bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbon Management in UK Higher Education Institutions: An Overview
Authors: Idundun Ebiyon , Hursthouse Andrew S. , McLellan Iain
Published: October 2021

The paper presents a review of carbon management in relation to UK Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), forms part of a wider study on the ongoing reliance on fossil fuels in Scotland’s public sector with a focus on Universities and Local Government Authorities. It compares the CF (carbon footprint), emission sources, and the fossil fuel contribution to the CFs reported in 3 identified articles relating specifically to the estimation of CF for HEIs. The consumption of fossil fuels results in human induced climate change however, fossil fuels boosted the industrialization process and remains the dominant source of global energy consumption. Action in tackling climate change has led to organizations coming under increasing pressures to monitor and report their CFs. HEIs have a key role to play in reducing its reliance on fossil fuels and reducing GHG (greenhouse gas) emissions through delivery of scientific research and innovative carbon management solutions, increase in its uptake of renewable energy technologies, educating and training future leaders, and raising public awareness, in contribution to a sustainable society. This paper highlights the need for a shift of focus to reducing fossil fuel reliance in response to climate change and demonstrates how HEIs can impact GHG reductions.
Stability Analysis of Paste Filling Roof by Cut and Fill Mining
Authors: Chang Qingliang , Sun Yifeng , Leng Qiang , Liu Zexu , Zhou Huaqiang , Sun Yuantian
Published: October 2021

Ensuring the stability of paste false rooves is an important issue in the study of the process of paste filling and slicing mining. Here, a mechanical model of a paste false roof is created to analyze its stability in the process of lower slicing mining in order to determine the minimum slicing thickness of the false roof. We use FLAC3D to simulate and analyze the influence of changes in paste false roof thickness on the stability of the roof. The quantitative functional relationship between the thickness and the subsidence of a false roof, and the optimal thickness of the artificial paste roof, is finally obtained by the development law of the plastic zone in the lower slicing face. The results show that when the thickness of the paste false roof is 3.2 m, the roof can maintain its self-stabilization state and ensure the normal mining of lower layers. Because the same thickness of the upper and lower layers is beneficial for mining replacement and equipment selection in different layered working faces, the optimal thickness of a paste false roof is determined to be 3.2 m.
Demographic Resilience in the Rural Area of Romania. A Statistical-Territorial Approach of the Last Hundred Years
Authors: Muntele Ionel , Istrate Marinela , Horea-Șerban Raluca Ioana , Banica Alexandru
Published: October 2021

The deep demographic crisis that Romania has been going through, like most Eastern European states, requires complex analyses. The present study aims at analyzing the numerical evolution of the rural population of Romania, extended for more than 100 years (1912–2020), on the basis of which a multivariate analysis was subsequently performed. The manifestation of specific patterns of territorial evolution and the identification of the incidence of some physical–geographical and socio-economic factors are investigated by means of the dynamics of certain distinct processes, such as rural depopulation or ability to adapt to various transitions. The identification of the fragile and dynamic areas allows discussions on the need for public policies better oriented towards mending excesses, illustrated by the persistence of some gaps, in terms of access to basic services. At the same time, the identification of trends towards a shrinking population system, with an increasingly evident concentration of the population in peri-urban areas or along major transport routes, calls for specific policies geared more towards environmental management in depopulated and depopulating areas, or towards creating the conditions for sustainable spatial planning in high-density areas. For the time being, the disadvantaged areas are rather ignored, while the extension of metropolitan areas is rather chaotic and poorly regulated.
Linking Sustainability, Embeddedness and Marketing Strategies: A Study on the Craft Beer Sector in Italy
Authors: Cipollaro Maria , Fabbrizzi Sara , Sottini Veronica Alampi , Fabbri Bruno , Menghini Silvio
Published: October 2021

This paper proposes an in-depth analysis of the branding strategies implemented by agricultural craft breweries in Italy. For small-scale companies operating in the emerging craft beer sector, effective branding strategies play a key role in differentiating themselves from their competitors and gaining competitive advantages. The paper focuses on the concept of sustainability and its relation to Neolocalism. In addition, the paper analyses to what extent the craft brewing companies leverage the status of agricultural craft breweries. A mixed-method approach is adopted in the analysis. A Web Content Analysis (WebCa) led to the extrapolation of relevant information from the company websites. The data were coded according to a 1/0 binary scheme (presence/absence) and subjected to cluster analysis. The results highlight the presence of six different typologies of strategies implemented by the agricultural craft breweries, thus identifying six clusters. The six clusters differ in their emphasis on both agricultural brewery status and the components characterising the corporate brand and the attributes defining the concept of sustainability.
Prospective Smart Distribution Substation in Bangladesh: Modeling and Analysis
Authors: Siddique Abdul Hasib , Hasan Mehedi , Islam Sharnali , Rashid Khalid
Published: October 2021

