Aspects Of Sustainability Research Articles

Adopting lean product development in new production system introduction process for sustainable operational performance

This research explores adopting the lean product development (LPD) concept in the new production system introduction process (NPSIP) to achieve both pre-launching and post-launching operational performance considering sustainability aspects. An empirical study was conducted in a multi-national pharmaceutical company, having lean practice for over a decade. Two case projects for launching the new production system were followed in retrospect, and data was collected by interviewing experts. In the case company, evidence were found regarding adoption of soft lean practices in the NPSIP, however, lack of adoption of hard lean practices. Several challenges were identified that hinder achieving both pre-launching and post-launching operational performance, which could be mitigated by adopting LPD practices. This paper contributes to the broad lean literature by expanding its implication within the NPSIP context. Additionally, a set of LPD principles and practices is proposed that could be adopted in the NPSIP context. Adopting the LPD principles and practices in the NPSIP, manufacturing companies can launch a new production system faster, and achieve target sustainable operational performance faster, resulting in additional competitive advantage.

Art Design and Interior Color Selection for New Energy Vehicles using sustainable AI algorithm

New energy vehicles (NEVs) are becoming increasingly popular in the automotive industry as a sustainable solution to reduce carbon emissions. In order to attract and retain customers, NEVS needs to have visually appealing exterior designs and interior color schemes. The traditional process of selecting art design and interior colors for vehicles can take time and effort. To address this challenge, our team has developed a sustainable AI algorithm for art design and interior color selection for NEVs. This algorithm utilizes machine learning techniques to analyze market trends, customer preferences, and sustainable color choices. The algorithm uses a database of color options and design elements to generate customizable options for NEV manufacturers. It reduces the need for physical prototypes and manual color matching, leading to cost and time savings. The algorithm also takes into consideration the sustainable aspect of NEVs by suggesting color options that are environmentally friendly and promote eco-consciousness.

Cosmetic Formulations from Natural Sources: Safety Considerations and Legislative Frameworks in the European Union

Consumer preferences, safety, and sustainability aspects of conventional cosmetic ingredients have contributed to an increase in the demand for natural cosmetic ingredients and products. Naturally derived active cosmetic agents and excipients may come into contact with various naturally occurring and synthetic contaminants throughout the supply chain, and substantiating their safety is essential. This review examines the safety and legislative requirements applicable to natural cosmetic ingredients in the European Union (EU). Cosmetic safety requirements include technical data based on the ingredient profile, presence of hazards and the risks associated with the intended conditions of use. The hazard analysis includes screening for microbial contaminants such as aerobic mesophilic bacteria, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans; chemical contaminants such as lead, cadmium, arsenic, and mercury; and naturally occurring toxins, such as allergens. The toxicological assessment considers both local effects (such as skin sensitisation, eye/skin irritation, and photo-induced effects) and systemic effects (including acute dermal toxicity, sub-acute and sub-chronic toxicity, mutagenicity and carcinogenicity, reproductive toxicity, and toxicokinetics). The EU legislative requirements prohibit the use of animal-based tests for the toxicological evaluation of cosmetic ingredients, paving the way for alternatives termed as New Approach Methodologies (NAMs). The validation of NAMs is critical for their wider usage, and despite advancements, few have been validated, particularly for systemic toxicity testing. The use of NAMs in evaluating the safety of complex natural cosmetic ingredients is further examined.

