Environmental Sustainability Benefits Research Articles

Actinomycete-Derived Pigments: A Path Toward Sustainable Industrial Colorants

Pigment production has a substantial negative impact on the environment, since mining for natural pigments causes ecosystem degradation, while synthetic pigments, derived from petrochemicals, generate toxic by-products that accumulate and persist in aquatic systems due to their resistance to biodegradation. Despite these challenges, pigments remain essential across numerous industries, including the cosmetic, textile, food, automotive, paints and coatings, plastics, and packaging industries. In response to growing consumer demand for sustainable options, there is increasing interest in eco-friendly alternatives, particularly bio-based pigments derived from algae, fungi, and actinomycetes. This shift is largely driven by consumer demand for sustainable options. For bio-pigments, actinomycetes, particularly from the Streptomyces genus, have emerged as a promising green source, aligning with global sustainability goals due to their renewability and biodegradability. Scale-up of production and yield optimization challenges have been circumvented with the aid of biotechnology advancements, including genetic engineering and innovative fermentation and extraction methods, which have enhanced these bio-pigments’ viability and cost-competitiveness. Actinomycete-derived pigments have successfully transitioned from laboratory research to commercialization, showcasing their potential as sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic dyes. With the global pigment market valued at approximately USD 24.28 billion in 2023, which is projected to reach USD 36.58 billion by 2030, the economic potential for actinomycete pigments is extensive. This review explores the environmental advantages of actinomycete pigments, their role in modern industry, and the regulatory and commercialization challenges they face, highlighting the importance of these pigments as promising solutions to reduce our reliance on conventional toxic pigments. The successful commercialization of actinomycete pigments can drive an industry-wide transition to environmentally responsible alternatives, offering substantial benefits for human health, safety, and environmental sustainability.

AKSI BERSIH PANTAI TERHADAP PENGURANGAN SAMPAH DAN MENJAGA KEBERLANJUTAN LINGKUNGAN DI KAWASAN PANTAI MARINA SEMARANG

Waste pollution in the Marina Beach area of Semarang has reached a critical stage, threatening ecosystem sustainability and reducing the beach's tourist attraction. The background of this issue prompted a community service initiative aimed at reducing waste volume in the coastal area and increasing public awareness about environmental preservation. The implementation method employed a descriptive-observational approach, including direct beach condition observations, beach clean-up actions, and tree planting as a symbolic environmental restoration effort. The service results demonstrated a significant reduction in waste volume and increased participant awareness of environmental issues. Through provided education, the activity successfully encouraged a shift in community mindset regarding waste management and the importance of environmental conservation. Tree planting contributed to ecosystem damage mitigation efforts, with the hope of providing long-term benefits for coastal environmental sustainability

Kinematic Analysis of a Cam-Follower-Type Transplanting Mechanism for a 1.54 kW Biodegradable Potted Cabbage Transplanter

Widespread use of plastic seedling pots has been attributed to their light weight and durable characteristics. However, these pots have limitations in facilitating efficient root establishment. Recent studies indicate that biodegradable seedling pots not only enhance seedling resilience but are also environmentally sustainable through natural decomposition. This study presents a kinematic analysis of a cabbage transplanting mechanism specifically under development for biodegradable seedling pots, focusing on position, velocity, acceleration, and power. The optimization of link combinations within the transplanting mechanism was analyzed to enhance the transplantation process, focusing on achieving precise depth and spacing for potted seedlings. A kinematic model of the mechanism was developed and simulated using commercial mechanical design and simulation software, followed by validation through performance tests. The proposed transplanter comprised a four-bar-linkage mechanism consisting of a driving link, a driven link, a connecting link, and a guide bar. Simulation trials were conducted by varying the main arm link length while keeping machine forward speed and mechanism driving speed fixed. Results indicated that the optimal mechanism parameters included a driving link of 50 mm, a connecting arm of 120 mm, a guide bar of 120 mm, and an end-effector link of 220 mm. A dibbling hopper length of 153 mm was identified as the most effective for operation. With these recommended link lengths, validated velocities of the end hopper in the ‘X’ and ‘Y’ directions were 284 mm/s and 1379 mm/s, respectively, while corresponding accelerations were measured at 1241 mm/s2 and 8664 mm/s2. The driving power requirement was calculated to be 17.4 W. These findings suggest that the developed mechanism provides effective planting performance, evidenced by a high degree of seedling uprightness and minimal soil disturbance. This study supports the use of biodegradable pots in mechanized transplanting as a viable alternative to conventional plastic pots, with potential benefits for both agricultural efficiency and environmental sustainability.

