Environmental Sustainability Practices Research Articles

Sustainability Practices of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in China: Basis for Strategic Plan

The study presents a comprehensive analysis of small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) situated in Rizhao City, Shandong, China, focusing on their profiles, sustainability practices, challenges, and a proposed strategic plan. The respondents, SME managers, play a crucial role in shaping sustainability strategies. Among the key findings, 70% of surveyed companies adopt a corporate organizational structure, while 45% primarily operate in the manufacturing sector. SMEs in China exhibit a strong commitment to economic, social, and environmental sustainability practices, with notable percentages actively seeking cost reduction through sustainability, monitoring financial impacts, and investing in research and development for sustainable innovation. Economic challenges, including difficulties in securing funds for sustainable projects, dominate the SME landscape (88%). Social challenges emphasize meeting community expectations (80%), and environmental challenges center on reducing carbon footprints (90%). The proposed strategic plan advocates phased sustainability investments, diversification of funding sources, talent management, and a circular economy approach to address economic, social, and environmental challenges collectively. The study recommends internal reviews of organizational structures, cross-industry collaboration, exploration of alternative financing, and robust monitoring and evaluation systems to enhance SMEs' success in China's dynamic business environment. These recommendations underscore the importance of adaptive, innovative approaches to foster sustainability and resilience in SMEs while contributing to societal well-being and environmental conservation.

Inspiring nurses’ sustainability mindset: Exploring the Mediating Role of Organizational Culture on the relationship between Pro-social Leader behaviors and nurses’ sustainability consciousness

BackgroundSince nurses are at the frontline of healthcare delivery, their actions and understanding of the environment have a big impact on how long healthcare systems can last. It is essential to comprehend the elements that impact nurses’ sustainability consciousness to encourage ecologically conscious actions in the healthcare industry.AimThis study aimed to explore the relationship between pro-social leader behaviors and nurses’ sustainability consciousness and testify to the mediating role of organizational culture in this relationship.DesignA cross-sectional descriptive correlational design by STROBE criteria was used.Methods and toolsAn approach to a judgmental non-probability sampling technique was employed to obtain data from 350 nurses in an Egyptian hospital. Three measurement surveys were employed: Organizational Culture Survey, Prosociality Scale, and, Sustainability Consciousness Questionnaire (SCQ-S). Relationships were shown using structural equation modeling and descriptive and inferential statistics.Results53.4% of nurses have high perceptions of organizational culture, and the majority of nurses (85.7%) have high perceptions of prosocial leader behaviors. Furthermore, 60.9% of nurses have high perceptions of sustainability consciousness. Additionally, Prosocial leader behaviors positively correlated with organizational culture (r = 0.129) and nurses’ sustainability consciousness (r = 0.274). The indirect effect of prosocial leader behaviors on nurses’ sustainability consciousness through organizational culture is calculated by multiplying the coefficients of both direct effects (0.129 * 0.159 = 0.811). This means that for each unit increase in prosocial leader behaviors, we would expect a 0.811 unit increase in nurses’ sustainability consciousness through the mediating effect of organizational culture. The model appears to match the data well based on the model fit parameters (CFI = 1.000, IFI = 1.000, RMSEA = 0.114).ConclusionsThe study highlights the impact of pro-social leader behaviors on nurses’ sustainability consciousness through the organizational culture as a mediating factor. Nursing Implications: Findings from this research can promote environmental stewardship and sustainable practices in the healthcare sector by illuminating the elements that can encourage and support a sustainability-oriented mindset among nurses. To promote a more sustainable future for the nursing profession, the findings can guide activities in nursing education, corporate culture transformation, and leadership development.

