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Plastic-coated paper straws are insufficient to solve the plastic pollution problem because microplastics are formed during their degradation. In this study, upgraded paper straws were prepared by coating with biodegradable sodium alginate/cellulose nanofiber/stearic acid (SA/CNF/STA) on the surface of paper without additional adhesives. The tensile strength of the paper was enhanced synergistically by the coated SA and CNF after cross-linking with Ca2+ ions, reaching a maximum (26.46 MPa) when the mass ratio of SA to CNF was 4:1. The straws were prepared by spirally winding coated paper into tubes. Subsequent STA modification with different concentration (1–40%) improved the water stability of the paper straws. The paper straws exhibited excellent mechanical properties (including 13.45 MPa of flexural strength, 13.30 MPa of compressive strength) and hydrophobicity (103.67° of maximum water contact angle). After 130 days of soil burial, the paper straws were completely degraded. The comprehensive performance of prepared straws exceeds that of commercially available products in the same category, and they are safe and biodegradable. Paper straw in the work is in line with the concept of green and low-carbon development. [Display omitted] • Processing a paper straw based on biomass resource coatings. • SA/CNF hybrid coating synergistically enhanced the tensile strength of the straw. • The STA imparts satisfactory water stability to the straw. • The comprehensive performance of the straw outperforms commercial straw products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] The need to build a long-term or even permanent base is now a significant concern with the development of the exploration of extraterrestrial celestial bodies. Sulfur concrete was first proposed as a new building material in the 20th century. Recently, sulfur concrete has attracted much interest, as sulfur is considered one of the most accessible resources on the Moon and Mars, thanks to the in-situ resource utilization methodology. In addition, sulfur concrete is one of the most promising building materials for improving terrestrial sustainability or extraterrestrial exploration. So far, reviews have only focused on developing sulfur concrete and extraterrestrial building materials. This review paper summarizes the history of sulfur concrete development and different modified sulfur concretes. Previous research on extraterrestrial building materials is also reviewed. The unique advantage of sulfur concrete as an extraterrestrial material is justified, as no water is used during mixing. Lunar and Martian soil simulants are also examined as possible aggregate types. Finally, further improvements are proposed to broaden the application of sulfur concrete and the corresponding treatments. The possibility of recyclability and circularity is discussed from a sustainable development point of view. This review article provides readers with a detailed overview of sulfur concrete and its history, why it is more promising and accessible as an (extra)terrestrial building material, the challenges of its future application, and corresponding treatments to overcome the obstacles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of CaO for lime-based plaster and render generates 1.2 t CO 2 /t CaO, consumes 1.78 t CaCO 3 /t CaO. This research paper examines the environmental and economic performance of upcycling paper mill sludge (PMS) and carbide lime (CL) as replacements for hydrated lime (HL) in lime-based plasters production. For this, a new Cradle-to-Gate industrial-scale inventory is designed, upscaling recent lab-scale innovations, investigating PMS and CL treatment processes, followed by a Cradle-to-Grave scenario analysis. The results show that incorporating CL in the plaster yields better environmental and economic outcomes compared to PMS. The intermediate treatment for CL is cost-effective and has low carbon emissions. The upcycling of CL eliminates 100% of CO 2 emissions, while PMS reduces emissions by 11%. The production of the traditional binder HL is more expensive than upcycling PMS (+69%) and CL (+65%), with carbon taxes accounting for 35%, 44% and 15% of production costs, respectively. The effect of an equilibrated carbon price to ensure fair market competition, considering the natural carbonation of lime (carbon credit) is discussed, and the cost assessment reveals a 47% and 54% reduction for upcycled plasters using PMS and CL, respectively, compared to traditional HL. [Display omitted] • Availability, properties, and treatments of secondary lime resources. • Industrial-scale inventory for upcycling carbide lime (CL) & paper sludge (PS). • Cradle-to-Grave assessment: CL reduces CO 2 most, trailed by PS and hydrated lime. • Key factors for Cradle-to-Grave impact: lime kiln heat consumption (PS) and drying operation (CL). • Cost analysis of carbon taxes and credits across the material's life-cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scientific contributions to BIM-sustainability integration have gained momentum in recent years due to the influential role of BIM as a well-accepted approach for sustainable construction practices. In this regard, some systematic reviews and informatic analysis papers have addressed this topic. Although these papers have provided useful insights, we go deeper into the body of knowledge through a critical lens. In addition, in this paper, keyword combination is broadened as opposed to other reviews, and critical insight is applied to synergies between BIM and sustainability through gap-spotting. For this purpose, 98 journal articles are selected and grouped into four major categories, namely: (i) BIM-based Life-Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA); (ii) BIM for green buildings; (iii) BIM-aided construction waste management; (iv) state-of-the-art topics. The work's novelty lies in giving a holistic understanding of previously dismissed issues and a critical area review. Finally, the research gaps and future opportunities are discussed and tabulated. [Display omitted] • 543 articles on BIM and sustainability are analysed, deploying critical review and gap-spotting techniques. • The application of BIM in all sustainability dimensions is critically discussed. • BIM-LCA and BIM-LCC have received the most attention in synergy between BIM and sustainability. • BIM-Sustainability integration is rarely implemented in infrastructure projects. • This paper can be expanded into open-BIM to address some of the data-interoperability difficulties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the domain of global socio-economic dynamics, the pivotal role of food production (FP) cannot be overstated. It constitutes the bedrock of fundamental human necessities while being inexorably linked with critical aspects such as economic expansion, societal equilibrium, and geopolitical interplays. The multifaceted nature of FP appears through its direct impact on macroeconomic indicators and its latent influence on international relations and policy-making. This critical nexus underscores the imperative for a comprehensive understanding and strategic management of food production processes to sustain and enhance global socio-economic stability and growth. Investigating the nexus between green finance (GF) and FP is pivotal for ensuring national security and promoting sustainable economic development. This research thus paper examines GF's impact on FP in China as outlined in the 2017 green finance policies. It employs the difference-in-differences (DID) method and analyzes a balanced panel dataset comprising 282 cities in China from 2009 to 2020. The results show that GF has an inhibitory effect on FP, and this remains valid after a range of reliability checks, including parallel trend assessments and placebo tests. Further findings of transmission mechanism analysis indicate that non-agricultural factors and financial exclusion are critical for GF's inhibitory effect on FP. Heterogeneity analyses show that GF's inhibitory effect on FP is more pronounced in the main food-producing areas, the main food-marketing areas, and cities with better infrastructure. The empirical results of this paper comprehensively illustrate GF's impact on FP and how it contributes to the achievement of food security objectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sustainable and integrated management of resources is a crucial approach to achieving sustainable regional development in the face of limited land and increasingly scarce water resources. This paper proposes a multidimensional optimization model to jointly optimize land use patterns and water resource allocation under the conditions of maximizing economic benefits and minimizing social differences, ecological loads, environmental pollution, and carbon emissions. The optimization model is solved using the affiliation function method and then combined with random forest (RF) and cellular automata (CA) models to further obtain the optimal spatial layout of land use. This paper takes the Mid-Yangtze River City Cluster as an example and optimizes the land use pattern and water allocation in the region in 2020 and 2030. The results of the study show that the optimized water and land resource allocation scheme performs better than the status quo in all dimensions. The optimized economic benefits, social effects, ecological effects, environmental effects, and overall sustainability in 2020 are increased by 45.97%, 22.89%, 10.07%, 24.65%, and 42.73%, respectively. By 2030, overall sustainability reaches 0.69. The developed modeling framework helps to elucidate the internal linkages between land use and water allocation, and it provides decision-makers with diversified approaches to land and water resource management and adjustment for different cities in different periods, which promotes the sustainable development of urban agglomerations. [Display omitted] • The intrinsic relationship between different land use types and water demand is addressed. • A sustainable approach to integrated management of land and water resources is proposed. • The synergistic optimization of the economy, society, ecology and the environment is developed. • The spatial patterns of land use for the balanced development of urban agglomerations are promoted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability of morphing aircraft to adapt their shape in flight hinges on the incredible flexibility of their skins, which have multiple degrees of freedom. This paper presents a compact overview of the latest advancements in polymorphing skins for morphing aircraft, focusing on polymeric skins, electroactive polymers, and shape memory polymers. It examines the critical mechanical properties such as flexibility, durability, and resilience that influence their application in morphing wings. By detailing the synthesis processes, including the use of natural rubber, silicone, acrylic, and fiber-reinforced composites, and exploring various modeling and simulation approaches, the paper highlights the importance of flexible material selection and design principles tailored to morphing aircraft needs. It emphasizes a multidisciplinary strategy integrating polymer material science, mechanical engineering, and aerodynamics to innovate in the morphing aircraft domain. This review aims to serve as an essential resource for researchers and practitioners, paving the way for future developments in aerospace morphing technologies. • Innovative Material Synthesis : Explores synthesis of cutting-edge materials like SMPs, EAPs, and advanced composites for aerospace applications. • Material Property Evaluation : Evaluates key mechanical properties like tensile strength, elasticity, and fatigue resistance for polymorphic skins in morphing wings. • Advanced Modeling Techniques : Reviews modeling and simulation methods to predict the behavior of morphing skins under operational conditions. • Design and Implementation Strategies : Discusses design principles for polymer-based skins, focusing on morphing