Thermodynamic analysis of supercritical carbon dioxide cycle using waste heat of V18 MAN 51/60DF engine

AbstractThis study investigates the integration of the supercritical carbon dioxide (S‐CO2) cycle with V18 MAN 51/60DF engines for waste heat recovery in powerships, representing a significant advancement in energy production efficiency. Detailed analysis focuses on the micro S‐CO2 cycle's potential in terms of energy efficiency, environmental sustainability, and economic benefits. The results demonstrate the system's capability to utilize 374.4 kW of heat provided by 1 kg/s air flow, achieving an exergy efficiency of 9.7% and an energy efficiency of 21.8%. The compressor requires 35.51 kW of work, while the turbine produces 89.62 kW, resulting in a net work output of 54.11 kW. The CO2 mass flow rate is 0.9988 kg/s, and 320.3 kW of heat is transferred to sea water through a flow rate of 0.1231 kg/s. These studies show that the micro supercritical carbon dioxide cycle has great potential in energy production and waste heat recovery and may offer an important innovation to increase energy efficiency, especially in powerships. It highlights the potential of this innovative technology to deliver higher efficiency, lower carbon emissions, and more compact designs than traditional energy conversion systems. These findings indicate that the S‐CO2 cycle can effectively enhance energy production in future projects, offering a promising solution for sustainable power generation.

Illegal Oil Well Mitigation: Environmental Sustainability: Strengthening the Oil and Gas Accounting Information System

This study focuses on exploring aspects of illegal mining in the Musi Banyuasin area, South Sumatra Province-Indonesia. The research includes green accounting, human resources, sustainable environment, and oil and gas accounting information systems. This study uses a qualitative descriptive approach with an exploratory method to explore the phenomenon in detail. Data were obtained through structured interviews, field observations, focus group discussions (FGDs), and supporting document reviews. The collected data were analyzed thematically to identify, review, and report findings based on interviews. The results of the study indicate that the application of green accounting practices, human resource management, and the use of accounting information systems in the oil and gas sector are important foundations for creating a sustainable environment. Sustainable environments not only support economic aspects but also social, cultural, and ecological aspects. This research implies that it contributes to the preservation of green vegetation, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and environmental damage. Theoretically, this research provides insight into the theoretical benefits of green environmental sustainability.

Exploring the Potential of Regenerative Agriculture for Climate Mitigation, Resource Efficiency and Sustainability

Regenerative Agriculture (RA) represents a significant approach toward sustainable and eco-friendly practices, provides environmental, economic, and social benefits. The objective of the review is to evaluate research trends and gaps, conduct a SWOT analysis, and explore the potential of regenerative agriculture in areas like energy conservation, food security, ecosystem services, soil health, circular agriculture, and climate-smart, resilient farming practices. This review emphasizes the holistic approach of Regenerative Agriculture, SWOT analysis reveals that RA offers significant benefits of environmental sustainability and several opportunities like carbon market and food security. Despite multiple benefits, bibliometric analysis showed that research on RA is limited, with a notable increase in publications only emerging in recent years. RA contributes to better sustainable practices compared to other agricultural systems. RA efforts to mitigate climate change by reducing the carbon footprint, enhancing climate adaptability, improving soil health, and providing ecosystem services. It also addresses challenges such as biodiversity loss, food waste, and food security. Furthermore, integrating RA presents economic and ecological opportunities, such as carbon credits and a circular economy. This approach increases resource efficiency, minimizes agricultural waste, and promotes nature-based solutions with potential for energy conservation and healthier ecosystems. Based on our findings, we recommend that research should focus on developing carbon credit schemes from RA, enhancing farmer’s awareness of RA's economic and environmental benefits, and modifying RA to improve on circular economy principles for sustainability.

Production of liquid smoke using auto thermal slow pyrolysis method and its application for plant pesticide

Abstract This study investigates the production of liquid smoke using autothermal slow pyrolysis, utilizing organic waste materials such as leaves, wood, and coconut shells as feedstock. Autothermal slow pyrolysis offers a sustainable method to convert biomass into liquid smoke, utilizing heat generated within the pyrolysis process. The produced liquid smoke was rigorously tested in laboratory settings to assess its chemical composition and conformity with SNI 8985:2021 standards. Results indicate that the liquid smoke meets the specifications outlined in the standard, confirming its quality and safety for application as a plant pesticide. Furthermore, efficacy tests demonstrated significant insecticidal, positioning the liquid smoke as a viable biopesticide alternative. The environmental impact of this innovation program includes a reduction of non-hazardous waste, specifically organic waste, by 0,531 tons per year. Additionally, the program provides cost savings within the company by reducing waste disposal expenses and by replacing chemical liquid smoke with the organic waste-derived liquid smoke, resulting in savings of Rp 9,108,000 in 2024. This research underscores the dual benefits of environmental sustainability and economic efficiency through the utilization of liquid smoke derived from organic waste via autothermal slow pyrolysis, promoting eco-friendly pest management solutions while reducing reliance on synthetic pesticides.

Mitigation of Salt Stress in Lactuca sativa L. var. Gentile Rossa Using Microalgae as Priming Agents.

Using renewable biomass in agriculture, particularly microalgae as a biostimulant, offers economic and environmental sustainability benefits by reducing costs, improving nutrient cycling, and enhancing water use efficiency. Microalgae contain bioactive compounds that boost crop tolerance to environmental stresses, including salinity. Saline soils, characterized by elevated sodium chloride (NaCl) levels, negatively impact many crops, resulting in low productivity and high remediation costs. Therefore, this study evaluates the biostimulant properties of a microalgae-based commercial preparation (MR) on lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) plants grown hydroponically and exposed to saline stress. The extract was chemically characterized through elemental analysis, lipid composition (gas chromatography with flame ionization detector-GC-FID), the determination of functional groups (Fourier Transformed Infrared-FT-IR), structure (1H,13C Nuclear Magnetic Resonance-NMR), with their hormone-like activity also assessed. Lettuce plants were treated with or without the microalgae blend, in combination with 0, 50 mM, or 100 mM NaCl. The contents of nutrients, soluble proteins, chlorophylls, and phenols, as well as the lipid peroxidation, antioxidants and root traits of lettuce plants, were estimated. The microalgae applied to salt-stressed plants resulted in a significant increase in biomass, protein, and chlorophyll contents. Additionally, significant effects on the secondary metabolism and mitigation of salinity stress were observed in terms of increased phenol content and the activity of antioxidant enzymes, as well as decreased lipid peroxidation. The potassium (K+) content was increased significantly in plants treated with 100 mM NaCl after addition of microalgae, while the content of sodium (Na+) was concurrently reduced. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that using microalgae can be a potent approach for improving the cultivation of Lactuca sativa L. under saline stress conditions.

Integrating Circular Economy Practices for Sustainable Maritime Tourism Development in Bone Regency, Indonesia

This study analyzes the application of circular economy principles in the development of marine tourism in Bone Regency, Indonesia, using a qualitative case study approach involving local government representatives, community members, and tourists. Data was collected through in-depth interviews and field observations to understand the integration of circular economy practices, including waste management, resource reuse, and local community empowerment. Findings highlight both opportunities and challenges in implementing sustainable tourism, such as limited funding and infrastructure. However, effective practices, such as community-led recycling initiatives and government support in waste treatment, underscore the potential for circular economy models to enhance environmental sustainability and local economic benefits. The study concludes that a circular economy framework, supported by multi-stakeholder collaboration, can provide a path toward sustainable marine tourism, offering insights for policymakers and researchers aiming to balance environmental and economic goals in tourism development.

Evaluation of Watershed Development Programme: A Framework for Selection and Aggregation of Key Indicators

The measure of the effectiveness of watershed development programmes depends on selecting the right set of evaluation indicators that reflect the programme’s goals, including resource management, environmental sustainability, and socio-economic benefits. In this paper, the focus is on the process of selecting and aggregating the key indicators to assess the success of watershed development initiatives. By categorizing indicators into relevant themes such as Terrain Management, Water Resources Utilization, Agronomic Vitality, Livestock Vitality, Employability, Human Empowerment, and Sustainability. This paper highlights the importance of using a structured approach to ensure comprehensive evaluation. Proper selection and aggregation of indicators emphasize the importance of context-specific indicators to ensure accurate and effective programme evaluation and lead to providing valuable insights for programme assessment and future improvements.

Comprehensive Advancements in Hydrogel, and Its Application in Microalgae Cultivation and Wastewater Treatment.

Microalgae are recognized as a sustainable resource to produce biofertilizers, biofuels, and pigments, with the added benefits of environmental sustainability, such as carbon sequestration and pollutant removal. However, traditional cultivation methods face challenges like low biomass productivity and high operational costs. This review focuses on the innovative use of hydrogels as a medium for microalgae cultivation, which addresses these challenges by enhancing nutrient permeability, light distribution, and overall growth efficiency. Hydrogels provide a three-dimensional matrix that not only supports higher biomass yields but also facilitates the removal of pollutants from wastewater, contributing to circular economy goals. The review also explores the environmental benefits, challenges, and prospects of integrating hydrogel technology into microalgae cultivation systems. By highlighting influencing factors through which hydrogels improve microalgal productivity and environmental outcomes, this work aims to provide insights into the potential of hydrogel-based systems for sustainable development.

ПРОБЛЕМЫ И ПЕРСПЕКТИВЫ ПЕРЕРАБОТКИ ДРЕВЕСНЫХ ОТХОДОВ В АРХАНГЕЛЬСКОЙ ОБЛАСТИ

Taking into account these aspects of the current state of the Russian economy, we analyzed the problems and opportunities for using waste from processing wood resources in the country's forestry complex, focusing on the example of one of the key forest regions - the Arkhangelsk region. The object of this study is the processing of wood resources in the Arkhangelsk region. The issue of the increasing volume of wood waste in the Arkhangelsk region has not only become relevant, but also requires the urgent implementation of innovation policy in the forestry sector of the region. To study the current state of formation and bioprocessing of wood waste in the Arkhangelsk region, static data and methods of their processing were used. Qualitative research methods included observation, interviews and testing. Experts and specialists from the region’s forestry sector took part in the panel discussions. As a result of cooperation with experts and specialists from the forestry complex of the Arkhangelsk region, priority areas for processing wood waste using recycling and biorefining methods at enterprises in the region were identified. Biorefining and recycling of wood raw materials and semi-finished products from the forest complex of the Arkhangelsk region are strategically important aspects of forest resource management. These processes are aimed at processing wood waste and by-products, which can significantly reduce the anthropogenic load on the environment and ensure sustainable development of the region. The implementation of recycling and biorefining programs in the Arkhangelsk region opens up new opportunities for local producers, stimulates the creation of new jobs and increases the competitiveness of the region at the national and international levels. The integration of modern technologies and innovative waste treatment methods will allow for the most efficient use of forest resources, ensuring environmental sustainability and economic benefits.

Rapid Identification of Medicinal Polygonatum Species and Predictive of Polysaccharides Using ATR-FTIR Spectroscopy Combined With Multivariate Analysis.

Medicinal Polygonatum species is a widely used traditional Chinese medicine with high nutritional value, known for its anti-fatigue properties, enhancement of immunity, delays aging, improves sleep, and other health benefits. However, the efficacy of different species varies, making the quality control of medicinal Polygonatum species increasingly important. Polysaccharides are important in medicinal Polygonatum species because of their potential functional properties, such as antioxidation, hypoglycemia, protection of intestinal health, and minimal toxicological effects on human health, as well as high polysaccharide levels. This study developed a qualitative medicinal Polygonatum species model and a polysaccharides predictive model based on attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) combined with a multivariate analysis approach. ATR-FTIR spectral information of 334 medicinal Polygonatum species samples was collected and the spectral information of different modes was analyzed. The ATR-FTIR spectral differences of three medicinal Polygonatum species were studied by multivariate analysis combined with four spectral preprocessing and three variable selection methods. For the prediction of polysaccharides in Polygonatum kingianum Collett & Hemsl. (PK), we initially determined the actual content of 110 PK polysaccharide samples using the anthrone-sulfuric acid method, then established partial least squares regression (PLSR) and kernel PLSR models in conjunction with attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy. In the visualization analysis, the orthogonal partial least squares-discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) model based on second-order derivative (SD) preprocessing was most suitable for medicinal Polygonatum species species binary classification, spectral differences between Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua (PC) and other species are evident; in the hard modeling, SD preprocessing improves the accuracy of non-deep learning models for the classification of three medicinal Polygonatum species. In contrast, residual neural network (ResNet) models were the best choice for species identification without preprocessing and variable selection. In addition, the partial least squares regression (PLSR) model and Kernel-PLSR model can quickly predict PK polysaccharides content, among them, the Kernel-PLSR model with SD pretreatment has the best prediction performance, residual prediction deviation (RPD) = 7.2870, Rp = 0.9905. In this study, we employed ATR-FTIR spectroscopy and various treatments to discern different medicinal Polygonatum species. We also evaluated the effects of preprocessing methods and variable selection on the prediction of PK polysaccharides by PLSR and Kernel-PLSR models. Among them, the ResNet model can achieve 100% correct classification of medicinal Polygonatum species without complex spectral preprocessing. Furthermore, the Kernel-PLSR model based on SD-ATR-FTIR spectra had the best performance in polysaccharides prediction. In summary, by integrating ATR-FTIR spectroscopy with multivariate analysis, this research accomplished the classification of medicinal Polygonatum species and the prediction of polysaccharides. The methodology offers the benefits of speed, environmental sustainability, and precision, highlighting its significant potential for practical applications. In future research, on the one hand, it can be further investigated using a portable infrared spectrometer, and on the other hand, infrared spectroscopy can also be applied to the prediction of other chemical components of medicinal Polygonatum species.

The effect of carbon black on degradation of pipe grade black polyethylene in high concentration chlorine dioxide solutions

In this research, the impact of carbon black on the accelerated degradation of pipe grade polyethylene (PE100) exposed to high levels of chlorine dioxide (150 ppm) is examined. Tensile testing reveals a faster degradation rate in black samples compared to neat samples, indicating a detrimental effect of carbon black aggregates on the polymer's aging process. Rheological analysis shows changes in molecular weight and structure due to chemical degradation and chain scission and can be a reliable method for detecting slight changes in molecular structure. Isothermal crystallization shows a slowdown in crystallization kinetics at first, explained by gel-formation due to crosslinking which hinder the crystallization, and then an increase in the kinetics as apparently the chain scission gets dominant again. Neat samples exhibit a higher density of tie molecules, indirectly revealed by much more fibrils in crack wall observed in FESEM images, suggesting better resistance to chemical degradation while the black sample shows a much less fibrillar crack wake and becomes almost completely devoid of any fibrils at later stages of aging. The fibrils, which essentially offer a load-bearing role against the widening and growth of the crack play a key role in resistance to slow crack growth (SCG). Therefore, the higher SCG resistance is expected for neat grade compared to black samples. The study proposes a dual-layer pipe design with a UV-resistant black outer layer and an oxidation-resistant neat inner layer to prolong the lifespan of PE100 pipes by protecting against UV radiation and chemical reactions. This solution offers increased durability, lower maintenance costs, and environmental sustainability benefits.

Current Scenario and Global Perspective of Sustainable Algal Biofuel Production.

Industrialization and globalization have increased the demand for petroleum products that has increased a load on natural energy resources. The escalating fossil fuel utilization has resulted in surpassing the Earth's capacity to absorb greenhouse gases, necessitating the exploration of sustainable bioenergy alternatives to mitigate emissions. Biofuels, derived from algae, offer promising solutions to alleviate fossil fuel dependency. Algae, often regarded as third-generation biofuels, present numerous advantages owing to their high biomass production rates. While algae have been utilized for their bioactive compounds, their capability as biomass for the production of biofuel has gained traction among researchers. Various biofuels such as bio-hydrogen, bio-methane, bio-ethanol, bio-oil, and bio-butanol can be derived from algae through diverse processes like fermentation, photolysis, pyrolysis, and transesterification. Despite the enormous commercial potential of algae-derived biofuels, challenges such as high cultivation costs persist. However, leveraging the utilization of algae byproducts could improve economic viability of biofuel production. Moreover, algae derived biofuels offer environmental sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and waste reduction benefits, promising novel opportunities for a more sustainable energy future.

Selective electrosorption of silver ions from wastewater by biomass-derived N, S co-doped hierarchical porous carbon

The recovery of precious silver (Ag) from wastewater, a dual pursuit of environmental sustainability and economic benefits, faces a formidable challenge in the selective extraction of Ag+ ions amidst a matrix of other metal ions. To address this, we developed a novel N, S co-doped hierarchical porous carbon (NSPC) derived from a renewable precursor of Camellia oleifera shell. As the electrode material for capacitive deionization (CDI), the NSPC exhibited a high electrosorption capacity of 480.5 mg g−1 for Ag+ ions under an operating voltage of 1.2 V. Owing to the strong reaction between Ag+ and S functional groups and the synergistic effect from a hierarchical porous structure and N doping, the formation of Ag2S and elemental Ag is facilitated, and the NSPC cathode could selectively remove nearly 100 % of Ag+ ions from saline water and a solution containing Ni2+, Co2+, Pb2+, Zn2+, and Fe3+ ions. Furthermore, the NSPC cathode showed a high anti-interference ability in the presence of anions (C10H14N2O82−, C4H4O62−, C5H7O5COO− and HCO3−) and excellent reusability until 9 cycles. The impressive results show that the biomass-derived NSPC has the potential for rapid and selective recovery of silver from wastewater and offers a solution for environmental remediation and metal resource recovery.

Comparative effect of FYM and Azotobacter on morphology and nutritional quality of high and low altitude grown knol khol (Brassica oleracea var. gongylodes L.) cultivar White Vienna

Extreme environmental conditions of high altitude (HA) expose the food crops to abiotic stresses that may impact their growth and nutritional composition, which also varies depending on agricultural practices being used. Therefore, the present study is designed to a compare the efficacy of organic agri-treatments viz. farm yard manure (FYM) and Azotobacter on morphological and nutritional traits of knol-khol cultivar White Vienna grown at HA and low altitude (LA). The field trial was conducted as a two-factorial experiment in a randomized block design. The first factor was treatments (T1-FYM, T2-Azotobacter, T3-FYM+Azotobacter and T4-(control) and second factor was cultivation locations (HA vs. LA). The findings revealed that the application of treatment T3 at HA resulted in higher total soluble solids (1.38-fold), titratable acidity (0.06-fold), total carbohydrate (1.9-fold), crude protein (3.7-fold), crude fat (3-fold) and dietary fiber content (78-fold) whereas, yield (137.6-fold) and ash content (0.85-fold) content were found higher at LA. The current study emphasizes upon the superior efficiency of combination treatment of FYM and Azotobacter at HA to improve the nutritional quality of food crops, with added benefits of environmental sustainability and nutritional security.