AN EXPERIMENTAL STUDY ON STABILIZING COHESIVE SOIL USING MICROBIALLY INDUCED CALCIUM CARBONATE PRECIPITATION

Bio-cementation is an environmentally friendly procedure grounded on microbial induced carbonate precipitation mechanism, occurring in environments abundant in calcium. In the effort to bolster soil stability, traditional urea is combined with bacteria to enhance the mechanical properties of soil. The research delves into the microbial mechanisms involved in microbially induced calcite precipitation, highlighting the role of urease-producing bacteria in facilitating calcium carbonate precipitation within the soil structure. This also entails pivotal laboratory and field experiments, evaluating the efficacy of microbially induced calcium carbonate in improving soil engineering characteristics, such as strength, permeability, and durability. Furthermore, this process can be employed across various soil types, offering adaptability in geotechnical applications. Additionally, we investigate the environmental consequences and sustainability aspects by underscoring its potential as an eco-friendly substitute for soil enhancement. Nonetheless, challenges such as optimizing bacterial activity, regulating the precipitation process, and ensuring even distribution of calcium carbonate within the soil necessitate further exploration. Based on the envisioned review, it contributes to the comprehension of MICP as a promising method for soil stabilization, providing insights for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers keen on sustainable and inventive approaches to geotechnical engineering. Key Words: Bio-geotechnical engineering, soil stabilization, Microbially induced calcium carbonate Precipitation, Soil improvement.

Staycation: A review of definitions, trends, and intersections

Staycations have emerged as a popular alternative in the tourism industry, driven by travel risks and restrictions. However, the concept of staycations remains ambiguous, lacking a clear definition and distinct features. This review aims to shed light on key aspects of staycations, including time, distance, types, locations, cost, and benefits. As tourism becomes an integral part of modern lifestyle, there is a need for further research on proximity experiences, both in physical and online spaces. Future studies should focus on staycation development, product design, well-being considerations, and sustainability aspects. This review offers valuable insights to support in-depth investigations, enabling the enhancement of domestic tourism and resident well-being. It also emphasizes the importance of integrating advanced technologies and promoting sustainable practices for a thriving staycation industry.

Assessment for the Sustainable Development of Components of the Tourism and Recreational Potential of Rural Areas of the Aktobe Oblast of the Republic of Kazakhstan

The assessment of sustainable tourism development in the rural areas of the Aktobe oblast of Kazakhstan involved thoroughly analyzing multiple dimensions. Environmental, socio-economic, and cultural sustainability aspects were considered to comprehensively understand the region’s tourism potential. The study began by evaluating the available tourism resources in rural Aktobe. This included assessing natural attractions such as landscapes, wildlife, and geological features, as well as cultural heritage sites and infrastructure like accommodation facilities and transportation networks. A crucial aspect of the study was to analyze the environmental impact of tourism activities in rural areas. This involved evaluating the effects on ecosystems and natural resources. The measures for conserving these resources were also identified. Another focus was on the socio-cultural aspects of tourism development. The study aimed to preserve local traditions, cultural heritage, and community identity amidst tourism growth. Strategies for achieving socio-cultural sustainability were devised. Ranking methods were employed to identify key factors influencing rural tourism development. These methods helped prioritize areas for improvement and resource allocation. A balanced approach was adopted to assess the interaction between different dimensions of sustainability. This ensured that environmental, economic, and socio-cultural aspects were considered equally to achieve overall sustainable tourism development. ArcGIS 10 was used for data analysis and visualization. Maps and charts were created to represent spatial and statistical information, aiding in identifying trends and patterns. The study findings were crucial for identifying priority areas for infrastructure development and formulating strategies and programs for rural tourism promotion. The study aimed to ensure that tourism development aligns with the principles of sustainable development, benefiting both the local communities and the environment. The study provided valuable insights into the current status of rural tourism in Aktobe oblast and offered recommendations for sustainable development, contributing to the region’s long-term prosperity.

Identifying and Dealing with Interdependencies and Conflicts between Goals in Manufacturing Companies’ Sustainability Measures

Companies are increasingly focusing on sustainable business practices. Internal and external stakeholders’ expectations manifest in legal requirements, national and international standards, and market and customer expectations, among other things, must be considered. In addition to profit maximization, which is the usual target for corporate management, management must consider environmental sustainability aspects such as resource efficiency, greenhouse gas intensity, and a company’s emissions behavior. In addition, social aspects related to the company’s employees, the immediate urban environment, the situation in the supply chain, and effects on the market environment must increasingly be considered. Specifically, companies are faced with the challenge of dealing with conflicting objectives regarding the various aspects of sustainability and, if necessary, weighing them up against each other. These trade-offs must be made against the company’s socio-economic and ecological environment, corporate strategy, and sustainability goals. This paper provides an overview of current approaches and research gaps on this topic through a literature review. It highlights the lack of methods and frameworks to specifically deal with trade-offs and conflicts between goals.

