Environmental Considerations Research Articles

Municipal Solid and Plastic Waste Co-pyrolysis Towards Sustainable Renewable Fuel and Carbon Materials: A Comprehensive Review.

The substantial rise in global energy demand, propelled by industrial expansion, population growth, and transportation needs, poses a formidable challenge. The concurrent urbanization places pressure on the disposal of solid municipal solid waste and the management of plastic waste. Addressing the global waste crisis requires innovative and sustainable garbage disposal solutions with an environmentally friendly approach. This review tackles the challenges of worldwide waste management, focusing on renewable and sustainable fuels and waste recycling through the exploration of co-pyrolysis as an innovative method. It explores the characteristics and environmental impact of municipal solid waste (MSW) and plastic waste (PW), delving into pyrolysis fundamentals, processes, and challenges. The primary emphasis is on co-pyrolysis, elucidating its integration of municipal and plastic waste, synergistic effects, and advantages. The manuscript thoroughly analyzes reaction kinetics, thermodynamics, and the feasibility of co-pyrolysis for energy recovery. It also delves into the synthesis of renewable fuels and valuable chemical intermediates, considering optimization of product distribution. Environmental and economic sustainability aspects, including impact assessment, greenhouse gas emissions, life cycle analysis, and cost analysis of co-pyrolysis processes, are comprehensively investigated. The review underscores the economic benefits of renewable fuel and chemical materials synthesis. The conclusion addresses challenges, proposes future directions, outlines limitations, technical challenges, environmental considerations, and recommends further exploration and integration with other waste management techniques. The manuscript emphasizes the ongoing importance of research in this critical field, aiming to contribute to the development of effective solutions for the escalating global waste management crisis.

Resource-efficient regeneration by generating a digital component image based on different NDT techniques

Manufacturing of components that are subjected to high stress levels during operation, such as aircraft engine turbine blades and battery calender rollers, is resource intensive and costly. These components are often designed not as a mono-material, but as a layered system. If operational stresses initiate crack-like defects or changes in the microstructure in the coating and/or base material, this can lead to premature component failure. To prevent this, the component’s condition is assessed during maintenance by inspections. Based on the data obtained, a decision is made whether the component can remain in operation, must be replaced or needs to be repaired. This decision is based on safety, economic and environmental considerations. In order to repair or regenerate such capital goods in a targeted and resource-efficient manner, a differentiated assessment of surface defects and material changes in the coating as well as in the base material is required. This can be achieved by an intelligent combination of different non-destructive testing techniques. In this paper, the differentiated assessment of the condition of the individual layers and the base material is presented using the example of a high-pressure turbine blade. The test results of the non-destructive testing techniques used are combined in a digital image of the component from which suitable repair measures can be derived. The transfer of the findings from the turbine blade to the layered system of a calender roller is also discussed.

How do BPoC design professionals pursue environmental justice considerations when planning and designing recreational spaces?

ABSTRACT Recreational spaces like parks and playgrounds play a vital role in community development. They serve as avenues for important experiences like physical activity, social interaction, and shared cultural expressions. However, BPoC (Black Person, and Person of Color) communities face disparate unjust environmental barriers to utilizing such spaces. Yet not much is known about how BPoC professionals in dedicated professional associations, could address such barriers through the pursuit of environmental justice when planning and designing recreational spaces. This study aims to address this lacuna in research. Findings from in-depth interviews demonstrate that in the design and planning of spaces for recreation, BPoC design professionals drew on their lived experiences from community history and personal encounters to: (1) foster opportunities for participation in design and planning processes (procedural justice), (2) address location-related concerns pertaining to systemic strains in resource allocation (distributive justice), and (3) integrate features that support socio-cultural relationships (interactional justice).