FP8.5 - QR Coded Patient Leaflets – Transforming the Sustainability of Patient Information Delivery in the Surgical Outpatient Department

Abstract Introduction Quick Response (QR) codes are becoming ubiquitous in all aspects of life, including healthcare. In outpatient clinics, the benefits of convenience, cost effectiveness and environmental sustainability of QR codes has great potential. We identified that our trust was lacking in both electronic and hardcopy patient information leaflets for Bascom’s Procedure and Endoscopic Pilonidal Sinus Treatment (EPSIT). Our aim was to create information leaflets on our trust website and link them via a QR code for easy access. Methods We audited our hardcopy information leaflets for both procedures for quality and satisfaction of information and patients were given a feedback questionnaire which specifically included a response for their preference for electronic QR code access. Results The initial feedback from 20 patients showed 85% support for QR codes. 90% found the information clear, informative and easy to understand. There was a suggestion to include diagrams in our leaflets. Conclusion We had positive feedback regarding the following: quality of information, clarity of the leaflet, and accessibility (particularly the use of QR codes). The latter reflects the younger age demographic of patients that were surveyed. We plan to prospectively audit QR coded leaflets in our outpatients. We will evaluate success through both patient and clinician feedback forms. QR coded leaflets could be implemented trust wide and even nationally, to increase sustainability in outpatients and the wider NHS, without compromising patient understanding or satisfaction.

Impacts of Renewable Energy Transitions on the Economic Growth in Malaysia: A Dynamic ARDL Simulations

This study explores the dynamic relationships between renewable energy transitions and economic growth in Malaysia, with a specific focus on hydroelectric power, using the Dynamic Autoregressive Distributed Lag (D-ARDL) simulations. The research leverages extensive time-series data from 1988 to 2022 to analyze the impacts of hydroelectric and non-renewable energy consumption on the nation's economic trajectory. Our findings indicate a positive long-term relationship between hydroelectric power usage and GDP growth, highlighting renewable energy's pivotal role in sustainable economic development. Additionally, the study examines the short-term adjustments and the effectiveness of hydroelectric power in reducing dependence on non-renewable energy sources, which are crucial for achieving Malaysia's Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) for 2030. The dynamic ARDL simulations provide nuanced insights into the potential future impacts of increased hydroelectric power usage, underscoring its dual benefits for economic growth and environmental sustainability. This research contributes to the understanding of energy transitions within the context of Malaysia's unique economic and environmental landscape, offering implications for policy and investment in renewable energy infrastructure.

Investigating Returns Management across E-Commerce Sectors and Countries: Trends, Perspectives, and Future Research

Background: The systematic literature review with additional descriptive analysis at hand focuses on analysing returns management in e-commerce, which is an increasingly critical issue as the volume of online shopping is rising. Methods: Drawing from a comprehensive search of academic databases and a manual review of Google Scholar, 54 articles dating from 2007 onwards were collected and fully read. Results: The review reveals a main research effort emerging mainly from Germany and other countries, with a notable focus on fashion retail. The bulk of these studies aim to understand and reduce the frequency of customer returns, addressing a substantial operational challenge for online retailers. The findings provide multiple research streams extracted from the collected literature and combined to an overview. Conclusions: Through this, there are tendencies which can be interpreted to derive the evolution of the research field. The illustrated results in this review paint a detailed picture of the existing research landscape. This highlights the importance of ongoing research, which, e.g., holds potential benefits for customer satisfaction and environmental sustainability. The review also lists future research directions, recommending the continued investigation of areas such as predictive analytics and customer behaviour to further refine returns management practices.