bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Macroscopic State-Level Analysis of Pavement Roughness Using Time–Space Econometric Modeling Methods
Authors: Fettahoglu Mehmet , Ahmed Sheikh Shahriar , Benedyk Irina , Anastasopoulos Panagiotis Ch.
Published: October 2024

This paper used pavement condition data collected by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) between 2001 and 2006 aggregated by U.S. states to identify macroscopic factors affecting pavement roughness in time and space. To account for prior pavement conditions and preservation expenditure over time, time autocorrelation parameters were introduced in a spatial modeling scheme that accounted for spatial autocorrelation and heterogeneity. The proposed framework accommodates data aggregation in network-level pavement deterioration models. Because pavement roughness across different roadway classes is anticipated to be affected by different explanatory parameters, separate time–space models are estimated for nine roadway classes (rural interstate roads, rural collectors, urban minor arterials, urban principal arterials, and other freeways). The best model specifications revealed that different time–space models were appropriate for pavement performance modeling across the different roadway classes. Factors that were found to affect state-level pavement roughness in time and space included preservation expenditure, predominant soil type, and predominant climatic conditions. The results have the potential to assist governmental agencies in planning effectively for pavement preservation programs at a macroscopic level.
BIM-Supported Knowledge Collaboration: A Case Study of a Highway Project in China
Authors: Miao Chaojie , Wang Hao , Meng Xianhai , Hou Xiangyu , Yan Yanling , Liu Shenglin , He Yuqing
Published: October 2024

Collaboration is challenging in highway building projects since there are always a number of stakeholders involved, each with different responsibilities, backgrounds, objectives, and competing interests. The basis for addressing collaboration problems in building projects is knowledge. Knowledge management (KM) can benefit greatly from the distinctive characteristics of BIM (building information modeling). Therefore, the purpose of this study is to investigate knowledge collaboration in highway construction projects that is enabled by BIM. It first explores the motivations behind and difficulties with using BIM for knowledge-based collaboration. Next, it looks for possible ways to overcome those difficulties. It employs a large highway project as a study case in China. It uses in-depth interviews with a range of contractors working on this project to comprehend the difficulties they face in working together and investigate ways that BIM-supported KM can help stakeholders collaborate more effectively. Ultimately, it creates a conceptual model for knowledge-driven collaborative management within the BIM environment, offering both a theoretical framework and useful direction for knowledge-based collaboration amongst various stakeholders. The study explores the advantages of BIM characteristics in knowledge collaboration, which provides empirical evidence for the transformation from traditional IT-based knowledge collaboration to BIM-based knowledge collaboration in large and complex highway projects.
Understanding Crop Diversification Among Smallholder Farmers: Socioeconomic Insights from Central Malawi
Authors: Nyamayevu Donald , Nyagumbo Isaiah , Chiduwa Mazvita , Liang Weili , Li Ruiqi
Published: October 2024

In Eastern and Southern Africa (ESA), smallholder rain-fed systems are vital, yet they are challenged by land degradation, soil fertility decline, and climate risks. To address these challenges, crop diversification has been promoted as a potential pathway to enhance productivity, improve nutritional security, and offer a viable pathway out of poverty and hunger. This study explores crop diversification among 150 smallholder households in the Kasungu, Mchinji, and Lilongwe districts of Malawi, where the project Sustainable Intensification of Maize Legume Systems in East and Southern Africa (SIMLESA) has engaged the smallholder farmers in conservation agriculture (CA)-based sustainable intensification participatory research and development for seven years since 2010. This study used Simpson’s diversity index (SDI) to estimate crop diversification, and a multiple linear regression model (MLRM) to analyze how smallholder farmers’ socio-economic characteristics influence adoption. The findings show a prevalence of small farms of less than 1.5 hectares, with most farmers perceiving crop diversification as beneficial for soil fertility. Key adoption constraints include labor shortages and a lack of legume seeds. SIMLESA participants lead in crop rotations, with a 63% higher adoption rate, and show the highest crop diversity, with a 99% increase in farmers growing three crops and a 74% increase in those growing four crops compared to non-SIMLESA farmers. The SDI values were 0.39 for non-SIMLESA, 0.48 for SIMLESA neighbors, and 0.57 for SIMLESA participants. Access to NGO inputs, larger farm sizes, and participation in research programs were positively associated with diversification, while food insufficiency was negatively associated with its adoption. The study highlights the importance of integrating participatory research methods to promote development initiatives effectively.
An Investigation into the Susceptibility to Landslides Using Integrated Learning and Bayesian Optimization: A Case Study of Xichang City
Authors: Xing Fucheng , Li Ning , Zhao Boju , Xiang Han , Chen Yutao
Published: October 2024

