Green Technology, Environmental Management and Corporate Social Responsibility from a Global Perspective

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Energies energies	3.0	6.2	2008	17.5 Days	CHF 2600
Environments environments	3.5	5.7	2014	25.7 Days	CHF 1800
Hydrology hydrology	3.1	4.9	2014	18.6 Days	CHF 1800
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health ijerph	-	7.3	2004	24.3 Days	CHF 2500
Remote Sensing remotesensing	4.2	8.3	2009	24.7 Days	CHF 2700
Sustainability sustainability	3.3	6.8	2009	20 Days	CHF 2400

17 pages, 2878 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Non-Transferable Trade Scheme of Green Power Based on Blockchain

by Yang Li, Mengying Jiang, Mei Yu, Shouzhi Xu, Xiaojun Liu, Shirui Zhang, Jia Zhu, Shurui Peng and Zhongming Gu

Energies 2024, 17(16), 4002; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17164002 - 13 Aug 2024

Viewed by 718

Abstract

Power consumers can obtain authoritative green environmental value certification through green electricity trading, which plays an important role in improving the production competitiveness of enterprises, especially for international product trade affairs. However, the credibility of green electricity transactions faces serious challenges in the [...] Read more.

Power consumers can obtain authoritative green environmental value certification through green electricity trading, which plays an important role in improving the production competitiveness of enterprises, especially for international product trade affairs. However, the credibility of green electricity transactions faces serious challenges in the enterprise green authentication affairs, especially the user’s identity authentication, the traceability of green electricity transactions, and the standardization of green electricity transactions. Aiming to solve the certification and traceability problem of tradable green certificates, this paper proposes an integrated green certificate trading protocol, which solves its double-trading problem and helps to improve the credibility of renewable energy use. The main contribution is providing a solution based on the consortium blockchain technology to solve the main challenges mentioned above. The main solved scheme designs a series of protocols, which includes a purchase protocol, payment protocol, and non-transferable protocol. The whole process ensures the credibility, traceability, and non-transferability of green certificate trading. Multiple verification measures are adopted to address security and privacy challenges in green certificate management. Through security analysis, the protocol effectively defends against attacks such as double payments, transaction rollback, and transaction replays while ensuring users’ privacy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Green Technology, Environmental Management and Corporate Social Responsibility from a Global Perspective)

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25 pages, 2008 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Green Supply Chain Management Practices and Organizational Performance: A Mediated Moderation Model with Second-Order Constructs

by Mohitul Ameen Ahmed Mustafi, Ya-Juan Dong, Md Sajjad Hosain, Mohammad Bin Amin, Md. Atikur Rahaman and Masuk Abdullah

Sustainability 2024, 16(16), 6843; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16166843 - 9 Aug 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1694

Abstract

This study highlights the rising significance of green supply chain management practices (GSCMPs) in elevating organizational performance (OP) within the Bangladeshi manufacturing sector. GSCMPs, structured as the single second-order independent construct, were formed by three first-order independent constructs: green eco-design (GED), green supply [...] Read more.

This study highlights the rising significance of green supply chain management practices (GSCMPs) in elevating organizational performance (OP) within the Bangladeshi manufacturing sector. GSCMPs, structured as the single second-order independent construct, were formed by three first-order independent constructs: green eco-design (GED), green supply chain partnering (GSCP), and internal green orientation (IGO). This study proposes that GSCMPs can contribute to the overall OP, structured as the single second-order dependent construct, comprising financial performance (FP), marketing performance (MP), and environmental performance (EP) as its first-order dependent constructs. Furthermore, this research involved the mediating role of perceived competitive advantage (PCA) on the relationship between GSMPs and OP as well as the moderating role of supply chain leadership skill (SCLS) on the relationship between PCA and OP. Primary data were gathered from 340 Bangladeshi respondents involved in higher-level and mid-level management roles at different manufacturing firms using a structured survey questionnaire. Partial least square-based structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was employed for statistical analysis using Smart-PLS 4.0. GSCMPs exhibited a significant positive correlation with OP. Additionally, PCA was found to partially mediate the relationship between GSCMPs and OP, while SCLS was found to strengthen the positive relationship between PCA and OP. This study explores the GSCMPs-OP nexus in the Bangladeshi manufacturing sector, aiming to inspire further theoretical and empirical studies. The findings offer insights for policymakers and managers in formulating and executing GSCM-related policies and strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Green Technology, Environmental Management and Corporate Social Responsibility from a Global Perspective)

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17 pages, 2302 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Field Study to Assess the Impacts of Biochar Amendment on Runoff Quality from Newly Established Green Roofs

by Cuong Ngoc Nguyen, Hing-Wah Chau and Nitin Muttil

Hydrology 2024, 11(8), 112; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrology11080112 - 31 Jul 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1030

Abstract

Green roofs (GRs) are a widely recognized green infrastructure (GI) strategy that helps reduce runoff volume and runoff pollution caused by the significant increase in impervious urban areas. However, the leaching of several nutrients from GR substrates is a growing concern. Biochar, a [...] Read more.