Being one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, Bangladesh needs to upgrade its electrical network and aim to reduce dependency on fossil fuel-based energy. For the aging and ever-expanding power network, it is necessary to have a smart substation in order to provide reliable, affordable, and sustainable electrical power. As Bangladesh is looking to integrate Distributed Generation (DG) in the power system, it is high time to think about integrating a smart distribution substation into its power network. In this paper, an investigation of the current power generation structure of Bangladesh was conducted and is described. The major focus was given to the upgradation of the existing substation and distribution setup of Bangladesh by providing suitable architectures, technologies, and communication protocols. Detailed studies of Bangladesh’s prospects to incorporate the new technology and renewable energy into its power network are discussed. ETAP was used to simulate the prospective system to show the feasibility of the prospective smart distribution substation in Bangladesh’s power network.
Sustainability-Oriented Business Model Evaluation—A Literature Review
Authors: Süß Anika , Höse Kristina , Götze Uwe
Published: October 2021

Since the need of sustainable development is indisputable, companies are forced to strive for resources, processes, and products that are sustainable. Thus, their business models as the main representation of their activities should be designed in an ecologically, economically, and socially beneficial way. However, designing and developing sustainable business models is closely linked to their evaluation. Sustainable business model evaluation as a vital part of business model development has been addressed in literature in the past with increasing frequency. As a consequence, the plethora of different approaches of sustainability-oriented business model evaluation calls for a systematic literature review. Thus, in this study, we reviewed existing articles on sustainability-oriented business model evaluation and identified four main categories of evaluation methods: single indicators (I), indicator system/framework (II), simulation-based evaluation (III), and multi criteria decision-making (IV). By analyzing and structuring the proposed approaches, their benefits and limitations are revealed, pointing out gaps and future research needs for successfully designing and evaluating business models today and in the future.
A Case Study of University–Industry Collaboration for Sustainable Furniture Design
Authors: Kuys Jo , Al Mahmud Abdullah , Kuys Blair
Published: October 2021

This paper describes the importance of including a Human-Centred Design (HCD) approach for successful university–industry collaboration. We detail user surveys and user evaluation techniques to engage end-users for the rejuvenation of manufacturing industries through sustainable product development. There are numerous studies describing the importance of university–industry collaboration; however, very few portray the detailed working relationships necessary to fulfil both the university and the industry agenda. This paper explores a joint project between a prominent Melbourne-based university and a government organisation from Malaysia. The intention was to innovate a range of furniture for Malaysian dormitories to stimulate the local manufacturing sector and provide high-value product applications for Malaysia’s abundant timber sector. By detailing a HCD approach, we reveal how to better direct the design outcomes to accurately reflect the research intent. This is detailed through a case study showing how the research data was translated into final product concepts influenced by end-users and collaboration with the industry stakeholders. The resulting products are a range of sustainable, modular dormitory furniture with a direct route to market. Finally, we provide the lessons learned and suggestions for developing sustainable products through university–industry collaboration.
Evaluation of Nitrogen Yield-Forming Efficiency in the Cultivation of Maize (Zea mays L.) under Different Nutrient Management Systems
Authors: Szulc Piotr , Ambroży-Deręgowska Katarzyna , Mejza Iwona , Grześ Stanisław , Zielewicz Waldemar , Stachowiak Barbara , Kardasz Przemysław
Published: October 2021

Failure to adjust the fertilization system to quantitative needs, and especially to the dynamics of mineral demand, causes plant metabolism disorders, low mineral utilization by the plant, and an increased risk of environmental pollution. Additionally, unbalanced mineral fertilization may reduce the assimilation surface actively involved in photosynthesis, which determines the yield potential of individual varieties. The aim of the strict field experiment was to determine the responses of two types of maize varieties (Zea mays L.) to treatments with different nutrient management systems, as expressed by the growth analysis of active organs during photosynthesis, SPAD (soil and plant analysis development) leaf greenness index, green mass yield, and unit nitrogen productivity from PFPFN mineral fertilization (partial factor productivity fertilizer nitrogen). It was demonstrated that the total area of leaf blades of a single plant and the LAI (leaf area index) value were significantly higher in the “stay-green” hybrid compared to the traditional variety. The analysis of leaf morphological structure of the “stay-green” hybrid, based on SLA (specific leaf area), indicated a highly effective utilization of nitrogen, leading to faster leaf production with a larger assimilation area, which formed the basis for effective absorption of solar radiation. The selection of “stay-green” varieties for silage cultivation guarantees high green mass yields. The risk of lower maize biomass intended for ensilage can only be reduced by applying balanced mineral fertilization of all nutrients. The omission of phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) in the mineral fertilization dose, regardless of the variety tested, was a factor reducing the yield of maize biomass intended for ensilage and a lower partial factor productivity of nitrogen fertilizer compared to the treatment optimally balanced with respect to the nitrogen dose.
Influencers on Social Media as References: Understanding the Importance of Parasocial Relationships
Authors: Su Bo-Chiuan , Wu Li-Wei , Chang Yevvon-Yi-Chi , Hong Ruo-Hao
Published: October 2021