Ethical reflections on environmental crisis: Insights from 'the world without us’

Background: This research delves into the book "The World Without Us" by Alan Weisman, exploring the intersection of environmental ethics and the environmental crises arising from human exploitation of nature. Method: The study employs a qualitative literature review methodology, drawing insights from primary and secondary sources to shed light on the ethical dimensions of environmental degradation. Findings: The findings underscore the critical role of environmental ethics in guiding sustainable development practices, emphasizing the need for responsible stewardship of natural resources and the preservation of biodiversity. Conclusion: The article advocates for an ethical framework that integrates environmental considerations into decision-making processes, fostering a sense of responsibility and promoting sustainable development practices that prioritize environmental health, social equity, and long-term well-being. Novelty/Originality in this Study: By imagining a world without human presence, this study not only explores the impact of human exploitation of nature but also formulates an innovative, ethical framework for sustainable development, challenging how we view human-nature relationships.

Waters of Contention: The GERD and Its Impact on Nile Basin Cooperation and Conflict

The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) on the Nile River has become a focal point in the fields of water diplomacy, economics, and environmental considerations in the Nile Basin. Announced during the Arab Spring in 2011, the GERD aims to address Ethiopia’s significant energy shortfall and foster regional economic growth by potentially doubling the country’s electricity output. However, this ambition has heightened tensions with downstream countries, especially Egypt and Sudan, which rely heavily on the Nile for their water needs. This paper examines the ongoing conflict surrounding the GERD, focusing on the deadlock situation despite considerable scholarly attention to its economic, political, and environmental dimensions. The analysis presented in this paper reveals the roots of contention by analyzing past treaties and the present negotiation status, illustrating the complex interplay between development goals, environmental sustainability, and regional water security. The paper advocates for a revised legal framework that moves beyond past agreements towards a more inclusive, cooperative management strategy for the Nile’s waters. It proposes the development of a new treaty between Egypt, Ethiopia, and Sudan, grounded in their 2015 Declaration of Principles agreement and inspired by successful international dispute resolutions. It also discusses the potential of neutral third-party interventions to facilitate unbiased negotiations grounded in the Graph Model for Conflict Resolution, emphasizing the importance of equitable and sustainable water governance. In essence, this research calls for a collaborative approach to resolve the GERD conflict, emphasizing the need for agreements that harmonize developmental ambitions with the water security of the Nile Basin nations. .

Sustainability Indicators Correlation Matrix

Abstract: This study explores the complex interplay between economic growth, environmental preservation, and energy efficiency in the context of sustainable development. Leveraging analytical tools such as the OSeMOSYS model and Pearson correlation coefficient, the research investigates how economic decisions impact energy resource utilization and environmental quality. Key sustainability indicators, including Energy Payback Time (EPBT), Internal Rate of Return (ITR), and Climate Change Impact Mitigation (IMPcc), are analyzed within the framework of the Atlantis energy system. The study emphasizes the need to balance economic priorities with environmental considerations to achieve sustainability objectives effectively. Furthermore, the research evaluates the correlation between sustainability indicators when integrated into the optimization process of the OSeMOSYS energy modeling system. This approach, advocated in previous studies, underscores the importance of incorporating sustainability metrics into decision-making processes. In conclusion, the findings highlight the necessity of reevaluating the weighting of indicators within optimization functions to prioritize sustainability goals. By providing insights into the complex relationships between economic, energy, and environmental factors, the study contributes to advancing sustainable development practices for policymakers, businesses, and society as a whole.

Magnetite-Incorporated 1D Carbon Nanostructure Hybrids for Electromagnetic Interference Shielding.

The increasing reliance on electronic technologies has elevated the urgency of effective electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials. This review explores the development and potential of magnetite-incorporated one-dimensional (1D) carbon nanostructure hybrids, focusing on their unique properties and synthesis methods. By combining magnetite's magnetic properties with the electrical conductivity and mechanical strength of carbon nanostructures such as carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and carbon fibers (CFs), these hybrids offer superior EMI shielding performance. Various synthesis techniques, including solvothermal synthesis, in situ growth, and electrostatic self-assembly, are discussed in detail, highlighting their impact on the structure and properties of the resulting composites. This review also addresses the challenges in achieving homogeneous dispersion of nanofillers and the environmental and economic considerations of large-scale production. The hybrid materials' multifunctionality, including enhanced mechanical strength, thermal stability, and environmental resistance, underscores their suitability for advanced applications in aerospace, electronics, and environmental protection. Future research directions focus on optimizing synthesis processes and exploring new hybrid configurations to further improve electromagnetic properties and practical applicability.