In the middle southern section of the Freshwater River–Small River Fault system, Xichang City, Daliang Prefecture, Sichuan Province, is situated in the junction between the Anning River Fault and the Zemu River Fault. There has been a risk of increased activity in the fault zone in recent years, and landslide susceptibility evaluation for the area can effectively reduce the risk of disaster occurrence. Using integrated learning and Bayesian hyperparameter optimization, 265 landslides in Xichang City were used as samples in this study. Thirteen influencing factors were chosen to assess landslide susceptibility, and the BO-XGBoost, BO-LightGBM, and BO-RF models were evaluated using precision, recall, F1, accuracy, and AUC curves. The findings indicated that after removing the terrain relief evaluation factor, the four most significant factors associated with landslide susceptibility were NDVI, distance from faults, slope, and distance from rivers. The study demonstrates that the AUC value of the BO-XGBoost model in the study area is 0.8677, demonstrating a better generalization ability and higher prediction accuracy than the BO-LightGBM and BO-RF models. After Bayesian optimization of hyperparameters, the model offers a significant improvement in prediction accuracy.
Do Forestry Innovation Ecosystems Contribute to the Green Economy?—Based on SBM-GML and Two-Way Fixed Effect Models
Authors: Huang Tingyang , Wang Haoyu , Liu Fang
Published: October 2024

Although the importance of forestry has been widely recognized, research on the impact of forestry innovation ecosystems on green economic development is still in its infancy, and existing research is limited. This paper focuses on 31 provinces in China and conducts an empirical analysis using data from 2012 to 2021. It provides empirical insights on how forestry innovation ecosystems affect green economic growth, thus addressing the gap of existing research. The findings are as follows: (1) Forestry innovation ecosystems have a significant positive effect on green total factor productivity. (2) Mechanism analysis reveals a significant positive effect of forestry innovation ecosystems on the technical efficiency index, but no significant effect on technical progress. (3) Heterogeneity analysis indicates that in eastern and central regions, forestry innovation ecosystems do not significantly impact green total factor productivity or the paths of technical efficiency and technical progress. However, in western regions, forestry innovation ecosystems have a significant effect of green total factor productivity and technical efficiency, while technical progress remains unaffected. In conclusion, the forestry innovation ecosystems play a significant role in promoting green economic development, particularly in the western regions of China. The potential contributions of this research are twofold: (1) This study addresses this gap by providing empirical insights on how forestry innovation ecosystems influence green economic growth. (2) This paper also investigates the mechanisms by which forestry innovation ecosystems impact green development through various types of innovation, offering practical references for stakeholders involved in forestry and sustainable development. Differentiated policies should be assigned to address regional disparities, with increased support for forestry innovation in the west and the encouragement of green technology investments in the east and center. Additionally, promoting technical progress through policy innovation, international cooperation, and enhanced intellectual property protection is essential to maximizing the benefits of forestry innovation ecosystems.
Towards Sustainable Development of Mineral Resources in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach
Authors: Nyandwe Eugenie M. , Zhang Qinli , Wang Daolin , Yeo Alassane D.
Published: October 2024

This study focuses on economic, governmental, social, and environmental factors and their impact on the sustainable development of mineral resources in sub-Saharan Africa. Using structural equation modeling (SEM) and data from 40 countries from 2010 to 2022, the research examines the hypothesized links between these factors and sustainable development. The results reveal a positive and statistically significant relationship between economic factors and sustainable development, underlining the crucial role of economic growth in achieving sustainable development goals. Furthermore, effective governance and policy implementation are strongly associated with better sustainable development, underscoring the importance of robust government action. This study also highlights the importance of social factors, demonstrating that increased community involvement and participation contribute positively to sustainable development. Contrary to the initial hypothesis, the research reveals a positive relationship between environmental factors and sustainable development, challenging existing ideas and suggesting the need for a more nuanced understanding of the interaction between environmental practices and sustainability. This study concludes with concrete recommendations, including prioritizing economic growth, improving governance and policy effectiveness, promoting social inclusion, and reassessing environmental conservation strategies. These findings provide valuable information for policymakers, corporations, and communities in sub-Saharan Africa, thus contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of sustainable development in the region.
Factors Impacting Consumers’ Purchase Intention of Electric Vehicles in China: Based on the Integration of Theory of Planned Behaviour and Norm Activation Model
Authors: Ji Zhongyang , Jiang Hao , Zhu Jingyi
Published: October 2024

