bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A Spatial Analysis Methodology for the examination of Solar, Wind and Sky View Conditions in Traditional Squares of the Eastern Mediterranean Region
Authors: Savvides A , Malaktou E , Philokyprou M , Michael A 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
The study of microclimatic conditions, their ability to form determinant parameters of urban morphologies and their impact on the choices for the social interaction of dwellers, has been of increased interest to researchers over the last decades. In this context, spatial analysis methods for assessing the microclimate in public spaces, which can be exploited as means for improving the quality of life in the built environment, are increasingly used. In the framework of this study a spatial analysis methodology of solar, wind and sky view considerations was followed involving public open spaces, i.e., squares, in traditional settlements of Cyprus. Based on this investigation, the study presented herein focused on the spatial examination of the solar, wind and sky view conditions in three typical traditional case-study squares in different climatic regions of Cyprus, pertaining to the Mediterranean climate. The purpose of the study is to discern the potentials and limitations of various traditional built form structured outlines with respect to climate-conscious design, but more importantly to present qualitative comfort assessment tools which allow a spatial – visual perception of the parameters affecting thermal comfort. The assessment methodology which has been applied is based on seasonal image processing techniques of solar, wind and sky view factor parameters. The resulting thermal comfort maps open the road for a major advance in assessing outdoor open spaces through bioclimatic principles and can be used as tool by architects and planners to identify outdoor public spaces that require design interventions or as an initial design step in implementing new climate-based outdoor public spaces.
SolVis: A pilot study to facilitate understanding of real-time solar energy production through energy visualizations in learning environments
Authors: Zachrisson L , Stahre Wästberg B , Engström A , Beneduce L , Larsson C , Thuvander L 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
The transition to a carbon neutral society requires actions on all levels of society. Hereby, renewable energy - especially considering the current European energy crisis – such as solar energy will play an increasing role. To promote a more extensive use of solar energy and thus contributing to a faster energy transition, it is valuable to engage all citizens, not least children. How can real-time visualization of solar energy production in learning environments contribute to increased understanding of energy production and consumption? Educational environments can be a powerful platform to cultivate an interest in more environmentally and sustainable behaviour at an early age. However, energy is intangible, abstract, and difficult to grasp for non-experts. Digital tools incorporating energy visualization may be able to facilitate an increased understanding of energy units and measurements. The City of Gothenburg, Sweden, has the ambition to place photovoltaics on all roofs of schools and kindergartens, a process that is already in progress. The solar energy production is measured in real-time and only used for building operation management. This paper presents a study that develops a concept for a digital and educational visualization tool for school children aged 9 to 12, with the goal to engage, facilitate a lasting learning outcome, and awaken curiosity in solar energy. A prototype of a real-time visualization tool was developed, which in a playful way visualises the solar electricity production of the school property and compares it to the energy consumption of everyday activities, displayed on a centrally placed screen in the school. It was installed in four pilot schools and evaluated with 233 pupils. Results indicate several potentials of the visualization: to communicate local solar energy production to pupils, triggering thoughts, ideas, and a will to continue to learn more about solar energy production.
Integration of Indoor Air Quality to the Life Cycle Assessment of Buildings
Authors: Bhoonah Rachna , Maury-Micolier Alice , Jolliet Olivier 
Published: June 2023

AbstractPollutants – gases or particles – are emitted in indoor air by different sources such as building materials, furniture, occupants and their activities. Spending over 80 % of our time indoors, we are directly exposed to substances that are potentially harmful to our health. Through measurements and simulation tools, the concentrations of these substances in air can be evaluated. However, today, Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is not taken into account in the Life Cycle Assessment of buildings (LCA). The aim of this study is to calculate and compare the damage of IAQ on occupants’ health with the damage over the whole building life cycle, expressed in the same unit as in LCA: Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALY), in order to propose a decision-making tool. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are emitted by building materials or furniture and then are assimilated by occupants. A model describing their emissions including unknown or uncertain parameters is calibrated using existing emission data. Secondly, emission data on occupants and their activities are used to simulate indoor concentrations of VOCs. The assimilation and consequent health damages are then calculated. According to a case study of an office, health damages related to the emissions of gypsum-covered walls were of 1.32 x 10−6DALY.year−1, about 2 orders of magnitude lower than those of the other life stages of the building (from fabrication and transport of products, construction, use, until end-of-life processes) which correspond to 1.2 to 4.5 x 10−3DALY.year−1. Those related to regular office activities were of 3.7 x 10−26DALY.year−1. This methodology can help in eco-design of buildings by identifying main sources of impacts. It can help to choose between materials or to dimension the ventilation for the evacuation of pollutants.