mechanisms and integration with structural components. • Challenges and Solutions in Morphing Skins : Addresses challenges like wrinkling and buckling in polymeric skins and optimizes actuation parameters for SMP and EAP skins, proposing future research directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to introduce a new sustainable business excellence model, called Knowledge Management Excellence Model 21 (KMEM21), a theoretical framework that combines Knowledge Management and Business Excellence Models (BEMs), proposing an approach applicable to organizations to directly contribute towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The paper through a qualitative-exploratory methodology makes an analysis and benchmarking, emphasizes the integration of Knowledge Management and three specific Business Excellence Models (Management Excellence Model (MEG) from Brazil, Baldrige Excellence Framework, and EFQM). This integration uncovers relationships between organizational concepts associated with Knowledge Management and BEMs, which contributes to new insights in the literature regarding these concepts' interplay. BEMs are presented as tools that can catalyze the power of Knowledge Management towards achieving SDGs. However, it's noted that the existing BEMs might not be adequate, as the goal extends beyond organizational improvement and excellence to encompass sustainable development aligned with SDGs. The article suggests that specific organizational concepts, identified through a literature review and aligned with Knowledge Management and BEMs, can be selected as indicators associated with the constructed KMEM21 and the SDGs. These indicators are intended to form a bridge between the new model and the SDGs. However, given the comprehensive nature of the theory, model development, application, result acquisition, and analysis, the article's primary contribution will be in its focus on elaborating the instrument and technique, demonstrating the creation of a theoretical framework for the SDGs. Future works will showcase the application of the proposed KMEM21 method in five Brazilian organizations, members of Global Compact, to compare the achieved objectives and the results obtained with the organizations' performance and their sustainability reports. [Display omitted] • There is a visible relationship between knowledge management and business excellence models, aided by shared organizational concepts. • Achieving the SDGs in organizations can be done by using the traits incorporated into knowledge management and business excellence models. • The Knowledge Management Excellence Model 21 represents an original approach, acting as a new sustainable business excellence model. • A comprehensive model can be constructed using a methodology that incorporates an instrument, a technique, and a method. • KMEM21 presents a strategic path that aligns with business excellence principles and the sustainable development objectives, offering a framework for organizational success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the role of Design Thinking (DT) in the context of sustainable development (SD), based on a perceived research need to identify the features which may characterise its deployment, and identify ways via which it may be optimised, especially in the implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). The main goal of this study is to examine the connection between DT and SD and showcase examples of what has been done to deploy it, using real-case situations. From a methodological perspective, the paper deploys a set of two methods: bibliometric analysis and case studies. Among other findings, the paper shows that DT can be used to help implement the UN SDGs by providing an approach that emphasizes human-centered design. This includes identifying problems, creating user-friendly solutions, and testing them in order to ensure that they are effective. Also, by using DT, companies, organisations, and governments can create low-cost, high-impact, and sustainable solutions to help achieve SDGs such as SDG8, SDG9, SDG12, and SDG13, among others. Overall, DT provides a framework for combining creative and analytical reasoning, specific mindsets, and diverse hands-on tools and techniques to improve critical thinking abilities towards sustainability challenges. The novelty of the paper relies on the fact that the combined use of the two methods allowed the identification of some useful features of DT, which may facilitate its deployment in sustainability contexts. This may assist future studies since it provides a theoretical basis for the field. • Research gaps in DT prevent its widespread use in SD. • The paper deploys bibliometric analysis and case studies. • DT within a circular economy is an emerging approach. • DT may foster sustainability practices. • A novelty is the identification of pathways to optimise DT in SD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a result of global sustainable development, natural fiber composites (NFCs) have become increasingly attractive due to their remarkable performance, novel functionality, and eco-friendliness. Natural fibers are biodegradable, affordable, and low-density, which makes them potential materials for use in developing alternatives to traditional petroleum-based synthetic fiber composites. However, challenges such as inadequate compatibility between natural fibers and matrix limit the further development of NFCs. Studies have shown that molecular dynamics (MD) simulations can offer valuable insights into the fundamental properties and deformation mechanisms governing the macroscopic performances of NFCs, including mechanical properties, thermal stability, and interfacial interactions. Based on the underlying understanding of the nanostructure of natural fibers, these fibers can be modified at nanoscale to improve the performance of NFCs. This paper first reviews the hierarchical structures of natural fibers, mainly wood and bamboo fibers, highlighting their relationship with mechanical and thermal properties. Treatments to improve natural fiber-matrix compatibilities are then presented. The fundamental factors behind the functionalized properties of modified NFCs are emphasized from the nanoscale. Additionally, applications of NFCs as structural and functional materials in the construction, automotive, and aerospace industries are reviewed. Finally, this paper identifies the growing use of machine learning-assisted MD simulation techniques to facilitate the design of NFCs. Literature and data sources for this study were obtained through a combination of online academic databases, citation chaining, government databases, and industry reports. [Display omitted] • NFCs offer a promising and eco-friendly alternative to synthetic fiber composites. • The relationships between the structures and properties of NFCs are presented. • The interfacial nano-engineering modification of natural fibers is discussed. • Applications of NFCs in engineering industries towards carbon-neutral are reviewed. • Prospects and challenges of using ML-assisted MD simulations are demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blockchain technology, with its peer-to-peer trading feature, influences the management of energy consumption by offering the potential to transform transparency, efficiency, and sustainability within the energy sector. Nonetheless, there is a need to develop analytical decision-making models tailored for managing peer-to-peer energy transactions to improve energy resilience. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to address the research question: How can energy distribution systems be protected via blockchain technology to enhance energy resilience and mitigate vulnerabilities to disruptions ? This paper employs a conceptual research model design and a mathematical decision-making model to address the research question by capturing the peer-to-peer trading capability of blockchain technology. The theory of planned behavior provides theoretical explanations for the proposed model. The sample includes longitudinal energy consumption data from 2015 to 2023 in Texas. The findings indicate a significant improvement in energy efficiency along with a considerable decrease in total electricity consumption. Post hoc analysis results reveal that the seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average algorithm is effective as a reliable input for the proposed mathematical model. The significant implications are to implement blockchain-based smart grids in which energy systems become more resilient to disruptions, as the peer-to-peer capability enables users to trade energy. The proposed model suggests that energy will be used more efficiently and effectively. This paper contributes to prior works by introducing a mathematical model that captures the trading behavior of energy consumers. Moreover, this paper proposes the SARIMA algorithm to predict energy demand. • A mathematical peer-to-peer trading model is presented to improve resilience. • A blockchain-based smart grid is presented for consumer energy consumption. • Five machine learning algorithms are presented in energy demand management. • Longitudinal energy consumption data of Texas is used in the model. • Theoretical support is provided using the theory of planned behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the Anthropocene era, characterized by sustainability and environmental challenges, the Metaverse emerges as a virtual alternative with the potential to reduce the ecological footprint while enhancing human experiences. However, the development of Metaverse encounter unprecedented technical, social, and ethical challenges. Bioinspired technologies, referring to those developed with inspiration from the biological world, have demonstrated successful applications across various fields and show potential in addressing challenges within the Metaverse. This paper explores the integration of bioinspired technologies with the Metaverse, focusing on its social and ethical implications. It proposes a conceptual model for a bioinspired Metaverse, elucidating how bioinspired technologies may shape the evolution of the Metaverse through four dimensions: Enhancement of User Interaction, Promotion of Digital Inclusivity, Advancement of Sustainable Development, and Guidance of Ethical Considerations. This paper makes a significant contribution by adopting an innovative context - the bioinspired Metaverse - that facilitates a deeper reexamination of the relationship among technology, nature, and human society through interdisciplinary discussion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine and port economy estimation is conducive to the understanding of the development law of marine economy degree. This study proposes a neural-learning network estimation model of the marine economy degree based on a priori architectural knowledge and adopts time-combined class array columns and multivariate modeling methods to estimate the indicators reflecting the development level of the marine economy degree in the ZJP region. The study adopts the PK_NN multivariate modeling method, taking cargo transportation volume, cargo turnover, cargo carrying value of ports near the sea, foreign trade throughput, port container throughput, and port container throughput as multivariate model inputs, and compared with the other modeling methods, the model of the time combination class array columns of type GM_11, which has a better comprehensive performance. Finally, the PK_NN time-combined class array column model is used to estimate the development level of the marine economy in the ZJP region near the seaport from 2011 to 2020, and the results show that the estimated value of the marine economy in the ZJP region is close to the actual planning value of the ZJP region. The algorithm was applied to estimate the economic degree curves of the five near-seaport areas of ABCDE under different harbor head construction art modes, and the results showed that the relative value error of the estimation was controlled between 