Sustainable Pathways Research Articles

Dissolution of metals in NCM622 cathode through the Dissimilatory process with Na-lactate by Shewanella putrefaciens

Objectives:The objective of this study is to confirm the possibility of reduction and consequent dissolution of Li, Ni, Co, and Mn from NCM622 cathodes in spent Li-ion batteries through the anaerobic respiration with Na-lactate by Shewanella putrefaciens.Methods:The method involves using anaerobic microbial respiration to mimic dissimilatory metal oxide reduction, allowing metals to be leached from NCM622 cathodes (LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2) under near-neutral pH conditions (~7.5).Results and Discussion:The results show that approximately 26 wt% of the total Li, Ni, Co, and Mn were successfully leached into the solution within two weeks. This approach differs significantly from conventional acidic leaching processes, offering a more environmentally friendly and sustainable alternative. In addition, we provide quantitative information regarding the dissolution of NCM622 when it is exposed in environmental systems.Conclusion:In conclusion, microbial-based metal leaching presents a novel, sustainable pathway for recovering metals from spent Li-ion batteries, addressing environmental concerns and reducing dependence on traditional energy-intensive recovery methods.

Light‐Assisted Polyproton Dissociated PAAm‐PA Hydrogel‐Based Moisture‐Driven Electricity Generator with a Broad Operating Range

AbstractDue to its widespread availability and spontaneity, moisture electricity generation (MEG) holds unique advantages in self‐powered systems. However, it faces challenges, including the limitations of relying on a single kind of power generation and insufficient output performance. Inspired by the mechanisms of water absorption of plants, this paper explores a light‐moisture coordinated electricity generating hydrogel (L‐MEGH) device with flexible, scalable, and highly efficient energy conversion performance, which is obtained through the UV polymerization of hydrophilic acrylamide (AAM) and phytic acid (PA) in the presence of photosensitizers. The obtained hydrogel demonstrates superior moisture absorption and remarkable electricity generation stability across a range of humidity conditions. Notably, the open‐circuit voltage (Voc) of the L‐MEGH increased from 0.675 to 0.838 V after the addition of photosensitizers (Erythrosin B, E) (the significant enhancement, up to 24%), and the short‐circuit current (Isc) reaching 635.543 µA. This L‐MEGH can realize stable electrical output even under extreme temperatures, producing 0.5 V at −20 °C for 45 h. The scalable L‐MEGHs (connected on‐demand in series/parallel) can power various commercial electronics, including nighttime illumination, mobile phones, and health monitoring sensors. This work pioneers a sustainable power generation pathway capable of enhancing performance through the hybrid collection of multiple natural energy sources.

Bridging ESG and SDGs Clean Air and Water Through CSR Committee: A New Pathway for Sustainability in the Utility Sector

This study aims to bridge Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly related to clean air and water, through the role of the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) committee in the utility sector. As global awareness of climate change rises, utility companies worldwide are adopting ESG strategies to reduce carbon emissions, improve energy efficiency, and manage water resources. This research proposes a new evaluation framework to assess the contribution of utility companies to achieving SDGs focused on air and water quality. Using data from annual reports and Refinitiv LSEG, the study examines the relationship between ESG scores, asset size, debt-to-equity ratio, and the moderating role of CSR committees in achieving SDG goals. Regression analysis results indicate that ESG scores have a significant positive influence on company contributions to achieving SDGs, especially in terms of clean air and water quality. Additionally, the CSR committee acts as an effective moderator in optimizing asset use and managing company debt to meet sustainability goals. This study provides both theoretical and practical contributions to support evidence-based decision-making for more sustainable policies in the utility sector.

Green Synthesis and Enhanced Photocatalytic Performance of rGO/ZnO/Fe3O4 Nanocomposites: A Sustainable Approach to Environmental Remediation.