Green roofs (GRs) are a widely recognized green infrastructure (GI) strategy that helps reduce runoff volume and runoff pollution caused by the significant increase in impervious urban areas. However, the leaching of several nutrients from GR substrates is a growing concern. Biochar, a carbon-rich material, possesses advantageous properties that can help address such environmental challenges associated with GRs. Therefore, this paper aimed to undertake a field study to investigate the impacts of various biochar application methods, particle sizes, and amendment rates on the quality of runoff from GRs. Observational data of runoff quality were collected over a two-month period from five newly established 1 m × 1 m biochar-amended GR test beds and a control test bed without biochar, with all test beds subjected to artificially simulated rainfall. The results indicated that the addition of biochar did not result in a significant improvement in runoff pH, whereas the electrical conductivity (EC) was higher in runoff from GRs with biochar-amended substrates. When comparing the total nitrogen (TN) concentration in runoff from the non-biochar GR (ranging from 3.7 to 31 mg/L), all biochar test beds exhibited higher TN release (4.8 to 58 mg/L), except for the bed where medium biochar particles were applied at the bottom of the substrate (ranging from 2.2 to 21 mg/L). Additionally, all biochar-amended GRs exhibited higher TP concentrations in runoff (0.81 to 2.41 mg/L) when compared to the control GR (0.35 to 0.67 mg/L). Among the different biochar setups, GR with fine biochar particles applied to the surface of the substrate had the poorest performance in improving runoff water quality. Despite these mixed results, biochar holds significant potential to improve runoff quality by significantly increasing water retention, thereby reducing pollutant loads. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Green Technology, Environmental Management and Corporate Social Responsibility from a Global Perspective)

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20 pages, 677 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Authentic Leadership and Socially Responsible Behavior: Sequential Mediation of Psychological Empowerment and Psychological Capital and Moderating Effect of Perceived Corporate Social Responsibility

by Rajeh Bati Almasradi, Farhan Sarwar and Ismail Droup

Sustainability 2024, 16(15), 6508; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16156508 - 30 Jul 2024

Viewed by 1158

Abstract

The aim of the study is to explore the relationship between authentic leadership and socially responsible behavior among employees in Saudi Arabia’s service sector, which aligns with Saudi Vision 2030. Utilizing social cognitive theory as the theoretical framework, the research proposes that authentic [...] Read more.

The aim of the study is to explore the relationship between authentic leadership and socially responsible behavior among employees in Saudi Arabia’s service sector, which aligns with Saudi Vision 2030. Utilizing social cognitive theory as the theoretical framework, the research proposes that authentic leadership indirectly influences socially responsible behavior through psychological empowerment and psychological capital as parallel and serial mediators. Additionally, the study examines the moderating effect of CSR perceptions on these relationships. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 349 professionals from the service sector. The results, analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), revealed that authentic leadership does not directly impact SRB. Instead, the relationship is fully mediated by psychological empowerment and psychological capital. Moreover, CSR perceptions significantly moderate the relationship between authentic leadership and psychological empowerment and have an indirect effect of authentic leadership on SRB through psychological empowerment and psychological capital. The findings highlight the importance of fostering an authentic leadership style and the way the psychological resources of empowerment and psychological capital carry forward this effect to promote SRB in the service sector. Additionally, the study underscores the role of CSR perceptions in strengthening the impact of authentic leadership on employee outcomes. The research contributes to the literature on leadership, CSR, and employee behavior and also offers practical implications for organizations aiming to enhance their social responsibility initiatives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Green Technology, Environmental Management and Corporate Social Responsibility from a Global Perspective)

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32 pages, 11541 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impacts of Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism on the Development of Chinese Steel Enterprises and Government Management Decisions: A Tripartite Evolutionary Game Analysis

by Borui Tian, Mingyue Zheng, Wenjie Liu, Yueqing Gu, Yi Xing and Chongchao Pan

Sustainability 2024, 16(8), 3113; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16083113 - 9 Apr 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2242

Abstract

Upon the implementation of the European Union Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), substantial challenges are anticipated to impact the international trade of Chinese steel products. To safeguard the competitiveness of Chinese steel products on the global stage, this paper establishes a tripartite evolutionary [...] Read more.

Upon the implementation of the European Union Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), substantial challenges are anticipated to impact the international trade of Chinese steel products. To safeguard the competitiveness of Chinese steel products on the global stage, this paper establishes a tripartite evolutionary game model, involving large steel enterprises, small- and medium-sized steel enterprises, and the government. The model integrates collaborative emission reduction and free-riding benefits among enterprises, along with the government’s dynamic subsidies and penalties. First, we calculate the replicator dynamic equations and conduct stability analysis to obtain the evolutionary trends and system equilibrium points in different phases of the CBAM. Then, we validate the evolutionary theoretical analysis of the model through example simulation analysis. Finally, we explore the impact of different parameters on the agents through a sensitivity analysis of parameters. The findings indicate that (1) large enterprises demonstrate greater sensitivity to CBAM, making their production structures more susceptible to changes in CBAM policies; (2) small- and medium-sized enterprises are more prone to free-riding behavior influence; (3) government intervention should be kept within appropriate boundaries, as excessive intervention may lead to strategic oscillation, with passive management being chosen by the government during the strengthening phase of CBAM; (4) elevating the price in the Chinese carbon market would slow down the structural changes in the production of Chinese steel enterprises, serving as an effective measure to counteract the impacts of CBAM. This paper provides theoretical support for how steel enterprises and the government can respond to CBAM, aiding stakeholders in selecting optimal strategies during different implementation stages and mitigating the impacts of the CBAM to the maximum extent possible. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Green Technology, Environmental Management and Corporate Social Responsibility from a Global Perspective)