Recent developments in moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) for the treatment of phenolic wastewater -A review

BackgroundPhenol, a toxic and carcinogenic compound found in industrial effluent, poses a severe threat to the environment and aquatic life. Conventional methods such as physio-chemical techniques have limitations in efficiency, cost, and sustainability, leading to the development of advanced hybrid approaches like the Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR) to treat phenols. Review methodIn this study, we aimed at an in-depth review of MBBR for the remediation of phenolic wastewater at an industrial scale. The review uses a methodology that involves a comparative analysis of various conventional methods, including activated sludge process (ASP), sequencing batch biofilm reactor (SBBR), Fluidized Bed Biofilm Rector (FBBR), and trickling filter (TF) with MBBR, to determine their efficacy in phenol degradation. In this context, a thorough bibliometric assay of MBBR is carried out to understand the recent publication trends. The study also examines the impact of different types and shapes of bio-carriers and their filling ratios on phenol biodegradation. Significant findingThe present work demonstrates the feasibility of using an aerobic MBBR along with a Fenton-like system (advanced oxidation processes) to treat phenolic effluent LCCA is discussed for selected treatment methods for assessing the sustainability aspects. In light of recent advancements, future research endeavors should prioritize the refinement and optimization of MBBR systems to strengthen their efficiency and sustainability, thus paving the way for a greener and cleaner future.

Alignment of the functional structure with sustainability aspects in product development – combining the strengths of the functional structure with the MECO matrix

AbstractMany of the methods and tools proposed in the literature for validating product concepts are matrix-based, but they do not allow the results to be communicated easily and comprehensibly. This is a major obstacle to the integration of such methods. The poor communication of the results of a method therefore represents great potential for better integration of sustainability aspects in product development. In this article, an approach is proposed on how the results of the MECO matrix can be converted into a clear visualization of the reduced environmental assessments.

Valorization of cocoa pod side streams improves nutritional and sustainability aspects of chocolate

Chocolate production faces nutritional, environmental and socio-economic challenges present in the conventional cocoa value chain. Here we developed an approach that addresses these challenges by repurposing the often-discarded pectin-rich cocoa pod endocarp and converting it into a gel. This is done using cocoa pulp juice concentrate to replace traditional sugar from sugar beets. Although swelling of fibres, proteins and starches can limit gel incorporation, our proposed chocolate formulation contains up to 20 wt% gel. It also has comparable sweet taste as traditional chocolate while offering improved nutritional value with higher fibre and reduced saturated fatty acid content. A cradle-to-factory life cycle assessment shows that large-scale production of this chocolate could reduce land use and global warming potential compared with average European dark chocolate production. The process also provides opportunities for diversification of farmers’ income and technology transfer, offering potential socio-economic benefits for cocoa-producing regions.

Evaluating battery electric vehicle usage in the EU: A comparative study based on member state energy mixes

The transport sector is undergoing a major transformation, as battery electric vehicles (BEV) are gaining ground. Therefore, assessing the sustainability aspects of their use is crucial to obtaining a clear picture of the sector. This article aims to meet this requirement by using European Union (EU) data for the period 2011 to 2021 and focuses not only on EU-27 aggregates but also on each member state separately. For the evaluation, a well-to-wheel (WTW) method was used to calculate two parameters: energy-specific CO2 emissions (ε) and total efficiency of energy conversions, transmission, and battery (ηtotal). For these values, the annual electricity mixes of the countries were tracked in 5 + 1 categories (combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT), thermal power plant, biofuels, nuclear power plant (NPP), renewables, and imports). The calculated results were illustrated by sustainability matrices describing the former and current positions of the countries. The EU-27 aggregate achieved a 0.04 increase (from 0.37 to 0.41) in total efficiency and a 29 gCO2/MJmotion decrease (from 113 to 84 gCO2/MJmotion) during the period. This ε value for 2021 was around half the world average. However, very significant differences were identified between member states, which are also assessed in the article with special emphases on the five most populated EU countries (Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and Poland).