4% and 10%, and the fluctuation ranges of each month's specific growth value area estimation were comparable. This proves the effectiveness and accuracy of the a priori marine neural-learning-based network algorithm in this paper. • The algorithm was applied to estimate the economic degree curves of the five near-seaport areas of ABCDE under different harbor head construction art modes, and the results showed that the relative value error of the estimation was controlled between 4% and 10%, and the fluctuation ranges of each month's specific growth value area estimation were comparable. • This proves the effectiveness and accuracy of the a priori marine neural-learning-based network algorithm in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental protection and sustainable development are now profoundly ingrained in the public consciousness in the modern era of the global green revolution. First, this paper uses an evolutionary game model to theoretically analyse the impact of environmental regulation and green finance on enterprises by dissecting the game behaviour between local governments, banks and enterprises. Then, we incorporate entrepreneurial spirit into the model to determine whether entrepreneurial spirit accelerates the achievement of green sustainability objectives. Environmental regulation and green finance are found to contribute substantially to the innovation of green technologies by local enterprises, while entrepreneurial spirit accelerates this process. Finally, we empirically test the findings based on a prefecture-level panel dataset from 2007 to 2020. We find that green finance has a positive impact in Central and Western cities of China, while Eastern cities are in greater need for government environmental regulation controls. For entrepreneurial spirit, the incentive effect of entrepreneurial spirit on the level of green technology innovation is more significant in Central and Western regions of China. This paper enriches the field of research on entrepreneurial spirit and regional green sustainable development by providing empirical evidence for the evaluation of environmental regulatory and green financing policy impacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a novel approach to the strategic planning of the supply chain for lime cultivation. The uncertainty associated with lime production due to factors such as transportation, crime, and water availability, among others, represents different challenges. To address these challenges, the authors propose the use of machine learning tools coupled with deterministic optimization to obtain optimal solutions for the supply chain for future years. This paper highlights the use of justice schemes to ensure an equitable distribution of lime production between farmers and learning machines to quantify the insecurity impact on lime production in Michoacan. The problem can be solved using a Mixed-Integer Linear Programming (MILP) model that focuses on maximizing economic benefits, minimizing the use of irrigation water in crops, and minimizing Carbon Dioxide Equivalent (CO 2eq) emissions within the supply chain. The results demonstrate that the proposed approach can effectively address the challenges facing the lime production supply chain, resulting in an optimized and equitable lime production and distribution between farmers using the Social Welfare Justice scheme. Scenario A presents a utopian viewpoint with maximum benefits and minimum CO 2eq generated emissions, corresponding to $ 4.08 × 109 and 1.94 × 106 tons of CO 2eq , respectively. This paper contributes to the growing body of literature on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in supply chain management, specifically in the optimization of supply chain processes. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under the dual challenges of food security crisis and environmental costs, promoting agricultural green development (AGD) is an urgent need. Agricultural cleaner production place-based policy (ACPBP) is an important tool for promoting AGD. Based on the entropy value method to measure the AGD, DID is applied in this paper to investigate whether ACPBP can promote AGD. The conclusions of the paper are as follows: (1) The AGD is impacted differently by various types of ACPBP. The policy of replacing chemical fertilizers with organic fertilizers for fruits, vegetables and teas (RCFOFFVT) can inhibit AGD, national agricultural green development pioneer zone policy (NAGDPZP) can promote AGD. There is persistence in the effects of both RCFOFFVT and NAGDPZP. (2) There are regional heterogeneities in the effects of RCFOFFVT and NAGDPZP on AGD. The RCFOFFVT has a stronger inhibitory effect on AGD in low economic development counties and major grain-producing counties. The NAGDPZP has a stronger promotional effect on AGD in high economic development counties and non-major grain-producing counties. For low-carbon policy counties, the inhibitory effect of RCFOFFVT is insignificant and the promotional effect of NAGDPZP is weaker. (3) Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation (ASTI) moderates the impact of RCFOFFVT and NAGDPZP. ASTI would weaken the inhibitory effect of RCFOFFVT on AGD, and would strengthen the role of the NAGDPZP in promoting the AGD. (4) There is a policy mix effect of RCFOFFVT and NAGDPZP that can jointly promote AGD. The conclusions of the paper indicate that ACPBP are effective approaches to deal with the food crisis and environmental pressures, but in the process of policy implementation, different types of ACPBP need to be implemented based on the realities of the situation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to explore the direct and indirect impacts of the Carbon Emission Trading System (CETS) on the green transition development (GTD) of Chinese cities. This paper constructs a GTD evaluation system from the perspective of prevention and governance at the source, in terms of carbon reduction, pollution reduction, green expansion and growth, and measures the GTD performance of 281 cities based on the EW-TOPSIS model. It is found that the average increase in GTD of the sample cities from 2006 to 2020 is 3.40 %, the GTD progress of the 281 cities has a considerable positive spatial autocorrelation, with the GTD progress of the CETS pilot cities being significantly bigger than that of the non-pilot cities. Further this paper adopts the spatial difference model (S-DID) to scientifically identify the influence mechanism and heterogeneity of the direct and spatial effects of CETS on city GTD, and the results show that CETS has a positive effect on the GTD of both local and neighboring cities. Propensity score matching (PSM) is used to further corroborate these findings. The study also shows that CETS improves local GTD by promoting green innovation, rationalizing industrial structures, and enhancing energy efficiency in cities. Nevertheless, the ensuing siphon effect hinders nearby cities' levels of energy efficiency, industrial structure rationalization, and green innovation. The policy effects of CETS are more significant in large cities, eastern cities, old industrial areas, and non-resource-based cities. CETS can work in synergy with smart city construction, low-carbon city pilot policies, and emission trading policies to accelerate the process of GTD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper reviews the green hydrogen uptake policies in the United States and the European Union. While the EU has a rather broad public support strategy that envisages the entire hydrogen value chain, the U.S. policies are more focused on hydrogen research hubs and subsidies having electric vehicle applications. From the experience of the solar and wind power rollout of the past three decades, we know that the subsidization schemes of the end product play an important role in the transition to renewables. These kinds of subsidization schemes are still lacking for clean hydrogen both in the EU and the U.S. This paper provides a brief overview of selected subsidization schemes from other renewables markets, which are then applied to define an exemplary subsidization path to empower large-scale growth in a market for green hydrogen. Here is proposed a long-term subsidization scheme – deemed as an adequate strategy for the expansion of clean hydrogen in an electricity mix. The suggested exemplary subsidization path recommends shifting from feed-in tariffs to direct marketing with market premiums once a certain threshold is reached, while both can be flanked by the issuance of a Guarantee of Origin for green hydrogen so that there is one market for hydrogen and another market for the certificates. • -A long-term subsidization scheme for the rollout of green hydrogen in the electricity mixes is proposed. • -An exemplary subsidization path to empower large-scale growth in a market for green hydrogen is drafted. • -U.S. and EU are used as case studies to capture lessons for subsidization of green hydrogen economy uptake. • -The U.S. has more centralized green hydrogen rollout policies, whereas the EU has a wider policy toolkit. • -Shifting from FIT to direct marketing with market premiums is key once a certain pre-defined threshold is reached. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Pretreatment is a critical process for biohydrogen production from biomass. • A distinction should be made between the initial pH and the pH of the process. • Dissolved bio-H 2 concentrations are not always in equilibrium with the gas phase. • The combined fermentation methods offer advantages compared to dark fermentation. • Iron catalysts are attractive due to high abundance and relatively low toxicity. Biohydrogen is a green energy carrier with the potential to reduce our dependency on fossil fuels. The production of biohydrogen from lignocellulosic materials may be low cost, but commercial production has not been realized. The issues to be addressed include screening and construction of microorganisms that meet industrial requirements, optimization of bioreactor designs, and novel hybrid fermentation systems such as combining dark fermentation (DF) with methanogenic systems and doping nanomaterials to increase biohydrogen yield. This paper focuses on the biohydrogen production, highlighting various fermentative bioreactor types, influential factors in dark fermentation, and pretreatment techniques. Besides, current strategies to produce biohydrogen, including synthetic biology approaches and metabolic engineering, are assessed for their potential to contribute to net zero carbon emission. Pretreatment of biomass using dilute acids is the most common technique to destroy the complicated structure of lignocellulosic biomass. Mesophilic temperatures (37 °C), HRT of 72 h, and pH near 7.0, are recurrent parameters of biomass fermentation. The combined approach of electro-fermentation and dark fermentation produces a higher yield of biohydrogen compared to the single dark fermentation. Furthermore, additives (mainly iron-based materials) have been investigated to improve the efficiency of biomass pretreatment as well as biohydrogen production. Finally, this paper points out that the vigorous development of novel engineered strains is an important part of achieving commercial-scale production of biohydrogen. Overall, considerable efforts are needed from both technical and managing aspects to achieve a full-scale application of biohydrogen production to make this technology economical, efficient and sustainable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the backdrop of the high-quality growth of China's Yellow River Basin (YRB), Henan Province as a significant resource, population, economic, and grain-producing province, the contradiction between the finite availability of natural resource supply and ecological environmental capacity and the socioeconomic development has become more and more prominent, which significantly restricts the healthy sustainable development of Henan Province. Thus, it is essential to precisely assess the Resource and Environmental Carrying Capacity (RECC) for Henan Province and control the scale of cities within the regulating capacity of the ecological and resource system. Therefore, based on the evaluation system composed of natural resources, ecological environment and socioeconomic subsystems, the method of substitutability of indicator information is applied to screen the indicator system. Determine the integrated weight value of each indicator based on the Ordinal Relationship-Entropy Weight-Game Theory model. To identify the spatial-temporal progression law of RECC in 18 cities in the province of Henan from 2005 to 2020 and to forecast the development trend of RECC in each city from 2021 to 2026, the GMD-GRA-TOPSIS-Holt model was constructed. The research findings show that (1) the development of RECC in Henan Province is divided into two periods: the period of slow development (2005–2011) and the period of rapid enhancement (2012–2020). Shangqiu (SQ) and Puyang (PY) were the two cities with the largest and smallest increases in the province, with a difference of up to 51.59%. (2) There are significant regional differences in the RECC and the subsystem carrying capacity in Henan Province. Except for the resource subsystem, the carrying capacity levels of the remaining three systems are improving, and the differences among cities are gradually decreasing. (3) The vitality and strength of the future development of RECC in Henan Province will continue to increase, characterised by "accelerated advancement in the early stage and steady improvement in the later stage." Overall, this paper provides a theoretical basis for the scientific understanding of RECC in the cities of Henan Province and a scientific basis for optimising the allocation of resources and environmental capacity. Furthermore, the evaluation model constructed in this paper expands the space of theoretical application and has a popularisation value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study delves into the nexus between the efficiency of carbon emission allocation and the efficiency of green development within the context of innovative city construction. Leveraging data from 283 prefecture-level cities and corresponding provincial-level panel data spanning the period from 2005 to 2019 in mainland China, the research employs the zero-sum gain DEA model to compute provincial carbon emission allocation efficiency and allocate allowances. Furthermore, it utilizes the all-factor non-radial directional distance function and the SBM-DEA model to gauge the green development efficiency of prefecture-level cities. The double-difference method is applied to evaluate the impact of innovative city construction on regional green development efficiency. The results indicate that an imbalance between carbon emission allocation efficiency and emission quotas detrimentally affects urban green development. However, technological progress, factor accumulation, and the institutional environment associated with innovative city building mitigate this negative impact. Heterogeneity analysis reveals a differentiated effect of innovative city building on regional green development efficiency. This paper not only explores the concept of achieving an equitable distribution of carbon emission allowances but also examines how innovative city building influences regional green development. By establishing connections between urban policies, the equitable distribution of carbon emission allowances, and regional green development, it introduces a new perspective for promoting high-quality development at the regional level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Collaborative networks (CNs) are joint entities of autonomous partners that work towards a common goal with shared resources and roles. In 2016, the United Nations announced 17 sustainable development goals (SDGs) as part of the 2030 agenda. SDG 17 is "Partnerships for the goals" highlighting the importance of cross-country and cross-company collaborative action. Although the link between CNs and sustainable development is frequently declared, no study in the literature investigates the connection between CNs and the SDGs. This systematic literature review (SLR) follows the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Based on the SLR results, a context-interventions-mechanisms-outcomes (CIMO) framework for CNs is proposed, serving as a tool to comprehend the types of CNs to achieve the SDGs. Only 10 out of 77 articles mentioned the SDGs they address. The norm is to focus on a single SDG per study and not assess the dimension of the impact on the SDGs or the trade-offs that can be established between them. The most frequently mentioned SDGs in the text are SDG 9 and SDG 12, with only 2 articles focusing on the social dimension. SDG 10 and SDG 16 were not mentioned in any of the articles. The majority of articles are case studies and technical papers, developing scale-up solutions and creating value from waste. The identified gaps lead to the proposition of several potential research areas: 1) the need for developing mechanisms that allow CNs to effectively implement interventions that achieve specific SDGs; 2) the lack of studies incorporating the social dimension given the social nature of the SDGs; 3) few SDGs are addressed by CNs (particularly SDG 9 and SDG 12) and majority of SDGs are ignored; 4) there is a scarcity of studies targeting the tertiary sector; 5) the need for alignment of CNs' business models with the SDGs; 6) a lack of studies addressing specific SDGs (6, 10, and 16); and 7) the necessity of studies demonstrating collaboration between industry and academia for systemic change. The study aids decision-makers in identifying policies that facilitate the formation of CNs aligned with the SDGs. • This review of the state-of-the-art of CNs research within SDGs establishes a foundation for future research. • A conceptual framework for research on CNs within SDGs is designed. • A research agenda was presented based on what is emerging and what is missing from the literature. • Using the CIMO framework, prescription rules are established to guide actions or decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Microwave-assisted pyrolysis is a promising method for biomass/waste valorisation. • Life cycle analysis shows reduced energy consumption, low global warming potential. • Innovations in reactor design and operation parameters aids in cost reduction. Microwave-assisted pyrolysis (MAP) has been perceived as a promising technology for biomass and waste conversion due to its distinctive features, including fast, even, and precise heating. This results in higher energy efficiency when compared to conventional pyrolysis via thermal heating. However, the scaling up of MAP of biomass and waste poses challenges, with investigations ongoing to uncover not only the technological aspect, but also both the environmental impacts and economic feasibility associated with this process/technology. The possible environmental impacts associated with MAP processes can be analyzed through systematic life-cycle assessment (LCA), while the economic feasibility can be evaluated via techno-economic analysis (TEA). This paper presents an overview of the current research trend in MAP and the products produced, as well as the LCA and TEA of the pyrolysis technologies. The LCA study reported a 2.5 folds reduction in energy consumption and up to 62% reduction in global warming potential. TEA study revealed that conventional pyrolysis has a greater profit for long-term assessment due to a higher maturity and less complexity technology; however, MAP may be more economically feasible in the future owing to the increased maturity and more established technology. Finally, the challenges and future perspectives for LCA and TEA in MAP are elucidated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellular automata (CA) based models are practical tools to simulate the spatiotemporal landscape evolution induced by the land use/-cover change (LUCC). Existing models are struggling to comprehensively handle the spatiotemporal driving relationships amid the nonlinear LUCC process. Besides, the landscape patterns are not considered in most models, making them struggled to support the development strategies. Aiming at overcoming these obstacles, a novel land use/-cover change model concerning spatiotemporal dependency and properties related to landscape evolution (STAPLE) is proposed in this paper. A potential generating module establishing the nonlinear spatiotemporal driving relationship and a spatial allocating module employing a landscape-based CA are integrated for realistic LUCC simulations. As a case study, the proposed model is applied in Zhengzhou, China to assess its performance. It is indicated that the STAPLE model achieves a higher simulation accuracy, and the landscape properties are effectively manipulated. It provides a reproducible tool for policy-makers to explore a low-ecological-risk landscape under different future scenarios and achieve sustainable developments. • Propose an LUCC model concerning spatiotemporal dependency and landscape evolution. • Control the spatial evolution of landscape using a novel CA algorithm. • Promote accuracy by employing ST-CNN to assimilate the latent spatiotemporal dependency. • Provide a reproducible tool for policy-makers to achieve sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The textiles and apparel industry is a major contributor to economic development while at the same time being one of the most polluting industries due to its lengthy supply chain and resource intensive production operations. To address these sustainability challenges, digitalization is seen as one of the potential solutions. Using the lens of sustainability and digitalization in Supply Chain Management (SCM), this paper analyses the sustainability and digitalization status of Dutch textile and apparel firms. We used a mixed methodology of quantitative text mining of 94 Dutch textile and apparel firms as well as qualitative thematic and coding analysis of experts' views and opinions on sustainability and digitalization in the Dutch textiles and apparel industry. Quantitative analysis of website data shows that Dutch textile and apparel firms predominantly communicate the environmental, to a lesser extent social, and least of all economic sustainability factors. Keyword analysis also shows that the use of technological keyword indicators is less prominent, while certain technologies such as IoT, sensors and blockchain correlate mostly to environmental sustainability factors. Moreover, qualitative analysis reveals that to address sustainability via digitalization, it is important to link sustainability goals to Key Performance Indicators, which requires data for traceability. We recommend firms to: (1) re-evaluate their business models and assess the extent traceability can be incorporated in their sustainability strategy; (2) enhance stakeholder collaboration within and outside the supply chain to utilize traceability; and (3) proactively use traceability information to improve transparency and accountability to meet legal requirements and address greenwashing. This study contributes to literature by showing the importance of traceability for (a) linking sustainability and digitalization in SCM, b) achieving the ultimate goals of transparency and accountability, and c) predicting demand and supply to address overproduction and waste in the textiles and apparel sector. • This study analyses the sustainability and digitalization status of Dutch textile and apparel firms. • Firms predominantly communicate environmental, followed by social and least of all economics sustainability, in their websites. • To address sustainability via digitalization, it is important to link sustainability goals to Key Performance Indicators. • Traceability data can improve transparency and accountability, as well as predictability of demand and supply in the chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While existing literature acknowledges the development of digital capabilities as essential for enterprises to achieve digital transformation, it falls short in offering comprehensive theoretical insights into the dynamic evolution of these capabilities, especially in the field of environmental and sustainability issues. This paper addresses this gap by employing an exploratory single-case study methodology to investigate the intricate process through which an ecological restoration enterprise in China updates its digital strategy, facilitating the dynamic evolution of its digital capabilities from a resource orchestration theory perspective. Our findings reveal a sequential evolution from digital strategy renewal to resource orchestration and, ultimately, the advancement of digital capabilities. Specifically, the enterprise engages in a co-adjustment and co-creation process, aligning its resources with a digital strategy refresh and fostering the emergence of digital integration and innovation capabilities through effective resource management. This includes the accumulation and divesting of resources as part of the construction process, alongside the enrichment and bundling of resources. This research bridges the gap in the current literature by providing a nuanced understanding of the mechanisms that drive the evolution of digital capabilities, and it offers a theoretical framework that integrates strategic renewal with resource orchestration for environmental and socio-economic sustainable development. Furthermore, the insights gained provide vital managerial implications for the governance, corporate social responsibility and policy of industrial digitalization towards global environmental practice and sustainable development goals (SDGs). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the idea of green coordinated development and green co-evolution, the system of green co-evolution composed of government, financial institutions, enterprises, and the public is constructed, using Functional Data Analysis combined with CRITIC weighting, Dagum Gini coefficient and Kernel density estimation to measure the green co-evolution level (GCEL) and the regional disparity based on data of 31 provinces and 992 enterprises from 2010 to 2021, it finds: (1) At the turning point of 2015, the GCEL has been from declining to rising, and the poor performance of enterprises and the public is main factors. (2) The GCEL of regions shows a distinct non-balanced development trend, with the middle- and low-level provinces accounting for the largest proportion. Moreover, the rising of Gini coefficient means that provincial synergy is weaker. (3) Since 2012, the disparity between eight comprehensive economic zones has increased, mainly due to the polarization of the performance of the main players, such as the rising gap in the allocation of government and financial resources. Regional differences have always been dominant, with the largest disparity between Northwest China and the three coastal economic zones. (4) The total distribution tends to converge to lower level, but has no significant convergence. From the perspective of green co-evolution, this paper measures the green co-evolution level, temporal and spatial evolution, and regional disparities, providing a reference for promoting regional green coordination and sustainable development. • A system of green co-evolution composed of government, financial institutions, enterprises, and the public was constructed. • Using Functional Data Analysis combined with CRITIC weighting, the dynamic green co-evolution level (GCEL) was captured. • The overall GCEL shift from decline to rise is mainly due to the poor performance of enterprises and the public. • Due to the widening gap in government and financial resource, regional disparites have intensified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the spread of green building development in China by analyzing the implementation of the LEED certification system across 31 provinces from 2006 to 2022. To investigate spatial differences, spatial-temporal evolution, and spatial spillovers of green building development in China, we employed various statistical methods, including Standard Distance Ellipse, Dagum's Gini Coefficient, Kernel Density Estimation, Markov Chain Analysis, Moran's I Exponential Analysis, and Social Network Analysis. The findings reveal the formation of a green building cluster in a northeast-southwest orientation, at the core of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei, Yangtze River Delta, and Pearl River Delta regions. There is compelling evidence of substantial regional disparities in green building development, primarily driven by inter-regional differences, which has resulted in a significant gap between the eastern and non-eastern regions. This study identifies the presence of "club convergence" and the "Matthew effect" in China's green building landscape, where spatial factors play a crucial role. Furthermore, a distinct and stable spatial clustering is observed, indicating a complex and multi-faceted spatial association network that goes beyond geographical proximity and neighborhood effects. This network reveals diverse positions and roles for provinces and cities. The eastern provinces and cities are found to exert strong control and dominance while also playing a significant siphoning role. On the other hand, the western provinces and cities have been marginalized, experiencing minimal dividend spillover from the development of other provinces. • Green building cluster with a northeast-southwest orientation has been formed. • Inter-regional differences are the main spatial source. • "Club convergence" and the "Matthew effect" are observed. • Regions demonstrate "Spatial spillovers" and "Relative maintenance". • Major green building cities form "Siphon plateau". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) defined by the United Nations represent a blueprint for the adoption of global practices and policies to foster sustainability in societies and increase efficiencies in resources uses. The Italian National Trust, FAI, has embraced these goals, developing a holistic and transdisciplinary methodology to promote a more sustainable approach to preserve its natural and built heritage. This methodology combines heritage protection with the SDGs in various macro-areas of interventions, including energy, water, biosphere, responsible consumption, and sustainable communities. The aim is to increase access to affordable and clean energy, reduce water, waste, and soil footprints, promote responsible consumption, and develop human capital. The paper proposes a set of strategies to achieve the SDGs in heritage, involving the collaboration of several stakeholders, ranging from institutions to citizens. The methodology is applied to a specific Italian case study, Casa Macchi in Morazzone, to highlight the challenges in achieving the dual objective of preserving the historic building and promoting sustainability in the built environment. [Display omitted] • We propose a trans-disciplinary methodology for sustainable heritage preservation. • The heritage preservation project is analyzed in five macro-areas of intervention. • Assessment of effects on energy, water, biosphere, resources, and sustainability. • Casa Macchi preservation project to apply methodology and prove effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emerging industries and technologies are made up of objective, practical requirements and ideas that encompass broad hopes for what future newness might enable. The bioeconomy is one such emerging industry. Its recent evolution has involved a complicated and dynamic mix of promises, reality checks and subsequent ambivalences. This article frames and investigates the emerging algae-based bioplastics industry as one niche within this broader system envisaged for social, technological, economic, political and ecological change. As such, our paper presents two categories of knowledge that in practice interrelate: 1) specific and practical recommendations that can assist a future algal-based bioplastics industry to develop in Australia in ways that are conscious of socio-ecological and socio-cultural dimensions, and 2) critical extensions that go beyond the attributes of newness, impact, suddenness and universality often emphasised in both popular and scientific research into emerging green technologies. In particular, our analysis highlights the importance of specific temporal, tonal and spatial factors when framing the contextual factors associated emerging industries, technologies and the different pathways for change they might help support. • Pathways and enabling factors for a algal-based bioplastics industry in regional Australia are presented. • The 'social idea' of the bioeconomy is analysed with reference to algal-based bioplastics. • The algal-based bioplastics industry is contextualised in relation to transition pathways literatureon the bioeconomy. • Themes and recommendations are synthesised from literature review and semi-structured interviews. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green finance is a financial innovation that directs capital allocation towards green industries. How will this affect regional carbon emissions? Based on the data on green finance and carbon emissions of 30 provinces in China from 2008 to 2019, this paper employs a multivariate linear regression model and a spatial econometric model to empirically study the impact of green finance on carbon emissions. The results find that (1) green finance significantly reduces provincial carbon emissions, specifically through promoting a cleaner energy structure and an advanced industrial structure, as well as improving the quality of green innovation. (2) Heterogeneity exists between regions. In eastern regions and areas characterized by high levels of marketization and minimal fiscal pressure, the role of green finance in promoting provincial carbon emission reduction is more pronounced. (3) Spatial econometric analysis found that green finance has a significant spatial spillover effect on carbon reduction in adjacent regions. Specifically, the flow of green resources and green ideas between provinces facilitates the formation of regional radiation, while green competition generates a siphon effect on neighboring regions. These findings provide some meaningful policy implications to achieve China's dual-carbon goal by promoting green finance. • Green finance has significantly reduced China's provincial carbon emissions. • The upgrading of energy structure and industrial structure is a positive channel to reduce carbon emissions. • Green innovation strengthens the carbon reduction effect of green finance, but reveals the potential "greenwashing". • Green finance has a significant spatial spillover effect on carbon reduction in adjacent regions. • Policymakers should develop flexible, dynamic and coordinated green finance development policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Pilot Free Trade Zones (PFTZ) can promote green technology innovation efficiency. • Providing reference for developing countries to develop green economy. • Proposing a more holistic index system of green technology innovation efficiency. • The impact of PFTZ exhibits significant spatial heterogeneity. • Market potential affects the green effect of PFTZ. The Pilot Free Trade Zone (PFTZ) policy represents a significant step in China's institutional innovation and broader opening-up, crucial for fostering green and high-quality economic growth. The existing literature has conducted in-depth studies on the economic effects, energy conservation, emission reduction and green innovation of PFTZs, but the effect on green technology innovation efficiency (GTIE) remains underexplored. Institutional innovation in the PFTZs will profoundly affect regional green development, and green innovation, and will certainly affect the regional GTIE. Based on this, this paper uses the city-level data of prefecture-level cities in China from 2005 to 2020 to empirically test the impact of PFTZ establishment on GTIE. First, the Super-SBM model was