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17 pages, 474 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Environmental Regulation on Corporate Green Technological Innovation: The Moderating Role of Corporate Governance and Environmental Information Disclosure

by Ying Ying and Shanyue Jin

Sustainability 2024, 16(7), 3006; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16073006 - 4 Apr 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2126

Abstract

Environmental degradation is an important issue facing the world today. Microcosmically, green technical innovation is needed to decrease environmental pollution. Therefore, exploring the relationship between the two is of great significance for promoting environmental protection and sustainable development. Thus, this research elucidates the [...] Read more.

Environmental degradation is an important issue facing the world today. Microcosmically, green technical innovation is needed to decrease environmental pollution. Therefore, exploring the relationship between the two is of great significance for promoting environmental protection and sustainable development. Thus, this research elucidates the interaction between green innovation (GI) and environmental regulations (ERs). This study utilizes the fixed effects model to examine how government environmental protection subsidies (EPSs) in market-incentive ER and environmental management system certification (EMSC) in voluntary participatory ER affect GI among listed companies in China. The sample observation period is from 2012 to 2021. Additionally, the impact of corporate governance (CGL) and environmental information disclosure (EID) on the relationship between ERs and GI within businesses is investigated. The empirical results show that both government environmental protection subsidies and environmental management system certification positively affect green innovation, and both corporate governance and environmental information disclosure positively moderate the impact of government environmental protection subsidies and environmental management system certification on green innovation. The above empirical results are still valid after a robustness test and can guide the formulation of government ERs, as well as corporate strategies for environmental management and GI. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Green Technology, Environmental Management and Corporate Social Responsibility from a Global Perspective)

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14 pages, 2053 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Slow Pyrolysis of De-Oiled Rapeseed Cake: Influence of Pyrolysis Parameters on the Yield and Characteristics of the Liquid Obtained

by Yue Wang, Yuanjiang Zhao and Changwei Hu

Energies 2024, 17(3), 612; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17030612 - 26 Jan 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 917

Abstract

Pyrolysis of biomass converts all components into liquid, gaseous, and solid products without the need for component separation. However, the composition of liquid products from lignocellulosic biomass is usually complex and difficult to upgrade. Slow pyrolysis of de-oiled rapeseed cake, an agricultural waste [...] Read more.

Pyrolysis of biomass converts all components into liquid, gaseous, and solid products without the need for component separation. However, the composition of liquid products from lignocellulosic biomass is usually complex and difficult to upgrade. Slow pyrolysis of de-oiled rapeseed cake, an agricultural waste from the rapeseed pressing process, was carried out for liquid and solid fuel production. The maximum yield of bio-oil obtained was 51.6 wt.% under the optimized conditions. The HHV of the bio-oil, containing mainly acids, hydrocarbons, esters, and alcohols, was 32.82 MJ·kg⁻¹, similar to that of bio-diesel, to be promising in downstream upgrading because the fuel properties such as higher caloric value, limited moisture content, as well as neutral pH value, were close to commercial bio-diesel. The gaseous fraction mainly consisted of CO, C₁, C₂ hydrocarbons, H₂, and CO₂, and the corresponding LHV reached 7.63 MJ·Nm⁻³. The yield of bio-chars declined from 41.8 wt.% at 400 °C to 28.8 wt.% at 800 °C, whereas the corresponding HHV varied from 29.03 MJ·kg⁻¹ to 30.14 MJ·kg⁻¹, comparative to coal, indicating a promising candidate for solid fuels or functional carbon. The liquid product shows promise as feedstock for producing high-quality fuel. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Green Technology, Environmental Management and Corporate Social Responsibility from a Global Perspective)

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15 pages, 4864 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Resource Potential and Zoning Evaluation for Deep Geothermal Resources of the Dongying Formation in Tianjin Binhai New Area

by Jiulong Liu, Shuangbao Han, Hong Xiang, Dongdong Yue and Fengtian Yang

Sustainability 2023, 15(16), 12357; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151612357 - 14 Aug 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1271

Abstract

The Dongying geothermal resources are an important part of the deep geothermal resources in Tianjin Binhai New Area, and these resources will determine whether the demand target can be met. There is an urgent need to find favorable target areas for Dongying geothermal [...] Read more.

