bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a Ventilation System Using Window Cavity
Authors: Lee Jinuk , Park Sanghoon , Kim Taeyeon
Published: October 2020

A household unit of an existing apartment in which residents lived was selected, and the indoor air quality in each space of the unit was measured for analysis. Analysis of the measurement data indicated that the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) constantly increased beyond 1000 ppm when a resident stayed indoors for an hour or more. Specifically, the concentration of CO2 increased when the resident was asleep to a level wherein negative impacts on health were observed. Moreover, the inflow of particulate matter (PM) was mainly caused by natural ventilation from the outside rather than the behavior of indoor residents, which generated an insignificant amount of PM. This study proposes a new ventilation system for solving the above-described problems. According to the system, when a window is closed, the window cavity created between a new frame and the existing frame is utilized as an air path for ventilation. The application of this system ensures a stable amount of ventilation through forced ventilation and prevents the inflow of external PM. Moreover, this system was designed to recover indoor heat through the window cavity and facilitate the pre-heating of outdoor air through heat collection based on solar radiation during the day.
Biogas from Agri-Food and Agricultural Waste Can Appreciate Agro-Ecosystem Services: The Case Study of Emilia Romagna Region
Authors: Tamburini Elena , Gaglio Mattias , Castaldelli Giuseppe , Fano Elisa Anna
Published: October 2020

Agro-ecosystems are intensively exploited environments which are both providers and consumers of ecosystem services. The improvement of both provisioning and regulating services in cultivated landscapes is crucial for the sustainable development of rural areas. Among the provisioning services offered, producing biogas from the anaerobic digestion of residual biomass is nowadays a promising option for decreasing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, while avoiding the land use conflicts related to the use of dedicated crops. Based on the available quantitative data at a regional level, provisioning and regulating services provided by the use of agri-food waste, livestock waste and agricultural residues were assessed for the case of Emilia Romagna region, the second biggest biogas producer in Italy. One provisioning service, i.e., bioenergy generation, and three regulating services were considered: (i) air quality improvement by the reduction of odors derived from direct use of waste, (ii) regulation of soil nutrients by reducing organic load and digestate spreading, and (iii) global climate regulation by saving GHG emissions. A potential further generation of 52.7 MW electric power was estimated at the regional level. Digestate spreading on fields may reduce odor impact by more than 90%, while containing a higher percentage of inorganic nitrogen, which is readily available to plants. The estimated GHG emission savings were equal to 2,862,533 Mg CO2eq/yr, mainly due to avoided landfilling for agri-waste and avoided replacing of mineral fertilizers for livestock waste and agricultural residues. The results suggest that bioenergy generation from lignocellulosic, livestock and agro-industrial residues may improve some regulating services in agro-ecosystems, while helping to reach renewable energy targets, thus contributing to overcoming the provisioning vs. regulating services paradigm in human-managed ecosystems.
A Comparison of Motorcycle Helmet Wearing Intention and Behavior between Urban and Rural Areas
Authors: Jomnonkwao Sajjakaj , Watthanaklang Duangdao , Sangphong Onanong , Champahom Thanapong , Laddawan Napat , Uttra Savalee , Ratanavaraha Vatanavongs
Published: October 2020

The motorcycle is one of the important modes of transport for Thai people in all provinces due to its convenience and ability to access all areas and cover short distances, which is especially convenient for rural people. However, according to the accident record, it was found that the motorcycle was the vehicle causing the highest amount of accidents, and helmet wearing could save lives and reduce the level of severe injuries. In this regard, the objective of this study was to study and develop a model of factors that affected helmet use behavior using structural equation modeling (SEM) based on the Health Belief Model (HBM). Further, this study compared urban and rural models, so as to suggest suitable guidelines for the promotion of helmet use in the study areas. The sample comprised 801 motorcycle users divided into 401 urban residents and 400 rural residents. From the parameter invariance testing in the two areas, a chi-square difference test found differences in the factor loading, intercepts, and structural paths between urban and rural societies.
Analysis of the Value of Information and Coordination in a Dyadic Closed Loop Supply Chain
Authors: Sepúlveda-Rojas Juan Pedro , Ternero Rodrigo
Published: October 2020

Purpose: This article analyzes the value of information and coordination in a closed loop supply chain (CLSC) and discusses the benefits of a global or local optimization approach and the impact of uncertainty. Methodology: A theoretical dyadic closed loop supply chain is analyzed where the manufacturer re-manufactures products returned by customers, producing “as good as new products” for the retailer. Twelve coordination scenarios were analyzed. For the definition of these scenarios, a framework based on two criteria was proposed: value of information and perimeter of decision making. Findings: Information on returns leads to lower costs than information on demand. In the presence of complete or partial coordination between the actors in the supply chain, it is preferable to have low product return rates. However, if we are in the complete absence of coordination, high rates of return are more convenient as they function as a buffer against uncertainties. The perimeter of decision making (global or local optimization) does not significantly improve the supply chain performance in relation to its costs. Only the exchange of information improves its performance. Therefore, companies should make efforts to exchange information, first, on their lot sizes, then on their returns and finally, on the customer demand. Originality: The novelty of our work relies on an analysis of the closed loop supply chain performance with the simultaneous presence of information, coordination, and uncertainty.
Technology and Sustainability in the Framework of Corporate Social Responsibility
Authors: Peris-Ortiz Marta , Leal-Rodríguez Antonio Luis
Published: October 2020

