bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impacts of Renewable Energy Policies on CO2 Emissions Reduction and Energy Security Using System Dynamics: The Case of Small-Scale Sector in Jordan
Authors: Al-Refaie Abbas , Lepkova Natalija
Published: April 2022

Renewable energy policies, such as feed-in-tariffs (FiTs) and subsidy policies, have been reported effective in enhancing the social acceptability to install solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. Nevertheless, a quantitative assessment approach is still needed to measure the extent to which these policies can achieve the clean energy goals and support the decision-making process. This study, therefore, develops system dynamics models to assess the impacts of PV policies on the social acceptability to install PV systems, energy security, and CO2 emission reduction in the small-scale sector in Jordan. Simulation was then conducted from the period 2016 to 2050. The results for the FiTs (subsidy) policies showed that the predicted accumulated PV installations, power generated, and CO2 emission reductions will reach 67.125 (88.38) Gigawatt (GW), 115.853 (152.588) Terra Wh (TWh), and 74.49 (98.114) million tons CO2, respectively. To achieve these goals, the required cumulative FiTs and subsidy policy costs are 2.2 and 7.59 billion USD, respectively. Sensitivity analyses followed to determine the optimal FiTs price and subsidy proportion that optimize PV goals under uncertainty. In conclusion, the developed models are found valuable tools for measuring the impacts of energy policies on PV goals and thereby provide great input information to the decision-making processes when selecting the appropriate energy policies and actions. In the end, adopting FiTs and/or subsidy policies, Jordan is expected to achieve a high level of clean energy security by 2050, which enhances energy capabilities and mitigates global warming. Future research will examine the factors that affect social acceptability for PV systems.
Spatial Measurements and Influencing Factors of Comprehensive Human Development in China
Authors: Li Zaijun , Zheng Xiang , Sarwar Suleman
Published: April 2022

Comprehensive human development is the ultimate goal of achieving a happy life and creating sustainable social development. This study examines 31 provinces in China as the research object, constructs an evaluation index system for comprehensive human development in three dimensions (human–nature, human–society, human–human), and analyzes the spatio-temporal evolution patterns. Barrier and regression analyses are used to identify the main drivers of the levels in different regions. The results show that: (1) China’s level of comprehensive human development has been on the rise since 2005. The level of harmonious development in human–nature and human–society is constantly improving, while the process of harmonious development in the human–human dimension is, relatively, lagging behind. There are large regional differences, with high-level areas being distributed in the northeastern and eastern coastal provinces, while the central and western regions are farther behind. (2) An analysis of the barriers shows that the development of green infrastructure is the main barrier affecting differences in the level of harmonious development in the human–nature dimension. Income distribution, housing problems, and recreation levels are the main barriers affecting differences in the level of harmonious development in the human–society dimension. The level of information technology and aging issues are the main barriers affecting the differences in the level of harmonious development of the human–human dimension. (3) Regression analysis shows that the level of economic development and the degree of openness have a significant impact on the level of comprehensive human development, and that industrialization plays a negative role, while the size of government and the level of marketization have a weak effect on comprehensive human development.
An Internet of Things Embedded Sustainable Supply Chain Management of B2B E-Commerce
Authors: Prajapati Dhirendra , Chan Felix T. S. , Chelladurai H. , Lakshay Lakshay , Pratap Saurabh
Published: April 2022

Adopting digital technologies in a business can help with sustainable supply chain management. These technologies can make e-commerce development faster and empower the emergence of B2B e-commerce businesses. In this study, our focus was to develop a framework for an Internet of things (IoT) embedded sustainable supply chain to deliver textile items using a B2B e-commerce business model. We formulated a mixed-integer non-linear programming (MINLP) model to minimize the total supply chain cost, including the B2B orders’ packaging, handling, and transportation, with carbon emission taxation. Furthermore, the purchasing cost of the RFID tags and IoT facilities that were provided on the transport vehicles was high. The proposed model was solved by using the global solver in the LINGO software package and finding the optimized value of the total supply chain network cost. We tested the proposed model in different case scenarios, i.e., small- to significant-sized problems. Then, a sensitivity analysis was performed to observe the variations in the overall cost of the supply chain network when there were changes in the main parameters of the proposed model. The results of the models showed that models can be helpful for efficient logistics planning and supply chain design.
Enhancing the Utility of Dietary Moringa oleifera Leaf Meal for Sustainable Jumbo quail (Coturnix sp.) Production
Authors: Mulaudzi Anzai , Mnisi Caven Mguvane , Mlambo Victor
Published: April 2022

