Li, Honghong Wei and Zhengdong Zuo

Sustainability 2024, 16(23), 10237; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162310237 - 22 Nov 2024

Abstract

In recent years, with the further advancement of China’s urbanization process and the continued expansion of its migrants, increasing attention has been directed toward migrants’ intentions to settle and their integration into host cities. However, the role of early urban experiences on migrants’ [...] Read more.

In recent years, with the further advancement of China’s urbanization process and the continued expansion of its migrants, increasing attention has been directed toward migrants’ intentions to settle and their integration into host cities. However, the role of early urban experiences on migrants’ long-term residence intention remains unclear. Using data from the Chinese Migrant Dynamics Monitoring Survey, we examine the impact of age at first migration on the long-term settlement intention of migrants in China and the underlying influencing mechanisms. We find that migrants who migrate to cities at a younger age have higher intentions to settle in cities. The mechanism analysis suggests that migrating to cities at a younger age facilitates social integration, promotes the convergence of habits and improves dialect proficiency. Moreover, a heterogeneity analysis reveals that the positive effects of early city migration on long-term settlement intentions are more pronounced among migrants who migrate less frequently, are unmarried and have resided in the local area for a longer period. Further study shows that early migration to cities also positively impacts the settlement intention involving the transfer of one’s household registration (hukou) status. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Urban and Rural Development)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

34 pages, 4764 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multi-Party Collaboration in Agricultural Green Technology Innovation and Adoption: An Evolutionary Game Approach

by Xueli Ma, Tianyuan Ren and Sardar M. N. Islam

Sustainability 2024, 16(23), 10236; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162310236 - 22 Nov 2024

Abstract

The collaborative promotion of agricultural green technology innovation and adoption (AGTIA) is essential for achieving green agriculture. However, there remains a need to raise both innovation and adoption levels, necessitating explorations of the effects of government subsidies and collaborative mechanisms. To this end, [...] Read more.

The collaborative promotion of agricultural green technology innovation and adoption (AGTIA) is essential for achieving green agriculture. However, there remains a need to raise both innovation and adoption levels, necessitating explorations of the effects of government subsidies and collaborative mechanisms. To this end, this paper builds an evolutionary game model to analyze the collaborative promotion of AGTIA. By introducing relevant parameters, such as government subsidies for AGTIA, dividends and liquidated damages within industrial technology innovation alliances (ITISAs), and cost reduction coefficients, this paper explores the impacts of the technology spillover effect, price premium of green agricultural products, and government subsidies on the strategic choices of related participants. The main findings are as follows: (1) The key factors influencing AGTIA are different and the government can implement different combinations of dynamic and static subsidy mechanisms at distinct stages of agricultural green development. Government subsidies play a major role at the initial stage, while ITISAs should take fuller advantage of AGTIA as green agriculture matures. (2) Increasing subsidies can promote AGTIA at the initial stage. However, an optimal range of subsidies exists, and when subsidies are higher than a certain threshold, government subsidy willingness fluctuations may lead to decreased stability. (3) There is a threshold of liquidated damages within ITISAs. Only when liquidated damages exceed the threshold can they facilitate the development of durable ITISAs and discourage free-rider behavior. The above findings can provide theoretical support for relevant government sectors when issuing policies to promote AGTIA and agricultural green development. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 1787 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Integration of the Sustainable Development Goals into a Regional Development Plan in Indonesia

by Anggi Aran Putra, Hayati Sari Hasibuan, Rudy Parluhutan Tambunan and Lisa Meidiyanti Lautetu

Sustainability 2024, 16(23), 10235; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162310235 - 22 Nov 2024

Abstract

This study is about understanding how the values of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are integrated into regional development strategies in Indonesia. The aim of this research is to analyze the connection between the principles of the SDGs and elements of regional development. [...] Read more.