Audiences’ purchase intentions are vital to the success of influencers on social media. This research examined how interpersonal attraction enhances parasocial relationships (PSRs) between influencers and audiences on social media, and how such parasocial relationships, in turn, affect audiences’ continuance intention. Interpersonal attraction contains three dimensions: task attraction, social attraction, and physical attraction. The results indicated that the three dimensions of interpersonal attraction significantly affected PSRs. The results also showed that informational influence and perceived credibility strengthened the relationship between PSRs and purchase intentions. Moreover, online comments positively moderated the effect of PSRs on informational influence and perceived credibility. The implications and suggestions for future research are also discussed.
Potential Use of Native Yeasts to Produce Bioethanol and Other Byproducts from Black Sugarcane, an Alternative to Increment the Subsistence Farming in Northern Ecuador
Authors: Tenea Gabriela N. , Veintimilla Fabricio
Published: October 2021

The high consumption of energy, mainly in the automotive sector, is supplied by fossil fuels, which, when combusted, generate polluting gases leading to the great problem of climate change. This has led society to seek alternatives. Bioethanol is a biofuel that can be obtained from the fermentation of different raw materials rich in sucrose such as sugarcane, which can be mixed with gasoline and used to reduce polluting emissions. The following investigation focused on studying the efficiency of three selected native yeasts in the fermentation of black sugarcane POJ 27-14 variety juice to produce bioethanol and other byproducts of biotechnological interest. A comparison between the size of the inoculum of three selected native yeasts (Lev6, Lev9, and Lev30) and two reference commercial controls in the fermentation process was performed. The phylogenetic classification was carried out based on the analysis of the internal transcribed spacer 1 sequence, 5.8S ribosomal RNA, and internal transcribed spacer 2. Lev6 and Lev30 were classified as Saccharomyces cerevisiae, while Lev9 was Candida intermedia, with 99% nucleotide sequence identity. The results showed that the optimal growth temperature was 30 °C with constant agitation (200 rpm) for biomass production. The Lev30 strain presented the highest yield in the production of biomass from sugarcane juice fermentation, while the Lev6 strain presented the highest yield in ethanol production. Additionally, among native yeasts, Lev6 registered the highest ethanol concentration (Q) and volumetric productivity (Qp) values of 0.61 (g/L/h) and 43.92 g/L, respectively, which were comparable with the control yeasts. The gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS) indicated the presence of ethanol in all samples (98% to 99% relative percentages) along with some therapeutic substances such as (2-aziridinylethyl) amine and tetraacetyl-d-xylonic nitrile with greater efficiency than commercial controls from the alcoholic fermentation of black sugarcane juice.
Economic and Environmental Benefits from Municipal Solid Waste Recycling in the Murmansk Region
Authors: Orlov Anton , Klyuchnikova Elena , Korppoo Anna
Published: October 2021

Most municipal solid waste (MSW) in Russia is disposed of in landfills, and only a relatively small fraction is recycled. The landfilling of waste leads to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and air and groundwater pollution. However, recently, there have been some initiatives to improve waste management in the country. We assessed the economic and environmental benefits of waste recycling in the Murmansk region, in which a new waste recycling plant has been operating since 2019. We found that MSW recycling in the Murmansk region has induced a small, positive, job creation effect and could potentially lead to a non-negligible reduction in GHG emissions. Extrapolating the results from this case study to the country level, we found that recycling landfilled MSW in Russia could save approximately 154 million tons of GHG emissions in carbon dioxide equivalents annually, which is comparable to the total CO2 emissions from Algeria. The positive environmental and health-related impacts from the extensive implementation of MSW recycling in the country could be substantial. From this case study, we also learned that one of the biggest challenges for the waste recycling company in the Murmansk region is finding profitable markets for recycled materials. Moreover, due to the high investment and operational costs, recycling MSW led to a substantial increase in communal fees. However, there is potential to make waste recycling more cost effective. Most MSW in the Murmansk region is still separated at the recycling plant, while separating waste at the source could substantially reduce operational costs. Other challenges in the large-scale implementation of MSW recycling in Russia, such as a lack of investments and the population’s willingness to recycle waste, are also discussed.
Green Restaurants ASSessment (GRASS): A Tool for Evaluation and Classification of Restaurants Considering Sustainability Indicators
Authors: Maynard Dayanne da Costa , Zandonadi Renata Puppin , Nakano Eduardo Yoshio , Raposo António , Botelho Raquel Braz Assunção
Published: October 2021