Each one of the three concepts that comprise the title of this Special Issue has a relevant weight in their own sector, as well as in management literature in general [...]
Experience and Acceptance of Autonomous Shuttles in the Brussels Capital Region
Authors: Feys Manon , Rombaut Evy , Vanhaverbeke Lieselot
Published: October 2020

Current technological developments allow the testing of shared autonomous electric vehicles in real-life conditions. Consequently, we can evaluate how users react and if these developments might lead to more sustainable transport behaviour in the future. The purpose of this study was to capture public opinion regarding autonomous vehicles in terms of user experience and intended future use. Autonomous shuttles were operated in the Brussels Capital Region in a mixed traffic situation, allowing interaction with other road users. We compared the results of two pilots with different target groups in the same city. Public opinion was captured through an online survey after passengers had experienced a ride. Our results showed that more than 70% of the passengers expressed no concerns with regards to autonomous vehicles. The majority had a positive experience with the shuttle and evaluated the shuttle positively in terms of driving behaviour, entry and exit and comfort. The regression analysis indicated that enjoyment of the ride is an important factor that contributes to the intention to use autonomous shuttles in the future.
From Multidisciplinarity to Transdisciplinarity and from Local to Global Foci: Integrative Approaches to Systemic Resilience Based upon the Value of Life in the Context of Environmental and Gender Vulnerabilities with a Special Focus upon the Brazilian Amazon Biome
Authors: Zabaniotou Anastasia , Syrgiannis Christine , Gasperin Daniela , de Hoyos Guevera Arnoldo José , Fazenda Ivani , Huisingh Donald
Published: October 2020

Economic and environmental interventions in the Anthropocene have created disruptions that are threatening the capacity of socio-ecological systems to recover from adversities and to be able to maintain key functions for preserving resilience. The authors of this paper underscore the benefits of a workshop-based methodology for developing a vision and an approach to the inner processes of creation that can be used to increase resilience, to cope with societal vulnerabilities and to develop the tools for future planning at local, regional and global scales. Diverse areas of discourse ranging from climate science and sustainability, to psychoanalysis, linguistics and eco-philosophy, contributed meaningfully to the transdisciplinary approach for enhancing resilience. A framework is proposed that can be used throughout society, that integrates the importance of human subjectivity and the variability of human contexts, especially gender, in shaping human experiences and responses to climate change impacts and challenges such as the covid-19 pandemic. Within the domain of socio-economic research, the authors challenge researchers and policy makers to expand future perspectives of resilience through the proposed systemic resilience vision. Movement towards transformative thinking and actions requires inner exploration and visualization of desirable futures for integrating ecological, social, cultural, ethical, and economic dimensions as agencies for catalyzing the transition to livable, sustainable, equitable, ethical, and resilient societies.
Effects of Special Economic Zones on FDI in Emerging Economies: Does Institutional Quality Matter?
Authors: Song Yijia , Deng Ruichen , Liu Ruoxi , Peng Qian
Published: October 2020

This study attempts to prove that emerging markets could partially improve institutional quality in a specific area and benefit the local economy despite the rest of the area having poor institutions. Interestingly, we observed that despite the presence of institutions of comparative disadvantage, emerging economies continue to constantly attract significant foreign direct investment. Hence, this study focuses on a type of place-based policy in China that provides a standard favorable institutional environment in a specific area. Using data from China’s Annual Survey of Industrial Firms and combining official lists of Chinese special economic zones (SEZs), we obtained a dataset of 2660 SEZs from 1998 to 2018, and a sample of 37,251 from 1998 to 2013. Then, we empirically examined the impact and mechanism of SEZs on foreign investment by using time-varying difference-in-difference specification. After a sequence of validity and robustness checks, we found that the establishment of SEZs significantly enhances foreign entry. We also found that partial institutional quality improvement of SEZs is a key mechanism in the location of foreign investment. We conclude that it is beneficial for the government to impose place-based policies such as SEZs that improve partial institutional quality efficiently and promote the local economy.
Overview, Evolution and Thematic Analysis of China’s Green Consumption Policies: A Quantitative Analysis Based on Policy Texts
Authors: Yang Menghua , Chen Hong , Long Ruyin , Hou Congmei
Published: October 2020