Competitiveness in Sustainable Gastronomic Tourism: Integration of Environmental Practices in Latin American Destinations

This study explores how the integration of environmental practices in gastronomic tourism can increase the competitiveness of tourist destinations in Latin America. Through the analysis of cases in Mexico, Peru and Colombia, sustainable strategies are identified, such as the use of local products and the reduction of waste, which not only contribute to sustainable tourism development, but also improve the image and attractiveness of destinations. The results show that destinations that implement sustainable environmental practices are perceived as more attractive and competitive in a tourism market that is increasingly aware of ecological impacts.

Questioning Sustainable Environmental Policies and Practices in Indonesia: Would Durkheim’s Structural Functionalism Theory Have a Relevance?

Indonesia, as a signatory to the UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement, is committed to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. These commitments, outlined in Law Number 16 of 2016, include limiting global temperature rise, setting Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) targets, and developing a long-term strategy for net zero emissions by 2050. To meet these obligations, the Indonesian government has introduced Carbon Economic Value (CEV) policies through Presidential Regulation Number 98 of 2021. These policies aim to reduce GHG emissions by implementing carbon pricing mechanisms such as carbon trading, levies, and performance-based payments. However, the implementation of CEV policies has faced various reactions, including criticism and resistance. Despite these challenges, it's imperative not to hinder the policy's implementation, given its potential to drive significant societal and lifestyle changes towards a greener future. This study analyzes Indonesia's progress in reducing GHG emissions through CEV policies. Using normative legal research and qualitative analysis, it explores the positive impacts of these policies, including their alignment with structural functionalism theory. The study highlights that the implementation of CEV policies as an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Indonesia through carbon trading mechanisms, carbon taxes, and funding partnerships with developed countries aligns with structural functionalism theory according to Emile Durkheim. This is evidenced by the existence of a clear system (legal and governance) in implementing CEV policies, including regulators (Government), implementers (SOEs, private sector, and society), supervisors (UNFCCC), and program donors (World Bank, IMF), where each entity cooperates in an organized manner in accordance with the provisions of the Paris Agreement 2015 and Presidential Regulation 98 of 2021 continuously according to their respective tasks. This policy also brings about functional social change by promoting a harmonious balance to shift dependence away from fossil fuels towards more environmentally friendly Renewable Energy sources.

Optical and Structural Properties of V2O5 Electrochromic Thin Films

The increase in global temperature has led to a significant surge in energy consumption within the air conditioning industry, resulting in environmental deterioration. Electrochromic (EC) windows have emerged as a promising solution to address these challenges. Vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) stands out among all metal oxide materials due to its remarkable EC properties, including substantial Li+ ion insertion capacity and multicolor capabilities. Despite the potential of V2O5, there remains a lack of comprehensive research on the structural and optical properties of V2O5 films with varying thicknesses. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the structural and optical properties of V2O5 thin films with thicknesses ranging from 46 to 344 nm. By employing the sol-gel spin coating method, V2O5 thin films were fabricated and analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectroscopy and ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectrophotometry. The fabricated V2O5 thin films with thicknesses of 46-274 nm demonstrated an average film transparency of 83 %. XRD analysis further revealed that the V2O5 thin films reached their peak crystallinity at a thickness of 344 nm. Moreover, CV analysis revealed that the V2O5 device, with a thickness of 274 nm, exhibited a cathodic peak current of -1.63 mA, indicating its excellent ability to facilitate Li+ ion diffusion. Additionally, CA measurements displayed a high optical modulation of 37.78 %. Ultimately, this research contributes to the development of energy-efficient solutions for sustainable environmental practices.