This study is about understanding how the values of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are integrated into regional development strategies in Indonesia. The aim of this research is to analyze the connection between the principles of the SDGs and elements of regional development. Data collection was conducted using the secondary data of SDG success indicators from 17 provinces in Indonesia, which were combined with the vision, mission, and regional development programs in the Regional Development Plan (RDP). We applied a content analysis of political, legal, fiscal, and administrative arrangements in the concept of localizing the SDGs. As a country that upholds the principle of autonomy and has committed to localizing the SDGs, Indonesia appears unable to promote sustainable development in the context of regional development strategies. Economic elements and governance remain the main paradigms of regional development. The very broad dimensions of sustainable development with limited resources mean that the regional development’s focus can only cover a small part of the SDGs. Therefore, multiparty support is crucial to strengthening the nuances of the SDGs in regional development strategies and localizing the norm of the SDGs is very important to strengthening the achievement of the SDGs in regional development. Full article

31 pages, 1807 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Advanced Work Packaging (AWP): Implementation and Challenges in the Malaysian Oil and Gas Sector

by Muhammad Ali Musarat, Wesam Salah Alaloul, Mohd Al-Azahary bin Abdullah Sani and Ng Wei Chong

Sustainability 2024, 16(23), 10234; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162310234 - 22 Nov 2024

Abstract

Advanced work packaging (AWP) is a new strategy for enhanced project delivery in the oil and gas sector and has proven to be effective and efficient. However, not all the stakeholders are fully aware of the guidelines and implementation approaches. On this basis, [...] Read more.

Advanced work packaging (AWP) is a new strategy for enhanced project delivery in the oil and gas sector and has proven to be effective and efficient. However, not all the stakeholders are fully aware of the guidelines and implementation approaches. On this basis, this work focused on the implementation and challenges that are faced by the stakeholders of the oil and gas sector in Malaysia. Accordingly, a semi-structured interview was conducted with the field experts prior to the development of the questionnaire, which was distributed amongst the companies working in oil and gas following a mixed method. Analytical results showed that the majority of the respondents have heard about the AWP, but they have limited knowledge of its implementation. The foremost challenges that were highlighted are the ‘lack of AWP management knowledge’, ‘risk of miscommunication’, and ‘late/incorrect front-end deliverables’, which require vital attention. Therefore, a conceptual framework has been developed based on the top-ranked factors that will work as a guideline for the industrial stakeholders to understand and implement AWP in a better manner. This study will also help government institutions to foresee where the oil and gas industry is standing at the moment and what reforms are required to boost project delivery. In addition, the outcome is not only applicable in Malaysia but also to other ASEAN countries having similar practises in the oil and gas industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research on Marine and Deep Oil & Gas Development)

17 pages, 5372 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ecological Importance Evaluation and Ecological Function Zoning of Yanshan-Taihang Mountain Area of Hebei Province

by Pengtao Zhang, Qixuan Duan, Jie Dong, Lichao Piao and Zhaoyang Cui

Sustainability 2024, 16(23), 10233; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162310233 - 22 Nov 2024

Abstract

Ecological importance evaluation can clearly identify the ecological service functions and ecological values of a region. This paper takes the Yanshan-Taihang Mountain area in Hebei Province as the research area, utilizing 2020 land use data. With the help of various analytical models and [...] Read more.

Ecological importance evaluation can clearly identify the ecological service functions and ecological values of a region. This paper takes the Yanshan-Taihang Mountain area in Hebei Province as the research area, utilizing 2020 land use data. With the help of various analytical models and GIS spatial analysis methods, this paper selects water conservation, soil and water conservation, biodiversity, carbon sequestration and oxygen release to evaluate the importance of ecosystem services, and selects soil and water loss sensitivity and land desertification sensitivity to evaluate the ecological sensitivity, so as to identify the important areas of ecological protection in the study area, analyze their spatial change characteristics and divide the leading ecological functions according to the results. The results show that the moderately important and highly important areas in the Yanshan-Taihang region of Hebei Province account for more than 70% of the total study area. Based on the importance evaluation results, three types of dominant ecological function zones were obtained using self-organized feature mapping neural network analysis in the R language, and control measures were proposed. The research results can provide strategic support for local ecological protection and regional ecological restoration, as well as serving as a reference for the optimization of land spatial development patterns. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Soil Conservation and Sustainability)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 9834 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of a Traffic Congestion Prediction and Emergency Lane Development Strategy Based on Object Detection Algorithms

by Chaokai Zhang, Hao Cheng, Rui Wu, Biyun Ren, Ye Zhu and Ningbo Peng

Sustainability 2024, 16(23), 10232; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162310232 - 22 Nov 2024