The Dongying geothermal resources are an important part of the deep geothermal resources in Tianjin Binhai New Area, and these resources will determine whether the demand target can be met. There is an urgent need to find favorable target areas for Dongying geothermal resources and to develop Dongying geothermal resources safely, stably and efficiently. The recoverable potential of the Dongying geothermal reservoir in different positions is calculated by simulating and predicting the water level, which is as an important index of zoning evaluation. By using the analytic hierarchy process (AHP), the comprehensive indexes of geothermal exploration and development regionalization are quantified. A grade-two evaluation system, which considers the development constraints, has been established for the delineation of deep geothermal resources’ exploration and development prospect target areas. The zoning evaluation results show that the excellent prospect target area of Dongying geothermal resources, for their exploration and development, is 314.33 km², the general prospect target area is 745.77 km², and the bad prospect target area is 879.31 km². The quantitative zoning evaluation method can provide references for the optimization of the exploration and development target area of deep geothermal resources with low prospecting accuracy in key areas of China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Green Technology, Environmental Management and Corporate Social Responsibility from a Global Perspective)

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26 pages, 39959 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quantitative Model Construction for Sustainable Security Patterns in Social–Ecological Links Using Remote Sensing and Machine Learning

by Lili Liu, Meng Chen, Pingping Luo, Weili Duan and Maochuan Hu

Remote Sens. 2023, 15(15), 3837; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs15153837 - 1 Aug 2023

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2096

Abstract

With the global issues of extreme climate and urbanization, the ecological security patterns (ESPs) in the Qinling Mountains are facing prominent challenges. As a crucial ecological barrier in China, understanding the characteristics of ESPs in the Qinling Mountains is vital for achieving sustainable [...] Read more.

With the global issues of extreme climate and urbanization, the ecological security patterns (ESPs) in the Qinling Mountains are facing prominent challenges. As a crucial ecological barrier in China, understanding the characteristics of ESPs in the Qinling Mountains is vital for achieving sustainable development. This study focuses on Yangxian and employs methods such as machine learning (ML), remote sensing (RS), geographic information systems (GISs), analytic hierarchy process and principal component analysis (AHP–PCA), and the minimum cumulative resistance (MCR) model to construct an ecological security network based on multi-factor ecological sensitivity (ES) and conduct quantitative spatial analysis. The results demonstrate that the AHP–PCA method based on ML overcomes the limitations of the single-weighting method. The ESPs of Yangxian were established, consisting of 21 main and secondary ecological sources with an area of 592.81 km² (18.55%), 41 main and secondary ecological corridors with a length of 738.85 km, and 33 ecological nodes. A coupling relationship among three dimensions was observed: comprehensive ecological sensitivity, ESPs, and administrative districts (ADs). Huangjinxia Town (1.43 in C5) and Huayang Town (7.28 in C4) likely have significant areas of ecological vulnerability, while Machang Town and Maoping Town are important in the ESPs. ADs focus on protection and management. The second corridor indicated high-quality construction, necessitating the implementation of strict protection policies in the study area. The innovation lies in the utilization of quantitative analysis methods, such as ML and RS technologies, to construct an ecological spatial pattern planning model and propose a new perspective for the quantitative analysis of ecological space. This study provides a quantitative foundation for urban and rural ecological spatial planning in Yangxian and will help facilitate the sustainable development of ecological planning in the Qinling region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Green Technology, Environmental Management and Corporate Social Responsibility from a Global Perspective)

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22 pages, 20353 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Spatio-Temporal Changes of Small Lakes of the Qilian Mountains from 1987 to 2020 and Their Driving Mechanisms

by Chao Li, Shiqiang Zhang, Rensheng Chen, Dahong Zhang, Gang Zhou, Wen Li and Tianxing Rao

Remote Sens. 2023, 15(14), 3604; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs15143604 - 19 Jul 2023

Viewed by 1335

Abstract

Small lakes (areas ranging from 0.01 km² to 1 km²) are highly sensitive to climate change and human activities. However, few studies have investigated the long-term intra-annual trends in the number and area of small lakes and their driving mechanisms [...] Read more.

Small lakes (areas ranging from 0.01 km² to 1 km²) are highly sensitive to climate change and human activities. However, few studies have investigated the long-term intra-annual trends in the number and area of small lakes and their driving mechanisms in the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau (QTP). As a significant water tower in northwest China, the Qilian Mountains region (QMR) in the QTP is essential for sustaining regional industrial and agricultural production, biodiversity, and human well-being. We conducted an analysis of the dynamics of small lakes in the QMR region. In this study, we employed Geodetector and examined nine factors to investigate the driving mechanisms behind the long-term variations in the small lake water bodies (SLWBs). We specifically focused on understanding the effects of single-factor and two-factor interactions. The results indicate that the number and area of small lakes had a fluctuating trend from 1987 to 2020. Initially, there was a decrease followed by an increase, which was generally consistent with trends in the large lakes on the QTP. All basins had far more expanding than shrinking lakes. The area of seasonal SLWBs in each basin was increasing more rapidly than permanent SLWBs. The distribution and trends in the area and number of small lakes varied widely across elevation zones. Runoff, snow depth, and temperature contributed the most to SLWB changes. Human activities and wind speed contributed the least. However, the main drivers varied across basins. The impact of two-factor interactions on SLWB changes in basins was greater than that of single factors. Our results provide useful information for planning and managing water resources and studies of small lakes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Green Technology, Environmental Management and Corporate Social Responsibility from a Global Perspective)

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15 pages, 3316 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Remediation of Heavy Metal (Cu, Pb) Contaminated Fine Soil Using Stabilization with Limestone and Livestock Bone Powder

by Deok Hyun Moon, Jinsung An, Sang Hyeop Park and Agamemnon Koutsospyros

Sustainability 2023, 15(14), 11244; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151411244 - 19 Jul 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1630

Abstract

Soil environments contaminated with heavy metals by typhoon flooding require immediate remediation. High-pressure soil washing using water could be a viable short-term solution for cleaning soil contaminated with heavy metals. Soil washing employing high-pressure generates heavy metal contaminated fine soil and wastewater. This [...] Read more.