Circular economy and twin transition in the cooperative movement: The case of Climate Circular Coop research project

The twin transition (TT) towards a circular economy (CE) and digital economy is vital for achieving the United Nations' Agenda 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. While research has predominantly focused on traditional enterprises, the role of cooperative enterprises in this transition remains underexplored. The Climate Circular Coop (CCC) project coordinated by the University of Ferrara in collaboration with research offices of the Italian Cooperatives Federation Area Studi Legacoop, and the University of Roma TRE, aims to address this gap by identifying the drivers and barriers cooperatives face in adopting CE and digital technologies. Through the development of a targeted survey, the project seeks to compare the efforts of cooperatives against other enterprise-forms to identify similarities and differences when implementing TT and environmental sustainability practices, such as circular economy (CE). Initial findings suggest that cooperatives and other enterprise-forms, such as SMEs, are influenced by similar barriers and drivers yet the intrinsic community-focused and democratic nature of cooperatives may position them as pivotal players. Comprehensive research is essential to enhance understanding and inform policies that support sustainability development through cooperatives exactly due to their specific business model (BM).

Regulation of Environmental Responsibility by Multinational Enterprises: From the Perspective of Host States

With the vigorous development of the global economy, the global ecology and environment are deteriorating. As one of the main economic activities in the world, transnational corporations greatly promote the economic development of the home country and the host country. However, at the same time, when transnational corporations conduct business activities overseas, due to various reasons, their activities in the host country have a great impact on the surrounding environment, and have caused actual environmental harm to the local environment. This paper uses the method of case analysis and comparative analysis to study. Therefore, this paper discusses the environmental regulation of multinational enterprises from the perspective of the host country. It examines how host countries implement local environmental standards and the impact of MNEs activities on the local environment. The analysis includes a discussion of the effectiveness of the current regulatory framework and its ability to hold multinational corporations accountable for environmental degradation. At the same time, taking the environmental impact as an example, the problems existing in the current legal regulatory framework are pointed out. Finally, the paper proposes strategies to strengthen the environmental responsibility and sustainability practices of MNE operating in host countries.

Sustainable practices in last-mile logistics of small Brazilian e-retailers: an analysis using an MCDM approach

ObjetivosEl objetivo es contribuir al desarrollo de estrategias mediante la identificación de prácticas sostenibles. Por lo tanto, la investigación tiene un doble objetivo: revelar las prácticas de sostenibilidad integradas en las actividades logísticas de última milla de minoristas de comercio electrónico, analizar las interrelaciones entre estas prácticas y categorizarlas según su importancia para los pequeños minoristas de comercio electrónico en Brasil.MetodologíaSe llevó a cabo un mapeo de la literatura para identificar prácticas de sostenibilidad en las actividades de última milla adoptadas por minoristas en línea, lo que llevó a la propuesta de un metamodelo. Un total de 67 artículos forman parte de la muestra final. Posteriormente, el estudio aplicó la técnica de toma de decisiones multicriterio Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) para estructurar el problema de investigación mediante análisis de causa y efecto entre las prácticas, con el objetivo de priorizar las prácticas críticas.ResultadosEl resultado indica una fuerte dependencia de prácticas económicas para implementar la sostenibilidad en la logística de última milla. En la dimensión económica de la sostenibilidad, los costes operacionales y la calidad de los servicios son variables de efecto y presentan una fuerte correlación.OriginalidadLa originalidad de esta investigación radica en identificar prácticas de sostenibilidad económica, social y ambiental adoptadas por minoristas en línea en los procesos logísticos de última milla. Además, el estudio se centra en el segmento minorista de comercio electrónico a pequeña escala, un área poco explorada en el contexto brasileño. Por último, el metamodelo propuesto contribuye a abordar prácticas desde la perspectiva de la Teoría de los Stakeholders y el enfoque de Sostenibilidad.Limitaciones/implicaciones para la investigaciónEl artículo proporciona contribuciones teóricas al abordar dos áreas complementarias de conocimiento: la Teoría de los Stakeholders y la Sostenibilidad, alineándose también con las directrices de la Iniciativa de Reporte Global (GRI). En términos prácticos, destaca al ofrecer ideas valiosas sobre la implementación de estrategias sostenibles al identificar prácticas económicas, ambientales y sociales en la logística de última milla, particularmente en el contexto de las pequeñas empresas en el segmento minorista en línea.Implicación prácticaLos resultados ayudan a los minoristas electrónicos a reevaluar los procesos logísticos de última milla desde una perspectiva de sostenibilidad. Este estudio pretende contribuir el avance del conocimiento de la literatura actual sobre la adopción de prácticas sostenibles en pequeñas empresas de comercio electrónico.Implicación socialTeniendo en cuenta que uno de los pilares de la sostenibilidad es el compromiso con el desarrollo social, este estudio contribuye a comprender la visión de los pequeños minoristas electrónicos sobre los trabajadores independientes encargados de la entrega de mercancías.