Understanding the factors that drive consumers to purchase electric vehicles (EVs) is critical to achieving decarbonization of China’s transportation sector, as well as mitigating global warming. This study aims to construct a research model based on altruistic and self-interested perspectives by integrating the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) and Norm Activation Model (NAM) to predict the psychological factors that influence Chinese consumers’ intention to purchase EVs. Data were collected from 867 participants in China and empirically tested using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Self-interested factors, namely subjective norms, attitudes and perceived behavioural control, all had a significant positive effect on EV purchase intention. Additionally, the results showed that personal norms had the greatest effect on EV purchase intention. It was also found that awareness of consequence, ascription of responsibility and subjective norms were positive predictors of personal norms. Awareness of consequence had a positive effect on both the ascription of responsibility and attitudes. The findings contribute to understanding the psychological drivers of Chinese consumers’ intention to purchase EVs and can provide decision-making references for policy makers and manufacturers.
Sustainability Assessment of the Performance of Parmigiano Reggiano PDO Firms: A Comparative Analysis of Firms’ Legal Form and Altitude Range
Authors: Iotti Mattia , Ferri Giovanni , Manghi Elisa , Calugi Alberto , Bonazzi Giuseppe
Published: October 2024

Geographical indications (GIs), protected by the European Union with the collective marks of PDO (protected designation of origin), PGI (protected geographical indication), and TSG (traditional specialty guaranteed), play an important role in the social and economic system. They not only guarantee food needs, but promote correct consumer information, protect local food, and play a role in the environmental and social sustainability of rural areas. In Italy, Parmigiano Reggiano (PR-RE) PDO cheese is ranked second in foods with the GI protection mark by turnover. This research aims to assess the financial sustainability of the firms registered in the PR-RE PDO consortium using financial statement (FINSTAT) analysis. Financial ratios (FR) and the EM-Score were applied to assess firms’ performance, financial risk, and credit score. The analysis distinguished firms by legal form, cooperative and non-cooperative, and altitude range—plain hill and mountain. The main findings of the research were as follows: (1) a better performance of lowland non-cooperative firms and lower financial risk, (2) a longer duration of the inventory cycle of cooperative firms, and (3) a greater financial risk in mountain cooperatives. The results provide indications for improving firms’ performance and for designing financial instruments for the sector. To our knowledge, this is the first research to carry out an analysis of all the available FINSTATs of firms in the PR-RE PDO sector.
Spatial Configuration and Accessibility Assessment of Recreational Resources in Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park
Authors: Mo Yixian , He Rongxiao , Liu Qing , Zhao Yaoyao , Zhuo Shuhai , Zhou Peng
Published: October 2024

Recreational resources, fundamental to ecological experiences, are critical in balancing conservation with development. Effective ecotourism planning is especially vital for newly established protected areas such as the Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park in China’s developing system of natural conservation areas. Targeting Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park, this study applies nearest neighbor index, kernel density analysis, and exploratory spatial data analysis (ESDA) to study the spatial pattern of 274 recreational resource points. Results indicate a clustered spatial pattern with significant differences in resource density among municipalities. Specifically, 98% of these resources can be reached in 3 h, with an average travel time of 91 min, and cultural resources exhibit greater accessibility than natural resources. Natural resource availability and ethnic culture are major factors of resource distribution and accessibility. This research offers a theoretical basis and practical guidance for optimizing recreational resource allocation and promoting ecotourism in the park, contributing to the ongoing discussion of sustainable tourism development.
Application of PV on Commercial Building Facades: An Investigation into the Impact of Architectural and Structural Features
Authors: Ghaleb Belal , Khan Muhammad Imran , Asif Muhammad
Published: October 2024

The rapid global transition toward renewable energy necessitates innovative solar PV deployment strategies beyond conventional roof installations. In this context, commercial building facades represent an expansive yet underutilized resource for solar energy harvesting in urban areas. However, existing studies on commercial rooftop solar PV predominantly focus on European contexts, neglecting the unique design constraints and performance trade-offs present in regions such as the Middle East. This study addresses this gap by specifically investigating the impact of architectural and structural features on the utilizable facade area for PV deployment in commercial buildings within the hot desert climate of Saudi Arabia. Detailed case studies of twelve representative buildings are conducted, combining architectural drawing analysis, on-site measurements, and stakeholder surveys. The methodology identified sixteen parameters across three categories—facade functionality, orientation suitability, and surrounding obstructions—that impose technical and non-technical restrictions on photovoltaic integration 3D modeling, and irradiance simulations revealed that, on average, just 31% of the total vertical facade area remained suitable for PV systems after accounting for the diverse architectural and contextual limitations. The study considered 698 kWh/m2 of solar irradiance as the minimum threshold for PV integration. Shopping malls displayed the lowest utilizability, with near-zero potential, as extensive opaque construction, brand signage, and shading diminish viability. Offices exhibited the highest utilizability of 36%, owing to glazed facades and unobstructed surroundings. Hotels and hospitals presented intermediate potential. Overall, the average facade utilizability factor across buildings was a mere 16%, highlighting the significant hurdles imposed by contemporary envelope configurations. Orientation unsuitability further eliminated 12% of the initially viable area. Surrounding shading contributed an additional 0.92% loss. The results quantify the sensitivity of facades to aspects such as material choices, geometric complexity, building form, and urban context. While posing challenges, the building facade resource holds immense untapped potential for solar-based urban renewal. The study highlights the need for early architectural integration, facade-specific PV product development, and urban planning interventions to maximize the renewable energy potential of commercial facades as our cities rapidly evolve into smart solar energy landscapes.
Modeling the Causes of Urban Traffic Crashes: Accounting for Spatiotemporal Instability in Cities
Authors: Xia Hongwen , Liu Rengkui , Zhou Wei , Luo Wenhui
Published: October 2024