SWOT analysis for non-formal education through environmental volunteering involvement in Non-Profit Organizations
Authors: Stylianou M , Gavriel A , Papamichael I , Voukkali I , Loizia P , Vardopoulos I , Zorpas A A 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
In the last ten years of economic and fiscal crisis, Non-Profit organizations across Europe provide a very important service through volunteering in relation to environmental education. Their role is mainly attributed to the use of non-formal education practices, which take place in schools and in local communities. Non-formal environmental education deals with a large audience and is focusing on increasing awareness, knowledge, skills, and actions of individuals and groups targeting environmental sustainability. It requires incorporating specific methodologies that cover environmental education objectives, various teaching methods, and evaluation techniques. The involvement of volunteers from different educational backgrounds creates the need for specific management and strategies. To determine the challenges and benefits of volunteering in Cyprus, a SWOT analysis was performed. Data was collected from various non-governmental organizations (NGOs) through questionnaires. Data collected revealed interesting and valuable results. Volunteers coming as placement from another European country for 3-12 months are highly committed, dedicated, and enthusiastic in relation to the weak youth voluntary participation of locals. Nevertheless, economic, social, and environmental opportunities indicators were collected which can be used for designing and improving future strategies. Furthermore, data showed that many Non-profits remain underfunded, understaffed, and unequipped. According to the survey, the non-formal education sector provided important support for the formal education system, leading to improved vertical integration from international policy to regional implementation. The findings show the potential of the informal sector to develop synergies in which the governmental sector may lack the ability to provide adequate educational resources to schools and communities.
Supporting policymakers by Integrated Social Sustainability Assessments (ISSA) - case study of Furuset area in Oslo
Authors: Akbarinejad T , Temeljotov Salaj A. , Johansen A 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Aspirations to improve health equity and well-being, as well as the sustainability of the environment, are interconnected. Therefore, it is imperative that the public health system, environmental science, and other sectors work together to achieve these goals. For a city to be sustainable and to take into account the well-being of its citizens, an assessment tool is essential for evaluating and achieving sustainable objectives. One way to measure sustainability and well-being is to assess the performance of social, environmental, and economic principles. The authors proposed and developed a framework titled Integrated Social Sustainability Assessment (ISSA). The paper presents one of the results of an application of this tool in one of the Oslo neighbourhoods. This study describes how this result can support policymakers and urban authorities about pressing problems of each area/neighbourhood through the lens of citizens and allow them to make necessary environmental changes in order to improve citizens’ health and well-being. By achieving the outcomes, we will be able to develop sustainable strategies toward sustainable transformation at the neighbourhood level.
Sustainable decision-making game for the next generation of smart citizens
Authors: Senior C , Temeljotov Salaj A , Cepuran A , Gabriela Diaconu M , Johansen A 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Cities are increasingly facing the consequences of climate change, it is therefore urgent to take actions to reach the targets set by the UN Sustainable Development Goals. By 2050, 70% of the world population will live in cities, engaging citizens in the sustainable transformation of the built environment is crucial. Moreover, children and youth require specific attention to secure their active participation in the process. ByMaker is a serious game developed to facilitate the participation of children and youth in sustainable urban transformation. The objective of ByMaker is to improve the knowledge about sustainability and raise awareness on the importance of making balanced decisions. While the environmental dimension is already well covered and assimilated by children and youth, the social and economic ones remain more challenging to understand. The method uses a 3D map of the concrete city, interactive elements of popular landmarks and friendly characters of local historical figures. The players are invited to experiment multiple combination of choices corresponding to different scenarios of urban development such as road and transportation, urban nature, residential buildings and public space. The impact of their decisions on the overall sustainability of their city is presented as visual feedback. Scenarios in the game focus on the realization of SDGs’ ambitions and objectives. The vision is both mid-term oriented, addressing the climate urgency and long-term focused to anticipate future needs. Furthermore, ByMaker presents innovative technological solutions to play with. The game was tested in three classes in primary schools in Trondheim, Norway. The feedback guided the further development and improvements such as better visualization, interaction features and simplified scenario descriptions. By playing with ByMaker, children succeeded to learn, experiment, and create their sustainable city.
A transnational study on the determinants of social acceptance of carbon capture, transport, and storage (CCS)
Authors: Karytsas Spyridon , Polyzou Olympia , Oikonomou Theoni I. , Karytsas Constantine 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Carbon capture and storage (CCS) infrastructure is important for the fulfilment of GHG emissions mitigation targets. Despite its contribution to combating climate change, CCS remains a controversial technology often facing public resistance, making social acceptance a prerequisite for its further development. Hence, the MOF4AIR European project explores social issues related to CCS. A literature review was performed identifying the factors influencing CCS infrastructure social acceptance, while the research gaps concerning the themes under investigation were detected. In this context, the innovative elements this study aims to provide are: carrying out a transnational analysis in seven countries (Belgium, France, Greece, Italy, Norway, Turkey, and the UK), and examining factors (procedural and distributional justice, public engagement actions) that have not been adequately studied concerning CCS local acceptance. A questionnaire survey was carried out through an online platform in the seven countries, in January-February 2022; a representative sample of 1775 citizens (approx. 225 / country) was collected. The results of the survey indicated that the factors with a statistically significant effect on local acceptance of CCS infrastructure are country of origin, gender, age, self-perceived knowledge of CCS, attitudes towards negative consequences and potential benefits, trust of stakeholders and institutions, and procedural and distributional justice.
Value capture from low embodied emissions of buildings - a business model innovation perspective
Authors: Tellnes L G F , Koch C , Torgersen M , Kjøniksen A-L 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
The transition to a society with low emissions has led to several intensives for decreasing operational energy and the environmental impact of buildings. The embodied impacts from manufacturing materials have been shown to increase in relative importance as the operational energy efficiency has increased. Several case studies have shown various technical solutions which can reduce embodied carbon emissions. But is this reduction good for business? There are several building projects that have achieved low embodied emissions, but these are often in segments of premium private clients or green public procurement where additional motivation such as reputation and long-term viability is in place. However, with the transition to a low emission society, there is a need to include all types of building markets. This study aims to find business model innovation opportunities with reduced embodied emissions in building projects where the clients have low motivation beyond reducing costs. The approach is through action research with a Norwegian contractor seeking new opportunities while keeping the main competitive advantage. The research starts with a case that could reduce overall greenhouse gas emissions, and includes the potential savings from green loans to find potentials to capture value from reducing emissions. The results show that criteria exist for green loans based on reducing operational and embodied emissions. Future studies are however need to make an integrated assessment on the potential value captured from these green loans.
Adaptive thermal comfort model and active occupant behaviour in a mixed-mode apartment. A synergy to sustainability.
Authors: Drakou A , Sofos F , Karakasidis T E , Tsangrassoulis A 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
The adaptive comfort model was mainly developed for naturally ventilated buildings, but few recent studies explore its applicability in mixed-mode buildings. The present study uses the adaptive thermal comfort model (EN15251) in a dynamic thermal simulation (EnergyPlus) parametric analysis of a mixed-mode apartment, in an attempt to determine the energy savings. Two simulation models were created. The first one makes full use of mechanical heating and cooling systems when the required temperature is not reached. The second one adopts a hybrid approach, resembling the existing operation of residential buildings in Greece. The primary regulator of the indoor conditions is the occupant through his/her interaction with the building shell and only when this is not effective the mechanical systems are activated. The internal thermal gains in both models were determined based on the detailed recording of the real conditions in a typical apartment. Many design parameters (window size, thermal insulation position and thickness, orientation, airtightness, glazing properties and shading) along with different occupant behavioural patterns (derived from a questionnaire campaign) have been examined in sensitivity analysis. Machine learning algorithms, such as the Random Forest, were also incorporated to identify most important parameters. Results indicate that airtightness, occupant behaviour and shading are the most important parameters for primary energy consumption for cooling, while airtightness, window size and shading for the total of heating and cooling primary energy consumption.