Based on the 286 green consumption policy documents issued from 1989 to 2019 at the national level, we analyzed the stage of documents issued, the intergovernmental relationship network of the policy issuing units, and the evolution of the green consumption policy system. The results revealed that: (1) the development of green consumption policies had undergone three stages (i.e., initial stage, preliminary development stage, and deep development stage). For the issuing units, collaborative decision-making by multiple units is a significant phenomenon in the current green consumption policy field; (2) the green consumption policy focus had evolved from placing an initial emphasis on pollution control and clean production to constructing a circular economy and encouraging ecological environmental protection; (3) in respect to the research topic, the results of high-frequency keywords indicated that six clusters were generated, and these included industrial pollution, green product certification and labeling, resource conservation and energy-saving technological development, environmental protection and the energy ecological cycle, the low-carbon economy, and publicity and social participation.
Assessment of the Impacts of Anthropogenic Activities on a Large River Using Longfin Eel as a Bioindicator
Authors: Champeau Olivier , Ataria James M. , Northcott Grant L. , Kume Gen , Barrick Andrew , Tremblay Louis A.
Published: October 2020

The Matāura River is the sixth largest river system in New Zealand and has long been subject to agricultural, industrial, and residential land use activities. The catchment has economic value and is of great cultural importance for local Māori, who have concerns over potential adverse impacts that anthropogenic stressors exert on the health of the river. There is a dearth of information on the impacts of these stressors towards the health of native species such as the longfin eel Anguilla dieffenbachii. This study assessed the environmental status of the Matāura River using biological and chemical methodologies incorporating A. dieffenbachii as a bioindicator species for exposure to multiple anthropogenic stressors. A range of biomarkers were measured in caged and wild-caught eels (when available) to characterize site-specific responses to anthropogenic stressors. While there was no clear indication of cumulative impacts moving from pristine headwaters to the lower reaches of the Matāura River, biomarkers of xenobiotic metabolization were induced in A. dieffenbachia and there was evidence of chemical contamination in sediment and tissue samples.
Postcollection Separation of Plastic Recycling and Design-For-Recycling as Solutions to Low Cost-Effectiveness and Plastic Debris
Authors: Gradus Raymond
Published: October 2020

In the Netherlands, plastic waste recycling is high on the policy agenda. Much effort is made to recycle, mostly by residents, who separate plastic waste at home. However, much of the separated waste is not recycled into new products. Substantial amounts are burned or even shipped to Asia. This leads to substantial plastic debris, as recent evidence has shown. Moreover, the cost-effectiveness of plastic recycling versus incineration is very low. Based on evidence from the north of the Netherlands, postcollection or mechanical separation can be a viable alternative as more useful plastics are separated and there are indications that different plastic streams are of higher polymeric purity. Furthermore, there is some circumstantial evidence that cost-effectiveness increases if postseparation is chosen. To avoid large streams of mixed plastics that are barely recyclable, it is important that further agreements with the packaging industry are made to phase out these mixed plastics and further increase the polymeric purity of different plastic waste streams.
Is this a Real Choice? Critical Exploration of the Social License to Operate in the Oil Extraction Context of the Ecuadorian Amazon
Authors: Diantini Alberto , Pappalardo Salvatore Eugenio , Powers Tim Edwards , Codato Daniele , Fera Giuseppe Della , Heredia-R Marco , Facchinelli Francesco , Crescini Edoardo , Marchi Massimo De
Published: October 2020

The purpose of this research was to critically analyze the social license to operate (SLO) for an oil company operating in Block 10, an oil concession located in the Ecuadorian Amazon. The specific study area is an important biodiversity hotspot, inhabited by indigenous villages. A mixed-methods approach was used to support a deeper understanding of SLO, grounded in participants’ direct experience. Semi-structured interviews (N = 53) were conducted with village leaders and members, indigenous associations, State institutions, and oil company staff, while household surveys were conducted with village residents (N = 346). The qualitative data informed a modified version of Moffat and Zhang’s SLO model, which was tested through structural equation modelling (SEM) analyses. Compared to the reference model, our findings revealed a more crucial role of procedural fairness in building community trust, as well as acceptance and approval of the company. Procedural fairness was found to be central in mediating the relationship between trust and the effects of essential services provided by the company (medical assistance, education, house availability) and sources of livelihoods (i.e., fishing, hunting, harvesting, cultivating, and waterway quality). The main results suggested that the concept of SLO may not appropriately apply without taking into account a community’s autonomy to decline company operation. To enhance procedural fairness and respect for the right of community self-determination, companies may need to consider the following: Establishing a meaningful and transparent dialogue with the local community; engaging the community in decision-making processes; enhancing fair distribution of project benefits; and properly addressing community concerns, even in the form of protests. The respect of the free prior informed consent procedure is also needed, through the collaboration of both the State and companies. The reduction of community dependence on companies (e.g., through the presence of developmental alternatives to oil extraction) is another important requirement to support an authentic SLO in the study area.
Research Challenges and Advancements in the field of Sustainable Energy Technologies in the Built Environment
Authors: Fokaides Paris A. , Apanaviciene Rasa , Černeckiene Jurgita , Jurelionis Andrius , Klumbyte Egle , Kriauciunaite-Neklejonoviene Vilma , Pupeikis Darius , Rekus Donatas , Sadauskiene Jolanta , Seduikyte Lina , Stasiuliene Laura , Vaiciunas Juozas , Valancius Rokas , Ždankus Tadas
Published: October 2020