Abstract

With rapid economic development and a continuous increase in motor vehicle numbers, traffic congestion on highways has become increasingly severe, significantly impacting traffic efficiency and public safety. This paper proposes and investigates a traffic congestion prediction and emergency lane development strategy based on [...] Read more.

With rapid economic development and a continuous increase in motor vehicle numbers, traffic congestion on highways has become increasingly severe, significantly impacting traffic efficiency and public safety. This paper proposes and investigates a traffic congestion prediction and emergency lane development strategy based on object detection algorithms. Firstly, the YOLOv11 object detection algorithm combined with the ByteTrack multi-object tracking algorithm is employed to extract traffic flow parameters—including traffic volume, speed, and density—from videos at four monitoring points on the Changshen Expressway in Nanjing City, Jiangsu Province, China. Subsequently, using an AdaBoost regression model, the traffic density of downstream road sections is predicted based on the density features of upstream sections. The model achieves a coefficient of determination

R^{2}

of 0.968, a mean absolute error of 11.2 vehicles/km, and a root mean square error of 19.9 vehicles/km, indicating high prediction accuracy. Building on the interval occupancy rate model, this paper further analyzes the causes of traffic congestion and designs decision-making processes for the activation and deactivation of emergency lanes. By real-time monitoring and calculating the vehicle occupancy rate of the CD interval, threshold conditions for activating emergency lanes are determined. When the interval occupancy rate

K_{C D} (t)

exceeds 80%, the emergency lane is proactively opened. This method effectively alleviates traffic congestion and reduces congestion duration. Quantitative analysis shows that after activating the emergency lane, the congestion duration in the CD section decreases from 58 min to 30 min, the peak occupancy rate drops from 1 to 0.917, and the congestion duration is shortened by 48.3%. Additionally, for the Changshen Expressway, this paper proposes two optimization points for monitoring point layout, including setting up monitoring points in downstream sections and in the middle of the CD section, to further enhance the scientific and rational management of emergency lanes. The proposed strategy not only improves the real-time extraction and prediction accuracy of traffic flow parameters but also achieves dynamic management of emergency lanes through the interval occupancy rate model, thereby alleviating highway traffic congestion. This has significant practical application value. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

29 pages, 1242 KiB

Open AccessArticle

What Influences Users’ Continuous Behavioral Intention in Cultural Heritage Virtual Tourism: Integrating Experience Economy Theory and Stimulus–Organism–Response (SOR) Model

by Shan Jiang, Zhong Zhang, Huayuan Xu and Younghwan Pan

Sustainability 2024, 16(23), 10231; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162310231 - 22 Nov 2024

Abstract

Cultural heritage virtual tourism offers users a novel digital heritage experience, becoming an essential channel for cultural dissemination and preservation. However, how to stimulate users’ continuous behavioral intention remains unresolved. This study integrates the Stimulus–Organism–Response theory (SOR) and experience economy theories to construct [...] Read more.

Cultural heritage virtual tourism offers users a novel digital heritage experience, becoming an essential channel for cultural dissemination and preservation. However, how to stimulate users’ continuous behavioral intention remains unresolved. This study integrates the Stimulus–Organism–Response theory (SOR) and experience economy theories to construct a comprehensive model, exploring factors influencing users’ continuous intentions in cultural heritage virtual tourism. By analyzing data from 451 valid questionnaires through structural equation modeling (SEM) and fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) methods, several key findings emerged. The SEM results show that (1) esthetics, entertainment, escapism, education, and connection experiences all positively affect perceived value and satisfaction; (2) except for escapism, other experiences positively influence cultural identity; and (3) perceived value, satisfaction, and cultural identity significantly impact continuous intention. The FsQCA results show that (1) in high continuous intention scenarios, perceived value, satisfaction, and cultural identity are core conditions, while esthetics, entertainment, escapism, education, and connection act as supporting conditions, enhancing users’ willingness to continue engaging under different configurations; (2) in low continuous intention cases, the absence of escapism, satisfaction, cultural identity, education, esthetics, and connection weakens users’ virtual tourism experiences, leading to a decline in continuous usage intentions. This study provides theoretical and practical insights for promoting users’ continuous intentions in cultural heritage virtual tourism. Full article