Green restaurants are based on the implementation of environmental management and are closely related to quality management through a set of instruments and programs. This study aimed to build an instrument classification adopting cutoff points and classify restaurants using traffic light scores from the sustainability assessment checklist validated in Brazilian Portuguese for restaurants. The questionnaire classification validation was performed using a cross-sectional study conducted in a convenience sample of 97 restaurants. The instrument has 76 items, and all items were based on yes/no/not applicable answers, comparing sustainability activities. The instrument score was obtained by assigning one point to each “yes” item. Each section received a score, and a total score was provided to the restaurant from the three sections’ sum. International instruments used in the checklist development stage were checked to assist in the cutoff points determination. Therefore, the score for restaurants with low adherence to sustainable practices or red seal ranges from 0 to 40%, restaurants with medium adherence to sustainable practices or yellow seal from 40% > to <75%, and restaurants with good adherence to sustainable practices or green seal ≥75%. The instrument is divided into three sections (1. water, energy, and gas supply; 2. menu and food waste; 3. waste reduction, construction materials, chemicals, employees, and social sustainability). Percentages must be reached in all sections. Researchers did not find any green or sustainable restaurants through the checklist application in the tested sample, and 47.4% of the restaurants had the yellow seal (presenting sustainable activities) with higher scores for Section 2 regarding menu and food waste. The items less scored were the company has goals for the rational use of water, the company achieves zero greenhouse gas emissions with proven partnerships, the company has a documented program to reduce carbon emissions, and towels or uniforms are made of organic or sustainable material. Thus, it demonstrates the attention points and improvements in the analyzed restaurants. We hope that the construction and validation of the checklist and its score’s determination have contributed to broadening the discussions on sustainability in food services and serve as a starting point for future research. Strategies like these are fundamental to improve the understanding of the subject and to expand the knowledge of nutritionists who deal directly with this economic sector.
Durability of Sustainable Ceramics Produced by Alkaline Activation of Clay Brick Residue
Authors: Costa Fabiana Pereira da , Bezerra Izabelle Marie Trindade , Fernandes Jucielle Veras , Rodrigues Alisson Mendes , Menezes Romualdo Rodrigues , Neves Gelmires de Araújo
Published: October 2021

Alkali-activated materials (AAMs) were produced using residues from the red ceramic industry as a precursor, and sodium hydroxide (NaOH), potassium hydroxide (KOH), and sodium silicate (Na2SiO3) as alkaline activators. The effect of activators and curing conditions on physical-mechanical properties and durability were evaluated. The processing parameters (amount of water and consistency index) and the activation conditions (the activator contents and curing temperature) were defined based on an experimental design getting the flexural rupture module as the response. The durability behavior was evaluated by natural aging, accelerated aging (simulated rain test), exposure to the marine environment (salt fog), and acidic environments (HCl and H2SO4). The results showed that the NaOH- and KOH-activated samples exhibited inferior mechanical behavior than those activated with Na2SiO3. In the durability studies, due to leaching, there was a decrease in mechanical strength when samples are subjected to aggressive exposure conditions. However, the strength values are still higher than the minimum indicated for traditional ceramic applications.
Disaster Risk Reduction Education: Tensions and Connections with Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Cabello Valeria M. , Véliz Karina D. , Moncada-Arce Ana M. , Irarrázaval García-Huidobro María , Juillerat Felipe
Published: October 2021

In the last decades, environmental risks and threats have increased human exposure to natural hazards, often affecting the quality of life, especially for vulnerable groups. This article explores the tensions and connections within educational research concerning disaster risk reduction (DRRE) in relation to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Twenty-seven articles published between 2014 and 2020 in various geographic regions regarding disaster risk reduction (DRR) were reviewed, finding that (a) the participation of children, youth, families, and the community is central; (b) non-formal and informal education are equally as relevant as formal education; (c) DRR initiatives can favor broader objectives, such as reducing poverty or advancing towards sustainable communities; and (d) achieving community resilience in the face of socio-natural disasters requires local voices for the design, implementation, and scaling of strategies. However, certain tensions were also found due to the lack of emphasis on the crucial areas of SDGs, which are related to a comprehensive notion of well-being and health education, including mental health and a gender approach, the limited mitigation of risk aggravating factors arising from extreme poverty and the climate crisis, the disconnection between modern and ancestral knowledge, the “top-down” versus “bottom-up” approach in the generation of local solutions, the role of education on disaster risk reduction as a risk mitigation factor, and the requirements to adjust the curriculum synchronously to global environmental needs, are all discussed, thus highlighting and encouraging the urgent cultural changes needed in the Anthropocene era that can be triggered through disaster risk reduction education.
Sewage Sludge as Inhibitor of the Formation of Persistent Organic Pollutants during Incineration
Authors: Conesa Juan A.
Published: October 2021