Inevitably, the 21st century has initiated a series of developments in the construction industry, leading to its digitalization and resulting in a series of innovative approaches and practices. At the same time, the construction industry, being one of the main global environment polluters, should fulfil well-established, as well as novel, sustainability requirements in order to evolve in harmony with the rising concerns on the availability of natural resources. This overview study aims to present the main developments, research, and scientific challenges in the field of sustainable construction, emphasizing the field of energy. The study aims to present a state-of-the-art scientific discussion on the sustainable built environment topic by analyzing cutting edge topics in the fields of building elements and whole building energy assessment, of indoor air quality and low carbon buildings, as well as on sustainable energy systems and smart buildings. The study also presents the state-of-the-art in existing tools which are adopted for the assessment of the sustainable built environment, including the use of digital tools and building information modelling for the energy assessment of the built environment, as well as the application of Life Cycle Assessment on building-related processes. Cross cutting issues related to the analysis of the building sector in the Industry 4.0 era, such as sustainability management topics and environmental geomatics are also discussed. The study concludes in those fields which will be of interest of the scientific community in the following years, towards achieving the goals of the sustainable development of the building sector.
New Integrated Approaches to Climate Emergency Landscape Strategies: The Case of Pan-European SATURN Project
Authors: Nikologianni Anastasia , Betta Alessandro , Pianegonda Angelica , Favargiotti Sara , Moore Kathryn , Grayson Nick , Morganti Elisa , Berg Martin , Ternell Anna , Ciolli Marco , Angeli Michela , Nilsson Anders M. , Gretter Alessandro
Published: October 2020

The landscape has been described as a ‘blind spot’ when examined in light of regional strategies. The immense potential of peri-urban and rural hinterlands to counter the climate emergency is therefore also overlooked. The European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT)Climate-KIC’s (Knowledge and Innovation Community) System and sustainable Approach to virTuous interaction of Urban and Rural LaNdscapes (SATURN) aims to address this short-sightedness. The reason why we do not see or value the landscape is complex, but part of the problem relates to its multiple ownership, numerous types and scales of conflicting designations, governance structures, policy requirements, and regulatory frameworks. This leads to an approach that is fragmented and sectoral and, therefore, fails to see the bigger picture or recognise the value that the territory has in order to deal with current environmental challenges. With partners from across Europe, the pan-European Orchestrated Ecosystem research project co-funded by EIT Climate-KIC, SATURN aims to develop new integrated strategies which will increase awareness of the capacity of the landscape, which is seen is seen as a vital way to address the deepening climate emergency. SATURN anticipates that the outputs will build capacity across Europe to help nation-states meet the 2030 UN Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) and respond to the environmental challenges. This paper, reporting on interim findings, sets out the next phase of the project and concludes with lessons learned so far, including an initial identification of processes that can be applied in regions across Europe and an evaluation of the significance of exchanging knowledge between different countries.
Forward Thinking for Sustainable Business Value: A New Method for Impact Valuation
Authors: Buchholz Herwig , Eberle Thomas , Klevesath Manfred , Jürgens Alexandra , Beal Douglas , Baic Alexander , Radeke Joanna
Published: October 2020

How can a company commit to maximizing stakeholder value while maintaining financial performance? Companies increasingly have the ambition to provide stakeholder value to their owners and shareholders, employees, consumers, suppliers, partners, the environment, and future generations. However, such companies often face difficulties in demonstrating the value they bring to stakeholders, due to the lack of universal methods for assessing their impact. Besides the practical need to develop a method for impact valuation, we researched the existing literature and discovered the lack of a holistic method to evaluate all impacts of a company using a common currency with flexible adaptations at different levels. We developed a new method called Sustainable Business Value (SBV) to address these gaps and enable companies to evaluate their impacts. We tested the SBV in two pilots. The SBV method differs from currently used methods, including sustainability reporting, sustainability rating and indices, and sustainability accounting. SBV can be used for decision-making, portfolio management, benchmarking, stakeholder communication, investor communication, and business development and also provides a comprehensive perspective of a company’s impact across six standardized dimensions. However, further development and standardization of proxies and cross-industry standards are needed.
Shortcomings of Transforming a Local Circular Economy System through Industrial Symbiosis: A Case Study in Spanish SMEs
Authors: Rincón-Moreno John , Ormazabal Marta , Álvarez Maria J. , Jaca Carmen
Published: October 2020