(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)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 769 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Interplay Between Environmental Ethics and Sustainable Performance: Does Organizational Green Culture and Green Innovation Really Matter?

by Elhassan Enbaia, Ahmad Alzubi, Kolawole Iyiola and Hasan Yousef Aljuhmani

Sustainability 2024, 16(23), 10230; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162310230 - 22 Nov 2024

Abstract

Although organizational green culture and environmental ethics are increasingly acknowledged as crucial, few studies have comprehensively examined the interconnected relationship between green innovation and sustainable performance, particularly within manufacturing firms. As such, this study empirically examines the relationship between environmental ethics and sustainable [...] Read more.

Although organizational green culture and environmental ethics are increasingly acknowledged as crucial, few studies have comprehensively examined the interconnected relationship between green innovation and sustainable performance, particularly within manufacturing firms. As such, this study empirically examines the relationship between environmental ethics and sustainable performance through the mediating roles of green process and product innovations and the moderating role of organizational green culture on these relationships. It is grounded in stakeholder theory and a resource-based view. This study utilizes 236 valid cross-sectional data points from manufacturing firms in Turkey to test the proposed integrated theoretical model through structural equation modeling (SEM). Environmental ethics is positively associated with sustainable performance, green process innovation, and green product innovation. Green process innovation positively affects sustainable performance. Additionally, both green process and product innovations mediate the relationship between environmental ethics and sustainable performance. Moreover, organizational green culture enhances the relationship between environmental ethics and both green process innovation and green product innovation while moderating its role in sustainable performance. The findings highlight how environmental ethics, mediated by green innovation and moderated by organizational green culture, can drive sustainable performance, offering valuable insights for managers aiming to enhance sustainability initiatives in the manufacturing sector. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Innovation and Knowledge Management in Organizations)

31 pages, 4324 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Strategic Language Use in Sustainability Reporting: An Empirical Study

by Nataliia Kochkina, Silvia Macchia and Michela Floris

Sustainability 2024, 16(23), 10229; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162310229 - 22 Nov 2024

Abstract

This study examines the sector-specific linguistic strategies utilized by large Italian firms, emphasizing the relationship between language, corporate governance procedures, and sustainability initiatives. This research employs a content analysis of 210 sustainability reports (SRs) from 203 corporations, categorizing firms into seven industry-specific clusters [...] Read more.

This study examines the sector-specific linguistic strategies utilized by large Italian firms, emphasizing the relationship between language, corporate governance procedures, and sustainability initiatives. This research employs a content analysis of 210 sustainability reports (SRs) from 203 corporations, categorizing firms into seven industry-specific clusters and examining how various sectors communicate sustainability activities. The research utilizes language game theory to determine if the vocabulary employed in SRs promotes a uniform comprehension of sustainability activities and aids stakeholders in assessing company sustainability plans. Key findings indicate a substantial disparity in the terminology employed across various businesses, underscoring the fragmentation and sector-specific focus in SR procedures. The research reveals sector-specific linguistic techniques that influence the discourse on sustainability, illustrating how language is deliberately employed to correspond with each sector’s objectives and governance frameworks. This research enhances academic literature by incorporating language game theory into SR analysis, revealing the influence of sector-specific language on sustainability narratives. It also underscores the issues associated with positive framing and the potential for greenwashing, wherein optimistic rhetoric may compromise the integrity and trustworthiness of SRs. The results necessitate standardized reporting systems to improve the comparability and accountability of systematic reviews across various sectors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Governance Structures and Technological Change in Industry Economies: Rethinking the Management of Environmental, Social, and Governance Factors)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