applied to evaluate the GTIE across 281 Chinese cities. Then, taking the establishment of PFTZs as a quasi-natural experiment, the multi-stage differentially differential model is constructed to empirically assess PFTZ policy's impact on GTIE. The findings indicate that PFTZs can significantly enhance the GTIE. This improvement is facilitated through four pathways: the digital economy, the high-tech industries agglomeration, innovation agglomeration, and talent agglomeration. The results offer strategies for balancing external openness with environmental protection in developing countries and furnish empirical support for creating high-quality development frameworks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A water security evaluation framework was established based on the DPSIR. • Five-element connection degree method was used to evaluate the water security. • Northwest China's water security developed to a very high level. • Five dimensions of water security showed a steadily improving trend. Since the the dawn of the 21st century, water security has occupied a pivotal position in fostering sustainable development. However, frequency of extreme weather events due to climate change and higher intensity of anthropogenic events, water security problems in Northwest China are becoming increasingly prominent. This paper elucidates water security levels and predicts future trends of Northwest China. Firstly, the Driving Force-Pressure-State-Impact-Response (DPSIR) conceptual framework served as the foundation for the establishment of the water security evaluation index system. Then used the entropy weight method to calculate the weight of indicators and the five-element connection degree method was used to assess the water security levels. The period for the data used in the study was from 2010 to 2019. Finally, a grey prediction model was employed to forecast the water security levels from 2023 to 2030. The findings showed that: (1) From 2010 to 2019, the water security situation gradually developed to a very high level in Northwest China: Shaanxi Province mostly attained a high level, and the water security grades of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region and Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region were mostly at a very low level. (2) Generally, from 2023 to 2030, the water security level will continue to improve. The water security grades of Shaanxi, Gansu, and Qinghai will mostly be at the medium level, while that of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region and Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region will be at the low level. (3) The five dimensions of water security in Northwest China demonstrated a fluctuating yet consistently upward trend. (4) Based on the results, suggestions were put forward regarding water security and sustainable development in Northwest China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing urgency of environmental problems, such as climate change, pollution, and waste management, has highlighted the importance of eco-innovation. It includes the development of sustainable solutions for goods and services. As corporations adopt sustainability practices, governments are increasingly essential in propelling eco-innovation. Innovation and economic growth are inextricably linked since innovation helps reduce costs, increases productivity, and builds knowledge. Eco-innovation, requiring stakeholders' collaboration and knowledge sharing where public policy plays a critical role in fostering eco-innovation, is frequently catalyzed by climate change and environmental issues. This paper provides an assessment of the public policy of several countries and its part in promoting eco-innovation. It explores how policy tools such as research and development investments, regulations, incentives, and infrastructure can be used successfully. It also explores how such instruments influence small and medium enterprises due to their importance in environmental sustainability policy. This research contributes to knowledge and adds to the literature by offering a global approach to the subject, complementing previous regional/single-country studies. It demonstrates the worldwide consequences of policy actions on eco-innovation and provides recommendations for policymakers, businesses, academics, and environmental stakeholders. The results highlight how governmental support is integral to ensuring the sustainability of a green future with economic benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The propulsion of economic growth is a multifaceted construct, influenced by technology, capital, and resource management, with Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) being a significant contributors to innovation and employment. This study examines the growth of Scottish SMEs across four sectors over a 14-year period (2008–2021) by employing a novel statistical approach to understand their development trajectories within the framework of open innovation. The paper engaged in a longitudinal analysis to assess trends and inform policy for sustainable growth by the utilization of open-access data. Theoretical metrics such as the Average Growth Rate, Compound Average Growth Rate (CAGR), and Year-Over-Year (YoY) Growth were applied to evaluate sectoral performance. The findings revealed varied growth patterns; the information technology sector exhibited a robust increase, while the telecommunications sector showed significant percentage growth. Conversely, the Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) sector experienced a decline that suggests a potential market gap. An affirmative trajectory in CAGR was observed in most sectors except ICT, which corroborates a shift in technological evolution and market needs. The study illuminates the dynamic economic landscape of Scottish SMEs, with telecoms emerging as the most prosperous sector in terms of growth rates, thus indicates a shifting economic focus. The study's limitations are briefly discussed, in addition to the need for updated databases and further research employing predictive modeling with machine learning to enhance forecasting capabilities and foster open innovation for sustainable economic development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to evaluate the effectiveness of flax fiber reinforced epoxy composites (FFRCs) under realistic environmental conditions, contributing to the development of sustainable composite materials for semi-structural outdoor applications. For this purpose, the reversibility of FFRC performance under consecutive and repeated humid-dry aging cycles was investigated for the first time. In particular, FFRCs were exposed to three cycles (total aging time of 12 weeks), with each cycle (duration 4 weeks) comprising 10 days of wetting (salt-fog spray; 35 °C, 95 % RH, 5 wt% NaCl solution) and 18 days of drying (22 °C, 50 % RH). Three-point bending tests were carried out up to 18 days of drying within each cycle to monitor changes in the mechanical performances of composites. Water absorption capacity, density and void content were also assessed by tracking weight changes throughout the aging campaign. The experimental results highlighted that the humid phase of each cycle causes degradation of FFRC materials, even though they are able to fully recover their flexural strength during each dry phase, indicating reversible aging. On the other hand, a stiffness permanent reduction was observed due to irreversible degradation phenomena. • Flax fiber reinforced composites (FFRCs) was exposed to repeated salt fog-dry cycles. • Flexural tests and water uptake measurements were performed. • FFRCs experienced mainly reversible degradative phenomena. • FFRCs showed complete recovery of flexural strength at the end of the dry phase. • The stiffness recovery was found to be less relevant than the strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW) and waste activated sludge (WAS) are the most produced organic waste streams in urban centres. Their anaerobic co-digestion (AcoD) allows to generate methane (CH 4) and digestate employable as renewable energy source and soil amendment, respectively, fully in accordance with circular bioeconomy principles. However, the widespread adoption of such technology is limited by relatively low CH 4 yields that fail to bridge the gap between benefits and costs. Among strategies to boost AcoD of OFMSW and WAS, use of conductive materials (CMs) to promote interspecies electron transfer has gained increasing attention. This paper presents one of the few experimental attempts of investigating the effects of four different carbon(C)-based CMs (i.e., granular activated carbon – GAC, graphite – GR, graphene oxide – GO, and carbon nanotubes – CNTs) separately added in semi-continuous AcoD of OFMSW and thickened WAS. The presence of C-based CMs has been observed to improve CH 4 yield of the control process. Specifically, after 63 days of operation (concentrations of GAC and GR of 10.0 g/L and of GO and CNTs of 0.2 g/L), 0.186 NL/g VS , 0.191 NL/g VS , 0.203 NL/g VS , and 0.195 NL/g VS of CH 4 were produced in reactors supplemented with GAC, GR, GO, and CNTs, respectively, compared to 0.177 NL/g VS produced in the control process. Likewise, at the end of the test (i.e., after 105 days at concentrations of C-based CMs half of the initial ones), CH 4 yields were 0.193 NL/g VS , 0.201 NL/g VS , 0.211 NL/g VS , and 0.206 NL/g VS in reactors supplemented with GAC, GR, GO, and CNTs, respectively, compared to 0.186 NL/g VS of the control process. Especially with regard to GR, GO, and CNTs, results obtained in the present study represent a significant advance of the knowledge on the effects of such C-based CMs to realistic and scalable AD process conditions respect to previous literature. [Display omitted] • Conductive materials (CMs) were tested for co-digestion of organics and sludge. • CH 4 yields of all reactors supplemented with C-based CMs were higher than control. • Carbon nanotubes use led to the highest CH 4 yield increase in the short term (27.9%). • Graphene oxide addition led to the highest CH 4 yield increase overall (13.0%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blockchain technology has the potential to address sustainability challenges in the agri-food industry. This scoping review analyzes 72 papers and finds that blockchain technology can enhance economic, environmental, and social sustainability. By reducing transaction costs, improving transparency, and empowering consumers, it contributes to economic sustainability. Environmental sustainability is enhanced through carbon emissions reduction, waste management, and better environmental impact monitoring. Social sustainability is promoted through food safety, consumer trust, and financial inclusion for small farmers. However, unexplored avenues like obstacle identification, localized solutions, consumer trust factors, crisis resilience, environmental implications, and fair market access require further research. The transformative potential of blockchain in the agri-food industry requires interdisciplinary collaboration to fully harness its benefits for a more sustainable future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations represent a crucial worldwide initiative aimed at advancing development and fostering a more favorable future. However, the advancement made towards achieving these objectives has been insufficient, and the allocation of research endeavors has been uneven. As a way to address this concern, the present study aimed to conduct an evaluation of the SDGs through examining their research-friendly characteristics. By conducting a systematic review of scholarly works and employing diverse evaluation criteria, the research employed a multi-criteria decision-making approach to rank the SDGs. The results of the study indicate that SDG 3, which pertains to health and well-being, was rated the most research-friendly, whereas SDG 4, which emphasizes quality education, and SDG 16, which concerns peace, justice, and strong institutions, received the