Traffic crashes have become one of the key public health issues, triggering significant apprehension among citizens and urban authorities. However, prior studies have often been limited by their inability to fully capture the dynamic and complex nature of spatiotemporal instability in urban traffic crashes, typically focusing on static or purely spatial effects. Addressing this gap, our study employs a novel methodological framework that integrates an Integrated Nested Laplace Approximation (INLA)-based Stochastic Partial Differential Equation (SPDE) model with spatially adaptive graph structures, which enables the effective handling of vast and intricate geospatial data while accounting for spatiotemporal instability. This approach represents a significant advancement over conventional models, which often fail to account for the fluid interplay between time-varying weather conditions, geographical attributes, and crash severity. We applied this methodology to analyze traffic crashes across three major U.S. cities—New York, Los Angeles, and Houston—using comprehensive crash data from 2016 to 2019. Our findings reveal city-specific disparities in the factors influencing severe traffic crashes, which are defined as incidents resulting in at least one person sustaining serious injury or death. Despite some universal trends, such as the risk-enhancing effect of cold weather and pedestrian crossings, we find marked differences across cities in relation to factors like temperature, precipitation, and the presence of certain traffic facilities. Additionally, the adjustment observed in the spatiotemporal standard deviations, with values such as 0.85 for New York and 0.471 for Los Angeles, underscores the varying levels of annual temporal instability across cities, indicating that the fluctuation in crash severity factors over time differs markedly among cities. These results underscore the limitations of traditional modeling approaches, demonstrating the superiority of our spatiotemporal method in capturing the heterogeneity of urban traffic crashes. This work has important policy implications, suggesting a need for tailored, location-specific strategies to improve traffic safety, thereby aiding authorities in better resource allocation and strategic planning.
Sustainable Entrepreneurship: Key Competencies Determining Entrepreneurial Intention in Peruvian Secondary Students
Authors: Otiniano León Mabel Ysabel , Ballesteros Marco Agustín Arbulú , Ramos Farroñán Emma Verónica , Lezama Marilú Trinidad Flores , Silva Jaritza Marisol Diaz
Published: October 2024

In the current global context, characterized by increasing competitiveness and dynamism, entrepreneurship has emerged as a fundamental driver of economic development and job creation. This study aims to compare the levels of entrepreneurial competence and intention among fifth-year high school students in Chepén and Pacasmayo, Peru, as well as to identify the key entrepreneurial competencies that significantly influence entrepreneurial intention. Additionally, it seeks to examine the moderating roles of self-assessed entrepreneurial capabilities and perceived risk in starting a business on the relationship between competencies and entrepreneurial intention. Additionally, it seeks to examine the moderating role of self-assessment of entrepreneurial capabilities and the perception of risk in starting a business in the relationship between competencies and entrepreneurial intention. The study is based on Ajzen’s theory of planned behavior. The sample included 305 students, divided between 205 from Chepén and 100 from Pacasmayo, who participated in a structured survey. The results of the structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis revealed that creativity, risk-taking, and initiative significantly influence students’ entrepreneurial intentions. However, competencies such as problem solving, networking, achievement orientation, teamwork, and autonomy did not show significant relationships with entrepreneurial intention. Moreover, neither the self-assessment of entrepreneurial capability nor the perception of the risk of starting a business had significant moderating effects on the relationship between entrepreneurial competence and intention. The discussion highlights that these findings contribute to understanding the psychological mechanisms underlying the formation of entrepreneurial intentions among high school students and offer valuable guidance for designing educational programs that enhance key entrepreneurial competencies. In conclusion, this study represents a significant advancement in comprehending the role of entrepreneurial competencies in shaping entrepreneurial intentions among secondary school students and opens new avenues for future research in this field.
Strategic Transformation and Sustainability: Unveiling the EFQM Model 2025
Authors: Martusewicz Joanna , Wierzbic Arkadiusz , Łukaszewicz Marcin
Published: October 2024