Dry port location selection for integration with inland waterway transport in developing countries: A case study in Northern Vietnam

Dry port has emerged as a critical element of transport infrastructure, eliciting substantial research and investment for its development. The strategic selection of dry port locations not only enhances the effectiveness of connections between seaports and hinterlands but also supports the sustainable advancement of the logistics industry, given that dry port operations can integrate with more environmentally friendly transportation modes, particularly inland waterway transport. Extensive research has been conducted to identify optimal dry port locations within the framework of inland waterway container terminals. Nevertheless, these studies primarily focus on developed economies, leaving a notable research void in developing countries. This paper aims to propose a methodological framework for selecting the most suitable dry port location, with a particular emphasis on integration with inland waterway transport in developing nations. This study implements a combination of the Best-Worst Method (BWM) and Elimination Et Choix Traduisant la Realité III (ELECTRE III) in this domain. An analytical case study of Northern Vietnam, considering five alternative dry ports, is conducted to demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed framework. Twenty-seven Vietnamese experts, categorized into three groups—policymakers and consultants, dry port investors and operators, and dry port users—participate in the decision-making process, contributing insights to this case study. An aggregated group decision-making approach is employed. Four principal criteria—economic, accessibility, location, and environmental—are utilized to assess and rank the five alternatives. The findings reveal that a reduction in transport cost is the most critical sub-criterion, while environmental considerations and railway accessibility receive the lowest priority.

The evolution of green fintech: Leveraging AI and IoT for sustainable financial services and smart contract implementation

The convergence of financial technology and sustainability has given rise to green fintech, an innovative field leveraging cutting-edge technologies to address environmental challenges through financial solutions. This review explores the evolution of green fintech, focusing on the transformative roles of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and smart contracts in developing sustainable financial services. Through a comprehensive analysis of recent literature and case studies, we examine how AI enhances ESG assessments, enables data-driven sustainable investment strategies, and facilitates green lending practices. We investigate IoT applications in environmental monitoring, supply chain transparency, and smart grid integration, highlighting their contributions to sustainable finance. The implementation of smart contracts for sustainability is explored, discussing their potential in green bonds, carbon credit trading, and renewable energy markets. The paper addresses key challenges facing green fintech, including data quality issues, privacy concerns, and regulatory uncertainties, proposing future directions for research and development. Our findings suggest that the integration of AI, IoT, and smart contracts in green fintech has significant potential to accelerate the transition to a sustainable global economy by embedding environmental considerations into financial decision-making at all levels. This article contributes to the growing body of literature on sustainable finance, providing insights for practitioners, policymakers, and researchers. It underscores the need for a multidisciplinary approach to overcome technological, regulatory, and socio-economic barriers, paving the way for a more sustainable and technologically advanced financial ecosystem.

Novel Development of Phytomedicine and its Innovative Formulation of Guava Leaf Extract Chocolates for Various Incredible Therapeutic Activities

Incorporating guava leaf powder into chocolate is a creative way to boost its nutritional profile and potentially add a unique flavour. Guava leaf powder, being rich in soluble dietary fibre and vitamin C, can indeed enhance the health benefits of chocolate. Soluble dietary fibre can aid in digestion and promote gut health. Thus, the present study was to achieve an innovative formulation, i.e., guava leaf chocolates containing guava leaf extract and effective ingredients, which could be a way to entrap all the benefits of the guava leaf into an easy-to-consume formulation by increasing patient compliance and therapeutic outcomes. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) has been used here to optimise the formulation. RSM allows us to systematically vary the levels of these ingredients and analyse their impact on sensory attributes such as taste, texture, aroma, hardness, and overall acceptability. The use of various batches (F1 to F15) suggested a systematic approach to formulation adjustment, likely involving tweaking ingredient proportions and processing parameters to achieve the desired sensory attributes. The inclusion of physico-chemical analysis confirmed the stability of the formulation, ensuring product quality and consistency. And the results were felt within satisfactory a range, which indicates that the formulation was stable and suitable for its intended purpose, potentially for therapeutic applications. Furthermore, highlighting the eco-friendliness, ease of handling, and positive sensory attributes such as sweetness and flavour can contribute to the overall appeal of the product. By meeting these criteria, the formulation not only meets functional requirements but also aligns with consumer preferences and environmental considerations.