Education for Sustainable Development: Mapping Socio-legal and Eco-cultural Sustainability Topics in English Learning

This research aimed to identify socio-legal and eco-cultural values through the participatory mapping (PM) of local wisdom in supporting Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) in higher education, which can potentially be applied to English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learning. The research involved 14 English students at a private university in Bali, Indonesia. The participants were selected to take part in participatory mapping (PM) with community members at a remote village. The results of this study are documented in two major findings. First, with their collective knowledge gained from PM, the English students were able to identify socio-legal and eco-cultural values and utilize them contextually in their report writing. Second, undertaking participatory mapping prior to completing writing tasks in their EFL course could help students to better express their ideas and strengthen their English writing skills. The insertion of two aspects of sustainability in the EFL tasks involved incorporating local values into EFL learning. Through English students experiencing PM prior to completing their writing task, EFL learning can be conducted more authentically with the students paying greater attention to the local culture and values. By exploring socio-legal and eco-cultural sustainability as the core activity of PM in this research, the study contributes to our understanding of the way in which the integration of local values into EFL activities in Indonesia makes a tangible contribution to ESD.

Impact of integrated reporting on firm value and earnings quality as a moderator in Southeast Asia

The study analyzes the factors influencing integrated reporting and its implications for firm value with earnings quality as a moderating variable. The study was conducted on energy sector companies on stock exchanges of several Southeast Asian countries. The selection is due to Southeast Asia’s vulnerability to global market sentiment changes related to financial and sustainability aspects. The study employed the SEM-PLS analysis method. 208 data from 26 companies over 8 years were used. The investigation affirms that leverage, age, and board size have positively impacted integrated reporting. Firm size, growth, and board independence have a negative impact on integrated reporting. Profitability, board activity, and stakeholder pressure have not significantly influenced integrated reporting, but integrated reporting positively impacts firm value. Additionally, earnings quality does not moderate the influence of integrated reporting on firm value. The study provides insights for companies to improve the presentation of high-quality information to stakeholders. Increasing the firm value of energy companies in Southeast Asian countries needs to be done as a progressive concern for environmental impacts and sustainably creating integrated reporting. 

Analisis Kinerja Bisnis Jasa Carbon Dan Painting Carbon Plus Di Kota Palembang

Carbon Plus is an automotive business specializing in Carbon Kevlar products, which are made from carbon kevlar fibers and can be used as coatings for vehicle parts, both for cars and motorcycles, as well as other components. The business offers three services: carbon skinning, carbon repairing, and painting. Located at Sakura I Street, Palembang, Carbon Plus plans to promote its services through Instagram and ads on social media.. The performance analysis of the Carbon Kevlar business is conducted by considering financial, operational, market, risk, innovation, and sustainability aspects to evaluate the efficiency, profitability, and social and environmental impact of Carbon Kevlar production and marketing activities. The main focus is on increasing revenue, production efficiency, market dominance, risk management, product innovation, and corporate social responsibility.

A true green cover for industrial waste landfills

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the United States totaled 5,981 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MMT CO2eq) in 2020. Of that, GHG emissions by the pulp and paper sector amounted to 35 MMT CO2eq direct emissions and those by industrial waste landfills summed to 7.4 MMT CO2eq direct emissions. Loss of GHG sinks due to change in land use further contributes to the net GHG emissions. Industrial waste landfills are typically required to comply with certain federal and state regulations, including meeting requirements for final cover systems. Conventional final cover systems have included use of soil covers and/or soil-geosynthetic composite covers. An engineered turf cover provides for an excellent “green” alternative final cover system for industrial waste landfills. This paper discusses various sustainability aspects pertaining to use of an engineered turf final cover, including: (i) significantly low carbon footprint associated with the construction of an engineered turf alternative final cover when compared to closure using a traditional or prescriptive cover system; (ii) saving valuable soil and land resources; (iii) saving water resources by reduction in its use during and after construction; (iv) reducing impacts associated with borrow areas; and (v) reducing overall carbon footprint. Further, when using an engineered turf cover, opportunities exist for beneficial reuse of land, including development of solar energy. A brief discussion on the potential for development of solar energy is included.