Defining the circular economy (CE) as a material and energy model coincides with the definition given by multiple authors in which Industrial Symbiosis (IS) has been deemed as a foundational strategy to support the implementation of the CE. The consumption of secondary materials is essential to achieve a successful transformation from a linear economy to a CE focused on IS practices. In this scenario, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) play a major role as stakeholders in developing CE systems as it is not possible to create this model with each company working in isolation. However, there is a lack of empirical studies on the role played by relevant local stakeholders such as individual firms interacting in the development of a local CE system. This study aimed to study the challenges that SMEs face in developing a CE system. A case study is selected as a research strategy using a mixed-method approach: a sequential quantitative (questionnaire) and qualitative (semi-structured interviews) data collection techniques were employed for this research. It was observed that an absence of inter-organisational collaboration and a misunderstanding of the roles played by SMEs may impede the implementation of a local CE system level.
Competitiveness Analysis of GDSs in South Korea by Using Niche Theory: Focusing on User Gratification
Authors: Byun Hyo-Jeong , Kim Jeong-Joon , Lee Byeong-Cheol
Published: October 2020

The purpose of this study is to analyze the competitive relationships among the four major Global Distribution Systems (GDSs), which are representative reservation systems in the tourism industry by using niche theory. To that end, niche theory, which presents the three core concepts of niche breadth, niche overlap, and niche superiority, was combined with gratification in the uses to apply the gratification niche analysis technique. Based on an extensive literature review, four factors (core functions, system functions, service functions, and additional functions) to measure user satisfaction levels by function with GDSs were extracted. Online/offline questionnaire surveys were conducted with travel agencies’ airline counter staffs who had experience using all four GDSs, and in total, 324 copies of the questionnaire were used in the analysis. The analysis results confirmed that Sabre had a competitive edge in general over the other three GDSs, while TOPAS (Amadeus) and Galileo had a comparative competitive edge in certain functions. This study suggested concrete implications that can help individual GDSs in terms of their development of functions or the establishment of marketing strategies by verifying user satisfaction by the function of individual GDSs.
Powerless in a Western US Energy Town: Exploring Challenges to Socially Sustainable Rural Development
Authors: Ward Carol J. , Cope Michael R. , Wilson David R. , Muirbrook Kayci A. , Poff Jared M.
Published: October 2020

To better understand social sustainability in the context of rapid boom growth and decline, we examine longitudinal social change in the modern boomtown of Colstrip, MT. Using a mixed-methods approach that includes two waves of a community survey—administered in 1996 and 2018, respectively—and focus groups conducted in 2018–2019, we explore shifts in residents’ sense of community as well as their perceptions and attitudes about current challenges to their community’s future and sustainability. We show that, despite surviving previous boom and bust periods related to changes in the coal industry, this community now faces a new reality that involves the closure of all local power plants. However, both survey responses and residents’ narratives indicate a strong sense of community and support for developing strategies that address challenges to the town’s future. This exploratory case study helps to extend the literature by contributing to a greater understanding of the experiences of contemporary workers who individually migrated to a small, rural energy town but who now, as a community, face an uncertain future, and by illuminating the role of sense of community in both social and environmental sustainability efforts.
Behaviors also Trickle Back: An Assessment of Customer Dysfunctional Behavior on Employees and Customers
Authors: Nawaz Asif , Tariq Beenish , Dakhan Sarfraz Ahmed , Ariza-Montes Antonio , Bhutto Niaz Ahmed , Han Heesup
Published: October 2020

This study examined the trickle in, out, around and trickle back effect of dysfunctional customer behavior on employees and consequently employees’ incivility and service recovery efforts toward customers. Furthermore, this study has specifically tested the mediating effect of employee burnout to examine the trickle around and trickle back effect. To explore the multi-level trickle effect, this study has collected data from two sources, i.e., customers and employees. The data was analyzed with the help of AMOS. The results revealed that customer’s verbal aggression escalates employee’s burnout, which in turn affects employee’s incivility towards customers. However, the indirect paths from disproportionate customer demand toward service recovery efforts and employee’s incivility towards customers were found to be insignificant. This study addressed the existing gap in the literature by examining the trickle effect within and outside the boundaries of an organization. The results of this study laid down some useful managerial and theoretical implications.
Ideology as Filter: Motivated Information Processing and Decision-Making in the Energy Domain
Authors: Hahnel Ulf J. J. , Mumenthaler Christian , Spampatti Tobia , Brosch Tobias
Published: October 2020