The effect of pre-treating Moringa oleifera leaf powder (MOLP) with different levels of polyethylene glycol (PEG) on the growth performance, serum biochemistry, hematology, and meat quality parameters of Jumbo quail was evaluated. Two-week-old quail chicks (n = 432; 239.6 ± 6.48 g live-weight) were randomly allocated to six diets formulated by incorporating (10% w/w) untreated MOLP (PEG0) or MOLP pre-treated with PEG at 2.5% (PEG25), 5% (PEG50), 7.5% (PEG75), and 10% (PEG100) (w/w) into a standard grower diet (CON). Overall feed intake linearly increased with PEG levels. At week 4, significant quadratic trends were recorded for weight gain and feed conversion efficiency (FCE) but, at week 5, FCE linearly declined as PEG levels increased. Hemoglobin, phosphorus, and albumin showed quadratic trends, while calcium and chroma (1 h post-mortem) linearly declined in response to PEG levels. Diet PEG50 promoted a higher shear force value (2.41) than diets PEG0 and PEG25. The PEG50 diet promoted a similar (p > 0.05) shear force as diet CON. Based on the quadratic response for weight gain, the optimal PEG pre-treatment level was calculated to be 5.9%. It was concluded that MOLP condensed tannins negatively affect growth performance and should be ameliorated to enhance the utility of this nutraceutical source for Jumbo quail.
Proposal of a Methodology for Assessing Financial Risks and Investment Development for Sustainability of Enterprises in Slovakia
Authors: Tobisova Alica , Senova Andrea , Izarikova Gabriela , Krutakova Ivana
Published: April 2022

Investments are a demanding and, at the same time, threatening indicator for enterprises not only in the time of depression such as the current coronavirus pandemic but also under normal market conditions. The goal of this article is to propose a methodology for assessing financial risks and investment development. The proposed methodology integrates the use of new modern and classical economic-statistical methods, which makes it an effective tool for the sustainability of enterprises. At the same time, the methodology can be used as an auxiliary tool for enterprise management in the investment decision-making process. In the first step, a methodology was created using a commercial software tool where the pdevelopment of the cash-flow indicator and the accumulated cash flow were modeled in order to calculate the net present value (NPV). The statistical modeling was performed using the one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). The normality was monitored using the Shapiro–Wilk test, and the Kruskal–Wallis test was chosen as the non-parametric test. The deliverable of the applied methods was the creation of a mathematical model in the form of an algorithm that is applicable in different enterprises in Slovakia.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Agricultural Modernization Levels
Authors: Zhang Zhixin , Li Yingjie , Elahi Ehsan , Wang Yameng
Published: April 2022

Agricultural modernization is the most important task of modernization construction. This study used the multi-index comprehensive measurement method to estimate the agricultural modernization level of Shandong Province from 2010 to 2019. Regional differences were analyzed using the ESDA method, and the main obstacles were diagnosed using the obstacle degree model. This paper constructs an index system, including an agricultural production system, a management system, an industrial system, output benefits, rural social development, and agricultural sustainable development. The results showed that the level of agricultural modernization in Shandong Province was divided into three stages: decelerating ascent (2010–2013), accelerating ascent (2014–2016), and high-level fluctuation (2017–2019). Results found that the scores of the agricultural production system, rural development level, and agricultural industrial system peaked in 2017.The regional difference in the agricultural modernization level of Shandong Province is high in the north and low in the south of China. The main obstacles in the rising stage of agricultural modernization in Shandong Province are the proportion of the added value of agriculture, forestry, fishery, and animal husbandry service; the amount of fertilizer and pesticide used per land area; the total power of units farmland machinery; the high-level fluctuation order are shelterbelt construction rate; the proportion of livestock production value; rural per capita electricity consumption; and rural employment rate. The average arable land per household and the employment rate of the rural population are the key obstacles to high levels of agricultural modernization. Therefore, optimizing industrial structure, improving the input of productive factors, cultivating a high-quality rural labor force, improving the efficiency of agricultural funds use, and awareness of the sustainable development of agriculture are all suggested.
Leadership in Sustainability: Collective Wisdom, Conversations, Creativity, Contemplation and Courage, the Five Pillars of a Master’s Teaching Unit
Authors: Mouritz Mike , Newman Peter , Newman Renée , Bryant Jayne , Smith Aimee , Olsen Elaine
Published: April 2022