The EFQM Model (European Foundation for Quality Management), established in 1991, serves as a framework for organizational excellence, helping achieve sustainable success through an integrated management system. The Model’s evolution is driven by the need to adapt to global trends, threats, and technological innovations such as digital transformation, employee engagement and well-being, remote work, agile performance management, diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), sustainability, AI (Artificial Intelligence), and big data. The new EFQM Model 2025, presented in Istanbul in June 2024, introduces significant changes, emphasizing sustainability, innovation, and technology. These changes are analyzed based on the logic of three questions: Why, How, and What. Why: There is a necessity for better alignment of organizations with contemporary challenges through flexibility, risk resilience, and innovation capabilities in a dynamic business environment, including alignment with the Unated Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). How: The Model introduces an integrated approach to performance management and transformation, incorporating advanced technologies such as AI and data analytics. What: Implementing the EFQM Model 2025 enhances organizational adaptability, innovation, and flexibility, improving financial, operational, and strategic outcomes. Better alignment with sustainability goals leads to long-term value and social responsibility. Improved stakeholder engagement methods enhance understanding and satisfaction. The use of advanced technologies supports innovation and operational efficiency, while better strategic and operational performance and risk management ensure greater stability and the ability to anticipate future challenges.
Green Technology Innovations and Corporate Customer Concentration—The Perspectives of Financing Constraints and Social Responsibility
Authors: Cui Zetian , Wang Qixin , Wang Xiaoting , Yang Jun
Published: October 2024

Green technology innovations propel both economic development and environmental sustainability. Exploring the contributing factors to green technology innovations carries important policy implications, but research from the perspective of supply chain relationships has been rare. This paper examines the impact of corporate customer concentration on green technology innovations and explores its influencing mechanisms using the data of Chinese A-share listed companies. The results show that a high customer concentration inhibits the quantity and quality of green technology innovations, a finding that is robust when endogeneity is addressed and when alternative measures and an alternative estimation model are employed. Financing constraints and social responsibility play intermediary roles in the impact of customer concentration on green technology innovations. A high customer concentration tends to increase corporate financing constraints and reduce corporate social responsibility performance, which hinder green technology innovations. The heterogeneity analysis reveals that the inhibitory effect of customer concentration on green technology innovations is less severe in digitally transformed enterprises, mature enterprises, or enterprises with a high level of market power. As this study provides a novel perspective on the contributing factors to corporate green innovations, it offers important policy recommendations.
Uncovering the Fracturing Mechanism of Granite Under Compressive–Shear Loads for Sustainable Hot Dry Rock Geothermal Exploitation
Authors: Wang Xiaoran , Shan Tiancheng , Wang Dongjie , Liu Xiaofei , Zhou Wendong
Published: October 2024

Shear-dominated hazards, such as induced earthquakes, pose an escalating threat to the sustainability and safety of the geothermal exploitation. Variations in fault orientations and compression–shear stress ratios exert a profound influence on the failure processes underlying these disasters. To better understand these effects on the shear failure mechanisms of hot dry rocks, mode-II fracturing tests on granites were conducted at varying loading angles (specifically, 55°, 60°, 65°, and 70°). These tests were accompanied by a comprehensive analysis of the mechanical properties, energy dissipation behavior, acoustic emission (AE) responses, and digital image correlation (DIC)-extracted displacement fields. The tensile–shear properties of stress-induced microcracks were discerned via AE characteristic parameter analysis and DIC displacement decomposition, and the mode-II fracture energy release rate was quantitatively characterized. The results reveal that with increasing compression–shear loading angles, the mechanical properties of granites are weakened, and the elastic strain energy at peak stress gradually decreases, while the slip-related dissipated energy increases. Throughout the fracturing process, the AE count progressively climbs and reaches a peak near catastrophic failure, with an upsurge in low-frequency and high-amplitude AE events. Microcrack distribution concentrates aggregation along the shear plane, reflecting the emergent displacement discontinuities evident in DIC contours. Both the AE characteristic parameter analysis and DIC displacement decomposition demonstrate that shear-sliding constitutes the paramount mechanism, and the fraction of shear-oriented microcracks and the ratio of tangential versus normal displacement escalate with increases in shear stress. This analysis is supported by the heightened propensity for transgranular microcracking events observed through scanning electron microscopy. As the shear-to-compression stress increases, the energy concentration along the shear band intensifies, with the gradient of the fitting line between cumulative AE energy and slip displacement steepening, indicative of a heightened mode-II energy release rate. These results contribute to a deeper understanding of the mode-II fracture mechanism of rocks, thereby providing a foundational basis for early warnings of shear-dominant geomechanical disasters, and improving the safety and sustainability of subsurface rock engineering.
Enhancing Water Use Efficiency and Carbon Profitability Through the Long-Term Impact of Sustainable Farming Systems
Authors: Sabahy Amr A. , Hendawy Saber F. , Wasfy Kamal I. , Moursy M. A. M. , Mohamed Ramy
Published: October 2024