lowest ratings. Besides, some of the research obstacles linked with every SDG have been outlined by this paper. The present investigation underscores the research-oriented character of the SDGs and emphasizes the significance of comprehending research agendas to formulate efficacious and sustainable resolutions to worldwide predicaments. The outcomes of this study offer a significant asset for individuals responsible for making decisions, the academic community, and other interested parties who are involved in the allocation of resources towards the SDGs. The current investigation provides an important contribution to the scholarly dialogue by creating a framework that can direct expected research efforts and aid policymakers in modifying existing or creating new goals that are more favorable to research and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most important areas of infrastructure projects that can contribute to the goals of sustainable development is the energy sector. Forming the right set of energy projects can lead to developing a sustainable environment. Another important aspect is the resilience of energy projects. This paper introduces a novel approach that simultaneously considers resilience and sustainability in forming energy project portfolios. In the first part, the relative importance of each project is computed under a triangular neutrosophic (TN) environment. This approach keeps the vagueness of data while evaluating projects versus resiliency and sustainability criteria. In the second part, an interval mathematical model is presented to maximize the total value of the selected portfolio while addressing bi-level budgeting and skill utilization. In this study, uncertainty is expressed in a hybrid way which enhances the flexibility of computations in addition to providing experts with more freedom in expressing their opinions. To present the application of this method, data from an existing case study has been used, and the process has been implemented step by step. This application demonstrates the importance of addressing resilience and sustainability in energy projects. Moreover, it shows the benefits of applying a hybrid solution approach in presenting the vagueness of energy projects in addition to assigning the budget in a bi-level process. • Introducing a new energy project evaluation approach under neutrosophic fuzzy sets. • Considering resilience and sustainability in energy project portfolio evaluation. • Presenting a new model by bi-level budgeting and skill utilization. • Providing project manager assignments through skill improvements and declines. • Using data from a case study to demonstrate the applicability of proposed approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • This paper proposed general laws of rural housing-industry transformation and revitalization. • Complex adaptability system theory is developed to identify the pattern of rural housing-industry transformation. • The pattern of TGRA' rural housing-industry transformation process was identified. • Policy suggestions were given for TGRA of China's rural revitalization. The core of dual circulation in the Three Gorges Reservoir Area (TGRA) and the greening Yangtze River is sustainable development. Reservoir housing-industry coordinate sustainable is extremely important to ensuring a more sustainable TGRA. Here, we investigate the overall characteristics of housing-industry transformation development and rural revitalization path in the TGRA at microscopic perspective. Taking Wutu village (WTV), a historical and cultural rural in the TGRA, as case study area, we also analyze the evolution, stage characteristics, and trends of housing-industry system (HIS) using theoretical analysis and empirical research from the perspective of spatio-temporal-development and complex adaptability system model. The findings reveal that: (1) In the traditional housing-industry separation stage(1978–1998), the development of villagers' self-organization and the positive and correct leadership of the village party branch are the dominant forces for the evolution of HIS in WTV. The adaptive behavior of the main body and the strength of the housing-industry effect are limited, and the evolution of the HIS is in the accumulation stage of quantitative change. (2) In the stage of cooperative transformation of housing-industry (1999–2018), the positive and correct leadership of the village party branch is the dominant force of the evolution of HIS in WTV, and the government's policy support is the main force of the evolution of HIS in WTV. (3) In the stage of modern housing-industry integration (2019 to present), the interaction of multiple subjects is the dominant force in the evolution of HIS in WTV. Multiple entities further adapt to various changes in the external environment, and the system structure and level have taken a qualitative leap. Overall, the evolution of HIS in WTV is a dynamic and continuous process. Based on the evolution stage and driving mechanism of HIS, it is necessary to improve the self-organization and adaptive response and ability of the complex adaptive system in WTV, adapt to the general law of system evolution, and effectively regulate the transformation and upgrading of HIS in WTV. Our research outcomes offer valuable insights for fostering rural transformation, enhancing the housing-industry environment, and ultimately propelling the TGRA towards a more sustainable and prosperous future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Women face severe gender-specific constraints and have minimal part in the farm decision-making systems in sub-Saharan Africa. This leads to additional barriers in the adoption of climate-smart agriculture (CSA) technologies. This paper contributes to the gender debate by focusing on intra-household gender dynamics that influence the adaptive capacities of small-holder farmers. Using a multi-country approach, and considering Ethiopia, Malawi, South Africa, and Tanzania as case studies, an endogenous-switching poisson regression model was conducted to (i) assess factors influencing the probability of women's engagement in agricultural technology decision-making; (ii) ascertain the effect of women's participation in farm decision-making on climate-smart agriculture adoption. The findings indicate a degree of complexity in women's roles within their communities and family contexts. While in Malawi women participating in the farm decision-making process positively affects CSA adoption, in the other countries their role remains marginal or negatively related with farm sustainability. Such women's empowerment is indeed influenced by the existence of social, regulatory, and cultural elements that uniquely define the considered countries. Context-specific policies that prioritize rural-women, youths, and other marginalized groups can enhance CSA adoption and thereby contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals such as gender equality, climate action and zero hunger in developing contexts. [Display omitted] • The CSA adoption by women is influenced by their involvement in intra-household decision-making. • In Malawi, women's involvement in decision-making positively influences CSA adoption. • Socio-cultural drivers of women involvment in decision-making settings are context-specific. • In Malawi, Tanzania and South Africa land ownership influences women's authority. • CSA policies should be context-sensitive and prioritize marginalized groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The EU has committed to make Europe the first climate-neutral continent by 2050. Reaching this objective requires massive changes in the region. The biggest challenge is that the green transition happens without sacrificing economic progress and guaranteeing justice and inclusiveness. This pledge implies that every country be capable of addressing the trade-offs between targets while remaining committed towards the common decarbonisation goal. Our paper analyses the success with which countries are carrying out the energy transition. We propose an enhanced hyperbolic distance function and a stochastic frontier analysis approach to model the joint attainment of economic development, environmental sustainability, and energy equity. We apply our model to an unbalanced panel dataset of 29 European countries for the period 2005–2018. Our estimates show that the average performance of the economies has improved over time. The results also highlight the pivotal role of a sustainable economic development with clean energies for both slashing CO 2 emissions and fostering energy equity. Moreover, we find convergence in countries' performance, being this convergence slightly higher for the EU-15 countries compared to the rest. Finally, we show that a higher share of renewable energy sources helps countries that are lagging behind to reach their optimal performance level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Circular Economy (CE) is a promising solution for a wide range of stakeholders, including companies, governments, and society at large to confront serious environmental concerns (Crome et al., 2023) to address resource depletion, environmental degradation, and waste generation. As Cambodia's economy heavily relies on resource extraction and export-oriented industries (e.g., textile industry and agriculture contributing significantly to GDP), it generates substantial waste (fundamentally, Municipal Solid Waste (MSW), but also industrial, construction and demolition waste (UNDP, 2022a,b)), and pollution. To tackle such issues, the government has recently demonstrated a stronger commitment to sustainable development by integrating CE principles into a national policy. First, this paper explores the current environmental issues of the country. Secondly, it assessed the country's CE Strategy and Action Plan. Thirdly, as a primary finding, it was discussed the potential barriers, international collaboration prospects, and implementation recommendations to catalyze challenges into opportunities, covering the gaps observed in the country's CE Strategy and Action Plan, and following prominent CE trends. Lastly, it concludes that despite the hurdles, CE has the potential in the country to provide socio-economic benefits, including job creation, resilience, reduced reliance on imports, and improved public health. This paper consisting of policy analysis combined with a bibliographical review presumably represents the first work on this topic; it will be useful for foreign investors, academia, and policymakers. • A contemporary analysis of the most noteworthy environmental issues in Cambodia. • Policy adoption assessment of Cambodia's Circular Economy Strategy and Action Plan. • Discussion with barriers, international opportunities, and recommendations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of Industry 4.0 marks a transformative era for businesses and industries, characterized by advanced technologies like automation, Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), smart factories, and cyber-physical systems. This revolution promises significant advantages, including enhanced productivity, sustainable progress, and heightened resilience. However, the integration of Industry 4.0 is challenged by the need for a skilled workforce with expertise in areas such as information technology and data analytics. Higher education institutions (HEIs) play a vital role in equipping future professionals with these skills, necessitating curriculum updates and infrastructure enhancements. Simultaneously, the importance of education for sustainable development (ESD) has been underscored by global initiatives like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). ESD instills a sense of responsibility for economic, ecological, and equitable well-being. As digital technologies blur the lines between industries, education faces the challenge of adapting to evolving demands. The integration of AI tools in education has emerged as a catalyst for reshaping learning experiences, fostering innovation, and preparing individuals for the digital age. AI chatbots such as ChatGPT have garnered widespread attention and possess the potential to revolutionize various aspects of education. However, their integration raises ethical concerns, necessitates curriculum redesign, requires strategies for continuous learning, and demands alignment with industry standards. While the potential of AI integration in education is promising, there is a notable gap in the existing literature when it comes to exploring the ethical implications, the influence of AI on ESD, the impact on the structure of Blooms Taxonomy, collaboration between academia and industry, strategies for continuous learning, and the effective integration of AI tools for personalized learning. This paper aims to critically examine the integration of AI tools, with a specific emphasis on ChatGPT, in education within the context of ESD. It delves into the transformative potential, ethical considerations, imperatives for continuous learning, and the role of industry partnerships. By providing insights and strategies, this paper contributes to the ongoing discussion about the evolving nature of education in a technologically driven world, equipping academic institutions to navigate the complexities and opportunities associated with AI integration in education more effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were established in 2015, scientists have attempted to utilize them for sustainability assessments. This paper aims to synthesize the existing approaches in order to make recommendations for future utilization. A systematic literature review was conducted, focusing on innovations as the assessment object and including scientific papers as well as gray literature. Of the initially identified 603 documents, 30 articles contained precise descriptions of approaches utilizing the SDGs for the sustainability assessment of innovations. These approaches were analyzed in three sequential steps: categorization of the operational choices of SDG-based sustainability assessments, discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of these operational choices, and finally deriving recommendations for future utilization. We identified two main approaches: (1) integrating the SDGs into the sustainability assessment methodology or (2) subsequently assigning the assessment results to the SDGs. For the first approach, the SDGs were most frequently used as assessment criteria, but were also used to derive benchmarks or select indicators. In the second approach, assessment results were linked to goals, targets or indicators. The majority but not all articles clearly stated that all 17 SDGs were considered. The most frequently mentioned motivation for SDG utilization was to provide a holistic definition of sustainable development, followed by providing a precise description of sustainable development and international recognition. Only the integration of all 17 SDGs into the sustainability assessment conveys all three of these motivations. Hence, this approach is recommended for maximizing the utilization of SDGs when assessing the sustainability of an innovation. Subsequently assigning the assessment results to the SDGs is suggested as an alternative approach if the scientist's time and resources are limited. Since this approach predefines the SDGs that can be linked through the sustainability assessment methodology utilized, the holistic character of the SDGs is forfeited. More generally, the diversity of approaches found in the literature can be explained by several individual limitations and prerequisites. It is therefore recommended that authors document their research motivation transparently and justify the operational choices they made to fulfil it. This study contributes to the scientific community by (a) providing an overview of possible approaches for utilizing the SDGs in sustainability assessments of innovations and (b) providing recommendations for utilization based on a discussion of the advantages and disadvantages. [Display omitted] • Sustainability assessments of innovations utilizing SDGs were systematically reviewed. • Operational choices in SDG utilization were categorized. • More than 10 (sub-)categories of SDG utilization were identified. • Most frequent reason for utilizing SDGs is their holistic nature. • Holistic nature is transferred only by integrating all 17 SDGs into the assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The proposed joint demand response and dynamic pricing strategies can make the net grid demand curve smoother and have practical significance. • The dynamic pricing strategy helps to realize the joint dispatch of multiple demand response resources in the region and alleviate the grid pressure during peak hours. • A two-layer optimization model is proposed to not only realize the economy of joint operation of multiple energy stations, but also make the net grid demand curve smoother through joint demand response. In recent years, countries around the world have made great efforts to coordinate energy green and low-carbon development and energy supply. In this context, it is of great significance to build energy stations that can greatly absorb renewable energy. The coordinated operation of multi-energy stations in the region can expand the role of energy stations and strengthen energy complementarity between regions. Aiming at the problem of energy interaction and coordinated operation of multi-energy stations in regional integrated energy system, this paper proposes a two-layer scheduling optimization model, which can effectively reduce the system operation cost and carbon emissions. At the same time, considering the joint demand response, it can effectively reduce the peak power supply pressure of the power grid. In addition, in order to ensure the accuracy and efficiency of the solution, this paper improves the traditional NSGA-II algorithm, greatly improving the overall performance of the algorithm. Finally, the simulation analysis is carried out through an example. The results show that the operation optimization model proposed in this paper can effectively reduce the total energy cost of the system, reduce carbon dioxide emissions, and reduce the peak pressure of the power grid. The coordinated operation optimization method is effective and feasible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Achieving the objectives of sustainable development in water and agri-food systems requires the utilisation of decision-support tools in stakeholder-driven processes to construct and simulate various scenarios and evaluate the outcomes of associated policy interventions. While it is common practice to involve stakeholders in participatory modelling processes, their comprehensive documentation and the lessons learned remain scarce. In this paper, we share our experience of engaging stakeholders throughout the entire system dynamics modelling process. We draw on two projects implemented in the Volta River Basin, West Africa, to understand the dynamics of water and agri-food systems under changing environmental and socioeconomic conditions. We outline eight key insights and lessons as practical guides derived from each stage of the participatory modelling process, including the pre-workshop stage, problem definition, model conceptualization, simulation model formulation, model testing and verification, and policy design and evaluation. Our findings demonstrate that stakeholders can actively contribute to all phases of the system dynamics modelling process, including parameter estimation, sensitivity analysis, and numerical simulation experiments. However, we encountered notable challenges, including the time-intensive nature of the process, the struggle to reach a consensus on the modelled problem, and the difficulty of translating the conceptual model into a simulation model using stock and flow diagrams – all of which were addressed through a structured facilitation process. While the projects were anchored in the specific context of West Africa, the key lessons and insights highlighted have broader significance, particularly for researchers employing PSDM in regions characterised by multifaceted human-environmental systems and where stakeholder involvement is crucial for holistic understanding and effective policy interventions. This paper contributes practical guidance for future efforts with participatory modelling, particularly in regions worldwide grappling with sustainable development challenges in water and agri-food systems, and where stakeholder involvement is crucial for holistic understanding of the multiple challenges and for designing effective policy interventions. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon trading market is a central policy tool for promoting cleaner enterprises' energy consumption and investment behaviors. It is crucial for enterprises to establish a green and low-carbon development model by clarifying carbon trading impact mechanism on enterprise behaviors and the interactive relationship between entities in the carbon market. China's contract-based carbon market is still in the development stage, the impact of the mainstream allowance mechanism and government regulation on enterprises' energy behaviors has yet to be determined. In view of this, this paper describes mathematical mechanisms of the influence of carbon prices and carbon quotas on enterprises' energy consumption and investment, and the evolutionary game model of government-enterprise behaviors is constructed, the evolution process and appropriate strategies of enterprises' energy behaviors in the development of the carbon market are discussed. This paper uses real data of China carbon market to simulate the model, it is found that strategies such as relaxation of carbon quotas and carbon subsidies dynamization are needed during the initial development of the market. In the mature stage of the carbon market, strategies are needed to increase the proportion of government carbon revenue and reduce its regulatory cost. The higher the initial willingness of government-enterprise, the better the effect of strategies and the constraints of public willingness. The model and results have theoretical implications for enterprises' energy transformation and government regulation, and provide a reference for the development of China's carbon market. • Constructed benefit-cost analytical framework for enterprises' energy behaviors. • Described mechanisms of carbon trading affecting enterprises' energy behaviors. • Constructed government-enterprise behaviors model by the evolutionary game theory. • Found new conclusions of enterprises' energy behaviors under the carbon market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Circular actions cannot be considered sustainable if their financial benefits are not demonstrated. While the environmental benefits of the circular economy have been widely studied, sustainable development from a financial point of view has been much less studied. In this paper we assess the financial benefits of circular innovations applied in the fashion industry that have been previously assessed as sustainable using the Life Cycle Assessment. The focus is on two innovative processes such as salt recovery and tannin baths reuse that reuse water, chemicals and raw materials in an Italian small company operating in the tanning industry. A cost benefit analysis was carried to evaluate the net contribution of these actions to the operating margin. Then we model a forward-looking cash flow projection in order to determine the fundamental value of circular investments. Through these practices, the company achieved an increase in operating profitability above 30% and the 10-year value of the salt recovery is 159,061.40 euros, while the reused tanning water equals just over one million euros. The results show unexpected and strong financial benefits that can leverage similar initiatives that would advance resource equity and finally promote a real and convenient industrial dedication to environmental guardianship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]