GIS-based spatial modeling of landslide susceptibility using BWM-LSI: A case study – city of Smederevo (Serbia)

Abstract Landslides and slope processes constitute one of the most frequent natural hazards in valleys near major rivers and mountainous regions. The surface layer, characterized by its relatively loose composition, is prone to sliding due to a combination of distinct natural and human-related factors. Specific sections along the right bank of the Danube River in Smederevo city exhibit significant susceptibility to landslide activation, often leading to substantial material losses and posing a risk to the local population. The initial step in the provided research involves analyzing existing literature and mapping landslides within the study area. The initial analysis covers both natural conditions and anthropogenic activities. The second step includes establishing a geospatial database in the Geographic Information System and generating eight thematic maps. In the third step, different weight coefficients were assigned to the criteria, which facilitated the creation of the Landslide Susceptibility Index using the Best–Worst Method. Subsequently, in the fourth step, a composite map illustrating landslide susceptibility was produced. According to this research, about 4% of the territory of Smederevo, or 19.3 km2, is highly or very highly susceptible to landslides. These localities are located on the right bank of the Danube River and around the Ralja River. Receiver operating characteristic-area under the curve value indicates very high predictive power (approximately 1), thus suggesting the reliability of the used methodology. This visualization of areas highly prone to such occurrences empowers policymakers to implement more effective environmental protection measures and institute sustainable management practices for agricultural parcels in this region. Also, the provided research represents the inaugural integration of advanced remote sensing techniques and interdisciplinary investigations, offering deeper insights into landslide activity in the study area and yielding more comprehensive results.

Uncovering the drivers of CO2 emissions in the United States: The hidden spillover effects

This study explores the applicability of the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis in the United States (US) from 2006 to 2020, employing the Spatial Durbin Model (SDM) to analyze the cross-border effects of pollution among states. The results indicate that although economic growth initially decreases environmental degradation, it subsequently contributes to more significant environmental degradation, challenging the EKC hypothesis's validity at the US state level. Factors such as higher energy prices and reliance on fossil fuels are also identified as significant drivers of environmental deterioration, with varying impacts observed across states. Conversely, adopting renewable energy sources is crucial in mitigating pollution levels. The study underscores the importance of coordinated state-level efforts to harmonize economic growth with sustainable environmental practices. It highlights the complexities of policymaking in balancing economic development with environmental conservation and emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to address environmental challenges effectively. This research enhances our understanding of sustainable development pathways amidst diverse regional dynamics within the US by providing empirical evidence and policy insights.

Karakteristik Islam dalam Tata Kelola Lingkungan Hidup: Studi Kasus Pemberian IUP Pertambangan dan Mineral kepada Organisasi Masyarakat Keagamaan

The article examines Islamic characteristics of environmental governance with a focus on the granting of mining and mineral business licences (IUPs) to religious organisations. This case study was conducted to understand how Islamic principles can be applied in sustainable and responsible environmental governance practices. The article used a qualitative approach with a case study method involving document analysis and participatory observation. The results showed that Islamic principles, such as tawhid (the oneness of God), Khilafah (human leadership on earth), and Kaslahah (public interest), play an important role in decision-making regarding the granting of IUPs. In addition, this study found that the application of Islamic values in environmental governance can improve compliance with environmental regulations and strengthen commitment to nature conservation. These findings make an important contribution to the development of policies that integrate religious values in environmental governance in Indonesia.

A Review of Discrete Element Method Applications in Soil–Plant Interactions: Challenges and Opportunities

The discrete-element method (DEM) has become a pivotal tool for investigating soil–plant interactions in agricultural and environmental engineering. This review examines recent advancements in DEM applications, focusing on both the challenges and opportunities that shape future research in this field. This paper first explores the effectiveness of DEM in simulating soil and plant materials, including seeds, roots, and residues, highlighting its role in understanding interactions that affect agricultural practices. Challenges such as long computation times and the complexity of determining accurate contact parameters are discussed, alongside emerging methods like machine learning that offer potential solutions. Notable advancements include the integration of machine learning algorithms for contact parameter estimation, the use of expanded particle models for dynamic processes, and the development of new techniques for detailed post-processing of DEM simulations. The review also identifies key future research directions, including the incorporation of environmental factors such as air and water, and the exploration of residue management for carbon storage and erosion prevention. By addressing these challenges and seizing these opportunities, future research can enhance the accuracy and applicability of DEM models, advancing our understanding of soil–plant interactions and contributing to more sustainable agricultural and environmental practices.

Promoting Scientific Literacy by Teaching in Primary Education the Issue of "Biomass for Biodiesel"

In exploring the integration of biomass education into the primary education curriculum for biodiesel production, the purpose of this study is twofold. Firstly, it aims to highlight the importance of incorporating renewable energy concepts into early education to foster environmental consciousness and sustainability practices from a young age. By teaching students about the potential of using biomass for biodiesel, they can develop an understanding of alternative energy sources and their impact on reducing carbon emissions. Secondly, this study provides practical insights into how educators, as the key players, can effectively implement biomass topics in primary school classrooms. The provision of strategies, resources, and lesson ideas empowers educators, making them feel capable and confident in their role. This ultimately equips students to address the challenges of a changing world. Through this dual purpose, the study not only empowers educators but also contributes significantly to the ongoing discourse on sustainable education practices in primary schools, making them feel part of a larger, impactful movement.

A cross-sectional study of perception toward university social responsibility and environmental sustainability practices in medical university students under promotion of sustainable thinking within the university.

This study aims to assess the associations among students' perceptions of climate change, university social responsibility (USR), and environmental sustainability practices at a medical university. It also aims to identify the factors associated with these elements. A cross-sectional self-report study was conducted with a total sample of 416 undergraduate students from a medical university in Taiwan during October 2019. Data gathered comprised sociodemographic characteristics, perceptions of climate change issues, environmental sustainability practices, measure for perception toward USR, and transportation modes. Chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, two-sample t test, and multiple linear regression models were used. Results of multiple linear regression demonstrated that the level of certainty in climate change existence (extremely and mostly certain vs somewhat or not certain at all, 1.45 [0.68]), score for usage of nonpublic transportation (per 1-point increase, 0.52 [0.25]), and students' perception toward USR (per 1-point increase, 0.14 [0.04]) were associated with the total score of environmental sustainability practice (R-square = 11.47%). In addition, school year (non-freshmen vs freshmen, -1.64 [0.65]) and environmental sustainability practices (per 1-point increase, 0.23 [0.06]) were associated with the total score of students' perception of USR (R-square = 6.57%). Promoting environmental sustainability among university students can be achieved by implementing USR-oriented courses or activities. Our research is pioneering in investigating and discussing the perceived USR and environmental sustainability practices among university students in Taiwan.