This paper provides an overview of insights and lessons learned from nearly 20 years of running a Master’s unit called Leadership in Sustainability and how it has been used to foster change agents in small business enterprises, as well as other parts of our economy and community. The unit is based on five ‘C’ pillars, which are discussed in this paper to show how the teaching was able to assist potential leaders in their journey towards sustainability. Collective Wisdom is the theory of how leaders have used their imagination to solve collective ‘wicked problems’ and how sustainability requires such wisdom. The unit covers such theory from innovation, complexity, leadership, management and sustainability literatures, and the students are required to show they used this in solving a problem. Conversations are the main tool that is used because only through integrating diverse opinions have solutions been found to such problems as sustainability. The unit is based around case studies from leaders (including SMEs) who have approached sustainability from various perspectives, and conversations were created with the leaders to illustrate this. Creativity is introduced as a tool that draws upon different layers of perspectives on how to tackle wicked problems, as well as facilitating the breadth of conversations and actions required to solve them. The unit requires students to make a creativity contribution and the teachers provide assistance in how to make this work. Contemplation is designed to show how leadership requires reflection to enable the creativity and conversations to reach the depth and breadth required. The unit introduces students to the Theory-U tools to help instil the link between creativity and reflection or contemplation in addressing sustainability challenges and enabling leadership that creates change in personal, organizational and social systems. Finally, Courage is shown as a necessary part of the role of a leader in sustainability to make the magic of collective and creative solutions, based on conversations and contemplation, come to life through a demonstration-based transition.
Measurement and Spatial Correlations of Green Total Factor Productivities of Chinese Provinces
Authors: Zhang Huaping , Dong Yue
Published: April 2022

The measurement of green total factor productivity (GTFP) helps to improve environmental evaluation and to supervise environmental protection. This article establishes a system of assessment indicators (AIS) for GTFP and computes the GTFPs of 30 provinces of China from 2000–2019, using the evidence-based measure (EBM) model. Then, the spatial correlation between provincial GTFPs was analyzed and the convergence between them was discussed with spatial panel data. The main results are as follows: China faces a regional difference in GTFP. In general, GTFP descends stepwise from east to west. The 30 Chinese provinces vary significantly in GTFP. The high GTFP provinces are concentrated in the east, and the low GTFP ones mainly exist in the west. According to Global Moran’s I, an indicator of spatial correlation, China’s GTFPs bear prominent features of spatial clustering. The spatial clustering of China’s GTFPs has a significant impact on GTFP convergence. If this spatial effect is considered in traditional convergence models, the GTFP convergence rate can be measured more correctly. The provincial GTFPs show a significant absolute beta convergence, the rate of which reached 0.943% in the research period. Among the various impactors of GTFP, industrial structure and technical innovation significantly enhance GTFP convergence; opening-up and urbanization level significantly suppress GTFP convergence; environmental governance does not significantly affect GTFP convergence. Unlike the previous studies, this paper includes the spatial effect in traditional convergence models to obtain spatial convergence models. The GTFP convergence measured by our spatial convergence models was slower than that measured by the traditional model, suggesting that the spatial effect plays a significant role in GTFP convergence. In addition, this paper proves that the GTFP gap between Chinese provinces has narrowed gradually. This absolute convergence trend of GTFPs provides the key basis for the catch-up effect of the green economy. To improve the convergence of China’s provincial GTFPs, it is important to fully consider the varied effects of factors such as industrial structure, technical innovation, opening-up, urbanization, and environmental governance, and to formulate green development policies according to local conditions.
A Unified Inner Current Control Strategy Based on the 2-DOF Theory for a Multifunctional Cascade Converter in an Integrated Microgrid System
Authors: Wan Jiexing , Hua Wei , Wang Baoan
Published: April 2022

Wider applications of integrated microgrids have been significantly restricted by converters with the sole function of power regulation. In microgrids with distributed generation and energy storage equipment, it is crucial for converters to be capable of reactive power compensation, harmonic suppression, voltage support, and other functions simultaneously. To achieve this, it is essential to modify the discrepancy between different control modes, both in control architectures and input signals. However, previous researches have focused on the stability and robustness of the system’s operation, rather than the instantaneous tracking performance of instructions during the mode switching. Instead, a unified control strategy based on the two-degree-of-freedom theory is conceived in this paper, to impose no reconfiguration of the inner current loop, so that the inherent stability can be guaranteed. In the proposed strategy, mode transition is replaced by the readjustment of referring instructions, and the complex tuning of filter parameters is abandoned. Thus, a desirable performance in a wide range of operating conditions for the microgrid system is provided and the effects of the disturbances associated with the mode transitions are eliminated. The simulations studied in MATLAB and experimental evaluations of the prototype both corroborate the simplicity and effectiveness.
Pre- and Post-Activity Anxiety for Sustainable Rafting
Authors: Faria João , Quaresma Luis , Cataldi Stefania , Clemente Filipe Manuel , Bonavolontà Valerio , Badicu Georgian , Greco Gianpiero , Brandão António , De Candia Michele , Frontini Roberta , Latino Francesca , Fischetti Francesco
Published: April 2022

This study aimed to (i) analyze the levels of state-anxiety of rafting customers, before and after the activity; and (ii) characterize the levels of trait-anxiety and the amount of physical activity performed weekly by clients of a rafting activity. The sample had 100 subjects of a nature sports company, in the rafting activity, with a mean age of 33.27 ± 10.10 years, with 44% female and 56% male participants. They were evaluated in two moments M1 (pre-activity) and M2 (post-activity). In M1, the STAI—State-Anxiety questionnaire and the IPAQ—International Physical Activity Questionnaire (short version) were applied. In M2, the STAI Form 1 State-Anxiety questionnaire was applied again, followed by the STAI trait-anxiety. The results showed no correlation between the amount of weekly physical activity and levels of trait-anxiety (rho(100) = −0.144; p-value = 0.152), thus not corroborating with the existing literature. Regarding state-anxiety, we found that in 55% of cases, it decreased with the practice of rafting, which suggests that the practice may have an anxiolytic effect and promote the well-being and relaxation of participants promoting, in this way, the sustainability of the rafting activity.
Coupling DFIG-Based Wind Turbines with the Grid under Voltage Imbalance Conditions
Authors: Sobhy Ahmed , Abo-Khalil Ahmed G. , Lei Dong , Salameh Tareq , Merabet Adel , Alkasrawi Malek
Published: April 2022

A smooth coupling is implemented between the grid and doubly fed induction generator-based wind turbines (DFIG-WTs) during grid voltage imbalance. The nonlinear characteristics of a grid-connected DFIG-WT system may increase stresses on the mechanical and electrical components of wind turbines. Such difficulties are greatly increased during periods of voltage imbalance. Consequently, in this paper, a new control scheme is proposed to regulate DFIGs in order to support a smooth connection to the grid during voltage imbalance. In synchronization mode, the positive sequence of the rotor dq-axes currents regulates the stator q-axis EMF that is to be synchronized with the q-axis voltage of the grid-side voltage. The phase difference between the grid and stator voltages is compensated by adjusting the stator d-axis EMF to zero. Under normal conditions, a PR controller is used to dampen the negative sequence of the rotor dq-axes currents. PI current controllers are tuned to control the positive sequence of the DFIG rotor currents, while PR current controllers are used to regulate the negative sequence of the rotor currents during synchronization and under normal operation conditions. Experiments are performed to verify the smooth synchronization of the DFIG and the robustness of the proposed control scheme during grid voltage imbalance.
Thermal Investigation and Optimized Design of a Novel Solar Self-Driven Thermomechanical Actuator
Authors: Osman Ibrahim Sufian , Hariri Nasir Ghazi
Published: April 2022

As the world moves toward cleaner and greener sources of energy, the use of solar energy appeals the most for countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, since they have an abundant amount of solar radiation throughout the year. This paper offers a novel design for a shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator that uses solar energy to trigger thermomechanical behavior. Additionally, the proposed design of the thermomechanical actuator aims to be a piston-based linear actuator covered by a solar heat collector (SHC). Furthermore, the thermal behavior of the actuator has been studied in detail using a simulation-based study under the real-time weather conditions of Dammam city, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). The thermal study proves that the optimized design of the thermomechanical actuator has achieved a minimum daily temperature variation of 10 °C, which enables the SMA-based thermomechanical actuator to operate in a daily manner throughout the year. Moreover, the presented numerical results show that the proposed thermomechanical actuator requires a twice-maintenance routine yearly. Additionally, it has been observed that the SHC, which is the central part of the designed thermomechanical actuator, can increase the temperature inside the actuator by about 15 °C more than ambient temperature. The proposed study adds to the body of knowledge a design for a passive, solar-driven, and self-actuating smart thermomechanical SMA actuator that is capable of integration with various solar applications, such as the cleaning and tracking of photovoltaic systems.
Entrepreneurial Orientation and Organizational Performance of Online Business in Malaysia: The Mediating Role of the Knowledge Management Process
Authors: Adam Sabrinah , Fuzi Nursyazwani Mohd , Ramdan Mohamad Rohieszan , Mat Isa Rosmah , Ismail Albert Feisal Muhd Feisal , Hashim Mohd Yussni , Ong Sharon Yong Yee , Ramlee Shah Iskandar Fahmie
Published: April 2022

The aim of this paper is to examine the role of the knowledge management process as a mediating variable in the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation and organizational performance. This study employed a quantitative method and utilised a self-administered questionnaire. A total of 350 data were collected from the owners/founders of online businesses. A Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) analysis was performed to test the proposed hypotheses of the study. The findings indicated that entrepreneurial orientation positively the knowledge management process, which in turn exerts a positive effect on the organizational performance of a company. Additionally, the indirect effect analysis revealed that the knowledge management process plays a significant role as a mediator between entrepreneurial orientation and organizational performance. The research fills a gap in the literature by considering a mediating variable in enhancing the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation and organizational performance. This research also provides a particular contribution to the literature and some suggestions for future research.
Novel Sustainable Castor Oil-Based Polyurethane Biocomposites Reinforced with Piassava Fiber Powder Waste for High-Performance Coating Floor
Authors: Carvalho Juliana Peixoto Rufino Gazem de , Simonassi Noan Tonini , Lopes Felipe Perissé Duarte , Monteiro Sergio Neves , Vieira Carlos Maurício Fontes
Published: April 2022