The fast industrialization and mounting pollution have necessitated the need for advanced materials in order to degrade pollutants efficiently. Metal oxide-based and graphene-derivative photocatalytic nanocomposites are excellent for harnessing light energy in environmental remediation. Among them, ZnO-based nanocomposites have drawn considerable attention because of their high photocatalytic activity and stability. However, improving the performance of these nanocomposites is still necessary for their wide applications. This study explores the green synthesis, detailed characterization, and enhanced photocatalytic efficiency of reduced graphene oxide rGO/ZnO/Fe3O4 nanocomposites. The nanocomposites were synthesized via a hydrothermal method, utilizing milk thistle extract as a natural reducing agent, representing a novel and sustainable approach to fabricating magnetic rGO/Fe3O4 nanocomposites. These composites were further integrated with zinc oxide to produce a multifunctional material, exhibiting high surface area, superior electrical and thermal conductivity, and robust mechanical strength. The photocatalytic performance was significantly enhanced due to the synergistic interaction between graphene and metal oxide nanoparticles, leading to efficient degradation of environmental pollutants. Electrochemical analysis via cyclic voltammetry revealed distinctive redox peaks, demonstrating efficient electron transfer processes essential for applications in energy conversion and storage. This green synthesis not only provides a sustainable pathway for the development of advanced nanocomposites but also underscores their potential in a wide range of applications, including environmental remediation, sensing, energy storage, and optoelectronics.

Analyzing the Nexus of development and environmental impact in China: sustainable pathways

Analyzing the Nexus of development and environmental impact in China: sustainable pathways

Enrichment of Active Hydrogen at Amorphous CoO/Cu2O Heterojunction Interfaces Enhances Electrocatalytic Nitrate Reduction to Ammonia.

The reduction of nitrate into valuable ammonia via electrocatalysis offers a green and sustainable synthetic pathway for ammonia. The electrocatalytic nitrate reduction reaction (NO3RR) encompasses two crucial reaction steps: nitrate deoxygenation and nitrite hydrogenation. Notably, the nitrite hydrogenation reaction is regarded as the rate-determining step of the process. Herein, the amorphous CoO support introduced for the construction of the a-CoO/Cu2O tandem catalyst provides sufficient active hydrogen and synergistically catalyzes the NO3RR. The a-CoO/Cu2O catalyst showed excellent performance with a maximum NH3 Faradaic efficiency of 95.72% and a maximum yield rate of 0.96mmol h-1 mgcat -1 at -0.4V. In the flow cell, the maximum NH3 yield rate of 12.14mmol h-1 mgcat -1 is achieved at -800mA. The high NO3RR activity of a-CoO/Cu2O is attributed to the synergistic cascade effect of amorphous CoO and Cu2O at the heterojunction interface, where Cu2O serves as the adsorption site for NO3 -, while the accelerated active hydrogen generation of amorphous CoO promotes the nitrite hydrogenation reaction. This work provides a strategy for designing multi-site cascade catalysts centered on amorphous structures to achieve efficient NO3RR.

An integrated policy approach for sustainable decarbonization pathways of energy system in a city under climate change scenarios

An integrated assessment model has been developed to estimate useful energy demand, followed by an optimization model for planning the energy supply. Four scenarios have been developed. The findings of this study highlight the impact of behavioral, climate change, and socio-economic factors on energy demand and supply. Specifically, these factors can lead to significant variations in demand, such as a more than 3.48-fold difference in cooling demand or a 1.75-fold difference in the transportation demand by cars across various scenarios.The use of a dual-fuel car and electric motorcycle is suggested in all scenarios. Waste processing has been done with a landfill in all scenarios except in the final years of the net-zero emission target scenario, where an incinerator is proposed. The supply model for electricity generation in the early years suggests the combined cycle power plant followed by solar energy at the end. However, in the low-cost electricity scenario, it is always suggested to import electricity. The sensitivity analysis showed that the emission penalty and electricity price are the most important parameters. The results of this study will help policymakers and decision-makers in energy system planning and provide researchers with appropriate information, tools, and methods for future research.