Enhancing sustainability considerations in construction industry projects

AbstractIn today’s society, the construction sector significantly influences all three aspects of sustainability: economic, environmental, and social. Industry and academia have recognized sustainability in construction projects as a key concern. The New Zealand government also focuses on providing a sustainable construction sector centred on high performance, high productivity, enhanced innovation, and improving community well-being through a better-built environment. Project management and sustainability are two distinct areas of research. Previous empirical research on the effectiveness of construction project implementation lacked sustainability success components. This research aims to provide criteria for project sustainability success for future performance on construction projects. Based on the existing literature, many economic, environmental, and social sustainability indicators were compiled for consideration at various pipeline project life cycle phases. The information gathered from the Scopus database was analyzed using ATLAS.ti 9 software to create project sustainability success criteria. Pipeline construction projects and sustainability must focus on environmental challenges while managing economic and social advantages. The research investigated sustainable construction adoption, revealing weak awareness among organizations due to limited understanding among key actors like clients, regulatory bodies, and construction organizations. Lack of effective application of sustainability guidelines, inadequate legislation, and building codes were significant hurdles in implementing sustainable practices in the construction sector. The study highlights essential issues to promote sustainable practices in the industry. The study findings suggest that organizations and individual factors are strong predictors for achieving sustainable construction and are vital antecedents leading to greater sustainability adoption. Finally, the study points to construction project managers’ knowledge of how to set up criteria connected to sustainability and how it could affect the outcome of their projects.

Sustainable use of a smartphone and regulatory needs

AbstractThe significance of information and communication technologies (ICT) for the Paris Climate Agreement is continuously increasing because of its growing energy consumption. Here we examine the question for the smartphone and extend the investigation to more aspects of sustainability. Critical issues are identified for ten UN Sustainable Development Goals. Measurements of smartphone energy consumption show that a significant savings potential can be unlocked by reducing the data outflow and the large amount of personal data stored in data centers. Main discrepancies are also traced to the oligopolistic market structure of operating systems (OSs), messenger services, and social media apps. Technical means for a sustainable smartphone use are suggested as alternative OSs, social media channels of the Fediverse, as well as free and open‐source software. Finally, societal conditions are emphasized to make the market for OSs and apps more diverse so that a sustainable smartphone use can generally prevail.

Unjust Winds of Change: The Politics and Narratives of Wind Farms in the Brazilian Northeast

Renewable energy is recognized as a cornerstone in achieving sustainable development globally, evidenced by international standards such as the UN Agenda 2030 as well as in nations energy policies globally. One of the front runners of the energy transition globally is Brazil, where wind energy has expanded substantially since the early 2000’s. Currently, the state of Bahia in North-Eastern Brazil is seeing the fastest expansions, a state that is characterised by its many traditional and Indigenous communities. Although wind energy is known for its positive sustainability aspects, conflicting wind energy narratives and politics are abundant in this region. The fast expansion of wind energy projects has caused socio-environmental conflicts due to land related conflicts and expulsion of traditional communities for the creation of wind energy parks. In this study, we apply document analysis to critically explore the multiple narratives surrounding wind energy expansion in the state of Bahia. This study shows that different actors frame the matter differently, showcasing that civil society and local perspectives are made invisible in policy documents and decision-making processes. Our results suggest that the dominant narrative of wind power as the most sustainable energy option excludes the contrasting perspectives, perpetuating exclusion and marginalisation of local communities as well as the environment that are directly impacted by the expansion of wind energy projects.