Resilience and future heritage – the central market area of Thessaloniki; Hersus project’s 3rd International Design Workshop
Authors: Sakantamis K , Chatzidimitriou A , Dousi M , Kotsopoulos S , Paka A , Axarli K , Chrysikou N , Sakkos D , Apotsos S , Sinamidis I 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Culture has recently been acknowledged as the fourth pillar of sustainability, next to Environment, Economy and Society. Built heritage preservation is considered crucial for sustainable urban development and resilience. The Erasmus+ supported Hersus project brings together five academic institutions across Europe to explore the potential for enhancing cultural heritage awareness and sustainable development of the built environment. The 3rd international student workshop, which took place in Thessaloniki in October 2022, within the project’s framework, explored the resilient and sustainable preservation of built heritage in Thessaloniki’s historic centre, focusing on the traditional central market area which constitutes an exemplary continuation of use in the diachrony of the city. Hebrard’s plan, envisioned the future built heritage that the workshop dealt with; shaped by the pressures of private and public economic agendas, the original plan has evolved, after gradual transformations of the area, in the shape of two superblocks – off the main Aristotelous Axis, delineated on their periphery by large building blocks while maintaining an internal reference to a human scale, whereby the perceived foreground is dominated by listed single or two-storey volumes and narrow pedestrianized passageways. The reality of occupancy in the greater area, shaped by economic, political and societal stress during the last 20 years, is gradually evolving into a mixed use paradigm whereby restaurants coexist with creative spaces, butchers, grocers, retail and craftsmen who co-create the variable, rich and colourful sensescape of the area. Most building stock is in need of restoration but has nonetheless been in constant use. The workshop views the area as a useful resource in achieving social, economic, cultural and environmental sustainability and resilience for the city. The case study employs sustainability and resilience indicators to evaluate recent major interventions in the area, and emerging bottom-up approaches, cultural events and actions aiming to regenerate the area.
A systematic review of time user surveys-questionnaires and monitoring variables used to track occupant behaviour in residential buildings
Authors: Mylonas A , Tsangrassoulis A , Pascual J 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
In recent years, a growing body of literature has revealed that occupants and their interactions with the building systems and controls (window opening, thermostats, solar shading, etc.) have become a key factor influencing the building’s energy performance and their Indoor Environment Quality. Occupant behaviour can lead to major disparities between the predicted-simulated and the actual energy use in buildings, described by the term Energy Performance Gap, affecting possible strategies to reduce energy consumption. A potential solution to minimize the differences between the simulated and the real performance is by designing realistic models of occupants, which can be incorporated in a simulation code providing useful information for the design and/or assessment of new or existing buildings. Usually, occupant behaviour models are treated as static-deterministic schedules in building simulations, disregarding their stochastic and diverse nature. Accurate configuration of occupant models leads to fine-tuned simulations, enhancing the operation of building control systems. An occupant-centric building design results in building systems capable to meet occupants’ health and comfort requirements, minimizing at the same time the energy use. Although a number of techniques have been used to model occupancy behaviour, such as probabilistic and statistical models, in the present work, we systematically review the most recent techniques based on questionnaires and monitoring variables. These techniques are quite common and their application could help to better understand what drives occupants to interact with a building and its systems, making possible the design of more robust and realistic occupant models.
Toward a sustainable urban regeneration? Urban heritage between neoliberal forces and community preferences
Authors: Stupar Aleksandra , Mihajlov Vladimir , Simic Ivan , Grujicic Aleksandar , Cvetkovic Marija 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
The paper discusses a relationship between the neoliberal forces shaping contemporary urban transformations and the social sustainability of recent regeneration projects focused on urban heritage. Analysing two post-transitional cases, based on two different approaches, the paper will provide an insight into the dominant processes influencing both practices, as well as their anticipated/announced social sustainability and its achieved level. The first case is from Serbia - the Power Plant “Power and Light” - which was the first one generating alternating current in Belgrade. Located in the Dorcol area, this ex-industrial setting is situated close to the city center. Since 2005, the entire area has undergone a significant transformation into a luxurious residential and commercial complex, initiated by private investors and directed by city authorities in order to change the previous urban image. The second case, the Contemporary Art Center in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, represents different approach. Created in 1997, the center is a non-governmental organisation of public interest. In 1995 the Municipality of Plovdiv obtained the right to locate the center within the remains of the ancient baths of Rome, which were rebuilt under the Turkish Empire. As the 16th century monument, the building belonged to the municipality and in 2004, the three-year period of support started, provided by the association Art Today (the Swiss cultural program), as well as the National Heritage Fund in Bulgaria. The analysis will be based on the selected principles of social sustainability, simultaneously highlighting the problems of heritage (re)use and regeneration in a challenging global environment of uncertain financial flows and shifting local governmental priorities, which could put on hold or totally ignore the aspect of social sustainability.