Waste-to-Ammonia: A sustainable pathway for energy transition

Ammonia, with its exceptional storage and transportation characteristics, emerges as a promising hydrogen carrier that can play a crucial role in this transition. This study investigates the techno-economic and environmental feasibility of utilizing produced water (PW), a waste product in oil and gas production, for ammonia production (AP). Accordingly, three distinct scenarios of utilizing the PW to produce ammonia are analyzed: i) fossil fuel-based (FF) AP without CO2 capture (gray), ii) FF-based AP with CO2 capture module (blue), and iii) a solar-thermal based AP (green). Results suggest that the blue system offers a compromise between environmental impact and economic feasibility, achieving a significant reduction in CO2 emissions of 0.605 kg CO2/kg NH3 compared with the 1.87 kg CO2/kg NH3, where gray, blue, and green AP are associated with the values of $435.63/tNH3, $480.41/tNH3, and $955.05/tNH3, respectively. Moreover, this study highlights the influence of carbon tax policy on the cost of the FF-based gray systems, while becoming unprofitable above $104.75/tCO2. Analysis of AP costs across shale formations reveals variations in product cost with salt concentrations, with the Bakken and Haynesville formations exhibiting the highest cost per ton of ammonia of $433 and $426/tNH3 for blue and gray systems, respectively. Notably, it is observed that the formations with high solar radiation and low salinity including Permian and Niobrara show potential for green ammonia with payback periods of 13 and 15 years, respectively. This can be used as reliable benchmark to propose a model for achieving sustainable society.

Research on the Knowledge Structure and Sustainable Development Pathways of Artificial Intelligence from the Perspective of Technological Science

Achieving significant breakthroughs in both the fundamental theories and technological applications of artificial intelligence is essential for fostering its long-term development. Under the guidance of Professor Qian Xuesen’s theory of technological science, exploring the internal mechanisms of knowledge evolution in artificial intelligence holds profound theoretical and practical significance for promoting sustainable technological advancement. This study draws on literature from the Web of Science (WOS) database and employs methods such as knowledge mapping, natural language processing, clustering analysis, and citation analysis to outline the knowledge structure of the field, clarify the trajectory of sustainable development, and trace the technological genealogy of VR/AR technologies.This study divides the knowledge structure within the field of technological science into “basic theoretical knowledge—applied basic knowledge—applied knowledge”, enriching Qian’s theory of technological science from within and providing strong intellectual support and technological pathways for sustainable technological development in practice. Artificial intelligence encompasses 10 distinct knowledge domains, among which machine learning and deep learning constitute the basic theoretical knowledge, data intelligence, computer vision, and swarm intelligence are the applied basic knowledge, and image processing and human-computer intelligence are the applied knowledge. The development of VR/AR technology has formed two main sustainable development paths: “machine learning—data intelligence—intelligent systems—human computer intelligence”, and “deep learning—computer vision—image processing”.

Innovations for Holistic and Sustainable Transitions

Energy system planning has evolved from a narrow focus on engineering and supply works towards addressing more complex, multifactorial challenges. Increasingly challenged by climate change, extreme events, economic shocks, and altered supply demand patterns, the analysis of energy systems requires holistic approaches based on data-driven models, taking into account key socio-economic factors. We draw insights from reviewing the literature, indicating the need to cover the following major gaps: the shift to transdisciplinary approaches, incorporating environmental system analysis; resilient and sustainable energy designs based on flexible portfolios of renewable mixes; the integration of socio-economic aspects, economic analyses and behavioural models to ensure energy systems are not only technically sound but socially acceptable and viable; the need for stakeholder engagement considering the human angle in energy security and behavioural shifts. Responding to these pressing challenges and emerging needs, the Global Climate Hub (GCH) initiative, operating under the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, offers a conceptual framework, leveraging transdisciplinary approaches. In this Concept Paper, we present for the first time the idea of the GCH as a framework that we believe has the potential to address the modern holistic needs for energy system analysis and policymaking. By setting the conceptual/theoretical ground of our suggested approach, we aim to provide guidance for innovative combinations of cutting-edge models, socio-economic narratives, and inclusive interaction with relevant stakeholders for the development and the long-term implementation of sustainable pathways.