This study aims to enhance water use efficiency, maximize productivity, and minimize environmental impact through the implementation of sustainable agricultural systems using drip irrigation systems. It investigates the effects of biodynamic farming compared to those of organic and conventional methods over a six-year period and focuses on soil properties, water use efficiency, crop yield, and environmental and economic perspectives. Using a biodynamic farming system resulted in an average increase in water use efficiency of 1.96 and 10.67% for maize and 3.62 and 10.68% for faba bean and an increase in maize yield of 1.68 and 0.99%, while the faba bean yield reached 3.25 and 1.57% compared to the organic and conventional farming systems, respectively. The biodynamic system sequestered the highest average soil carbon of 6.16 tons/ha (which is equivalent to 22.45 tons/ha of CO2 emissions), representing a 13% increase compared to the organic system. Additionally, the biodynamic system yielded an increase in total net profit of 5.70 and 21.66% for the maize crop and 6.72 and 22.19% for the faba bean crop compared to the organic and conventional farming systems, respectively. The farming system significantly influenced the soil carbon sequestration and organic carbon.
Assessing the Environmental Impact of Demountable Space-Dividing Walls: A Scenario Analysis Approach in a Semi-Detached Case Study Dwelling
Authors: Claes Jade , Van Gulck Lisa , Verhaeghe Jarne , Steeman Marijke
Published: October 2024

The transition towards sustainable construction is crucial, and demountable building elements are frequently advocated for achieving this goal. While these elements offer relocatability during refurbishments, their adoption may increase initial environmental impact due to higher material use and steel connections. To address this, a quantitative assessment of demountable building elements in refurbishment scenarios at the building level is needed, filling a gap in the existing literature. This study bridges the gap by comparing the total environmental impact of demountable and traditional space-dividing walls in refurbishment scenarios for a semi-detached dwelling. Using a life cycle assessment, seven space-dividing wall types, including metal studs, wood structures, and masonry walls, are evaluated under four refurbishment scenarios spanning a 60-year building lifespan. The results reveal that traditional metal stud walls have a lower environmental impact in scenarios with limited refurbishments. In contrast, demountable walls become more environmentally beneficial only when refurbishing at least 60% of the wall area with three or more refurbishments. This conclusion was further validated through sensitivity analysis on the refurbishment rate, refurbished area, and impact assessment method. In this study, the assumed environmental benefits of demountable walls are challenged, providing a robust evaluation in a specific building typology and offering insights for policymakers and industry professionals on the environmental implications of incorporating demountable building elements.
Flexibility-Constrained Energy Storage System Placement for Flexible Interconnected Distribution Networks
Authors: Jing Zhipeng , Gao Lipo , Mu Yu , Liang Dong
Published: October 2024

Configuring energy storage systems (ESSs) in distribution networks is an effective way to alleviate issues induced by intermittent distributed generation such as transformer overloading and line congestion. However, flexibility has not been fully taken into account when placing ESSs. This paper proposes a novel ESS placement method for flexible interconnected distribution networks considering flexibility constraints. An ESS siting and sizing model is formulated aiming to minimize the life-cycle cost of ESSs along with the annual network loss cost, electricity purchasing cost from the upper-level power grid, photovoltaic (PV) curtailment cost, and ESS scheduling cost while fulfilling various security constraints. Flexible ramp-up/-down constraints of the system are added to improve the ability to adapt to random changes in both power supply and demand sides, while a fluctuation rate of net load constraints is also added for each bus to reduce the net load fluctuation. The nonconvex model is then converted into a second-order cone programming formulation, which can be solved in an efficient manner. The proposed method is evaluated on a modified 33-bus flexible distribution network. The simulation results show that better flexibility can be achieved with slightly increased ESS investment costs. However, a large ESS capacity is needed to reduce the net load fluctuation to low levels, especially when the PV capacity is large.
Study on the Sand Reduction Effect of Slope Vegetation Combination in Loess Areas
Authors: Wang Fucui , Tao Hu , Shi Xi , Bu Shilong , Bao Ziming , Zhang Dezhi
Published: October 2024

Slope erosion in the Loess Plateau region has long been a concern, and vegetation plays an important role in slowing down erosion and controlling sedimentation. However, a single vegetation model shows some limitations when facing complex natural conditions and variable rainfall events. Therefore, this study investigated the influence mechanism of vegetation configuration on slope sand production at different slopes through theoretical analyses and indoor experiments. The results of the study showed that certain factors, such as vegetation configuration mode, flow rate, runoff power, runoff velocity, and runoff shear, are closely related to slope runoff sand production. The specific findings are as follows: (1) Under the condition of slope gradient of 2°, the sand reduction effect of the rigid–flexible single-row staggered configuration is the most significant, and the sediment production is reduced by 29.89%. (2) With the increase in the slope gradient and flow rate, the sand production on the slope surface rises significantly, and when the slope gradient is increased from 2° to 6°, the average sand production is increased from 1.43 kg to 2.51 kg.(3) The erosion reduction effects of different vegetation configurations were in the order of rigid–flexible single-row staggered combination > flexible vegetation single combination > rigid–flexible double-row staggered combination > rigid vegetation single combination > upstream rigid downstream flexible combination > bare slope. This study provides a theoretical basis for optimizing the vegetation configuration for effective sand reduction and provides an important reference for the sustainable development of the Yellow River Basin.
Advancing Global Climate and Biodiversity Goals Through Regenerative Tourism
Authors: Duarte Carlos M. , Cousins Rebecca , Ficociello Maryam A. , Williams Ivor D. , Khowala Aradhana
Published: October 2024

Tourism has a particular responsibility to contribute to climate and biodiversity goals because of its intense use of long-range transport and its strong dependence on natural capital as an asset. Tourism is a major contributor to the global economy, but also to greenhouse gas emissions. The severe impacts of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on the tourism sector triggered a search for enhanced resilience, replacing the past paradigm of “boosterism”, and the dominant paradigm of “sustainable tourism”. Sustainable tourism is no longer sufficient, and a shift towards a new paradigm of regenerative tourism is needed to address the environmental and societal challenges faced by the tourism industry. Here, the evidence pointing at the rise of regenerative tourism as a new paradigm is reviewed, the differential goals of regenerative, relative to sustainable tourism, are defined and actions along five domains of action are identified that can help tourism destinations embrace the transition toward the regenerative tourism paradigm. Regenerative tourism seeks to enhance the natural, cultural and social capital of destinations while creating net positive benefits for people and the planet. It emphasizes collaboration with local communities and an ambitious and holistic approach to sustainability, going beyond reducing negative impacts to creating positive ones. Regenerative tourism aligns the industry, the Paris Agreement, and the Convention on Biological Diversity, while advancing the delivery of the Sustainable Development Goals. The transition to regenerative tourism requires investments in technology and innovation, transparent collaboration, and a holistic focus on well-being for both people and the planet.
The Basic Properties of Lightweight Artificial Aggregates Made with Recycled Concrete Fines
Authors: Gosk Edyta , Kalinowska-Wichrowska Katarzyna , Kosior-Kazberuk Marta , Yildiz Magdalena Joka , Derpeński Łukasz , Zamojski Przemysław , Lipowicz Paweł
Published: October 2024

The production of lightweight aggregate based on waste is an important step towards sustainable and ecological construction. It contributes to reducing the negative impact of the construction sector on the environment by reducing the consumption of natural raw materials and reducing waste of various origins, including rubble concrete. The physical and mechanical properties, including grain shape index, water absorption, bulk density, resistance to crushing, frost resistance, leachability of heavy metals, and porosity of lightweight artificial aggregate made from rubble concrete waste (KRC) were presented in the paper. The obtained test results prove that the proposed artificial aggregate has similar water absorption and bulk density and even better frost and crushing resistance than artificial aggregates available on the market. Due to its properties, it can be used for lightweight concrete, gardening, or as a separating layer in home sewage treatment plants.
Addition of Tannin-Containing Legumes to Native Grasslands: Effects on Enteric Methane Emissions, Nitrogen Losses and Animal Performance of Beef Cattle
Authors: Alecrim Fabiano Barbosa , Devincenzi Thais , Reyno Rafael , Mederos América , Simón Zinno Claudia , Mariotta Julieta , Lattanzi Fernando A. , Nóbrega Gabriel Nuto , Santander Daniel , Gere José Ignacio , Irigoyen Lívia , Ciganda Verónica S.
Published: October 2024

Extensive cattle production on native grasslands is vital to the sustainability of the South American Pampas, and the inclusion of tannin-containing legumes can increase farm profitability, improve nitrogen (N) use and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This study quantified the effects of adding tannin-containing legumes to native grasslands on enteric methane (CH4) emissions, animal performance and N balance in cattle. A crossover design trial was conducted with 22 beef heifers under two treatments: native grassland (NG) and native grassland with the addition of Lotus uliginosus and L. angustissimus (NG+L). The results showed that forage mass disappearance was similar between treatments; however, 54% of the forage disappearance in the NG+L corresponded with legumes, indicating that the heifers in this treatment consumed a better-quality diet. While individual CH4 emissions were similar between treatments, heifers grazing the NG+L showed a higher average daily gain (ADG) and lower emissions intensity than heifers grazing NGs (0.25 vs. 0.58 g CH4/g ADG, p < 0.05). Additionally, they also ingested 20% more N and were more efficient in its utilization. Incorporating tannin-containing legumes into native grasslands can improve animal productivity and N use efficiency while reducing the intensity of enteric CH4 emissions.
Green Financial Policy for Fostering Green Technological Innovation: The Role of Financing Constraints, Science Expenditure, and Heightened Industrial Structure
Authors: Fu Ying , Wang Zhaohan , Wang Yun
Published: October 2024