29 pages, 5149 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of Sustainability Competencies in Secondary School Education: A Scoping Literature Review

by Kate Sposab and Marco Rieckmann

Sustainability 2024, 16(23), 10228; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162310228 - 22 Nov 2024

Abstract

This scoping review examines the development and application of sustainability competence frameworks in secondary education worldwide, identifying key trends and challenges in the field. An initial pool of 2659 peer-reviewed publications from 2003 to 2023 were subjected to a rigorous, multi-stage screening process, [...] Read more.

This scoping review examines the development and application of sustainability competence frameworks in secondary education worldwide, identifying key trends and challenges in the field. An initial pool of 2659 peer-reviewed publications from 2003 to 2023 were subjected to a rigorous, multi-stage screening process, resulting in a refined selection for in-depth analysis. Through qualitative clustering, the review identifies two primary perspectives on sustainability competencies. The first perspective emphasizes transversal competencies, applicable across diverse educational contexts, including national policies, global educational guidelines, various subject areas, and innovative teaching and learning approaches. The second perspective focuses on specific frameworks that address the cognitive, affective, and behavioral dimensions of sustainability. The review highlights a global consensus on the importance of key competencies such as critical thinking, systems thinking, and action competence, which are essential for preparing secondary students to address sustainability challenges. Additionally, it underscores the need for a holistic approach to competence development that integrates cognitive, affective, and behavioral components. Despite this consensus, the review identifies a research bias, with a predominance of studies from Europe, particularly Germany and Sweden, and calls for increased regional diversity and collaboration in future research. Full article

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

► Show Figures

Figure 1

26 pages, 1364 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimizing Location Selection for International Education Fairs: An Interval-Valued Neutrosophic Fuzzy Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution Approach

by Yusuf Sait Türkan, Ecenur Alioğulları and Duygu Tüylü

Sustainability 2024, 16(23), 10227; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162310227 - 22 Nov 2024

Abstract

The exponential growth in global student mobility has resulted in a corresponding increase in demand for international student fairs. Education fairs serve as pivotal platforms for the acquisition of information and the formulation of decisions pertaining to academic pursuits, with a considerable number [...] Read more.

The exponential growth in global student mobility has resulted in a corresponding increase in demand for international student fairs. Education fairs serve as pivotal platforms for the acquisition of information and the formulation of decisions pertaining to academic pursuits, with a considerable number of students ultimately enrolling in undergraduate, graduate, and language programs abroad. By reaching a large number of students at international education fairs, students from underdeveloped or developing countries benefit from educational opportunities in developed countries, providing significant contributions to social sustainability and socio-economic opportunities. The success of these events is reliant upon the selection of an appropriate location, which necessitates a multifaceted process that considers a range of factors and potential risks. This initial study on the location selection of international education fairs addresses the existing literature gap by employing the interval-valued neutrosophic fuzzy TOPSIS (IVN Fuzzy TOPSIS) method, a novel approach to the location country selection decision problem faced by a fair company operating in Türkiye for international education fairs. IVN Fuzzy TOPSIS is an advanced decision-making method that incorporates interval-valued neutrosophic sets—using high and low values for truthiness (T), indeterminacy (I), and falsity (F)—to more effectively handle uncertainty and indeterminacy in evaluating alternatives. The study demonstrates the efficacy of this method in addressing uncertainty through a real-world case analysis, which provides a balanced assessment of various criteria. The findings, in which Poland was identified as the optimal fair location among five alternatives, demonstrate the efficacy of the method in facilitating expeditious and precise decision-making, particularly through the incorporation of linguistic expressions that simplify the complexities of decision-making processes. This research not only advances the understanding of site selection for education fairs but also offers a practical tool for decision-makers navigating similar challenges in event planning. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Description

Sustainability

Latest Articles

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Highly Accessed Articles

Latest Books

E-Mail Alert

News

Topics

Conferences

Special Issues

Topical Collections

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI