Sustainable Approach Research Articles

Micelle-Assisted C(sp2)-H Functionalization for C-Se and C-X Bond Formation in the Aqueous Medium.

An environmentally sustainable, versatile, and cost-effective approach for C-Se and C-X (X = I, Br, and Cl) bond formation through C-H functionalization assisted by micellar catalysis in water is developed. The reaction utilizes a minimum amount of diorganyl diselenides and potassium halides for the respective functionalizations. The present protocol was suitable for scale-up synthesis, which directly provided the desired selenylated products without the need for chromatographic purification, in sufficient purity. The aqueous micellar catalysis system was reusable for up to 5 reaction cycles without compromising the reaction yield.

Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Airbnb Listings in New York City: Challenges and Opportunities for Urban Housing Sustainability

Short-term rental (STR) platforms like Airbnb have significantly impacted urban housing sustainability, particularly in cities like New York City. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the STR market, raising questions about its resilience and effects on sustainable urban housing. This study addresses the following research questions: (1) How did unit and neighborhood characteristics influence the survival of Airbnb listings during the pandemic? (2) What changes occurred in the factors determining the emergence of new listings during the pandemic? Using data from Inside Airbnb, we applied Cox proportional hazard models and negative binomial regression to analyze changes before and after the pandemic. We found that during the pandemic, price discounts became crucial for listing survival, while traditional quality indicators like superhost status and high ratings lost significance. The importance of subway accessibility decreased, reflecting shifts in traveler preferences. Additionally, new listings were less likely to emerge in high-density Airbnb areas and more likely in neighborhoods with higher crime rates. These findings highlight the need for sustainable regulatory approaches that balance the benefits of STR platforms with protecting housing affordability and community well-being. Our study provides insights for policymakers aiming to promote sustainable urban housing during global crises.

Upcycling of Chitin to Cross-Coupling Catalysts: Tailored Supports and Opportunities in Mechanochemistry.

In this study chitin derived from shrimp shells was used in the design of heterogeneous Pd-based catalysts for Heck and Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling reactions. The synthesis of Pd nanoparticles supported on N-doped carbons was performed through different approaches, including a sustainable mechanochemical approach, by using a twin-screw extruder. All catalytic systems were characterized by a multitechnique approach and the effect of nanoparticles size, N-doping on the support, and their synergistic interactions were elucidated. Specifically, Kelvin Probe Atomic Force Microscopy provided valuable insights on charge transfer and metal-support interactions. The catalytic behaviour of the samples was investigated in cross-coupling reactions under batch conditions and under semi-continuous flow solvent-free conditions, respectively obtaining a quantitative yield and a noteworthy productivity of 8.7 mol/(gPdh).

Sustainable photodegradation of tetracycline by surface-functionalized carbon nitride: Mechanism insight and toxicity assessment

Here, we report the facile preparation of amino- and vacancies-abundant carbon nitride photocatalyst using acetone as a low-boiling-point solvent and describe its successful performance of environmental purification. As a demonstration of the notion, tetracycline (TC) antibiotic as an emerging aqueous contaminant has been used as a model substrate for assessing the photoactivity of the modified carbon nitride and clarifying its intrinsic mechanism. 96 % of TC can be photocatalytically removed within 30 min, accompanied by a discernible mitigation in ecotoxicological impact. Reactive species, including •OH, •O2-, and photogenerated holes, are considered the critical oxidants. Meanwhile, the possible intermediates and transformation pathways of TC degradation were investigated utilizing the LC-MS technique, the Fukui function, and the T.E.S.T. software. The comprehensive approach furnishes valuable insights for assessing the evolutionary dynamics of tetracycline in an advanced oxidation process (AOP). This study offers a sustainable, cost-effective, and eco-friendly approach to preparing carbon nitride material, which is believed to open an avenue for the facile design of heterogeneous environmental photocatalysts and to provide insights into the various environmental applications.