The environment has become an increasing concern due to the accelerated expansion of the world’s economy. Green finance is a crucial strategy for China to address challenges in fostering green innovation and achieving sustainable development. By employing the difference-in-differences (DID) method, this study assessed the influence of green financial policy (GFP) on green technological innovation (GTI) in the Yangtze River Economic Belt (YREB). The results indicate that GFP significantly improves GTI, especially in cities with a lower level of green finance development, cities with a medium level of GTI, and cities upstream of the Yangtze River. A mechanism analysis found that GFP promotes GTI in the YREB by alleviating financing constraints and increasing science expenditures. However, it fails to improve GTI through the heightened industrial structure. The findings provide empirical proof and policy direction for the reformation of green financing and the achievement of ecological transformation in the river basin economy in accordance with the ‘dual-carbon’ goal.
An Analysis of the Spatiotemporal Distribution and Influencing Factors of National Intangible Cultural Heritage Along the Grand Canal of China
Authors: Shi Ge , Feng Ziying , Zhang Jingran , Xu Jinghai , Chen Yu , Liu Jiahang , Wang Yutong
Published: October 2024

Intangible cultural heritage (ICH) reflects a region’s history and culture, serving as a significant indicator of regional identity and cohesion. The Grand Canal Basin in China is rich in historical traditions, containing a rich array of ICH resources. Analyzing the spatiotemporal distribution characteristics and influencing factors of ICH within the Grand Canal Basin of China can provide a scientific basis for developing cultural industries and promoting sustainable regional economic growth. This study employed GIS-based spatial analysis methods, including kernel density estimation, the mean nearest neighbor index, and standard deviation ellipse, to investigate the spatiotemporal distribution of 504 national-level ICH items (including extensions) in the Grand Canal Basin of China. The results demonstrate the significant spatial clustering of ICH, with concentrations in high-density regions, particularly at the northern and southern ends of the canal. There is significant regional disparity in the distribution of ICH, with an uneven quantity and structure, predominantly featuring traditional skills and traditional drama categories. The average centroid shift of ICH exhibits a north-to-south oscillatory trajectory. However, overall, it demonstrates a southward-moving trend. This study also underscores the impacts of urbanization, population density, economic development, and transportation infrastructure on ICH distribution. Among these factors, urbanization exerts the strongest influence on the spatial distribution of ICH. The impact of the natural environment is relatively minor; however, it remains a significant element that cannot be overlooked during development. This research offers valuable data and insights for local governments and institutions to formulate evidence-based strategies for the protection and sustainable utilization of ICH resources, promoting sustainable cultural and economic development in the Grand Canal Basin.
Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Airbnb Listings in New York City: Challenges and Opportunities for Urban Housing Sustainability
Authors: Choi Seungbee , Kim Sunghwan
Published: October 2024

Short-term rental (STR) platforms like Airbnb have significantly impacted urban housing sustainability, particularly in cities like New York City. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the STR market, raising questions about its resilience and effects on sustainable urban housing. This study addresses the following research questions: (1) How did unit and neighborhood characteristics influence the survival of Airbnb listings during the pandemic? (2) What changes occurred in the factors determining the emergence of new listings during the pandemic? Using data from Inside Airbnb, we applied Cox proportional hazard models and negative binomial regression to analyze changes before and after the pandemic. We found that during the pandemic, price discounts became crucial for listing survival, while traditional quality indicators like superhost status and high ratings lost significance. The importance of subway accessibility decreased, reflecting shifts in traveler preferences. Additionally, new listings were less likely to emerge in high-density Airbnb areas and more likely in neighborhoods with higher crime rates. These findings highlight the need for sustainable regulatory approaches that balance the benefits of STR platforms with protecting housing affordability and community well-being. Our study provides insights for policymakers aiming to promote sustainable urban housing during global crises.
Unraveling the Subsurface Damage and Material Removal Mechanism of Multi-Principal-Element Alloy FeCrNi Coatings During the Scratching Process
Authors: Chen Yuan , Liu Xiubo , Fu Ao , Peng Jing
Published: October 2024

Multi-principal-element alloys (MPEAs) exhibit superior strength and good ductility. However, tribological properties of FeCrNi MPEAs remain unknown at nanoscale and complex environments. Here, we investigate the effects of scratching speed, depth, and temperature on microstructural and tribological characteristics of FeCrNi using molecular dynamics simulations combined with an elevated temperature tribological experiment. The scratching force experiences the increase stage, the undulated stage, and the stable stage due to chip formation. Compared to traditional alloy coatings, low force enhances the useful life. With increased speed, the friction coefficient decreases, agreeing with previous work. High speed impacting includes severe local plastic deformation, from dislocation to amorphization. As the scratching depth increases, the average scratch force and friction coefficient increases owing to material accumulation in front of the abrasive particles. The surface morphology and dislocation behavior are significantly different during the scratching process. In addition, we revealed a temperature-dependent friction mechanism. FeCrNi MPEAs have excellent wear resistance at an intermediate temperature, which is attributed to the high Cr content promoting the formation of the compact oxide layer. This work provides atomic-scale mechanistic insights into the tribological behavior of FeCrNi, and would be applied to the design of MPEAs with high performance.