The Effect of Environmental Management and Sustainability on Destination Image and Tourist Revisits at Tourism Destinations in Bandung

This study investigates the impact of environmental management and sustainability practices on the destination image and tourist revisit intentions at tourism destinations in Bandung City. Employing a quantitative research design, data were collected from 160 tourists using a Likert scale survey. Structural Equation Modeling-Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS) was utilized for data analysis. The findings reveal that both environmental management and sustainability practices positively influence destination image, which in turn significantly affects tourists' intentions to revisit. Notably, sustainability practices have a stronger impact on both destination image and revisit intentions compared to environmental management alone. These results underscore the importance of integrating comprehensive sustainability strategies into tourism planning to enhance destination competitiveness and attract environmentally conscious tourists. The study provides practical insights for tourism managers and policymakers aiming to foster sustainable tourism growth in Bandung City.

The Mediating Role of Total Quality Management between Corporate Social Responsibility and Corporate Environmental Performance

Manufacturers have been under increasing pressure from various groups to recognize and deal with the environmental effects of their operations, especially in the past twenty years. To manage this challenge, they have adopted two practices: corporate social responsibility (CSR) and total quality management (TQM). However, it is still not clear how these practices are supposed to affect environmental performance in developing countries, particularly the less developed ones. This study aimed to fill this gap by researching whether TQM could mediate between CSR and green management in Iranian manufacturing companies. The Baron and Kenny method was used to achieve the answer. The structural equation modeling method, using AMOS, was additionally used to explore the relationships between the concepts. Out of 849 questionnaires distributed, 328 usable responses were received. The findings supported all hypotheses: CSR is linked to a company’s environmental performance, CSR is connected to TQM, TQM is associated with the company’s environmental performance, and the relationship between CSR and environmental performance is partly mediated by TQM. Practically, the findings of this study provide organizations with actionable guidance to enhance their environmental sustainability practices, resulting in fostering long-term sustainability and gaining a competitive advantage.

Investigating the mediating role of green performance measurement systems in the nexus between green intellectual capital and environmental performance

Purpose This study aims to propose and examine a conceptual model that shows how green performance measurement systems (GPMS) mediate the relationship between green intellectual capital components and environmental performance. Design/methodology/approach The research surveyed 407 Vietnamese publicly listed companies to gather empirical data. Then, the exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and structural equation modeling (SEM) are used to examine the degree of emphasis firms place on using GPMS to transform green intellectual capital into firm value. Findings The results indicate that both green human capital and green organizational capital have a direct positive impact on environmental performance. On the contrary, the influence of green social capital on environmental performance was found to be indirect through the mediation of GPMS. Practical implications GPMS can be considered a tool that helps managers renew, develop and synchronize their systems to take advantage of green resources in environmental performance improvement. Social implications The effective assimilation of GPMS within industrial entities holds the potential to mitigate air pollution and hazardous waste, thereby ameliorating social conditions for both employees and the neighboring community. Besides that, proficient implementation of GPMS enhances collaborative efforts within the industrial sphere, yielding collective societal benefits. Originality/value This study emphasizes the importance of aligning green intellectual capital with appropriate control mechanisms, such as performance measurement systems, to maximize the benefits derived from these capital resources. The findings provide insights for organizations seeking to enhance their environmental performance and sustainability practices by effectively using their intellectual and social capital while implementing robust measurement systems.

Paragliding Events & Festivals: Catalyzing Aero-Sports Tourism Development in India

India’s diverse geographical landscape and rich cultural history make it an ideal destination for paragliding events and festivals, highlighting its potential for aero sports tourism in the world. India has been the host of the Paragliding World Cup, and Paragliding Accuracy Pre-World Cup integrating with various cultural events and festivals. Paragliding destinations of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Maharashtra, and Kerala have gained popularity among the paragliding community worldwide by hosting paragliding “events & festivals”. This study has evaluated the potential of the paragliding destination of various states in India and the role of paragliding “events and festivals” in aero-sports tourism development in India. After analyzing the data from the secondary sources found the various challenges for aero sports tourism in India. Managerial implication has underlined the importance of strategic planning required by state tourism departments, paragliding associations, and local communities to incorporate music and dance festivals with paragliding events. Skill development and training programs for local youth, development of the infrastructure, sustainable environmental practices, and effective marketing and promotion will all contribute to the growth of paragliding tourism in India. Findings highlight the incorporation of local culture (dance music & food) into paragliding festivals, which promotes India’s rich heritage. Organizing events and festivals at Aero sports destinations attract tourists as well as benefits the local economy, resulting in job growth. Sustainable environment-friendly practices and community participation can reduce environmental damage and it will promote a sense of ownership among locals. The results underline the importance of empowering local communities to benefit from paragliding tourism development. Paragliding festivals not only paragliding pilots and tourists, but they also serve as an effective destination marketing tool, promoting lesser-known destinations and contributing to India's long-term Aero-sports tourism development goals.

Mechanism and application of bacterial exopolysaccharides: An advanced approach for sustainable heavy metal abolition from soil

The escalation of heavy metal pollutants in soils and effluents, driven by industrialization and human activities, poses significant environmental and health risks. Conventional remediation methods are often costly and ineffective, prompting a shift towards sustainable alternatives such as biological treatments. Natural biosorbents, including microbial cells and their byproducts, have emerged as promising solutions. One such approach involves leveraging exopolysaccharides (EPS), complex high-molecular-weight biopolymers synthesized by microbes under environmental stress conditions. EPS are intricate organic macromolecules comprising proteins, polysaccharides, uronic acids, humic compounds, and lipids, either located within microbial cells or secreted into their surroundings. Their anionic functional groups enable efficient electrostatic binding of cationic heavy metals, making EPS effective biosorbents for soil remediation. This review thoroughly explores the pivotal role of bacterial EPS in the removal of heavy metals, focusing on EPS biosynthesis mechanisms, the dynamics of interaction with heavy metals, and case studies that illustrate their effectiveness in practical remediation strategies. By highlighting these aspects, the review underscores the innovation and practical implications of EPS-based bioremediation technologies, demonstrating their potential to address critical environmental challenges effectively while paving the way for sustainable environmental management practices. Key findings reveal that EPS exhibit robust metal-binding capacities, facilitated by their anionic functional groups, thereby offering a promising solution for mitigating metal pollution in diverse environmental matrices.

Exchange of knowledge and the consolidation of culture for contamination management: Introduction to the RemTech Europe 2022 Special Series.

The urgency of protecting ecosystems and their recovery from contamination has been highlighted in several recent European strategies because Europe's biodiversity and landscapes are declining rapidly due to different human pressures. Despite the existence of EU and national laws addressing environmental contamination, practical procedures are often missing. For example, competent authorities must deal promptly and effectively with environmental accidents, noncompliance, and criminal offenses but relevant tools that facilitate these processes are often lacking. For example, thorough planning is crucial for effective investigation and assessment to improve environmental damage assessments in line with the European Environmental Liability Directive (ELD, 2004/35/EC). With regard to soils, a specific European legislation for their protection, the European Soil Monitoring Law, is currently being developed. However, it is crucial that this law bridges the gaps between existing chemical regulations and that it aligns with current European strategies for environmental protection and sustainability. Continuous feedback of soil monitoring results to regulatory frameworks will be essential. This feedback loop ensures that chemical regulations are relevant and effective in protecting soil health. In this context, development and sharing of effective and practical procedures for recovering ecosystems from contamination are crucial. This was the case at the RemTech Europe meeting, which was held online and onsite in Ferrara, Italy, in September 2022. The discussion covered all aspects of environmental contaminants. It ranged from the basic understanding of these contaminants to the various types that pose a threat to organisms, studies of their environmental fate, detection methods, and sustainable practices for contaminant management. The special series dedicated to RemTech Europe 2022 is particularly relevant to these purposes and resulted in six articles that were selected from oral presentations. The articles emphasize the need for integrated approaches to risk management and remediation to address the problems of soil, sediment, and groundwater contamination. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;00:1-5. © 2024 The Author(s). Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC).