Implications For Sustainability Research Articles

Beyond Industry 4.0: a systematic review of Industry 5.0 technologies and implications for social, environmental and economic sustainability

PurposeThe study seeks to understand the possible opportunities that Industry 5.0 might offer for various aspects of inclusive sustainability. The study aims to discuss existing perspectives on the classification of Industry 5.0 technologies and their underlying role in materializing the sustainability values of this agenda.Design/methodology/approachThe study systematically reviewed Industry 5.0 literature based on the PRISMA protocol. The study further employed a detailed content-centric review of eligible documents and conducted evidence mapping to fulfill the research objectives.FindingsThe advancement of Industry 5.0 is currently underway, with noteworthy initial contributions enriching its knowledge base. Although a unanimous definition remains lacking, diverse viewpoints emerge concerning the recognition of fundamental technologies and the potential for yielding sustainable outcomes. The expected contribution of Industry 5.0 to sustainability varies significantly depending on the context and the nature of underlying technologies.Practical implicationsIndustry 5.0 holds the potential for advancing sustainability at both the firm and supply chain levels. It is envisioned to contribute proportionately to the three sustainability dimensions. However, the current discourse primarily dwells in theoretical and conceptual domains, lacking empirical exploration of its practical implications.Originality/valueThis study comprehensively explores diverse perspectives on Industry 5.0 technologies and their potential contributions to economic, environmental and social sustainability. Despite its promise, the practical evidence supporting the effectiveness of Industry 5.0 remains limited. Certain conditions are necessary to realize the benefits of Industry 5.0 fully, yet the mechanisms behind these conditions require further investigation. In this regard, the study suggests several potential areas for future research.

Green Thumb, Rich Harvest: Exploring Bioactive Compounds in Horticulture

Horticulture, beyond its aesthetic allure, unveils a world rich in bioactive compounds with profound implications for human health and environmental sustainability. This abstract explores the diverse array of bioactive compounds found in horticultural crops and their potential benefits. Phytochemicals, such as phenolics, flavonoids, alkaloids, and terpenoids, are key players, contributing to plant defense mechanisms and human health. Polyphenols, including flavonoids, exhibit antioxidant properties, reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Glucosinolates in cruciferous vegetables showcase anticancer potential, while essential oils in aromatic herbs offer antimicrobial benefits. Importantly, the cultivation and consumption of bioactiverich horticultural crops promote sustainable agriculture by reducing chemical inputs and enhancing biodiversity. By harnessing the therapeutic potential of nature's pharmacy, horticulture emerges as a pivotal force in fostering human wellbeing and environmental resilience.

Investigating Space Utilization in Skyscrapers Designed with Prismatic Form

The enduring appeal of prismatic shapes, historically prevalent in office building designs, persists in contemporary skyscraper architecture, which is attributed particularly to their advantageous aspects concerning cost-efficiency and optimal space utilization. Space efficiency is a crucial factor in prismatic skyscraper design, carrying substantial implications for sustainability. However, the current academic literature lacks a complete exploration of space efficiency in supertall towers with prismatic forms, despite their widespread use. This paper seeks to address this significant gap by conducting a comprehensive analysis of data gathered from a carefully selected set of 35 case studies. The primary discoveries presented in this paper are outlined as follows: (i) average space efficiency stood at approximately 72%, covering a range that extended from 56% to 84%; (ii) average core to gross floor area ratio averaged around 24%, spanning a spectrum that ranged from 12% to 36%; (iii) the majority of prismatic skyscrapers utilized a central core approach, mainly customized for residential use; (iv) the dominant structural system observed in the analyzed cases was the outriggered frame system, with concrete being the commonly utilized material for the structural components; and (v) the impact of diverse structural systems on space efficiency showed no significant deviation, although differences in function led to variations in average space efficiency. The authors expect that these findings will provide valuable guidance, especially for architects, as they strive to enhance the sustainable planning of prismatic towers.