Role of Biocontrol Agents in Suppressing Plant Pathogen: A Compressive Analysis

Biocontrol agents have emerged as important tools in the quest for sustainable agriculture, offering environmentally friendly alternatives to chemical pesticides for managing plant pathogens and pests. This comprehensive review explores the advancements in biocontrol agent research, focusing on the exploration of new agents, genetic engineering, and integration into Integrated Pest Management (IPM) systems. The discovery of novel biocontrol agents from diverse environments, including plant microbiomes and marine ecosystems, has expanded the arsenal available for agricultural use, while genetic engineering and synthetic biology have enhanced the efficacy of existing agents by improving their production of antimicrobial metabolites and stress tolerance. Additionally, the development of synthetic microbial consortia and innovative delivery systems, such as encapsulation and nanotechnology, has improved the stability and application efficiency of biocontrol agents in various agricultural settings. The review also highlights the importance of sustainable and eco-friendly approaches, such as the use of organic amendments and crop rotation, to enhance the effectiveness of biocontrol strategies. These methods not only improve soil health and biodiversity but also reduce the reliance on chemical inputs. However, the widespread adoption of biocontrol agents faces challenges, including environmental variability, host specificity, and the need for supportive regulatory frameworks. Harmonizing regulatory processes, promoting public awareness, and providing incentives for sustainable practices are essential for overcoming these barriers. International cooperation and knowledge exchange are crucial for advancing research and ensuring that biocontrol agents become integral components of modern agriculture. This review underscores the potential of biocontrol agents to contribute significantly to global food security and environmental sustainability, provided that ongoing research and innovation continue to address existing challenges and expand their practical applications in diverse agricultural contexts.

Forest tree extracts induce resistance to Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato in Arabidopsis.

The widespread use of conventional pesticides for plant pathogen control poses significant risks to human health and the environment, and it is therefore crucial to develop environmentally friendly, human-safe alternatives to these products that offer a sustainable approach for crop protection. Here, we examined the potential of ethanolic extracts from four forest tree species for their antibacterial activity against the bacterial pathogenPseudomonas syringaepv.tomato (Pst) and their ability to trigger effective defense responses in the model plantArabidopsis thaliana. The extracts exhibited direct toxic effects against Pst and triggered the expression of defense-related genes naturally induced by oxidative stress cues or the defense elicitor salicylic acid in leaf tissue. The direct antibacterial effects of the tree extracts, together with their defense gene-inducing effectsin planta, resulted in a strong host plant-protecting effect againstPst. These findings suggest the eventual effectiveness of forest tree extracts as plant protectants against the bacterial pathogenPst. They also suggest the potential of these extracts as a sustainable, eco-friendly alternative to conventional pesticides for the management of economically important plant pathogens.

A Review of Strategies and Technologies for Sustainable Decentralized Wastewater Treatment

The traditional model of centralized wastewater treatment is facing substantial strain due to a confluence of global challenges. Consequently, it is imperative to evaluate the impediments and potential advantages associated with the deployment of decentralized wastewater (DW) treatment technologies and systems. Decentralized wastewater (DW) treatment represents a sustainable approach to managing and purifying wastewater across both urban and rural settings. This literature review provides a detailed examination of current advancements and challenges associated with DW treatment technologies. It specifically addresses their operational efficiency, long-term sustainability, and practical implementation across diverse environments. This review critically analyzes recent studies that highlight innovative methodologies, including the deployment of constructed wetlands, anaerobic digestion processes, and predictive models enhanced by artificial intelligence. A critical focus is placed on the ecological and economic advantages of source separation and resource recovery from wastewater streams. The issue of emerging contaminants, such as microplastics, antibiotics, and steroids, is also discussed, emphasizing the continued need for innovation in treatment technologies. Findings from various life cycle assessments are presented to illustrate the environmental impact and feasibility of decentralized systems relative to centralized alternatives. This comprehensive analysis offers valuable insights into the future trajectories of wastewater treatment research and implementation.

Production and Characterization of Mineral-Enriched Nadep Composts for Enhanced Soil Fertility

Aim: Production and characterization of NADEP composts using aquatic weeds as substrates and enriched with different minerals, were conducted to evaluate its feasibility for agricultural purpose. Study Design: The experiment was carried out using a completely randomized design comprising 12 treatments and three replications. Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was conducted at the model organic Farm of the Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala Agricultural University, between December 2023 and January 2024. Methods: Aquatic weeds, Limnocharis flava and Eichhornia crassipes, were collected from Vellayani lake and mixed with banana pseudostem in different proportions for compost preparation. Once the compost reached maturity, it was enriched with minerals such as calcium apatite and epsom salt. The resultant compost was then analyzed for its physical, chemical, and biological properties. Results: The NADEP compost, made from a 1:1 mixture of L. flava and E. crassipes and enriched with calcium apatite and epsom salt, was found to be the most effective treatment. It showed higher levels of macro and micronutrients, an ideal C: N ratio, improved enzyme activity, and a significant microbial load. Conclusion: NADEP composting has emerged as a highly effective and environmentally sustainable approach to producing high-quality compost in a prompt and efficient way. This method transforms aquatic weeds, such as Limnocharis and Eichhornia crassipes, which pose a threat to aquatic ecosystems, into valuable compost, thereby promoting effective waste management and advancing sustainable agricultural practices.

Utilizing the IFS Standard for the Implementation of Sustainable Development Practices in Juice Production

The aim of this study was to identify the most common threats and non-compliances occurring during the production of unpasteurized fruit juices in relation to the requirements of the IFS standard. Additionally, this study aimed to demonstrate how the IFS standard supports the introduction of sustainable practices in the production of fruit juices. The research material was data from internal audits conducted in three plants producing unpasteurized fruit juices and final product microbial assessment and swabs from the production environment taken from the three plants. These plants are located in western Poland. Based on the assessment carried out, it was found that most non-compliances were identified in the areas covered by prerequisite programs, but the final product and production environment met product and production safety requirements. It was also stated that the corrective actions proposed and approved by the auditors correct the existing non-compliance without the aspect of continuous improvement. The research and audits carried out as part of this work allowed us to conclude that international standards, such as the IFS, are an excellent tool for introducing the principles of a sustainable approach to production plants.

Development of bacterial bioformulations using response surface methodology.

Bacterial consortia exhibiting plant growth promoting properties have emerged as a sustainable approach for crop improvement. As the main challenge associated with them is viability loss and performance under natural conditions, a robust approach for designing bioformulation is needed. In this study, an efficient bioformulation was developed using spontaneous mutants of three bacterial strains for growth promotion of Cajanus cajan. Optimization of additives for solid [carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), and glycerol) and liquid [polysorbate, CMC, and polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP)] bioformulations was done by Response Surface Methodology using Central Composite Design. The stability of each bioinoculant in the formulation was assessed at 30°C and 4°C. The efficiency of the liquid bioformulation was checked in planta in sterile, and subsequently in non-sterile, soil. The maximum cell count was observed in solid bioformulation with 0.1g L-1 CMC and 50% glycerol (8.10×108, 3.69×108, and 7.39×108 for Priestia megaterium, Azotobacter chroococcum, and Pseudomonas sp. SK3, respectively) and in liquid bioformulation comprising 1% PVP, 0.1g L-1 CMC, and 0.025% polysorbate (8×109, 3.8×109, and 6.82×109 for Priestia megaterium, Azotobacter chroococcum, and Pseudomonas sp. SK3, respectively). The bioinoculants showed a higher viability (6 months) at 4°C compared to 30°C. Triple culture consortia enhanced plant growth in comparison to the control. The strains could be detected in soil till 45 days after sowing. The study established a systematic process for developing a potent bioformulation to promote agricultural sustainability. Using mutant strains, the bioinoculants could be tracked. In planta assays revealed that the triple culture consortium out-performed mono and dual cultures in terms of impact on plant growth.

Direct Conversion of Metal Organic Frameworks into Porous Rugby Phosphides by Plasma for Oxygen Evolution.