With the objective of suppressing dioxins and furans (PCDD/Fs) emission in municipal solid waste incineration plants (MSWI), different chemical inhibitors have been tested. Among these inhibitors, nitrogen and sulphur compounds can significantly suppress PCDD/Fs formation via de novo synthesis, which gives very interesting results with very little capital investment. In recent years, the possibility of using waste rich in nitrogen and/or sulphur as a source of inhibitor compounds has been considered, and thus has reduced the emissions of pollutants while the waste is treated. The effect of adding sludge from urban sewage treatment plants in three variants has been specially studied: directly mixing the waste, using the decomposition gas of the previously dried sludge, and using the decomposition gas of the sludge together with other inhibitors such as thiourea. Reduction of emissions in laboratory tests using model samples indicated the efficiency to be higher than 99%, using sewage sludge (SS) as an inhibitor whereas, in actual MSWI plants, the efficiency can be as high as 90%.
Effect of Consumer Strategic Behavior on Online Presale Strategy
Authors: Pei Yurong , Xie Mengying , Yang Qiuling , Liao Yi , Wu Yuping
Published: October 2021

Given the effectiveness of online presale in enhancing retailers’ sustainability and efficiency, combining that consumers’ strategic behavior have a powerful influence on retailers’ presale implementation, investigating the online presale promotion model based on consumer strategic behavior is of key importance for both Academics and business. This study takes the “deposit + final” payment online promotional presale model as the research goal and establishes three different models for providing the retailers with optimal presale strategies. On the basis of proposed models, several numerical experiments to study the effects of retailers’ presales strategies on consumer returns and deposit ratio is conducted, and finally, based on the model results, the suggestions on whether to participate in presales and how to make the optimal deposit ratio decision for retailers when participating in presales is provided for both sustainability and efficiency purpose.
How Inclusive Is Inclusive? A Critical Analysis of an Agribusiness Initiative in Kenya
Authors: Schelle Celina , Pokorny Benno
Published: October 2021

Inclusive agribusiness considers social and environmental goals in global value chains in agribusiness. However, not all small-scale farmers may be able to benefit from such arrangements. To find out about possible reasons for exclusion, this study investigates an agribusiness initiative in coastal Kenya employing organic contract farming by applying a mixed-methods research design based on household sampling of the recruitment procedure, as well as interviews with the farmers and company representatives. The findings suggest that sustainability standards may impede small-scale farmers’ participation in agribusiness. Specifically, the implementation of organic certification, essential for the functionality of the company business models, contributes most to small-scale farmer exclusion. Companies, clients, and, most importantly, certifiers should be aware of this problem and look for appropriate measures to overcome this unwanted effect of standard-setting in inclusive businesses.
Implementation of Indigenous Knowledge on Local Spatial Management: A Case Study in Orchid Island (Lanyu), Taiwan
Authors: Lin Chia-Nan , Tsai Bor-Wen
Published: October 2021

Spatial management consists of land property and land use management, both on land and in the ocean. From the perspective of ‘social-ecological systems’, local spatial management represented the resilience of adaptation that indigenous knowledge and environment change were interrelated. This study aims to extract critical components that contribute to the dynamic maintenance of the stability and sustainability of local spatial management. The indigenous knowledge of Yami people on Orchid Island was investigated as a case study to highlight how indigenous institutions functioned in a more suitable and adaptable way for local spatial management. Empirical data were collected by participatory mapping and an in-depth interview with indigenous experts. Differently from the official policy, the results show that the cultural-specific spatial regulations, including land ownership and land use, were strictly maintained with landscape structure and social organizations by the Yami indigenous institution. Local cultural spatial management with regulated and comprehensive institutions could cope with challenges immediately and dynamically, and enhance resilience more than official institutions that are simplified and controlled by the state. It is argued that spatial regulations, landscape structure, and social organizations from indigenous knowledge were recommended to be introduced into official spatial management institutions, to validate the values of indigenous knowledge and improve the resilience of local spatial management.
A Review of the Trade-Offs across Different Cocoa Production Systems in Ghana
Authors: Wainaina Priscilla , Minang Peter A. , Duguma Lalisa , Muthee Kennedy
Published: October 2021

Cocoa production is one of the leading causes of deforestation in West Africa. Agroforestry cocoa systems are increasingly promoted as a possible solution to deforestation. This study seeks to understand the trade-offs within agroforestry cocoa in full-sun and high-tech plantation cocoa systems in Ghana. It uses secondary data collected from an extensive literature search. The results established various trade-offs between cocoa yields and other provisioning services derived from the agroforestry services. While the cocoa yields in high-tech systems are almost thrice those in agroforestry systems, the total value of all the provisioning services is highest within the shaded systems. The economic value of per hectarage yield is estimated at USD 8140, USD 5320 and USD 5050 for shaded, full-sun and high-tech systems, respectively. Agroforestry systems also have higher ecosystem services compared to full-sun cocoa and high-tech cocoa systems. The high pesticide use in Ghana′s high-tech cocoa systems is also strongly linked to water and soil pollution, as well as adverse effects on human health. The study concludes that different cocoa production systems in Ghana yield different types of ecosystem provision and are associated with externalities such as the effect of pesticides on soils, water and human health, thus there is a need for the careful consideration of the system from policy and practice perspectives.
Coastal Community Perspective, Waste Density, and Spatial Area toward Sustainable Waste Management (Case Study: Ambon Bay, Indonesia)
Authors: Herdiansyah Herdis , Saiya Halvina Grasela , Afkarina Kunny Izza Indah , Indra Tito Latif
Published: October 2021