A fuzzy synthetic evaluation approach to assess the risks associated with municipal waste management: Implications for sustainability

The rapid growth of industry, urban areas, and populations has substantially increased waste production worldwide. The inadequacy of robust waste management systems and limited resources poses significant challenges for many emerging economies, including Bangladesh, resulting in environmental contamination. Despite numerous academic studies on sustainable waste management, there is a noticeable gap in the literature concerning identifying, evaluating, and modeling critical risks associated with adopting sustainable municipal waste management systems, particularly in emerging economies like Bangladesh. This study, therefore, aims to fill this gap by identifying, categorizing, and assessing the crucial risks in implementing sustainable municipal waste management systems. Through an extensive review of existing literature and validation with expert feedback, this study employs a fuzzy synthetic evaluation method-based framework to prioritize the identified risks. The study calculates the probability of occurrence and degree of impact values to provide decision-makers with insights into the severity of different risk categories, aiding in case-by-case attention. Scores assigned on a 1 to 5 scale range from 2.59 to 4.14 for the various risk categories. Notably, ”Industrial challenges related” and ”Community and infrastructure requirements related” emerge as the most significant risk categories among those analyzed. This study contributes to the existing literature by employing fuzzy synthetic evaluation, a methodology rarely used to determine critical risks in municipal waste management. Furthermore, it is poised to offer valuable insights to industrialists and waste management authorities, empowering them to develop responsive strategies and contribute to the sustainable development of cities and urban communities.

Extraction, Modification, Biofunctionality, and Food Applications of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum) Protein: An Up-to-Date Review

Plant-based proteins have gained popularity in the food industry as a good protein source. Among these, chickpea protein has gained significant attention in recent times due to its high yields, high nutritional content, and health benefits. With an abundance of essential amino acids, particularly lysine, and a highly digestible indispensable amino acid score of 76 (DIAAS), chickpea protein is considered a substitute for animal proteins. However, the application of chickpea protein in food products is limited due to its poor functional properties, such as solubility, water-holding capacity, and emulsifying and gelling properties. To overcome these limitations, various modification methods, including physical, biological, chemical, and a combination of these, have been applied to enhance the functional properties of chickpea protein and expand its applications in healthy food products. Therefore, this review aims to comprehensively examine recent advances in Cicer arietinum (chickpea) protein extraction techniques, characterizing its properties, exploring post-modification strategies, and assessing its diverse applications in the food industry. Moreover, we reviewed the nutritional benefits and sustainability implications, along with addressing regulatory considerations. This review intends to provide insights into maximizing the potential of Cicer arietinum protein in diverse applications while ensuring sustainability and compliance with regulations.

Preserving biodiversity of the Amazon: Pedagogical implications for harmonious coexistence, sustainability and global citizenship

Dieser Artikel leistet einen Beitrag zum Diskurs über Bildung für Nachhaltigkeit und globale Bürgerschaft sowie zu Soka-Studien im Bildungsbereich durch eine Untersuchung des Instituto Soka Amazônia (Soka Amazon Institute), einer Nichtregierungsorganisation in Manaus, Brasilien. Er untersucht die Bildungsaktivitäten des Instituts als nicht formalen Lernort für globale Bürgerschaft und befasst sich mit seinen vielfältigen Beiträgen zur Nachhaltigkeit: zum Erhalt der biologischen Vielfalt im Amazonasgebiet, als Drehscheibe für die Ziele für nachhaltige Entwicklung, zur Relevanz der Vision des Gründers für eine harmonische Koexistenz allen Lebens und zur Verwendung der Erd-Charta als ethischer Rahmen. Dieser Beitrag zeigt die Relevanz der Soka-Studien für die Bildung in nicht formalen Lernräumen sowie die breiteren Implikationen für die Bildung für Nachhaltigkeit und globale Bürgerschaft.

INTERNET OF THINGS (IOT): A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW, EMERGING TRENDS, AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS

This research paper conducts an extensive examination of the Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem, encompassing its historical evolution, technological underpinnings, and diverse applications across industries. The study addresses challenges related to security, privacy, and interoperability, offering insights into potential solutions. Additionally, the paper explores emerging trends in IoT research, including advancements in edge computing, integration with machine learning, and the convergence of IoT with other transformative technologies. By providing a comprehensive overview of the current state of IoT, the research aims to inform discussions on scalability, sustainability, and societal implications. The findings contribute to the ongoing discourse, fostering a deeper understanding of IoT dynamics and guiding future research and development efforts.