Electrolytic seawater is a green, sustainable, and promising approach for hydrogen production. Benefiting from the cost-effectiveness, crystal structures, and tailorable modification, transition metal phosphides become a highly attractive catalyst for the electrolysis of water. Considering the sufficient exposure and intrinsic catalytic activity of metal sites, here, carbon layer-coated NiFeP nanocrystals with a porous rugby structure are synthesized by Ar-H2 plasma. Activated PH radical in plasma is the key point to achieve phosphatization at a low temperature. The obtained porous rugby NiFeP catalyst exhibits excellent catalytic activity under alkaline conditions (300 mV in freshwater and 370 mV in seawater, 1000 mA cm-2), good corrosion resistance, and superior operational stability (>100 h). Theoretical calculations prove that Fe introduction and subsequent phosphorization weaken the adsorption of *O and *OH, thus improving the oxygen evolution reaction performance. Plasma phosphorization offers exciting opportunities for the in situ modification of other types of framework materials.

Literature Review: Financial Management in Hospitals Using Process Improvement Methods

Financial management in hospitals faces significant challenges due to increasing healthcare costs and the demand to maintain high-quality patient care. Process Improvement methods such as Lean and Continuous Improvement have been adopted by hospitals to address these challenges. This study aims to review the literature regarding the impact of implementing Lean and Continuous Improvement methodologies on hospital financial management. The research methodology employed a systematic approach, analyzing studies published between 2018 and 2023. The results of the review showed that the implementation of Lean and Continuous Improvement methods significantly improved operational efficiency, leading to cost reductions of up to 30%, while simultaneously enhancing patient care quality and staff satisfaction. In conclusion, these methodologies offer a sustainable approach for hospitals to manage financial pressures without compromising the quality of care. Hospitals are encouraged to adopt these strategies to achieve long-term financial stability and operational excellence.

Mechanical, microstructural, and environmental performance of industrial byproducts in peat reinforcement

Peat is widely regarded as one of the most challenging soil types due to its unfavorable engineering characteristics. Traditional methods for addressing peat-related challenges often involve costly and unsustainable approaches such as soil replacement or chemical treatment with cement. This study aims to introduce novel insights into a sustainable solution for peat stabilization by utilizing industrial waste, thereby promoting sustainable development. Palm oil fuel ash (POFA) is a prevalent industrial byproduct generated in Southeast Asian countries, presenting significant disposal challenges. This research evaluates the performance of POFA as a green binder for peat stabilization through a series of mechanical, microstructural, and environmental tests. The findings demonstrate that POFA serves as an environmentally sound and effective binder, substantially improving the engineering properties of peat while also immobilizing toxic elements within the stabilized peat matrix. Consequently, this environmentally friendly and sustainable approach enhances the poor engineering properties of peat.

Sustainable last mile logistics employing drones and e-bikes

Last mile delivery is an important and growing part of the supply chain that has a sizeable negative environmental impact. This paper considers more sustainable approaches to home-delivery that are pragmatic for many non-rural environments. We address the two-echelon, multi-trip, capacitated vehicle routing problem with home-delivery and optional self-pickup services using different combinations of drones, trucks, and electric-assisted bikes (i.e. e-bikes). In the proposed approach, parcels are transported from a depot to parcel lockers by either drones or trucks and are then delivered to customer locations by either e-bikes or trucks. The four approaches range from the most sustainable (drones then e-bikes) to partly green (drone then truck or truck then e-bike) to finally the traditional (truck then truck). We formulate a mathematical model that determines the vehicle routes to minimize the total cost, which consists of vehicle operational cost and operator wages. The four types of delivery networks are assessed and compared for both costs and emissions. Experimental results suggest that with a modest increase in total cost (as little as 13%), emission reductions of up to 92%, on average, can be achieved when using the greenest delivery strategy of drones and e-bikes. The other delivery options have varying tradeoffs between costs and environmental impact. The percentage of self-pickup customers is an influencing factor to consider when choosing the delivery strategy that best meets the organization’s budget and environmental goals, especially when using e-bikes in the second echelon.

Efficient Electrosynthesis of Valuable para-Benzoquinone from Aqueous Phenol on NiRu Hybrid Catalysts.