Quantitative simulation and validation of energy carbon emission efficiency changes in Chinese urban agglomerations

In the context of the global energy dilemma, enhancing energy efficiency has inevitably become a pivotal strategy for mitigating energy waste and promoting sustainable development. Urban agglomerations, as growth poles leading high-quality regional economic development, play a significant role in this process. Within these urban agglomerations, the aggregation of various factors and the substitution of energy resources substantially influence the energy carbon emission efficiency (ECEE) of surrounding cities during their development and maturation phases. This study initially employs a three-stage Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) to quantitatively analyze the ECEE values of 19 urban agglomerations from 2006 to 2020. It then establishes a methodology for calculating the joint intensity (JI) and joint threshold (JT) of ECEE within these urban agglomerations. Finally, a validation process is executed using MATLAB simulation and verification methodology to fit and authenticate the evolutionary patterns of ECEE in Chinese urban agglomerations. The primary objective of this research is to model the evolution of ECEE, thereby exploring the sustainable development pathways for urban agglomerations in China. The research findings indicate that: (1) The results from the three-stage DEA demonstrate that, after removing the influences of external environmental factors and random errors, the comprehensive technical efficiency (TE) of energy carbon emissions for the 19 urban agglomerations in China experienced a wave-like increase, rising from 0.410 to 0.506 between 2006 and 2020. (2) The calculation results of the constructed JI model indicate that the JT values of ECEE for national-level, regional-level, and local-level urban agglomerations are 1006.92, 226.60, and 160.14, respectively. The national-level urban agglomerations have significantly higher JT values and JI than the other two levels of urban agglomerations. (3) The results of the Matlab simulation verification show that 16 urban agglomerations fit well with the wave-like ascending evolutionary pattern. However, four urban agglomerations exhibit an opposite fitting effect due to the influence of their pillar industries or the small number of cities within these accumulations, making them unrepresentative. Consequently, the evolutionary curve of ECEE in Chinese urban agglomerations generally exhibits a wave-like upward trend over time.

Rice husk-derived self-healing superhydrophobic films using solvent-less approach for drag reduction and oil absorption behaviour

The present work focuses on a sustainable approach to transform rice-husk waste into self-healing superhydrophobic films with potential application for drag-reduction and oil absorption. Rice husk was transformed into amorphous nano silica particles (d50 ∼ 150 nm) exhibiting mesoporosity with a surface area of 400 m2/g. Superhydrophobic films fabricated using a solvent-less approach showed the transition from flattened to nano-globular morphology with increasing silica content in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), leading to exceptional superhydrophobicity. The optimized film with a particle fraction of 60 % exhibited high de-wetting (> 150º) and mechanical strength (∼7 MPa). The film showed extremely low water droplet adhesion of ∼19 μN, similar to lotus leaf owing to high negative Laplace pressure. Significantly, the film exhibited persisting de-wettability and endurance under harsh chemical, thermal, and mechanical conditions. The robustness is further fortified with room temperature self-healing and real-time self-regeneration characteristics, persisting even after exposure to strong acids and significant abrasion. The multidimensional aspects of the film embarked with a 70 % drag reduction and effective oil-water separation. The present work not only provides a sustainable pathway for managing agricultural waste but also a practical and easy-to-implement approach to tackle oil spill incidents.

Redox-mediated decoupled seawater direct splitting for H2 production

Seawater direct electrolysis (SDE) using renewable energy provides a sustainable pathway to harness abundant oceanic hydrogen resources. However, the side-reaction of the chlorine electro-oxidation reaction (ClOR) severely decreased direct electrolysis efficiency of seawater and gradually corrodes the anode. In this study, a redox-mediated strategy is introduced to suppress the ClOR, and a decoupled seawater direct electrolysis (DSDE) system incorporating a separate O2 evolution reactor is established. Ferricyanide/ferrocyanide ([Fe(CN)6]3−/4−) serves as an electron-mediator between the cell and the reactor, thereby enabling a more dynamically favorable half-reaction to supplant the traditional oxygen evolution reaction (OER). This alteration involves a straightforward, single-electron-transfer anodic reaction without gas precipitation and effectively eliminates the generation of chlorine-containing byproducts. By operating at low voltages (~1.37 V at 10 mA cm−2 and ~1.57 V at 100 mA cm−2) and maintaining stability even in a Cl−-saturated seawater electrolyte, this system has the potential of undergoing decoupled seawater electrolysis with zero chlorine emissions. Further improvements in the high-performance redox-mediators and catalysts can provide enhanced cost-effectiveness and sustainability of the DSDE system.

A system readiness approach to support the packaging and scaling of innovation bundles for farming systems transformation

CONTEXTA newly established ‘systemic approach to technology packaging’ for improved scaling has emerged in the literature. This approach suggests that core transformative innovations can be scaled more effectively through scaling readiness, which helps identify complementary innovations that support and facilitate the scalability of the core innovation. Since these packaging approaches start with single core innovations, we propose that they can benefit from the broader literature on sustainable agricultural systems transformation and readiness. OBJECTIVEThe objective of this paper is to advocate for a more comprehensive packaging of innovations for sustainable agricultural system transformations by better understanding gaps in the agricultural system – and its capacity for change. This approach provides a stronger rationale for the selection of relevant innovations to be packaged together. We introduce the concept of agricultural ‘system readiness’ as a possible framework for guiding such bundles. METHODSThe paper begins with a comprehensive literature review that identifies the current gaps in tools and methods to guide system transformation. It also focuses on the specific literature on innovation packaging for scaling, and builds on the gaps of existing approaches as a rationale for introducing the concept of system readiness (mostly used in infrastructure engineering), and adapting it to agricultural science. We also use illustrative hypothetical examples from mixed crop-livestock systems in the drylands to show how two approaches – ‘packaging for scaling’ and ‘packaging for transformation’ – can lead to different innovation packages. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONSThe concept of system readiness is introduced, defined and advocated. We show that it can help identify performance gaps in agricultural systems and guide better planning for system strengthening and integration. We conclude with possible complementarities between the two approaches of scaling and system readiness. SIGNIFICANCEThe agricultural system readiness approach, as outlined in this paper, would be particularly beneficial for agricultural research-for-development, as well as other agricultural investment programs that seek to identify strategies for fostering sustainable transition in farming systems. Such programs would typically entail complexity-aware theories of change that focus on stimulating sustainable transformation pathways related to key target areas, such as agroecology, sustainable intensification, and system integration (e.g., crop-livestock integration and integrated pest management). The system readiness approach can support such programs through the identification, prioritization, targeting, and empowerment of the most significant (and transformative) system components by identifying respective innovations to be packaged.

The role of digital twins in driving sustainability

The role of digital twins in driving sustainability As the pharmaceutical sector endeavours to become more sustainable, we hear how digital twins – virtual replicas of systems or products that can help predict performance – are supporting the industry in its efforts. The manufacturing sector is facing growing pressure from consumers, regulators, and investors to reduce its environmental impact. The shift towards more sustainable pathways is not only driven by regulatory compliance but also by future-proofing businesses in a world where resources are finite. This shift is clear in the pharmaceutical industry, which is striving to enhance the economic and environmental efficiency of its manufacturing processes while maintaining the highest quality standards.

Retraction Note: Biomass energy and rural development: economic benefits and sustainability pathways

Retraction Note: Biomass energy and rural development: economic benefits and sustainability pathways

Ultrapure gold recovery from electronic waste as nanoparticles immobilized in hydrogel matrix

Solid-supported gold nanoparticles possess significant value as economical and eco-friendly catalysts due to their durability and reusability. Conventional methods to synthesize heterogeneous catalysts require the use of expensive gold precursors, diminishing their economic viability. Recovering gold directly as nanoparticles immobilized in a solid matrix from electronic waste (e-waste) provides a promising economic solution. However, the greater abundance of other metal ions in e-waste solutions makes this task challenging, demanding more selective approaches. This study presents a cost-effective one-pot synthesis of gold nanoparticles immobilized in a hydrogel matrix from e-waste solutions, circumventing the need for gold precursors. The fabricated hydrogel exhibits exceptionally selective gold reduction, producing well-distributed and highly pure (23.78 K) gold nanoparticles inside the hydrogel matrix. The fine control in nanoparticle diameters from 22 to 35 nm was achieved by tuning the monomer compositions of the hydrogel. These hydrogel-supported gold nanoparticles demonstrate reusable catalytic properties, indicating their potential sustainability and industrial compatibility. This approach addresses the economic challenges of synthesizing solid-supported gold nanoparticles and offers a sustainable pathway.