The transition towards more renewable energy will substantially increase voters’ involvement in the political decision-making process in the energy domain. Decisions such as whether to approve or reject large-scale energy programs can be complex, especially when available information cues are numerous and conflicting. Here, we hypothesize that political ideology is a strong determinant in this process, serving as a filter that voters apply when evaluating the relevance of provided information cues. We tested this hypothesis in the context of the 2017 Public Vote on the Swiss Energy Act. A sample of n = 931 Swiss voters were presented with arguments in favor or against the Energy Act, which were framed in terms of values found to be relevant for liberal and conservative ideologies, respectively. Political ideology strongly determined individual attitudes and voting preferences. Political ideology moreover moderated the influence of information provision on decisions, in that arguments congruent with voters’ political ideology were more likely to be evaluated as personally relevant and integrated into their decisions. We discuss the implications of our findings for measures on how to address ideology-based decision-making in order to ensure a well-informed electorate.
Learning Design Decisions in Massive Open Online Courses (MOOC) Applied to Higher Education in Civil-Engineering Topics
Authors: Gómez-Llanos Eva , Durán-Barroso Pablo
Published: October 2020

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) reflect the relationship among social, economic, and environmental aspects of society. Massive online open courses (MOOCs) represent an opportunity to promote lifelong learning (SDG 4), complementing university education or providing knowledge to society free and openly. The objective of this work is to analyze experiences in one MOOC about wastewater treatment applied to higher education in civil engineering (SDG 6). The proposed educational methodology and the achieved participation results are studied. The MOOC had three editions and was hosted on the Miríadax platform. Data about sociodemographic characteristics, initial motivation, and satisfaction level were collected from questionnaires. The results highlighted the importance of design decisions to obtain a high completion rate: defining a target audience, without prejudice to the course’s open character, where the prior knowledge of students is crucial. The teaching methodology is based on autonomous and progressive learning, with short and direct master classes, social support, with the motivation of students to continue their training with opening complementary topics in the forums, following up on their doubts, and their combination with social networks.
Learning Processes in the Early Development of Sustainable Niches: The Case of Sustainable Fashion Entrepreneurs in Mexico
Authors: Rodríguez Aboytes Jorge Gustavo , Barth Matthias
Published: October 2020

There are still several gaps to bridge in learning and sustainability transition research, one of which is the empirical exploration of learning processes and outcomes involved in the formation and development of sustainability niches. The purpose of this study is to investigate the formation and development of a sustainability niche through the lenses of individual and social transformative learning, specifically the learning processes and outcomes. We conducted a qualitative exploratory multi-case study of six different projects participating in the sustainable fashion and textiles niche in Mexico. We used documentation and individual interviews (n = 7) to collect evidence of the learning process in the formation and development of this niche. We used transformative learning theory to guide the analysis of the learning phenomena occurring in the development of this niche, distinguishing three main phases where individual learning takes place in the first two and social learning in the third. Analytical elements such as prior learning, disorienting dilemmas, action engagement and network building figure prominently in the learning process and outcomes in the development of the sustainable fashion niche in Mexico. This work provides a better and more detailed understanding of the multi-level perspective model through exploring sub-levels within the niche level, by shedding light on the importance of individual and social learning in the development of sustainable niches.
Sentinel-2 Satellite Imagery for Agronomic and Quality Variability Assessment of Pistachio (Pistacia vera L.)
Authors: Barajas Enrique , Álvarez Sara , Fernández Elena , Vélez Sergio , Rubio José Antonio , Martín Hugo
Published: October 2020

The objective of this work is to evaluate the agronomic, phenological, nutritional quality and organoleptic characteristics of pistachios (Pistacia vera L.) based on the NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) calculated in the phenological stage of nut filling from Sentinel satellite imagery. Based on this index, three pistachio tree orchards were studied and classified into two levels of vigour: high and low. The results obtained have discriminated the production per tree, which is strongly related to yield. Regarding the nutritional quality parameters, significant differences were not observed between vigour levels, although the most vigorous trees have shown nuts with a higher percentage of fibre and protein. In terms of phenology, there have not been differences between trees of different vigour, only a slight advance of some phenological stages has been observed in several high-vigour trees. Triangular tests have been made successfully to discriminate the origin of the dry nut and the vigour of the trees. In conclusion, for a given nut quality within a given orchard, the NDVI is a good index to classify different areas according to productive capacity and can be useful to apply variable management, irrigation and fertilization according to vigour.
Necessary Conditions for Multi-Domain Indoor Environmental Quality Standards
Authors: Mahdavi Ardeshir , Berger Christiane , Bochukova Veselina , Bourikas Leonidas , Hellwig Runa T. , Jin Quan , Pisello Anna Laura , Schweiker Marcel
Published: October 2020