Electrocatalytic oxidation of aqueous phenol to para-benzoquinone (p-BQ) offers a sustainable approach for both pollutant abatement and value-added chemicals production. However, achieving high phenol conversion and p-BQ yield under neutral conditions remains challenging. Herein, we report a Ni(OH)2-supported Ru nanoparticles (NiRu) hybrid electrocatalyst, which exhibits a superior phenol conversion of 96.5% and an excellent p-BQ yield of 83.4% at pH 7.0, significantly outperforming previously reported electrocatalysts. This exceptional performance benefits from the triple synergistic modulation of the NiRu catalyst, including enhanced phenol adsorption, increased p-BQ desorption, and suppressed oxygen evolution. By coupling a flow electrolyzer with an extraction-distillation separation unit, the simultaneous phenol removal and p-BQ recovery are realized. Additionally, the developed electrocatalytic system with the NiRu/C anode displays good stability, favorable energy consumption, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions for phenol-containing wastewater treatment, demonstrating its potential for practical applications. This work offers a promising strategy for achieving low-carbon emissions in phenol wastewater treatment.

Efficient Electrosynthesis of Valuable para‐Benzoquinone from Aqueous Phenol on NiRu Hybrid Catalysts

Electrocatalytic oxidation of aqueous phenol to para‐benzoquinone (p‐BQ) offers a sustainable approach for both pollutant abatement and value‐added chemicals production. However, achieving high phenol conversion and p‐BQ yield under neutral conditions remains challenging. Herein, we report a Ni(OH)2‐supported Ru nanoparticles (NiRu) hybrid electrocatalyst, which exhibits a superior phenol conversion of 96.5% and an excellent p‐BQ yield of 83.4% at pH 7.0, significantly outperforming previously reported electrocatalysts. This exceptional performance benefits from the triple synergistic modulation of the NiRu catalyst, including enhanced phenol adsorption, increased p‐BQ desorption, and suppressed oxygen evolution. By coupling a flow electrolyzer with an extraction‐distillation separation unit, the simultaneous phenol removal and p‐BQ recovery are realized. Additionally, the developed electrocatalytic system with the NiRu/C anode displays good stability, favorable energy consumption, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions for phenol‐containing wastewater treatment, demonstrating its potential for practical applications. This work offers a promising strategy for achieving low‐carbon emissions in phenol wastewater treatment.

Tea tourism landscape development through a sustainable alternative livelihood approach: a case study of Pedro tea estate, Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka

Tea tourism has gained traction in the tourism industry around the world as a sustainable and eco-friendly niche in agro-tourism. Sri Lanka, a significant tea-producing nation renowned for its “Ceylon Tea” brand, has the opportunity to harness tea agro-tourism as a sustainable alternative income source. This research focuses on the case of Pedro Tea Estate in Nuwara-Eliya, Sri Lanka, to examine the sustainable alternative livelihood approach in tea tourism landscape development and its impact on both the tea tourism industry and community empowerment. Tea tourism offers immersive experiences to eco-conscious travellers seeking authentic encounters with the tea production process. By integrating sustainable practices, tea tourism fosters environmental responsibility and contributes to economic development in tea-growing regions. Aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, tea tourism demonstrates its potential to foster economic growth, social inclusion, cultural preservation, and environmental stewardship. This study aims to demonstrate how responsible practices and community engagement can enable the tea tourism industry to thrive while safeguarding the cultural and environmental heritage of tea-growing areas. The research endeavours to inspire other tea-growing regions to adopt sustainable landscape development and community empowerment strategies, fostering a more responsible and sustainable global tea tourism industry.

A sustainable strategy to improve photocatalytic degradation properties of CuO and CuO-rGO nanocomposite using Eucalyptus leaf extract

In this study, Copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles were synthesized using a sustainable approach. The process comprised Eucalyptus leaf extract as both a biological capping agent and a reducing agent. The synthesis process used a one-pot hydrothermal technique to efficiently combine CuO nanoparticles with reduced graphene oxide (rGO). Analytical methods were utilized to investigate the prepared nanocomposite's structural, crystalline, morphological, functional, optical, and thermal characteristics. The prepared sample was analyzed using X-ray diffraction, which revealed that CuO nanoparticles have a monoclinic crystal structure, and no impurity peaks were observed. Field emission scanning microscopes displayed the uniform dispersion of spherical CuO nanoparticles with layered and non-agglomerated, resembling a sponge-like structure of rGO. The microstructural analysis also confirmed the dispersion of copper inside reduced graphene oxide (rGO) sheets. The optical properties, including light absorption and bandgap width, were investigated using UV–visible spectroscopy using bandgap energies of 2.5 and 2.8 eV. In addition, the nanocomposite's ability to degrade cationic Rhodamine 6G and anionic Rose Bengal dyes by photocatalysis was evaluated. The degradation of RB and Rh6G dyes was characterized by nanocatalysis using UV–visible spectroscopy and a pseudo-first-order kinetics model. The pseudo-first-order degradation kinetic rate of Rhodamine 6G was determined to be 2.55 x 10−2 min−1, indicating that the nanocomposite effectively initiates this dye's degradation. The results showed that dye degradation was effective even at reduced catalyst concentrations.

Proton Ionic Liquid Modulates Hydrogen Coverage and Subsurface Absorbed Hydrogen to Enhance Pd Metallene Electrocatalytic Semi-hydrogenation of Alkynols.

Electrochemical semi-hydrogenation of alkynols to produce high-value alkenols is a green and sustainable approach. Although Pd can exhibit excellent semi-hydrogenation properties, its intrinsic mechanism still lacks in-depth study. Herein, a proton ionic liquid (PIL)-modified Pd metallene (Pdene@PIL) is synthesized for the electrocatalytic semi-hydrogenation of 2-methyl-3-butyn-2-ol (MBY) to 2-methyl-3-buten-2-ol (MBE). The PIL modification of Pdene@PIL resulted in an MBY conversion of 96.1% and MBE selectivity of 97.2%, respectively. Theoretical calculations indicate the electron transfer between Pdene and PIL, leading to easier adsorption of MBY on the Pd surface. The d-band center of Pdene@PIL shifts away from the Fermi level, which weakens the adsorption of over-hydrogenated intermediates. At the same time, the PIL modification facilitates the adsorption of surface-adsorbed hydrogen (H*ads) and inhibits the formation of subsurface-absorbed hydrogen (H*abs). In particular, the PIL modification optimizes Hads* coverage, reduces the reaction energy of the rate-determining step (C5H8O*-C5H9O*), and inhibits HER. The reduction of H*abs formation inhibits the transfer of Pd to PdHx and suppresses the over-hydrogenation. This work provides new insights into the modulation of H* to enhance the alkynol electrocatalytic semi-hydrogenation reaction (ESHR) process from the perspective of surface modification.

Sustainable bioinspired materials for regenerative medicine: balancing toxicology, environmental impact, and ethical considerations

The pursuit of sustainable bioinspired materials for regenerative medicine demands a nuanced balance between scientific advancement, ethical considerations, and environmental consciousness. This abstract encapsulates a comprehensive perspective paper exploring the intricate dynamics of toxicology, environmental impact, and ethical concerns within the realm of bioinspired materials. As the landscape of regenerative medicine evolves, ensuring the biocompatibility and safety of these materials emerges as a pivotal challenge. Our paper delves into the multidimensional aspects of toxicity assessment, encompassing cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, and immunotoxicity analyses. Additionally, we shed light on the complexities of evaluating the environmental impact of bioinspired materials, discussing methodologies such as life cycle assessment, biodegradability testing, and sustainable design approaches. Amid these scientific endeavors, we emphasize the paramount importance of ethical considerations in bioinspired material development, navigating the intricate web of international regulations and ethical frameworks guiding medical materials. Furthermore, our abstract underscores the envisioned future directions and challenges in toxicology techniques, computational modeling, and holistic evaluation, aiming for a comprehensive understanding of the synergistic interplay between sustainable bioinspired materials, toxicity assessment, environmental stewardship, and ethical deliberation.