Aqueous extract of Sea buckthorn berries: A greener and ecofriendly medium for synthesis of pyrazolopyranopyrimidines

Sustainable development and environmental consciousness have become increasingly important, leading to a revolution of industrial processes and organic synthesis methods. The use of organic solvents and their associated emissions has emerged as a significant environmental issue. Consequently, there is a growing emphasis on finding substitutes for volatile solvents and halogenated organic solvents in various synthetic processes. This study focuses on a greener and more eco-friendly approach to synthesizing pyrazolopyrimidine derivatives using sea buckthorn aqueous extract as a sustainable medium. Sea buckthorn berries, rich in phenolic compounds, fatty acids, and vitamins A, C, E, along with high organic acid content, are conducive to multicomponent reactions. Pyrazolyl derivatives are of particular interest due to their role as essential components in various biologically active compounds. Overall, this methodology offers a green and environmentally sustainable alternative to current protocols, with positive implications for both sustainability and economic factors. Additionally, Sea buckthorn berry extract proves to be a recyclable medium, with minimal decrease in product yields upon recycling.

Green and Blue Water Footprints of Major Crops in the Wami/Ruvu Basin, Tanzania: Implications for Water Scarcity and Sustainability

Accurate estimation of the blue and green water requirements of the various crops cultivated in a water basin is essential for planning specific plant/crop irrigation schedules. In this study, the crop water requirements of the major crops grown in the Wami/Ruvu basin were determined using the FAO-CROPWAT model based on meteorological parameters: monthly maximum and minimum temperature, wind speed, mean relative humidity, sunshine hours, rainfall data, and effective rainfall for 23 hydro-meteorological stations distributed in the study area. The studied crops are rice, maize, beans, tomatoes, and sugarcane. The crop reference evapotranspiration (ETo) and actual evapotranspiration (ETc) for each crop were determined using crop coefficients (Kc) of various growth stages of crops. The results indicated that the total annual reference evapotranspiration (ETo) was 1604 mm, whereas an average ETo per month was 134 mm. The highest total irrigation water requirements were recorded in sugarcane, followed by rice, while the lowest water requirements were observed in beans and tomatoes. The results presented in this study may facilitate plant-specific water irrigation implementation and maximize crop production while conserving the environment.

Nanotechnology-enhanced roadway infrastructure in the U.S: An interdisciplinary review of resilience, sustainability, and policy implications

Nanotechnology-enhanced roadway infrastructure in the U.S: An interdisciplinary review of resilience, sustainability, and policy implications

Electricity Consumption, Renewable Energy Production, and Current Account of Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development Countries: Implications for Sustainability

This paper uses the bootstrapped Granger Causality Testing approach to investigate the relationship between electricity consumption, renewable energy production, and the current account of the six OECD countries. One of the main advantages of using this approach is that it captures the cross-section dependence in our sample and applies the Seemingly Unrelated Regression (SUR) to examine the causality relationship between the variables. The empirical findings show the presence of cross-section dependence in our sample as the six Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries share resources, capabilities, and key competencies. Notably, a unidirectional causality exists running from electric power consumption to the current account of the USA. The current account balance causes electric power consumption in the case of France and Switzerland. The tri-variate causality relationship between electricity consumption, renewable energy production, and current account balance could not be established in the case of Germany, Finland, or the UK.

Advancing port sustainability: Essentials for a model concession agreement framework

Concession agreements (CAs) in the port sector are designed to establish mutually beneficial arrangements for involved parties. They serve as catalysts, enabling ports to attract adept private investors and secure requisite funding to enhance port infrastructure, superstructure, and service quality. Concurrently, the imperative to mitigate negative externalities and promote sustainable practices in port organization and development remains paramount. In this context, the paper explores the nuanced landscape of CAs, specifically focusing on the urgent need for an innovative framework that integrates sustainability within port organization, operations and development. Drawing from existing academic discourse and field evidence, it systematically identifies, examines, and analyzes fundamental requirements and key factors that should be considered in CAs, in line with sustainable development and proposes a reference framework for an ideal Concession Agreement model. Despite evident strengthening of sustainability implications in port concessions, significant room for improvement persists. Nevertheless, dynamics in the field create a certain optimism for the future.

Combined mechanical couplers and special-length-priority algorithm for reducing rebar consumption and cutting waste of beam reinforcement

The surging demand for reinforced concrete buildings has led to excessive consumption of rebars, resulting in substantial rebar-cutting waste and greenhouse gas emissions. Various approaches have been explored to mitigate this issue, including lap-splice optimization and the use of special-length rebars without adhering to lapping zone rules. However, these methods do not adequately address rebar overconsumption. Conventional lap splicing is associated with several drawbacks, such as excessive rebar consumption and structural integrity concerns. Therefore, mechanical couplers have emerged as promising alternatives to address these limitations. This study assessed the impact of a combined coupler and special-length-priority optimization algorithm on reducing rebar consumption and cutting waste in beams, with the aim of achieving near-zero cutting waste. The proposed algorithm was then applied to the reinforcement of beams in a high-rise building, and a significant reduction in ordered rebar consumption was achieved, reaching 17.28 % and 5.66 %, respectively, compared with the original design and a previous study. This reduction consequently lowered greenhouse gas emissions by 14.52 % and 2.51 % compared with the original design and previous study, respectively. Additionally, 12.98 % and 0.57 % reductions in the total cost were achieved compared with the original design and previous study, respectively. The results of this study offer a novel perspective for the industry to further minimize rebar consumption and its associated sustainability implications without compromising structural integrity.

Harmonious passion and academic achievement in higher education: The mediating influence of exploratory and exploitative learning strategies

Harmonious passion refers to engaging in an activity out of personal volition and sense of meaning, which motivates individuals to devote substantial time and energy while internalizing the activity as part of their identity, and it underpins the promotion of sustainable behaviors and mindsets. The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between harmonious passion and academic achievement among university students in higher education, as well as the mediating role of exploratory and exploitative learning behaviors in this association. Exploratory learning involves seeking new knowledge and skills, whereas exploitative learning involves refining and applying existing knowledge and skills. Data were collected from 528 university students across multiple institutions in China. Using structural equation modeling and multiple regression analysis, results revealed that harmonious passion had a significant positive effect on academic achievement. Furthermore, exploratory and exploitative learning played a chain-mediated role in the relationship. These findings provide insights into how harmonious passion could promote students' academic success in the context of innovation-driven and socially sustainable development, via the facilitation of sustainable learning strategies. Therefore, this study has broader implications for personal and societal sustainability, by emphasizing the role of harmonious passion and sustainable learning strategies in enhancing academic achievement and, ultimately, contributing to a more sustainable society.

Tourism Policies and Performance of Nigerian Heritage Sites

Background: Tourism policies have a significant impact on the preservation, promotion, and overall performance of heritage sites for both domestic and international tourists. This review provides insights into the entities responsible for tourism policy formulation, the policy objective, and how the stated objectives are being realized while shedding light on their implications for sustainability, economic growth, and cultural preservation. The main objective of Nigeria's tourism policy is to protect and improve the nation's natural and cultural heritage. Many activities aimed at encouraging tourism development include planning, provision of infrastructure, taxation regime that supports tourism growth, education and training for tourism employees, marketing, legislation and regulation in order to protect and preserve tourist facilities as well as the country's natural resources, historical and cultural assets. The critical concern is the enforcement and effectiveness of regulations, specifically the probability of a policy successfully promoting sustainable and viable tourism development and management. Aims: This paper therefore investigates the influence of tourism policies on the performance of heritage sites in Nigeria and the need for policy review for improved performance of Nigerian heritage sites. Methodology: The qualitative research paradigm emerged from a comprehensive review of tourism policy literature in Nigeria. The examination of documents and research projects focused on various aspects of tourism policy planning and governance, policy formulation, policy objectives, and their implications for sustainability, economic growth, and natural/cultural heritage preservation. In the data analysis, the comprehensive review were presented with an interpretative narrative. Results:  The findings revealed that Nigeria's tourism policy seeks to empower the tourism industry and position it as a key driver of economic growth, job creation, and cultural heritage preservation.  However, the policy's ability to achieve its goals optimally has been significantly hampered by lack of relevant mechanisms to measure overall levels of compliance, overreliance on petroleum resources, poor planning, and inadequate participation of relevant stakeholders in policy formulation, implementation, and monitoring. Conclusion: Despite policies and frameworks, Nigeria's tourism sector, including cultural heritage sites, has failed to reach its goals, losing the economy numerous potential benefits. In order to address the current circumstances and ensure successful heritage site design, development, and management in Nigeria, there is an urgent need for revision of the country’s tourism policy objectives and adequate enforcement measures implemented to adapt to changing circumstances and priorities.

Energizing the Next Generation and Strengthening the Agriculture Sector: Validating Key Indicators for Farm Exit in Sri Lanka

Rural farmers in Sri Lanka face considerable challenges that often lead to the abandonment of farming activities, posing significant implications for agricultural sustainability and rural livelihoods. This study aims to explore the critical risk factors associated with farmers ceasing agricultural activities in Sri Lanka, addressing a gap in existing literature by focusing specifically on rural areas within the country. Employing in-depth interviews conducted across three subregions of Sri Lanka, a series of 14 comprehensive interviews is conducted until data saturation is achieved. Thematic analysis of the interview data reveals 14 sub-themes and four interconnected main themes: the unpredictable nature of farming, scarcity of agricultural land, and social perception of farming, along with the lack of government assistance. Additionally, insights into why younger generations are increasingly leaving agriculture were uncovered. The findings underscore the urgent need for policymakers' involvement in addressing these issues to enhance farmers’ well-being and mitigate attrition in the rural agricultural sector. This study contributes to the understanding of the factors determining farmer exit from rural agriculture in Sri Lanka and highlights the importance of targeted interventions to support sustainable rural livelihoods.

A Sustainable Post-Conflict Stabilization Framework: Applying Lessons from Afghanistan

ABSTRACT Post-conflict stabilization (PCS) is a governance endeavor that has traditionally relied on Old Public Administration (PA) approaches, and has implications for democratic sustainability. This research conceptually explores some of the root causes of PCS failure, its relation to PA, and how stabilization might be improved using New Public Service principles. A case analysis of Afghanistan’s stabilization efforts serves as a focusing event and provides lessons to justify the development of a framework for PCS that is based on inclusivity and sustainability. Finally, implications and recommendations for future research are provided to help refine this proposed framework.

Is Agricultural Production Responsible for Environmental Degradation in India? Implications for Sustainability Based on Panel Data Analysis

Is Agricultural Production Responsible for Environmental Degradation in India? Implications for Sustainability Based on Panel Data Analysis

Impact of Stone Quarrying on Sustainable Livelihoods and Environment in Selected Communities in Ghana: implications for the Sustainable Development Goals

Stone is a useful natural resource, but its extraction has sustainability implications for the environment and livelihoods. This study examined the impacts of stone quarrying activities on sustainable livelihoods and the environment, and the implications of the impacts for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in selected host communities in Ghana. The study was underpinned by the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework (SLF) and the principle of environmental sustainability as a pillar of sustainable development (SD). One hundred and ninety-two participants were involved in interviews and focus group discussions, which were analyzed thematically. It was found that the activities provided prospects for sustainable livelihoods, but the impacts on livelihoods were mixed. For instance, whereas the activities provided opportunities for jobs, income, and other socio-economic benefits, they created disputes and health challenges. The environmental impacts included vibrations, noise, cracks in buildings, dust-polluted air and water bodies, land degradation, migration of wildlife, as well as stunted growth of crops and other plants around the quarry sites. The livelihood and environmental impacts had mixed (positive and negative) implications for most of the SDGs. Based on the mixed impacts and implications dynamics, the stakeholders, led by the government and its relevant agencies, are encouraged to chart quarrying pathways that are more environmentally friendly and socio-economically equitable. Such sustainable pathways should be guided by regulatory, educational, technological, and monitoring policy considerations that would minimize the negative impacts and maximize the positive ones to promote the achievement of the SDGs for improved livelihoods and sustainable development.

Driving Towards Safety: The Role of ECUs and IMUs in Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS)

This research paper explores the pivotal role of Electronic Control Units (ECUs) and Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs) in Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS), focusing on their functionalities, applications, regulatory frameworks, emerging technologies, and real-world case studies. Through a comprehensive review of literature, this paper investigates the integration of ECUs and IMUs in ADAS and its implications for vehicle safety, mobility, and sustainability. Key topics addressed include the adoption challenges, societal impact, international regulatory landscape, standardization efforts, emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and sensor fusion, and real case studies exemplified by Tesla's Autopilot system, Volvo's City Safety system, and Waymo's autonomous taxi service. The paper concludes by highlighting the transformative potential of ECUs and IMUs in shaping the future of automotive technology and advancing towards safer, more efficient, and more sustainable transportation systems.