A discussion of sustainability in architecture cannot be meaningfully carried out without the inclusion of most buildings’ central purpose, namely the provision of indoor environments that are accommodating of occupants’ needs and requirements. To this end, building designers and operators are expected to demonstrate compliance with codes and standards pertaining to indoor environmental quality (IEQ). However, the majority of conventional IEQ standards, codes, and guidelines have a single-domain character, in that they address IEQ in terms of a number of isolated domains (i.e., thermal, visual, acoustic, air quality). In this context, the present contribution explores the current state of multi-domain IEQ evaluation approaches and the necessary conditions for their further development and application. Toward this end, a number of common building rating schemes were selected and analyzed in detail. The results of this assessment imply the necessity of both short-term improvements of the existing schemes in terms of the transparency and plausibility of the applied point allocation and weighting strategies and the fundamental need for a deeper empirically grounded understanding of the nature of occupants’ perception of and behavior in the built environments.
Multi-Port DC-DC and DC-AC Converters for Large-Scale Integration of Renewable Power Generation
Authors: Alsokhiry Fahad , Adam Grain Philip
Published: October 2020

Numerous research studies on high capacity DC-DC converters have been put forward in recent years, targeting multi-terminal medium-voltage direct current (MVDC) and high-voltage direct current (HVDC) systems, in which renewable power plants can be integrated at both medium-voltage (MV) and high-voltage (HV) DC and AC terminals; hence, leading to complex hybrid AC-DC systems. Multi-port converters (MPCs) offer the means to promote and accelerate renewable energy and smart grids applications due to their increased control flexibilities. In this paper, a family of MPCs is proposed in order to act as a hybrid hub at critical nodes of complex multi-terminal MVDC and HVDC grids. The proposed MPCs provide several controllable DC voltages from constant or variable DC or AC voltage sources. The theoretical analysis and operation scenarios of the proposed MPC are discussed and validated with the aid of MATLAB-SIMULINK simulations, and further corroborated using experimental results from scale down prototype. Theoretical analysis and discussions, quantitative simulations, and experimental results show that the MPCs offer high degree of control flexibilities during normal operation, including the capacity to reroute active or DC power flow between any arbitrary AC and DC terminals, and through a particular sub-converter with sufficient precision. Critical discussions of the experimental results conclude that the DC fault responses of the MPCs vary with the topology of the converter adopted in the sub-converters. It has been established that a DC fault at high-voltage DC terminal exposes sub-converters 1 and 2 to extremely high currents; therefore, converters with DC fault current control capability are required to decouple the healthy sub-converters from the faulted one and their respective fault dynamics. On the other hand, a DC fault at the low-voltage DC terminal exposes the healthy upper sub-converter to excessive voltage stresses; therefore, sub-converters with bipolar cells, which possess the capacity for controlled operation with variable and reduced DC voltage over wide range are required. In both fault causes, continued operation without interruption to power flow during DC fault is not possible due to excessive over-current or over-voltage during fault period; however, it is possible to minimize the interruption. The above findings and contributions of this work have been further elaborated in the conclusions.
The Impact of Haze Pollution on Firm-Level TFP in China: Test of a Mediation Model of Labor Productivity
Authors: Li Bin , Shi Shuai , Zeng Yating
Published: October 2020

The core issue for China’s economy to shift from high-speed growth to high-quality development is to raise total factor productivity (TFP). Based on the data of A-share listed companies from 2013 to 2017 and the air quality monitoring data released by the China National Environmental Monitoring Centre, this paper conducts an empirical test on the relationship between haze pollution, labor productivity, and firm-level TFP by using the mediation effect test model. The results show the following: First, haze pollution will reduce a firm’s TFP. Second, labor productivity plays a partial intermediary role between haze pollution and a firm’s TFP. Haze pollution will not only have a direct negative impact on a firm-level TFP but also reduce a firm-level TFP by reducing labor productivity. Subsequently, the robustness test was carried out by means of a substitution of independent variables and dependent variables, and the results all supported the hypotheses in this paper. In addition, the heterogeneity of the industry and the ownership of listed companies was analyzed, and the two-stage least squares (2SLS) method was used to solve the endogeneity problem. The conclusions of this paper are helpful to clarify the relationship between haze pollution, firm factor productivity, and firm-level TFP. The paper’s findings also provide a practical basis for firms to further improve TFP from the perspective of air pollution problems such as haze.
A City Capability Assessment Framework Focusing on Planning, Financing, and Implementing Sustainable Energy Projects
Authors: Spyridaki Niki-Artemis , Kleanthis Nikos , Tzani Dimitra , Matosović Mia Dragović , Flamos Alexandros
Published: October 2020