Soil environments contaminated with heavy metals by typhoon flooding require immediate remediation. High-pressure soil washing using water could be a viable short-term solution for cleaning soil contaminated with heavy metals. Soil washing employing high-pressure generates heavy metal contaminated fine soil and wastewater. This contaminated fine soil cannot be reused without proper treatment because of the high levels of heavy metal contamination. Stabilization was used for immobilizing heavy metals (Cu, Pb) in the contaminated fine soil. The stabilizing agents used for immobilizing heavy metals (Cu, Pb) in the contaminated fine soil included two types of limestone (Ca-LS and Mg-LS) and livestock bone powder (LSBP). The Ca-LS, Mg-LS, and LSBP were applied to the contaminated fine soil at dosages in the range of 2 wt%~10 wt%. Two different particle sizes (-#10 vs. -#20 mesh) and curing times (1 week vs. 4 weeks) were used to compare the effectiveness of the stabilization. Extractions using 0.1 N HCl were conducted to evaluate the stabilization effectiveness. Heavy metal leachability was significantly decreased with higher Ca-LS and LSBP dosages. The LSBP treatment was more effective than the Ca-LS and Mg-LS treatments and the Mg-LS showed the poorest performance. The highest degree of immobilization was attained using a 10 wt% LSBP (-#20 mesh), resulting in an approximate leachability reduction of 99% for Pb and 92% for Cu. The -#20 mesh material and 4 weeks of curing were more effective than the -#10 mesh material and 1 week of curing, respectively. The SEM-EDX results showed that metal precipitates and pyromorphite like phases could be responsible for effective heavy metal immobilization. This study suggests that Ca-LS and LSBP used at an optimum dosage can be effective stabilizing agents for immobilizing Cu and Pb in contaminated fine soils. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Green Technology, Environmental Management and Corporate Social Responsibility from a Global Perspective)

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13 pages, 1242 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Analyses of the Effectiveness of Different Media Depths and Plant Treatments on Green Roof Rainfall Retention Capability under Various Rainfall Patterns

by Pearl Ashitey, Rohan Benjankar, Susan Morgan, William Retzlaff and Serdar Celik

Hydrology 2023, 10(7), 149; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrology10070149 - 14 Jul 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1647

Abstract

Green roofs have been used to reduce rainfall runoff by altering hydrological processes through plant interception and retention as well as detention within the green roof system. Green roof media depth, substrate type, plant type and density, regional climatic conditions, rainfall patterns, and [...] Read more.

Green roofs have been used to reduce rainfall runoff by altering hydrological processes through plant interception and retention as well as detention within the green roof system. Green roof media depth, substrate type, plant type and density, regional climatic conditions, rainfall patterns, and roof slope all impact runoff retention. To better understand the impacts of media depth (10, 15, and 20 cm), plant (planted and non-planted), and rainfall pattern (low, medium, and high) on rainfall retention, we analyzed data collected between September 2005 and June 2008 from 24 green roof models (61 cm × 61 cm) for growing and non-growing seasons. Our results showed that a planted green roof has greater rainfall retention capability than a non-planted green roof for all media depths. Interestingly, a non-planted green roof system with a 10 cm media depth retained greater rainfall than a planted green roof during both growing and non-growing periods. Retention capability decreased with increasing rainfall amounts for both planted and non-planted green roofs and seasons (growing and non-growing). The 15 cm media depth green roof retained significantly greater rainfall depth than the 20 cm models during medium (0.64 to 2.54 cm) and high (>2.54 cm) rainfall events for the growing season but not during the non-growing season. The study provides insight into the interactive effects of media depth, rainfall amount, plant presence, and seasons on green roof performance. The results will be helpful for designing economical and effective green roof systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Green Technology, Environmental Management and Corporate Social Responsibility from a Global Perspective)

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15 pages, 1484 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing Public Service Distribution in Abha and Bisha Cities, Saudi Arabia: A Comparative Study

by Khaled Ali Abuhasel

Sustainability 2023, 15(13), 10343; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151310343 - 30 Jun 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2129

Abstract

The research below aims to examine the spatial distribution and efficiency of public services in Abha and Bisha. Abha is the capital of the Asir region and had a population of 446,697 people in 2022, while Bisha had a population of 248,452 people [...] Read more.

The research below aims to examine the spatial distribution and efficiency of public services in Abha and Bisha. Abha is the capital of the Asir region and had a population of 446,697 people in 2022, while Bisha had a population of 248,452 people in the same year. Both cities have their unique geographical features, such as valleys, dams, and agricultural significance. This study utilizes spatial modeling and statistical analysis to analyze data collected via a questionnaire administered to the residents of these cities and formulates several hypotheses to guide the research, including hypotheses related to differences in public services based on gender, age group, and citizenship status. To analyze the data, a combination of analytical descriptive approaches, including statistical methods conducted with SPSS software and geographic information system (GIS) techniques using ArcGIS software were employed. The results of the study indicate the distribution and level of public services in Abha and Bisha. In Abha, there is a high level of public services, particularly in green areas, which contribute to improving the quality of services and meeting the entertainment needs of the population. In contrast, Bisha has a middling level of public services, likely due to its smaller population size and lesser focus on development as compared to Abha. The study also analyzes the differences in attitudes towards public services based on gender. The results indicate that there are no statistically significant differences between males and females in their perceptions of public services in both cities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Green Technology, Environmental Management and Corporate Social Responsibility from a Global Perspective)

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25 pages, 10212 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatio-Temporal Evolution and Coupled Coordination of LUCC and ESV in Cities of the Transition Zone, Shenmu City, China

by Yuyang Xie, Qiuchen Zhu, Hua Bai, Pingping Luo and Jifa Liu

Remote Sens. 2023, 15(12), 3136; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs15123136 - 15 Jun 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1846

Abstract

This study investigates the spatial-temporal evolution and the interconnectedness of land use/cover change (LUCC) and ecosystem service value (ESV). Such analysis can offer theoretical guidance and support decision-making for sustainable land resource development and ecological preservation in ecologically vulnerable cities within the Loess [...] Read more.

This study investigates the spatial-temporal evolution and the interconnectedness of land use/cover change (LUCC) and ecosystem service value (ESV). Such analysis can offer theoretical guidance and support decision-making for sustainable land resource development and ecological preservation in ecologically vulnerable cities within the Loess Plateau-Maowusu Desert transition zone. Utilizing Landsat data spanning 2000–2020, the paper examines the synergistic relationship between ESV and land use intensity in Shenmu City through bivariate spatial autocorrelation and the coupled coordination degree (CCD) model. Our findings indicate that the area of construction land in Shenmu City experienced the most significant change between 2000 and 2020, with a dynamism rate of 76.8%. This shift resulted in a decrease in the total ESV, from RMB 10.059 billion in 2000 to RMB 9.906 billion in 2020. The bivariate spatial autocorrelation analysis reveals a significant positive spatial correlation between ESV and land use intensity, while the CCD levels for both demonstrate a fluctuating yet overall upward trend over the 20-year period. The paper uncovers the spatial-temporal evolution of LUCC and ESV in Shenmu City along with their interconnected dynamics. The research outcomes can contribute valuable insights for reinforcing land resource utilization and promoting sustainable regional development within cities in the Loess Plateau-Maowusu Desert transition zone. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Green Technology, Environmental Management and Corporate Social Responsibility from a Global Perspective)

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26 pages, 2795 KiB

Open AccessReview

Green Roof Development in ASEAN Countries: The Challenges and Perspectives

by Hanny Chandra Pratama, Theerawat Sinsiri and Aphai Chapirom

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7714; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097714 - 8 May 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 6298

Abstract

Green roofs (GRs) have emerged as an essential component for the sustainability of buildings, as they reduce the need for cooling energy by limiting heat transmission into building space. The benefits of implementing GRs are appropriate in tropical regions with hot temperatures. The [...] Read more.

Green roofs (GRs) have emerged as an essential component for the sustainability of buildings, as they reduce the need for cooling energy by limiting heat transmission into building space. The benefits of implementing GRs are appropriate in tropical regions with hot temperatures. The entire Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is located in a tropical climate and receives about 12 h of sunlight every day throughout the year, which offers excellent opportunities to install GRs. This research reviews the literature on GR knowledge in ASEAN countries over the past decade (2012–2022) and discusses two main points including (i) GR development level status and (ii) GR performance regarding drivers, motivations, and barriers. The review reveals that Singapore and Malaysia are two among ten countries with significant developments in GRs. Barriers to expertise, government regulations, and public awareness of green roofs represent the most challenging aspects of GR implementation in ASEAN countries. Although research regarding the use of green roofs has been conducted widely, ASEAN countries still need to investigate regulatory breakthroughs, incentives, and technology applications to encourage the use of GRs. The review recommends promoting the use of GRs, which have the potential to reduce energy consumption by up to fifty percent, outdoor surface temperature up to 23.8 °C, and room temperature to 14 °C. The use of GRs can also mitigate runoff issues by up to 98.8% to avoid the risk of flooding in ASEAN countries, which have high rainfall. In addition, this review sheds new insights on providing future potential research to improve GR development in the ASEAN region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Green Technology, Environmental Management and Corporate Social Responsibility from a Global Perspective)

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22 pages, 680 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Can Digital Services Trade Liberalization Improve the Quality of Green Innovation of Enterprises? Evidence from China

by Hui Fang, Qixin Huo and Kaouakib Hatim

Sustainability 2023, 15(8), 6674; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15086674 - 14 Apr 2023

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2873

Abstract

Green innovation is a critical driver in achieving the goals of “carbon peaking” and “carbon neutrality”, as well as an important aid in accelerating green transformation. Does the opening-up of digital services trade, as a major component of the high-level opening-up strategy, serve [...] Read more.

Green innovation is a critical driver in achieving the goals of “carbon peaking” and “carbon neutrality”, as well as an important aid in accelerating green transformation. Does the opening-up of digital services trade, as a major component of the high-level opening-up strategy, serve to improve the quality of green innovation of Chinese enterprises at this critical juncture in China’s promotion of ecological civilization? To answer this question, this paper measures the degree of openness of digital services trade in each industry in China, and it empirically examines the impact of digital services trade liberalization on enterprises’ green innovation quality using data from A-share listed companies from 2014 to 2021. This research finds that, first, digital services trade liberalization can significantly improve the quality of green innovation of Chinese enterprises, which still holds after a series of robustness tests. Second, mechanism analysis indicates that digital services trade liberalization promotes enterprises’ green innovation quality by improving human capital level, increasing green R&D expenditure, and strengthening information resource sharing. Third, a heterogeneity test shows that the effect of digital services trade liberalization on the quality of green innovation is more prominent for state-owned enterprises, enterprises with stronger technology absorption capacity, highly competitive industries, and regions with a high intensity of environmental regulations. The study’s findings not only provide new perspectives and ideas for enterprises’ green innovation practices in the midst of the digital services trade wave but also theoretical and empirical support for the inherent self-consistency between high-level opening-up and green development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Green Technology, Environmental Management and Corporate Social Responsibility from a Global Perspective)

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14 pages, 9853 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quantifying the Effects of Climate Change and Revegetation on Erosion-Induced Lateral Soil Organic Carbon Loss on the Chinese Loess Plateau

by Jianqiao Han, Yawen Pan, Peiqing Xiao, Wenyan Ge and Pengcheng Sun

Remote Sens. 2023, 15(7), 1775; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs15071775 - 26 Mar 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2515

Abstract

Erosion-induced soil organic carbon (SOC) loss substantially affects the redistribution of global organic carbon. The Chinese Loess Plateau, the most severely eroded region on Earth, has experienced notable soil erosion mitigation over the last few decades, making it a hotspot for soil erosion [...] Read more.

Erosion-induced soil organic carbon (SOC) loss substantially affects the redistribution of global organic carbon. The Chinese Loess Plateau, the most severely eroded region on Earth, has experienced notable soil erosion mitigation over the last few decades, making it a hotspot for soil erosion studies. However, the overall rate of SOC loss and spatiotemporal evolution under changing environments remain unclear. In this study, we investigated SOC loss from 1982 to 2015 in the severely eroded Hetong region of the Chinese Loess Plateau by combining the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) model and the localized enrichment ratio function derived from field observations and attributed the changes in SOC loss to climate- and human-induced vegetation changes. The results showed that SOC loss in the Hetong region was 64.73 t·km⁻²·yr⁻¹, 16.79 times higher than the global average. Over the past 34 years, SOC loss decreased by 23.84%, with a total reduction of more than 105.64 Tg C since the change-point year. Moreover, our study found that vegetation changes dominated the changes in SOC loss in the Hetong region, contributing 89.67% of the total reduction in SOC loss in the Hetong region. This study can inform carbon accounting and sustainable catchment management in regions that have experienced large-scale ecological restoration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Green Technology, Environmental Management and Corporate Social Responsibility from a Global Perspective)

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27 pages, 8792 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Drought Disasters in China from 1991 to 2018: Analysis of Spatiotemporal Trends and Characteristics

by Xiaofeng Wang, Pingping Luo, Yue Zheng, Weili Duan, Shuangtao Wang, Wei Zhu, Yuzhu Zhang and Daniel Nover

Remote Sens. 2023, 15(6), 1708; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs15061708 - 22 Mar 2023

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 3222

Abstract

Droughts have emerged as a global problem in contemporary societies. China suffers from different degrees of drought almost every year, with increasing drought severity each year. Droughts in China are seasonal and can severely impact crops. This study used spatiotemporal trend and characteristics [...] Read more.

Droughts have emerged as a global problem in contemporary societies. China suffers from different degrees of drought almost every year, with increasing drought severity each year. Droughts in China are seasonal and can severely impact crops. This study used spatiotemporal trend and characteristics analysis of drought disaster data from 1991 to 2018 in Chinese provinces, in addition to the Mann–Kendall test and wavelet analysis. The drought disaster data included the crop damage area, drought-affected area of the crops, and crop failure area. The outputs of the crops decreased by 10%, 30%, and 80%, respectively. The population with reduced drinking water caused by drought, and the domestic animals with reduced drinking water caused by drought, were numbered in the tens of thousands. The results of the study show that the crop damage areas owing to drought disasters, drought-affected areas of crops, and crop failure areas in China were mainly distributed in the northern, eastern, northeaster, and southwestern regions. The number of people and domestic animals with reduced drinking water owing to drought in China were mainly concentrated in the northern and southwestern regions. These indicators showed a general increasing trend. Tibet, Fujian, Shandong, Jiangsu, Anhui, and Henan provinces and autonomous regions also showed a slightly increasing trend. In particular, the number of domestic animals with reduced drinking water caused by drought in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region showed a clear increasing trend with a significant Z-value of 2.2629. The results of this research can be used to provide scientific evidence for predicting future trends in drought and for practising the best management of drought prevention and resistance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Green Technology, Environmental Management and Corporate Social Responsibility from a Global Perspective)

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11 pages, 357 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Scientific Uncertainty of Marine Microplastic Pollution and the Dilemma of Future International Unified Legislation

by Yingying Li

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(24), 16394; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192416394 - 7 Dec 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1806

Abstract

Several countries or regions have issued bans on microplastic pollution. This paper conducted a textual analysis on the provisions of the referenced countries or regions, and it was noticed that most of the existing bans only regulate and control microbeads instead of legal [...] Read more.