Secure environmental, social, and governance (ESG) data management for construction projects using blockchain

Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations are increasingly becoming imperative and obligatory across various industries. The ESG performance within the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry is under heightened market scrutiny. However, current ESG management in construction is still in its infancy due to two limitations: (1) a deficiency in ESG knowledge, such as indicators pertinent to construction activities, and (2) a lack of data security in ESG management, culminating in inefficient and unreliable environmental management practices. Therefore, this paper employs the Design Science Research Method (DSRM) to introduce a Blockchain-ESG Integrated (BESGI) framework, facilitating traceable ESG data management within construction projects. This framework presents three significant contributions. First, it identifies ten AEC-ESG indicators by analyzing ESG methods. Second, it proposes a mapping approach for AEC-ESG indicators to construction projects for key ESG information access and data source identification. Third, it develops a blockchain-based data management mechanism for traceable ESG data management in the BESGI framework. It validates and evaluates the framework in a construction project in Hong Kong. The results show that the framework is usable and can save labor costs by 20.15 % compared to traditional ESG management. This study offers a secure data management solution for ESG analysis of construction projects.

The Impact of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) Considerations on Corporate Mergers and Acquisitions: Strategies for Value Creation

The integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations in corporate mergers and acquisitions (M&A) has gained significant traction as companies recognize the strategic value of sustainability in dealmaking. This paper explores how ESG factors can be incorporated into M&A strategies to drive value creation, meet regulatory requirements, and enhance corporate reputation. Leveraging improved data and tracking methods, the study highlights the increasing importance of ESG in M&A, presenting a comprehensive analysis of environmental, social, and governance factors and their impact on M&A processes. Through case studies and an analytical framework, the research provides insights into the benefits and challenges of ESG integration, offering recommendations for companies aiming to achieve successful and sustainable M&A outcomes.

Consumer willingness to buy products with geographical origin (PGO) and protected designation of origin (PDI): A review

This scientific review explores the factors influencing consumer willingness to purchase products with geographical origin (PGO) and protected designation of origin (PDI) over the past twenty-five years. It examines consumer behavior, perceived value, marketing strategies, and the impacts of ethical and environmental considerations and more specifically how the consumers are willing to consume products from protected designation of origin compared with the other products that exist in markets. The review integrates findings from recent peer-reviewed studies, surveys, and reports, offering a comprehensive analysis of consumer attitudes toward PGO/PDI products. In conclusion, the consumers are willing to buy the PGO and PDI products if there is a better price and marketing presentation.

The mediating role of shareholders score in fostering environmental innovation through integrated reporting: insight from Japan

Purpose This study aims to investigate the relationship between integrated reporting, environmental innovation and the mediating effect of shareholder scores within the context of Japan. Design/methodology/approach SEM on panel data are used to study the impact of the role of shareholder scores in mediating the effect of integrated reporting on environmental innovation. This empirical study was based on a sample of 420 companies operating in Japan for the period spanning 2010 and 2022. Findings Drawing upon empirical results, this research uncovers the pivotal role of the shareholder's score as a mediating factor in this relationship. A higher shareholder score signifies a governance structure that values shareholder input and fairness in treatment. Empowered shareholders leverage their influence to advocate for transparent reporting practices that encompass environmental considerations. Consequently, firms with elevated shareholder scores are more inclined toward environmental innovation, aligning their strategies with sustainability imperatives. Originality/value The findings contribute to understanding of how corporate governance mechanisms, particularly shareholder empowerment, interact with reporting practices to drive environmental initiatives, providing valuable implications for sustainable business practices globally.