Cities are critical actors in reducing global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions; the level of knowledge, skills, and capacity, especially regarding innovative project planning such as sustainable energy (SE) projects, is fundamental for cities to meet their untapped potential. A range of indicator-based frameworks have been developed, focusing on general city economic competitiveness, yet these are often disconnected from the actual city operation and processes relevant to the investment cycle of SE projects. This paper proposes an integrated methodology for developing a City Capability Assessment Framework focusing on city planning, financing, and implementation capacity for SE projects. A principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to the results of a European city-survey to uncover areas highly relevant for the successful implementation of local SE projects. The insights gained aid policymakers to better understand implementation barriers, leading to the development of more effective actions and policy interventions towards the implementation of SE projects. The proposed framework can further enhance cities’ efforts with the implementation of local SE projects and guide potential investors to properly evaluate city capabilities and potential, when choosing local investment projects.
Development of Business Schools in Emerging Markets: Learning through Adoption and Adaptation
Authors: Ilie Camelia , Fornes Gaston , Cardoza Guillermo , Mondragón Quintana Juan Carlos
Published: October 2020

The purpose of this study is to contribute to the understanding of the critical resources and capabilities that business schools (BS) have developed to achieve sustainable development. Framed within the resource-based theory, it analyzes seven of the top 50 BS from emerging markets (EM). It argues that these schools have grown through a development process of adopting and adapting business models, including teaching and research methodologies, organizational structures, and business practices; when they consolidated their local leadership, they started to follow a more idiosyncratic process. The findings shed light on the challenges that schools from EM face to deliver local impact while being measured by international standards and have implications for theory development, practice, and policymaking. In terms of theory, the findings show how the Global North model has exerted a determining influence in the development path of BS in EM, and, subsequently, how the pressure to respond to domestic demands has guided the acquisition of resources and the development of capabilities. For practice, the study reveals development patterns, clues about the challenges these BS face, and the range of solutions they have implemented. For policymaking, the case studies offer valuable lessons on how governments can design support systems for BS development.
Corporate Social Responsibility and Firm Value: The Moderating Effects of Financial Flexibility and R&D Investment
Authors: Guo Zhaoyang , Hou Siyu , Li Qingchang
Published: October 2020

Despite the significance of corporate social responsibility (CSR), there remains an extensive debate regarding its implications for firm value. This study examines the moderating effects of financial flexibility and R&D investment on CSR and firm value. Using multiple archival data of 2311 companies from 2010 to 2016, our study finds that CSR is a “double-edged sword” for firm value; specifically, CSR significantly increases systematic risk but reduces firms’ idiosyncratic risk as well as the Tobin’s q. Besides, the results indicate that financial flexibility and R&D investment significantly reduce the negative correlation between CSR and Tobin’s q, the difference between the two being that financial flexibility can reduce the positive relationship between CSR and system risk, while R&D spending can reduce the negative relationship between CSR and idiosyncratic risk. By adding new aspects to the discussion about how CSR affects firm value, the results speak to both theorists and practitioners.
New Insights on Flood Mapping Procedure: Two Case Studies in Poland
Authors: Petroselli Andrea , Florek Jacek , Młyński Dariusz , Książek Leszek , Wałęga Andrzej
Published: October 2020

The use of the Mike11 one-dimensional (1D) hydraulic model, together with official hydrology, represents a standard approach of the National Water Management Authority (NWMA) in Poland for flood mapping procedures. A different approach, based on the hydrological Event-Based Approach for Small and Ungauged Basins (EBA4SUB) model and the Flood-2 Dimensional (FLO-2D) hydraulic model has here been investigated as an alternative procedure. For the analysis, two mountainous rivers in Poland were selected: Kamienica Nawojowska is characterized by a narrow valley, while Skawinka has a broad valley. It was found that the flood zones can enormously differ locally, with larger zones generated by the Mike11/NWMA model in some cases and by the EBA4SUB/FLO-2D model in other situations. The benefits of using the two-dimensional (2D) model are consistent in areas without drainage and where the connection to the main channel is insufficient. The use of 1D modeling is preferred for the possibility of mapping the entire river network in a short computational time.
Multi-Energy School System for Seasonal Use in the Mediterranean Area
Authors: D’Amico Antonino , Panno Domenico , Ciulla Giuseppina , Messineo Antonio
Published: October 2020

School buildings represent an energy-consuming sector of real estate where different efficiency actions are necessary. The literature shows how the design of a multi-energy system offers numerous advantages, however, there are problems related to the integration of cogeneration units with renewable energy sources due to the low flexibility of the first one and the high degree of uncertainty of the latter. The authors provide an alternative solution through the analysis of a case study consisting of a multiple energy system in three Sicilian schools, focusing on the system’s operational strategy, on the design and sizing of components and trying to exploit the energy needs complementarity of buildings instead of integrating the conventional energy storage systems. Not considering school activities in summer, it was decided to install a cogeneration unit sized on winter thermal loads, whereas the electricity demand not covered was reduced with photovoltaic systems designed to maximize production for seasonal use and with loads concentrated in the morning hours. The effectiveness of this idea, which can be replicated for similar users and areas, is proved by a payback time of less than 11 years and a reduction of 31.77% of the CO2 emissions.