Several countries or regions have issued bans on microplastic pollution. This paper conducted a textual analysis on the provisions of the referenced countries or regions, and it was noticed that most of the existing bans only regulate and control microbeads instead of legal rules regarding all types of marine microplastic pollution. Existing international conventions can solve some of the problems of marine microplastic pollution, but they cannot solve all of them. Scientific uncertainty of marine microplastic pollution leads to the dilemma of future legislation. Specifically, based on the theory of legal norms, there are several issues faced by future international uniform legislation. The basic elements of legal rules are the hypothesis, disposition, and sanctions. At present, the scientific uncertainty of marine microplastic pollution cannot establish the three elements (hypothesis, disposition, and sanctions) of legal rules, so the existing bans in various countries can only target microbeads, and it is difficult to regulate other types of marine microplastic pollution. Consequently, we conclude that the time for comprehensive legislation on marine microplastics pollution is not yet ripe. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Green Technology, Environmental Management and Corporate Social Responsibility from a Global Perspective)

22 pages, 7832 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improved Vegetation Ecological Quality of the Three-North Shelterbelt Project Region of China during 2000–2020 as Evidenced from Multiple Remotely Sensed Indicators

by Chao Li, Shiqiang Zhang, Manyi Cui, Junhong Wan, Tianxing Rao, Wen Li and Xin Wang

Remote Sens. 2022, 14(22), 5708; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs14225708 - 11 Nov 2022

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2735

Abstract

Evaluation of the long-term effect of ecosystem recovery projects is critical for future ecological management and sustainable development. The Three-North Shelterbelt (TNS) is a large-scale afforestation project in a crucial region of China. Numerous researchers have evaluated the vegetation ecological quality (VEQ) of [...] Read more.

Evaluation of the long-term effect of ecosystem recovery projects is critical for future ecological management and sustainable development. The Three-North Shelterbelt (TNS) is a large-scale afforestation project in a crucial region of China. Numerous researchers have evaluated the vegetation ecological quality (VEQ) of the TNS using a single vegetation indicator. However, vegetation ecosystems are complex and need to be evaluated through various indicators. We constructed the vegetation ecological quality index (VEQI) by downscaling net primary productivity, leaf area index, fractional vegetation cover, land surface temperature, vegetation moisture, and water use efficiency of vegetation. The spatiotemporal characteristics and main contributing factors of VEQ in the TNS from 2000 to 2020 were investigated using SEN+Mann−Kendall, Hurst exponent, geographical detector, and residual trend analysis testing. The results suggest that VEQ in the TNS showed an improving trend over the 21-year study period. The areas with significant improvements were concentrated in the central and eastern parts of the TNS. Significant deterioration occurred only sporadically in various urban areas. Characteristics of future unsustainable VEQ trends could be detected across the TNS. Precipitation, vegetation type, soil type, elevation, and solar radiation exhibited the greatest impact on VEQ throughout the TNS. Human activities (e.g., afforestation and government investments) were the dominant factors and had a relative contribution of 65.24% to vegetation area change. Our results provide clues for assessing environmental recovery and sustainable development in other regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Green Technology, Environmental Management and Corporate Social Responsibility from a Global Perspective)

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25 pages, 714 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Does an Environmental Information Disclosure of a Buyer’s Enterprise Affect Green Technological Innovations of Sellers’ Enterprise?

by Chenxi Zhang and Shanyue Jin

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(22), 14715; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192214715 - 9 Nov 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2106

Abstract

With rapid economic development, green technological innovations are playing an important role in the sustainable development of enterprise. When the public is concerned about the environment and values environmental information disclosures, it makes enterprise fulfill their environmental responsibilities. In a supply chain, buyer [...] Read more.

With rapid economic development, green technological innovations are playing an important role in the sustainable development of enterprise. When the public is concerned about the environment and values environmental information disclosures, it makes enterprise fulfill their environmental responsibilities. In a supply chain, buyer enterprise’ environmental information disclosures have a spillover effect on seller enterprise’ investment decisions. This study investigates the relationship between environmental information disclosures by buyers and green technological innovations of sellers, furthermore, it analyzes the mechanism of this relationship. For this purpose, this study conducts a fixed regression analysis using the data pertaining to A-share listed companies in China from 2009 to 2019. The results show that buyer firms’ environmental information disclosures can significantly promote the green technological innovations of seller enterprise. Furthermore, financing constraints, public concern, and internal control play a mediating role between buyer firms’ environmental information disclosures and seller firms’ green technological innovations. This study reveals several paths through which environmental information disclosures of buyers influence sellers’ green technological innovations in supply chains. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Green Technology, Environmental Management and Corporate Social Responsibility from a Global Perspective)

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