The coastal area has experienced significant changes of waste problems over the past few years. To resolve the waste problems in coastal areas, an understanding of community perception is needed to support government efforts. Therefore, this study aims to review people’s perspectives on the dynamics of waste in the coastal areas. Community perception data were compiled through semi-structured interviews with the surrounding communities in coastal areas. ArcGIS and load count analysis were used to analyze the waste density. Waste was collected from the coastal area in Ambon Bay and analyzed using waste density calculation and spatial analysis. The results show that the total waste density obtained at the coastal area of Ambon Bay is 0.249 kg/m2, of which 0.078 kg/m2 is the density of plastic waste, and 0.171 kg/m2 is the density of non-plastic waste. Communities in coastal areas have made efforts to deal with waste problems, but the efforts made are still ineffective in overcoming these problems. That problem happens because there is a lack of knowledge of the community and lack of infrastructure in coastal areas. The research results have the potential for replication in other coastal areas and are used as the basis of decision making for waste management improvement.
Optimization of Compaction Quality Control in the Core of Random Fillings within Linear Infrastructures: Application to Metamorphic Slate Fillings
Authors: Teijón-López-Zuazo Evelio , Vega-Zamanillo Ángel , Calzada-Pérez Miguel Ángel , Juli-Gándara Luis
Published: October 2021

The construction of random fillings from the excavation of medium hardness rocks, with high particle sizes, presents limitations in compaction control. This research applies new control techniques with revised test procedures in the construction of the random fillings core, which constitutes the main part of the embankment, with the bigger volume and provides the geotechnical stability to the infrastructure. The maximum thickness over each of the compacted layers researched that made up the random fillings was 800 mm. As there are many types of rocks, this research is applied to metamorphic slates. Quality control was carried out by applying new research associated with the revision of wheel impression test, topographic settlements, and plate bearing test (PBT). Thus, new test procedures are established, defining efficient thresholds. Comparisons make it possible to choose representative tests, avoiding duplication. The optimization of control reduces inspection times, ensuring quality adapted to the high construction efficiency of diggings. Traditionally, rocks were rejected due to their maximum size, underutilizing the use of high-quality materials. Promoting their utilization implies a better use of resources, and therefore, a higher environmental efficiency. A statistical analysis of the core of 16 slate random fillings was carried out, with a total of 2250 in situ determination of density and moisture content, 75 wheel impression tests, 75 topographic settlement controls, and 75 PBT. The strong associations found between different tests allowed to simplify the quality control.
A Framework for Monitoring Ecosystems-Based Adaptation to Climate Change: Experience from The Gambia
Authors: Gilruth Peter , Duguma Lalisa A. , Minang Peter A. , Bah Alagie , Jaiteh Malanding S. , Mwangi Solomon , Ahmad Muhammad
Published: October 2021

Implementing ecosystems-based adaptation (EbA) to climate change is challenged by the need to monitor biophysical, socio-cultural, and economic impacts which are usually context-specific. Therefore, robust frameworks are required that integrate impacts to better understand EbA effectiveness. Monitoring frameworks that are universally applicable to EbA are desirable, however their universal application is problematic as they should reflect a community-driven design that accommodates both donor reporting functions and the generation of local-level data and information to support management actions and community initiatives. Initial products from this research include a generic, five-step process for developing and testing adaptation indicators, a robust framework consisting of (i) the indicators, data and information used to design the framework, (ii) the operational EbA platform that houses and computes the adaptation indicators, and (iii) the participating institutions, and initial, community-level applications to guide water management, replenishment of the vegetation cover, and business development. Immediate benefits to rural communities include the re-orientation of performance indicators mapped to their needs as opposed to donor reporting alone. The framework contributes to the set of tools currently in use for EbA monitoring by offering an umbrella within which existing tools can be applied. Near-term future research will focus on improving the utility of the framework and its platform beyond reporting on key performance indicators (KPIs) by adapting the EbA platform to support changing management needs. Future research will be needed to understand the extent to which the environmental changes in The Gambia compared to changes across the Sahel and Sudano-Sahel regions of West Africa and whether the lessons learned from The Gambia could be extrapolated to the subregion.
Market Openness and Its Relationship to Connecting Markets Due to COVID-19
Authors: Chahuán-Jiménez Karime , Rubilar-Torrealba Rolando , Fuente-Mella Hanns de la
Published: October 2021