Photochemically Induced Approaches to the Syntheses of β‐Lactams

The synthesis of β‐lactam scaffolds is of paramount importance due to their extensive applications in pharmaceuticals, particularly as antibiotics. Visible light photocatalysis has emerged as a revolutionary approach in this domain, providing a sustainable and efficient pathway for β‐lactam construction. In this review, we meticulously discuss the recent developments in the synthesis of photocatalysed β‐lactam frameworks.A key focus is the Staudinger reaction, traditionally a cornerstone in β‐lactam synthesis, and its adaptation to visible light photocatalysis. We explore the mechanistic intricacies of the Staudinger reaction under photochemical conditions, along with other pivotal cyclization strategies enabled by visible light. By illuminating the novel photocatalytic routes to β‐lactams, this review provides a thorough understanding of the state‐of‐the‐art techniques and sets the stage for future innovations in the green synthesis of these critical compounds.

Energy transition in the oil and gas sector: Business models for a sustainable future

The global energy landscape is undergoing a significant transformation as industries shift towards more sustainable practices, driven by environmental regulations, societal pressure, and technological advancements. The oil and gas sector, traditionally dependent on fossil fuels, is at the forefront of this energy transition. This review explores the evolving business models that facilitate the industry's transition to a low-carbon economy, focusing on strategies for achieving sustainability while maintaining profitability. Key approaches include diversifying energy portfolios by investing in renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydrogen, as well as enhancing operational efficiency through digital technologies like artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things (IoT). The transition is also marked by an increased focus on carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies, which mitigate the environmental impact of traditional oil and gas operations. Business models are being reshaped to incorporate circular economy principles, where waste and emissions are minimized through innovation and resource optimization. Furthermore, partnerships between oil and gas companies and renewable energy firms are emerging as a critical pathway for mutual growth and sustainability. This energy transition also involves rethinking the workforce and reskilling employees for emerging sectors, emphasizing the need for adaptability in business models. Regulatory frameworks play a pivotal role in shaping these models, as policies increasingly favor green investments and low-carbon initiatives. As oil and gas companies diversify their portfolios, they are creating new revenue streams that align with global decarbonization goals while ensuring financial resilience. This study highlights how these innovative business models are setting the foundation for a sustainable future in the oil and gas sector, ensuring that the industry remains relevant in a rapidly changing energy ecosystem. Keywords: Energy Transition, Oil and Gas, Business Models, Sustainability, Renewable Energy, Carbon Capture, Circular Economy, Digital Transformation, Decarbonization, Low-Carbon Economy.

Income and inequality pathways consistent with eradicating poverty

Abstract To investigate concurrent climate action and poverty eradication, we present combined income growth (GDP/capita) and domestic income inequality (measured as Gini coefficients) pathways that pursue (absolute and relative) poverty eradication reflecting the three narratives of Sustainable Development Pathway (SDP). The GDP/capita pathways are modifications of the Shared Socioeconomic Pathway SSP1 scenario, including one post-growth future for high-income countries and higher growth for all currently lower-income countries. Current inequality levels, together with the total national income from the GDP pathways, determine the inequality reductions required to eradicate poverty in individual countries; they are based on a methodology that specifies the relationship between poverty, inequality, and growth. Our pathways show rapid and sustained reductions in within-country inequality (Gini), even with high economic growth. The speed of redistribution is limited to the highest historically observed changes in inequality. We identify which countries face the greatest difficulties in meeting their poverty eradication targets and estimate the level of international transfers needed to fill the gap for those countries. Our findings reconfirm the importance of reducing within-country inequality in eradicating global poverty.