The Effect of Suppliers’ Green and Traditional Selection Criteria in Supply Chain Management on Purchasing Firms’ Performance

In recent years, procurement managers have introduced environmental considerations into supplier selection and evaluation as a response to strict environmental regulations implemented by governments. Although previous research investigated the selection of eco-friendly suppliers, little research has been conducted on the significance of the wide range of selection criteria used by industrial customers. The aim of this study was to address this gap and examine the difference in the perceived importance of the selection criteria versus the performance achieved using the selection criteria, in addition to the difference in the business performance and the total supply performance. By investigating the selection criteria of manufacturers in the market environment, this study aimed to demonstrate how their business performance was affected by the performance of suppliers in relation to such criteria. To accomplish this task, this study conducted an empirical analysis based on the questionnaire responses of 72 purchasing managers working in the electrical/electronic and heavy chemical industries. Based on previous research, the following six supplier selection factors were identified: eco-friendliness, quality, relationship, flexibility, delivery, and price/finance. By using statistical analyses, including sample t-tests and multiple regression analysis, this study identified a correlation between supplier and manufacturer performance. The findings show that some factors, such as eco-friendliness, flexibility, price, and delivery, were statistically relevant to the performance of manufacturers, which added value to the decision-making strategy employed in supplier selection.

The role of market in motivating farmers to reduce pesticide use: Evidence from vegetable farms in Shiraz

The overuse of pesticides has harmful impacts on both the environment and human health. Implementing efficient techniques is crucial to manage pesticides and reduce negative impacts effectively. In order to achieve this objective, we evaluated the harm of pesticide application in vegetable fields in Shiraz and identified the factors that impact farmers' behavior in using pesticides. The Environmental Impact Quotient (EIQ) indicator was initially utilized to evaluate the effects of pesticide residues on both human health and the environment. Afterwards, the Logit model was employed to investigate the likelihood of excessive pesticide usage among farmers. Our findings suggest that farmers may not give high importance to environmental and human health considerations when deciding on pesticide usage. Market incentives, such as the quantity and price of vegetables produced without pesticide use, play a significant role in reducing pesticide use in Shiraz vegetable farms. The results of the study can help policy makers in implementing pesticide-free agricultural practices.

The need for proactive environmental planning in local government: Examining challenges and pathways forward in Indiana

ABSTRACT Many factors, including regulations, community values, and economic and environmental considerations, influence environmental planning decisions. Across the nation, local elected and appointed boards and commissions are responsible for planning and land use regulations. However, few studies have focused on environmental planning through comprehensive and parks and recreation plans. Using Indiana communities as a case study, this research highlights the theory and practice of environmental planning and community development, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and the presence of social capital. Statewide focus groups found that communities integrate varying environmental planning processes into comprehensive and parks and recreation plans. As a result, these plans represent underutilized potential to guide conservation and collaboration. Integrating environmental planning into local government activities is limited by time, political will, and community awareness. As such, communities need continued support and resources to build social capital that leads to engaging with the public, decision-makers, and collaborators in meaningful ways to foster effective environmental planning.

Trends, shifts and future prospects of sustainable finance research: a bibliometric analysis

PurposeThis study aims to highlight the key aspects of sustainable finance using bibliometric analysis of the relevant literature extracted from two separate databases, Scopus and Dimensions.ai. The present study contributes towards the achievement of sustainable development by providing directions to align financial decision-making with different sustainability aspects.Design/methodology/approachThe author conducted bibliometric analysis for 1,220 articles from Scopus and 1,437 publications from Dimensions.ai. The most frequently occurring terms in sustainable finance research are explored and visualised using the VOSviewer.FindingsBibliometric findings revealed a dynamic evolution of research focus over time. The social component dominated from 2012 to 2016, however a shift to environmental and climate change considerations is noticed from 2016 to 2020. Recent studies (2020–2022) exhibited heightened attention to green finance and renewable energy. Overlay visualisations highlighted similar trends in both databases, indicating a contemporary emphasis on green finance.Research limitations/implicationsThis study enriches theoretical discourse by mapping the trajectory of sustainable finance research, contributing to a deeper understanding of its evolution.Practical implicationsInsights from this study guide researchers and practitioners in identifying trends, that can help the integration of green finance principles into corporate strategies.Social implicationsFindings also raise awareness among stakeholders, and help facilitate socially responsible corporate cultures and informed policymaking.Originality/valueThe originality of this study lies in its comprehensive bibliometric analysis of sustainable finance research in management studies, drawing data from two major databases and spanning over three decades.