Patients’ views and behaviours in relation to asthma inhalers use and their impact on environmental sustainability: a cross-sectional survey study

Abstract Introduction Approximately 60 million inhalers are used annually in England, contributing 3% to the National Health Service (NHS) carbon footprint. Of these, 2 out of 3 are metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) containing greenhouse gas propellants.[1] The carbon footprint of an MDI device is around 500g CO2 equivalent, in contrast with the 20g CO2 equivalent of a dry powder inhaler (DPI).[2] The NHS Long Term Plan introduced measures on environmental sustainability, leading to the National Institute of Health Care and Excellence (NICE) launching a ‘shared decision aid’ to promote the discussion of options for inhaler devices. This landmark policy step could be more effective if received with patient support and informed behaviours of patients with regard to inhalers. Research is therefore needed to identify patients’ views and behaviours on this matter. Aim To identify patients’ views and behaviours related to environmental sustainability aspects of their use of inhalers for the management of asthma. Methods An anonymous self-completion paper-based questionnaire was administered to patients with a clinical diagnosis of asthma. These were recruited opportunistically via 10 community pharmacies in the South of England during the month of February 2020. They were provided information about the study and invited to participate by pharmacy staff when collecting prescriptions. Participants had to be prescribed at least one MDI inhaler and not to be using a DPI, and report on the use, disposal and views regarding their environmental impact. Responses to the questionnaire were coded and analysed using descriptive statistics. Results A total of 149 surveys were completed by patients, of which 47% (n=70) were male and 53% (n=79) were female. The age range of respondents varied with the majority 45.6% being 18-29 years old, followed by 21.5% in the 60-69 years category. Of these, 30.2% (n=48) were aware of MDI inhalers having an impact on carbon footprint, and 53% (n=79) on plastic pollution. A majority (81%) of patients stated that they were involved or partially involved in their inhaler choice. Only 62% (n=92) said they would be willing to switch their MDI to a more environmentally friendly inhaler with equal effectiveness, 15.4% (n=23) reported they would not be willing to do so and 22.1% (n=33) were not sure. Unwanted inhalers were returned by 43% (n=64) of participants for appropriate disposal, with 55% (n=82) of respondents being unaware of this option. A majority (91%, n=136) of participants said they would like further information about their inhalers and their impact on the environment. Conclusion There is scope for a more environmentally friendly management of asthma and the use of inhalers. Healthcare professionals are involving patients in decision making when prescribing, and pharmacists could contribute to this when dispensing. Patients would welcome information on the impact of inhalers on the environment and further research could identify more precisely on what aspects, alongside barriers preventing a switch to more environmentally friendly options. A small sample size and geographical area were limitations of this study, which could be overcome by further researching issues identified in this survey.

Utilizing Waste Cooking Oil for Sustainable Biodiesel Production: A Comprehensive Review

The environmental and economic challenges posed by the over-reliance on fossil fuels have driven the search for alternative and sustainable energy sources. Waste cooking oil (WCO) presents a viable feedstock for biodiesel production, offering a dual solution to waste management and renewable energy generation. This comprehensive review examines the current state of biodiesel production from waste cooking oil, exploring the benefits, challenges, and processes involved. Biodiesel derived from WCO has several environmental advantages, including lower greenhouse gas emissions, biodegradability, and enhanced engine lubricity compared to traditional fossil fuels. Moreover, utilizing it for biodiesel addresses waste disposal issues, reducing the contamination of land and water resources. Despite these benefits, several challenges remain, such as the variability in its composition, contamination, and the need for efficient purification and transesterification processes. The review explores various methods for converting WCO into biodiesel, highlighting the key stages of the transesterification process, including the use of catalysts, alcohols, and reaction conditions. Additionally, advanced techniques such as ultrasound-assisted and microwave-assisted transesterification are discussed for their potential to increase efficiency and reduce processing time. This paper also addresses the sustainability aspects of biodiesel production from it, emphasizing its role in promoting a circular economy and reducing waste. The use of its contributes to a closed-loop system, where waste is transformed into a valuable resource. Furthermore, the review explores the economic and social impacts of biodiesel production, noting its potential to create jobs, reduce import dependence, and support local communities. In conclusion, this review underscores the significant potential of waste cooking oil in sustainable biodiesel production. It calls for continued research and technological innovation to optimize processes, enhance efficiency, and overcome existing challenges, thereby contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable energy landscape.