In this research, statistical models were formulated to study the effect of the health crisis arising from COVID-19 in economic markets. Economic markets experience economic crises irrespective of effects corresponding to financial contagion. This investigation was based on a mixed linear regression model that contains both fixed and random effects for the estimation of parameters and a mixed linear regression model corresponding to the generalisation of a linear model using the incorporation of random deviations and used data on the evolution of the international trade of a group of 42 countries, in order to quantify the effect that COVID-19 has had on their trade relationships and considering the average state of trade relationships before the global pandemic was declared and its subsequent effects. To measure, quantify and model the effect of COVID-19 on trade relationships, three main indicators were used: imports, exports and the sum of imports and exports, using six model specifications for the variation in foreign trade as response variables. The results suggest that trade openness, measured through the trade variable, should be modelled with a mixed model, while imports and exports can be modelled with an ordinary linear regression model. The trade relationship between countries with greater economic openness (using imports and exports as a trade variable) has a higher correlation with the country’s health index and its effect on the financial market through its main trading index; the same is true for country risk. However, regarding the association with OECD membership, the relations are only with imports.
Green Supply Chain Management and Its Impact on Consumer Purchase Decision as a Marketing Strategy: Applying the Theory of Planned Behavior
Authors: Lee Changjoon , Lim Soyoun , Ha Byoungchun
Published: October 2021

This study examines the impact of green supply chain management (GSCM) on consumers environmentally friendly purchase behavior. We surveyed 283 consumers and analyzed the data using SPSS 18.0, AMOS 18.0, and verified them with structural equation modeling. To support the primary data analysis results, we conducted focus group interviews (FGIs) of 16 consumers. According to the primary data analysis, consumers’ subjective norms and perceived behavioral control positively influence GSCM. However, attitude did not have a significant influence. In the FGI, consumers show a highly positive attitude and purchase intention toward the GSCM of companies. However, they exhibit mistrust and lower purchase intentions toward advertising or marketing campaigns promoting GSCM to consumers. In contrast, the influence of subjective norms was found to be different for different products. In addition, a high price—regarded as the biggest barrier among perceived control factors—raises purchase intentions if consumers are provided with good and transparent information about green products. Thus, this study buttresses the fact that if a company uses GSCM practices as an eco-friendly marketing strategy that reduces consumer distrust and considers product characteristics, it can have a positive effect on consumers’ decision to purchase eco-friendly products.
The Impact of Air Quality on Inbound Tourist Arrivals over China Based on Grey Relational Analysis
Authors: Zhang Wei , Liu Ziqiang , Zhang Yujie , Yaluk Elly , Li Li
Published: October 2021

Air pollution has a significant impact on tourism; however, research in this area is still limited. In this study, we applied grey relational analysis to panel data from 31 provinces in China and evaluated the relationship between air quality and inbound tourist arrivals. The study focused on provincial-level disparities for the different key air quality evaluation standards during 2009–2012 and 2013–2019. For instance, we considered PM10, SO2, NO2 and the excellent and good ratings of Air Pollution Index (API) during 2009–2012 and the additional PM2.5, CO, O3 and the excellent and good ratings of Air Quality Index (AQI) from 2013 to 2019. Results indicate that: (1) Inbound tourist arrivals are significantly and positively affected by ambient air quality, and the impact from 2013 to 2019 was greater than that from 2009 to 2012; (2) there is regional diversity in inbound tourist arrivals, and the impact of the different air quality indicators varies; (3) inbound tourists showed greater sensitivity to air pollution under the AQI standard; (4) the impact of air quality indicators on the inbound tourist arrivals shows grey relational order, and the concentration of PM2.5, PM10 and SO2 have less impact than NO2, CO and O3 on changes in tourism numbers; (5) consistency in the air quality impact on foreign tourists and compatriot tourists from HK, MO and TW varies by air quality indicators. This study highlights the need for appropriate measures to improve air quality for high-quality and sustainable development of inbound tourism.
An Evidence of Distributed Trust in Blockchain-Based Sustainable Food Supply Chain
Authors: Joo Jaehun , Han Yuming
Published: October 2021

It is necessary to identify what factors affect distributed trust and validate their effect on distributed trust and user satisfaction in an area of the food supply chain for sustainable business. The purpose of the present study is to examine determinants of distributed trust in the blockchain-based food supply chain and test seven hypotheses derived from the structural equation model integrating distributed trust, its three determinants, and user satisfaction. Transparency, traceability, and security are suggested as three determinants of distributed trust along the blockchain-based food supply chain. Data were collected from users of Chinese firms employing blockchain-based food supply chains to validate the research model and test the seven hypotheses. The present study contributes to clarifying the significance of distributed trust and suggesting evidence of its role in the food supply chain. The present study discussed trust-free systems based on blockchain technology related to sustainability through the findings.
The Mediating Role of Resistance to Innovative Technology between the Characteristics of Innovative Technology and Sustainable Use of Innovative Payment Service
Authors: Yoo Jaepil
Published: October 2021