The search for new greener materials that contribute to a more sustainable world motivated the present study in which novel biocomposites with 10, 20 and 30 vol% of piassava fiber powder waste reinforcing castor oil-based polyurethane (COPU) intended for a high-performance coated floor (HPCF) were developed. The novel biocomposites were characterized by flexural, Izod impact and wear standard tests as well as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and fracture analysis using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Both flexural modulus and strength displayed marked increases reaching more than 800 and 500%, respectively, compared to plain COPU for 30 vol% piassava powder incorporation. FTIR bands indicated the existence of interaction between the piassava constituents and COPU. However, SEM fractographs disclosed the presence of bubbles attributed to retained gases during the COPU curing. Consequently, the Izod impact resistance showed a 50% decrease while the wear was more than three times accentuated for 30 vol% piassava powder biocomposite. These results met the specified values of corresponding standards and revealed a promising new greener material for HPCFs.
Decadal Change of Meiyu Onset over Yangtze River and Its Causes
Authors: Qian Yong , Hsu Pangchi , Fu Zhen , Liu Yunyun , Li Qiaoping
Published: April 2022

Meiyu onset marks the beginning of the rainfall season in the densely populated Yangtze River Basin, whether the Meiyu initiates early or late in June, and thus has a profound effect on the several hundred million people living there. Applying a Bayesian change-point analysis to data from 1960–2014, we objectively detected an abrupt change of Meiyu onset around 2002. The Meiyu onset date averaged over 2002–2014 was 19 June, delayed by about two weeks compared to that of 1989–2001 (6 June). This decadal change is attributable to the distinct amplitude of moisture transport toward the Yangtze River Basin induced by the changes in climatological intraseasonal oscillation (CISO). The CISO emerges as the annual cycle interacts with the transient intraseasonal perturbations. The wet/dry phases of the CISO are consistent with the climatological active/break stages of the East Asian summer monsoon. In early June, the northwestward-propagating CISO convective/cyclonic anomalies over the western North Pacific (WNP) show weaker amplitude during the earlier-onset epoch compared to the delayed-onset epoch. Thus, relative to the delayed onset epoch, a quasi-barotropic anticyclonic CISO anomaly appears over the WNP in early June during the earlier-onset years. This anticyclonic anomaly was conducive to the westward extension of the WNP subtropical high, conveying warm, moist air from the tropics toward the Yangtze River Basin for the rainy season onset. Model experiments suggest that the decadal changes in WNP CISO intensity were associated with the epochal changes in large-scale background circulation and sea surface temperature over the WNP.
The Impact of E-Commerce on the Labor Market
Authors: Bănescu Carmen-Elena , Țițan Emilia , Manea Daniela
Published: April 2022

E-commerce is one of the industrial sectors created as a result of technological progress, and has created new jobs for the economy. However, this sector is conditioned not only by the level of digitalization of each state, but also by the speed of integration of technology in the business environment. The main purpose of the article is to present the impact of e-Commerce development on the labor market. It also considers impact on the labor market of human capital with advanced technological skills. It focuses on data from a particular period situated between two major crises (the economic crisis of 2008 and the health crisis of 2020). We want to know to what extent a technology-created sector can compensate for technological unemployment. To test the working hypothesis, we developed a panel regression model for a sample of 28 European states. The results indicate that 99.5% of the variation in the labor market activity rate of people aged 15 to 64 years in the selected sample of states is explained by the model. This confirms that the development of e-Commerce and an increase in the percentage of technology-specialized human resources contribute to the increase in activity rate in the labor market. As a result, the labor market must be assisted in keeping up with technology by restructuring the education system, or introducing courses that maintain competitiveness and continuous development.
Managing Knowledge Resources in Family Firms: Opportunity or Challenge?
Authors: Belkhodja Omar
Published: April 2022

The purpose of this study was to explore the specificities of the relationship between knowledge management (KM) processes and the potential and realized absorptive capacities in the context of a knowledge-based view. The paper advances our understanding of the contributions of knowledge management processes and the potential and realized absorptive capacities in small- and medium-sized family firms. We draw on case studies of two small- and medium-sized family businesses operating in different industries. Our results show that the choice of the KM approach and the family business characteristics determine the extent to which a family firm is successful in managing its knowledge processes and absorptive capacity. Moreover, the results indicate that family businesses are impacted by their own characteristics, such as the fact that they do not dissociate between the personalities of the owners and the business, and are context-specific. Since the focus of this research was limited to KM processes and absorptive capacity, it would be beneficial for future research to investigate the mechanisms that enable firms to manage their potential and realized absorptive capacities and the extent to which they generate dynamic capabilities through KM processes. Further studies of the impacts of family business characteristics on the firm’s success in managing knowledge resources are also recommended.
Examine the Economic and Social Effects on Lao People’s Perceived Benefit Attitudes towards BRI
Authors: Khamphengvong Visansack , Zhang Hongou , Wu Qitao , Thavisay Toulany
Published: April 2022

The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) plays a vital role in mobilizing economic and social development and improving national and international connectivity. This research proposes to examine residents’ perceptions of economic and social effects of BRI in Lao PDR. Moreover, it attempts to test the moderating effect of location. A total of 412 survey responses were collected across the country via online survey, and structural equation modeling and multi-group analysis were used to estimate a research model and moderation. The findings reveal that both economic and social determinants have a positive influence on perceived benefit attitudes towards BRI. Specifically, education, tourism, and foreign direct investment (FDI) are the main drivers of the socio-economic benefits, whereas employment and living standards are not. The result confirms the nonexistence of the moderating effect of the location. Our study sheds light on the knowledge of BRI in the Lao PDR context by examining the socio-economic determinants on the perceptions of the local citizens and the moderating effect of location. The government and BRI authority are informed about the factors that explain the benefit of BRI; this information will be useful for future studies.
Planning for Climate Change in Small Island Developing States: Can Dominica’s Climate Resilience and Recovery Plan Be a Model for Transformation in the Caribbean?
Authors: Robinson Stacy-ann , Butchart Conall
Published: April 2022

In response to a series of historical and contemporary extreme weather events, Dominica, a small island developing state (SIDS) in the Caribbean, is pursuing an objective of climate resilience by 2030. In 2018, the Government developed the Climate Resilience and Recovery Plan 2020–2030 (CRRP) in the context of its National Resilience Development Strategy. These policy responses have been hailed as transformational. In this paper, we focus on the CRRP and investigate its quality. To achieve this, we conduct a desk-based qualitative assessment of the CRRP’s (1) information base; (2) vision, goals and objectives; (3) priorities and options; (4) actions and implementation; and (5) monitoring and evaluation. We find that the CRRP is strongest on (1) and (3), which is not uncommon for similar policies. We also discuss whether it can be a model for transformation in the Caribbean, given the region’s long history with trying to recover from and build resilience to disasters. We conclude that, in order for it to be used as a model, there are three key factors that other jurisdictions would need to consider. The first consideration is developing mechanisms for equitably sharing any benefits derived from the blue economy. The second consideration is centering Indigenous perspectives in environmental policy- and decision-making. The third consideration is adequately accounting for exogenous, unexpected risks. Given these three considerations, we see this study as contributing to discussions about what constitutes good policy in a SIDS context, which is an underexplored area in the existing academic literature.
Sustainability Assessment of Municipal Solid Waste in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in the Framework of Circular Economy Transition
Authors: Aldhafeeri Zaid M. , Alhazmi Hatem
Published: April 2022

Life cycle assessment (LCA) tools can be used for the environmental assessment of municipal solid waste management (MSWM) systems. The present study aims to evaluate the impact of an MSWM system in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, under three different scenarios based on the Strategy for 2045 of Riyadh. The current scenario (S0) considers that municipal solid waste (MSW) is landfilled, scenario one (S1) considers waste to energy (WtE) as the main treatment while dry recyclables and organic waste collection schemes are introduced, and scenario two (S2) considers dry recyclables and organic waste collection schemes at the maximum level while the residual portion is treated as WtE. The system boundaries include MSW treatment and disposal by recycling, incineration, composting, and landfilling methods. The scenarios were compared using SimaPro 9.1.1.1 software, and the ReCiPe 2016 Midpoint (H) V1.04/World (2010) H method was used to assess global warming, ozone formation (human health), fine particulate matter formation, terrestrial acidification, freshwater eutrophication, mineral resource scarcity, and fossil resource scarcity. S0 was found to be the scenario with the least impact if considering just the waste treatment. However, S1 and S2 allow material and energy recovery that avoids the impact of obtaining primary resources. S1 and S2 reduced greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions by 55% and 58%, respectively, compared to S0. According to the SV2030, 2% of the electricity generated by the Kingdom would have to come from WtE, but based on the calculations, the maximum electricity from waste would be obtained with S1 fully implemented and would contribute a maximum of 1.51% to Saudi Arabia’s electricity demand. This study contributes by providing useful insights that could help decision-makers to understand the potential environmental impacts by assessing each step considered by the Strategy for 2045 for Riyadh along with the consequences on material and energy supply by using the material and energy potential of MSW.
Design and Optimization of Fractional Order PID Controller to Enhance Energy Storage System Contribution for Damping Low-Frequency Oscillation in Power Systems Integrated with High Penetration of Renewable Sources
Authors: Abumeteir Hasan Ali , Vural Ahmet Mete
Published: April 2022

This paper proposes adding a controller to the energy storage system (ESS) to enhance their contribution for damping low-frequency oscillation (LFO) in power systems integrated with high penetration of different types of renewable energy sources (RES). For instance, wind turbines and photovoltaic (PV) solar systems. This work proposes superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMES) as an ESS. The proportional–integral–derivative (PID) and fractional-order PID (FOPID) are suggested as supporter controllers with SMES. The PID and FOPID controller’s optimal values will be obtained using particle swarm optimization (PSO) is used as the optimization method. Both local area and inter-area oscillation is considered in this work as a LFO. To investigate the impact of adding the SMES with the proposed controller, a multimachine power system with different integration scenarios and cases is carried out with a PV system and wind turbine. The system responses are presented and discussed to show the superiority of the proposed controller both in the time domain and by eigenvalues analysis.
How Did It Get So Late So Soon? The Effects of Time Management Knowledge and Practice on Students’ Time Management Skills and Academic Performance
Authors: Trentepohl Sebastian , Waldeyer Julia , Fleischer Jens , Roelle Julian , Leutner Detlev , Wirth Joachim
Published: April 2022

Time management is regarded as an important prerequisite for effective and efficient learning in higher education. However, university students’ time management frequently proves to be deficient, especially with freshman students, who can therefore benefit from appropriate time management interventions. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of an intervention focused on imparting time management knowledge with those of an intervention focused on time management practice. We conducted an experiment with N = 118 university students who took part in a course over the duration of one semester. Participants with a time management deficit at the beginning of the semester (n = 88) were randomly assigned to one of three experimental conditions: (a) time management knowledge, (b) time management practice, (c) control group. Exam scores at the end of the semester were considered as an indicator of participants’ academic performance. The results showed significant time management improvements for both time management intervention groups, but the time management practice group appeared superior. Academic performance was better in the time management practice group also, although the results were inconsistent. The effect of time management practice on academic performance was mediated by students’ time management skills.
Parking Assessment in the Context of Growing Construction Activity and Infrastructure Changes: Simulation of Impact Scenarios
Authors: Samaranayake Premaratne , Gunawardana Upul
Published: April 2022

This paper investigates the impact of construction activity and associated parking on the overall parking behaviour of a rapidly changing metropolitan city. The study adopted the modelling and simulation of baseline and impact scenarios of increasing demand, changing parking infrastructure and limited on-street parking supply. Results indicate that construction and population growth, as well as limited parking capacities, will have a significant impact on overall parking behaviour. Furthermore, the proximity to the construction site was identified as an important consideration in carpark location choice. These findings suggest that decisions on capacity and locations should be based on critical factors, including the behaviour of various users and loads. This study has implications for policymakers on the provision and selection of parking infrastructure for a range of users. Outcomes of this research have directly influenced the planning framework for the Parramatta Light Rail project, future zoning, and infrastructure development in Parramatta. These findings can be used for recommendations on developing travel demand management (TDM) strategies for various stakeholders, depending on the context of parking demand, supply, and future changes. However, the study is limited to surveys of actual parking demand without considering latent demand during the peak period of the day.
Agricultural Land: Crop Production or Photovoltaic Power Plants
Authors: Havrysh Valerii , Kalinichenko Antonina , Szafranek Edyta , Hruban Vasyl
Published: April 2022

Mitigation of climate change requires a decrease in greenhouse gas emissions. It motivates an increase in renewable electricity generation. Farmers can develop renewable energy and increase their profitability by allocating agricultural land to PV power plants. This transition from crop production to electricity generation needs ecological and economic assessment from alternative land utilization. The novelty of this study is an integrated assessment that links economic and environmental (carbon dioxide emissions) indicators. They were calculated for crop production and solar power generation in a semi-arid zone. The results showed that gross income (crop production) ranges from USD 508/ha to USD 1389/ha. PV plants can generate up to 794 MWh/ha. Their market cost is EUR 82,000, and their production costs are less than wholesale prices in Ukrainian. The profitability index of a PV project ranges from 1.26 (a discount range is 10%) to 3.24 (a discount rate is 0). The sensitivity analysis was carried out for six variables. For each chosen variable, we found its switching value. It was revealed that the most sensitive variable is a feed-in tariff. Operational expenses and investment costs are the most sensitive variables. Carbon dioxide footprints range from 500 to 3200 kgCO2/ha (depending on the crop). A 618 kW PV plant causes a release of carbon dioxide in the range of 5.2–11.4 gCO2/kWh. The calculated carbon dioxide payback period varies from 5 to 10 months.
Macroeconomic Effects of COVID-19 Pandemic: Fresh Evidence from Korea
Authors: He Yugang , Wang Yinhui
Published: April 2022

Korea’s economy has suffered greatly as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on such a background, this paper investigates the macroeconomic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Via impulse response function analysis, the results reveal that the COVID-19 pandemic has a considerable short-term influence on Korea’s key macroeconomic variables, while its long-term effects are not significant. As a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic, total demand in Korea has decreased. It is mostly reflected in the lower consumption and investment demand. Simultaneously, this has put increased pressure on inflation and unemployment. Moreover, the results also show that government investment expenditure and monetary policy may, to some degree, ameliorate the status of consumption demand. Meanwhile, they may alleviate employment pressures in order to boost output. In reality, both have some negative consequences. Based on the evidence presented in this article, the Korean government may implement appropriate policies to ensure the smooth functioning of the Korean macroeconomy.
Feasibility Analysis of Mortar Development with Ornamental Rock Waste for Coating Application by Mechanized Projection
Authors: Paes Ana Luiza , Alexandre Jonas , Xavier Gustavo de Castro , Monteiro Sérgio Neves , de Azevedo Afonso Rangel Garcez
Published: April 2022

The industrial production of lime generates greenhouse gases, which contributes to increase the global warming. Therefore, the present study evaluated the feasibility of replacing lime by ornamental rock waste (ORW) as a by-product of the related stone industry, and developed a cost-effective mortars. These new low-costing mortars are intended as fresh fluid paste coatings to be applied on walls by the mechanized projection technique. The ornamental rock waste was collected from a marble and granite industry as ground stone. It was finely crushed before mixing with cement, sand, water and superplasticizer in amounts of 1.0% (R01), 1.2% (R02) and 1.3% (R03), to prepare the mortars, which had the mixture, cement: ORW: sand, 1:1:4 in wt.%. These novel mortars were characterized in both fresh, for well projection, and hardened state, to evaluate the properties after curing performance. The results showed that mortar R03, achieved the best results and did not present cracks in the hardened state. Its water retention was found above 30%. Both tensile strength of 0.312 MPa and compressive strength 7.88 MPa, which are above the corresponding minimum required by the standard for external coating. Water absorption by immersion of 19.37% and void content of 20.23% were close to the corresponding values for hydrated lime mortar. Dry shrinkage showed that the new R03 mortar reached more than 90% of their total retraction at 7 days of cure without sign of cracking. These findings revealed the R03/ornamental rock waste -based mortar applied by mechanized projection as a promising sustainable substitute for common lime-based mortar.
Education for Sustainable Development in Higher Education Rankings: Challenges and Opportunities for Developing Internationally Comparable Indicators
Authors: Veidemane Anete
Published: April 2022

As more higher education institutions strive to embed sustainable development principles in their teaching, it becomes increasingly important to identify indicators that can measure institutional contribution in a meaningful and internationally comparable manner. This paper shows that existing sustainability rankings, such as the UI Green Metric and THE Impact ranking, have paid relatively little attention to indicators on Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). In a quest to develop such indicators for U-Multirank—the multi-dimensional transparency and ranking tool—we reviewed the literature, consulted experts, and ran a survey amongst practitioners. This article summarises opportunities and challenges for developing internationally comparable ESD indicators in the higher education sector, discussing indicator relevance, validity, and feasibility. The results suggest that (i) ESD indicators are considered highly relevant by diverse stakeholders; (ii) the majority of HEIs surveyed are planning to collect ESD data within 3 years, signalling good prospects for data feasibility; (iii) the ESD indicators proposed so far still lack criteria that would allow one to sufficiently identify and compare these indicators across countries, inhibiting indicator validity. At least three potential definitions are used by HEIs. The results of this paper can contribute to the discussion on identifying appropriate criteria for the development of ESD indicators and their use in international rankings.
Organizational Support of Working from Home: Aftermath of COVID-19 from the Perspective of Workers and Leaders
Authors: Kohont Andrej , Ignjatović Miroljub
Published: April 2022

(1) The objective of this study is to analyze working from home (WFH) arrangements implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic. We are focusing on: 1. The main challenges and differences in WFH arrangements, compared to regular work before the pandemic. 2. The scope of WFH workload and its potential negative effects on workers’ well-being and reconciliation of work and family. 3. Organizational support to workers WFH, including communication with co-workers, IT specialists, and leaders, and required competence to perform WFH. 4. Organization support of work process, including data access, provision of IT, and work supervision. (2) The research is based on structured interviews with 102 employees and leaders of WFH in the second wave of COVID-19 in Slovenia. (3) Results strongly confirm previous research and emphasize that the pandemic has suddenly completely changed the WFH by placing a much greater accent on work–family reconciliation, communication among co-workers and leaders, work organization, workload, and organizational support. (4) Identified WFH practices developed during the pandemic will help individuals and businesses to optimize WFH and hybrid work, which is on the rise.