Unveiling microplastic's role in nitrogen cycling: Metagenomic insights from estuarine sediment microcosms

Marine microplastics (MPs) pollution, with rivers as a major source, leads to MPs accumulation in estuarine sediments, which are also nitrogen cycling hotspots. However, the impact of MPs on nitrogen cycling in estuarine sediments has rarely been documented. In this study, we conducted microcosm experiment to investigate the effects of commonly encountered polyethylene (PE) and polystyrene (PS) MPs, with two MPs concentrations (0.3% and 3% wet sediment weight) based on environmental concentration considerations and dose-response effects, on sediment dissolved oxygen (DO) diffusion capacity and microbial communities using microelectrode system and metagenomic analysis respectively. The results indicated that high concentrations of PE-MPs inhibited DO diffusion during the mid-phase of the experiment, an effect that dissipated in the later stages. Metagenomic analysis revealed that MP treatments reduced the relative abundance of dominant microbial colonies in the sediments. The PCoA results demonstrated that MPs altered the microbial community structure, particularly evident under high concentration PE-MPs treatments. Functional analysis related to the nitrogen cycle suggested that PS-MPs promoted the nitrification, denitrification, and DNRA processes, but inhibited the ANRA process, while PE-MPs had an inhibitory effect on the nitrate reduction process and the ANRA process. Additionally, the high concentration of PE-MPs treatment significantly stimulated the abundance of genus (Bacillus) by 34.1% and genes (lip, pnbA) by 100–187.5% associated with plastic degradation, respectively. Overall, in terms of microbial community structure and the abundance of nitrogen cycling functional genes, PE- and PS- MPs exhibit both similarities and differences in their impact on nitrogen cycling. Our findings highlight the complexity of MP effects on nitrogen cycling in estuarine sediments and high concentrations of PE-MP stimulated plastic-degrading genus and genes.

Compressed stabilised earth block synergistically valorising municipal solid waste incinerator bottom ash and sisal fiber: Strength, durability and life cycle analysis

Compressed stabilized earth blocks (CSEB) represent an eco-friendly substitute for traditional building materials, predominantly utilizing earth. Municipal Solid Waste Incineration Bottom Ash (MSWIBA) is a by-product of municipal waste treatment that can be creatively repurposed in construction projects. This research explores integrating MSWIBA as a substitute for Earth in CSEB production to conserve natural resources and repurpose waste, potentially reducing its landfill disposal. The sisal fibers (SF), often regarded as by-products of agricultural processes, offer an intriguing research material. The SF was treated with a 5 % NaOH alkaline solution to improve the CSEB bonding, increasing the flexural strength. The study aims to determine the optimal mix of stabilizers, in addition to a 10 % cement content, using various percentages of MSWIBA (10–40 % by weight of dry sand) and SF content (0.25–1 % by weight of dry soil). These blocks undergo comprehensive tests to determine their strength and durability. Wet and dry compression, flexural tests and indirect tensile tests were used to assess strength qualities, while wetting-drying cycles and acid exposure were used to determine durability. MSWIBA replaces 20 % sand in CSEB satisfying the strength. However, exceeding this amount increases void content and lowers strength, emphasizing the importance of balanced proportions for best performance. The 20 % MSWIBA and 0.75 % SF combination enhanced the compressive strength by 6.45 MPa, flexural strength by 0.92 MPa and water absorption by less than 18 %. The durability test displayed increases in compressive strength of 14.7 % and flexural strength of 93.48 % and optimized water absorption rate. Furthermore, microstructural analysis has been performed on CSEBs and the results highlight the importance of balanced cement and SF proportions for structural integrity. Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) investigation shows that construction costs using CSEB are 12.24 % higher than those with FCBs. Additionally, the study suggests that CSEB with MSWIBA and SF will be an environmentally sustainable construction material, considering factors such as energy usage, Global Warming Potential, and other environmental considerations