The purpose of this study is to verify the structural relationship between innovative technology characteristics (recognized usefulness, ease of use, perceived risk), resistance to innovative technologies and acceptance intentions in order for unmanned order payment services to become a sustainable industry. A survey was conducted on experienced users of unmanned order payment services residing in Seoul, and the main analysis results are as follows: first, after verifying the effect of innovative characteristics of unmanned order payment services on resistance to innovative technology, the perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use of unmanned order payment services negatively affect resistance to innovative technology, and perceived risk has a significant positive effect on resistance to innovative technology. Second, after verifying the effect of resistance to innovative technology to unmanned order payment services on acceptance intention, consumers’ resistance to unmanned order payment services negatively affects acceptance intention. Third, verifying the effect of characteristics of innovative technology of unmanned order payment services on acceptance intention, the perceived usefulness of unmanned order payment services directly had a positive effect on acceptance intention, but the perceived ease of use and perceived risk. Fourth, verification of the mediating effect of resistance to innovative technology in the relationship between the characteristics of innovative technology of unmanned order payment services and the acceptance intention proved significant mediating effects of all of perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and perceived risk.
Applying Importance–Satisfaction Model to Evaluate Customer Satisfaction: An Empirical Study of Foodpanda
Authors: Liu Yi-Yuan , Chen Shun-Hsing , Zhang Jia-Xuan
Published: October 2021

Because of improving mobile platforms and faster 4G speed, the annual growth of mobile devices has exceeded 50%, and many catering enterprises have integrated services to make ordering and delivery more convenient for smartphone users. Thus, user satisfaction with new online food-delivery platforms and services needs to be explored and evaluated. Using an Importance–Satisfaction Model (I–S Model), this study applied 12 service elements obtained from previous studies and an in-depth discussion of experts and scholars to evaluate user satisfaction towards Foodpanda, the first online food delivery service provider in Taiwan. Questionnaires were distributed from June to July 2020 and 256 samples were collected. This study found that eight items fell within the “Excellent Area”, one within the “Improvement Area” and three within the “Careless Area”.
Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria as a Green Alternative for Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Chandran Hema , Meena Mukesh , Swapnil Prashant
Published: October 2021

Environmental stress is a major challenge for sustainable food production as it reduces yield by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) which pose a threat to cell organelles and biomolecules such as proteins, DNA, enzymes, and others, leading to apoptosis. Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) offers an eco-friendly and green alternative to synthetic agrochemicals and conventional agricultural practices in accomplishing sustainable agriculture by boosting growth and stress tolerance in plants. PGPR inhabit the rhizosphere of soil and exhibit positive interaction with plant roots. These organisms render multifaceted benefits to plants by several mechanisms such as the release of phytohormones, nitrogen fixation, solubilization of mineral phosphates, siderophore production for iron sequestration, protection against various pathogens, and stress. PGPR has the potential to curb the adverse effects of various stresses such as salinity, drought, heavy metals, floods, and other stresses on plants by inducing the production of antioxidant enzymes such as catalase, peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase. Genetically engineered PGPR strains play significant roles to alleviate the abiotic stress to improve crop productivity. Thus, the present review will focus on the impact of PGPR on stress resistance, plant growth promotion, and induction of antioxidant systems in plants.
Efficiency Evaluation of Electric Bicycle Power Transmission Systems
Authors: Zhang Sheng-Peng , Tak Tae-Oh
Published: October 2021

In this study, a method for estimating the efficiency of electric bicycle power train systems consisting of typical components, such as an electric motor, gears, sprockets, and chains is presented. In order to calculate the efficiency of a power train system, the relationship between the drive motor torque and the road-load that is exerted on the rear wheel was derived, considering kinematic inertia effects and friction losses between power transmission elements. Among the factors that influence efficiency, it was found that friction losses play a dominant role, while the effects of inertia are insignificant. The factors that influence the efficiency of electric bicycles due to friction losses, such as the transmission efficiency of the chain system and the bearing in the sprocket and wheel, were quantified. To validate the proposed efficiency calculation procedure, an experimental electric bicycle was used, in which the driving torque and road-load could be quantitatively assessed, and the actual efficiency was measured on a chassis dynamometer. It is shown that for a given motor torque, a measured and estimated dynamometer torque obtained by the proposed method exhibits a good correlation, and the transmission efficiency of each component was quantified. This method provides a practical and accurate means to calculate the drive train efficiency of electric bicycles at the design stage to improve the efficiency of electric bicycles.