Sustainable Future Research Articles

Exports of Renewable Energy Goods among RCEP members: Potential and Constraints

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 12pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Objective: The paper, specifically examines whether the recently formed Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) can potentially facilitate minimising the constraints to renewable energy goods exports at the regional level in Asia. Data, Methodology and Findings: Using the panel data from 11 RCEP members from 2006 to 2014, this study has applied the ‘meta frontier stochastic gravity frontier’ methodology and confirms that the establishment of RCEP has the potential to improve trade in renewable energy commodities within the RCEP region. Policy Implications: The policy implication is that when countries work together, it will lead to enormous benefits for national, regional, and worldwide prospects of a more sustainable energy future. Practical Policy Implications: In terms of practical policy implications, the developed RCEP member countries should actively engage in promoting R&D activities and protecting intellectual property rights concerning renewable energy production, which are essential for countries to integrate with the world market and to lift the export frontiers of both the developed and developing RCEP member countries to reach the unrestricted export of renewable energy technology.</span></p>

Urban agriculture for environmentally just cities: the case of urban community gardens in Cape Town, South Africa

ABSTRACT Cities in the global South confront a multitude of environmental challenges, including air pollution, waste management issues, and biodiversity loss. Addressing these issues is vital for the welfare of residents in rapidly urbanising cities. Urban agriculture emerges as a proposed solution with the potential to mitigate some of these environmental challenges. There is a lack of research exploring the relationship between urban agriculture and environmental justice in the global South, particularly in marginalised neighbourhoods that bear the brunt of environmental injustice. To fill this research gap, the study examines how community gardens contribute to advancing environmental justice in low-income neighbourhoods of Cape Town, South Africa. To achieve this goal, a mixed-methods approach is adopted. Remote sensing techniques are utilised to compare land surface temperature values of selected gardens in Cape Flats with other suburbs in Cape Town. Additionally, semi-structured interviews and observations are conducted in 34 urban community gardens, purposively selected, to delve into how these gardens can address environmental injustices in the areas. The research findings uncover an unequal distribution of green spaces between wealthier and less affluent neighbourhoods in Cape Town. While the current benefits of gardening may not be widespread, the results indicate that urban community gardens offer numerous advantages, such as environmental education, promotion of agro-ecological practices, and the utilisation of land for green purposes. As repositories of knowledge promoting environmental justice, urban community gardens require institutional support aligned with their objectives to foster a fairer and more sustainable urban future.

Transform Sustainable: Innovating for a Sustainable Future

The Transform Sustainable Program of the Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of the South of Minas Gerais (IFSULDEMINAS) is an example of how creativity and innovation can transform challenges into solutions. Through the transformation of donated and seized materials into high-value products, the program contributes to environmental protection, income generation and social development. The program's main focus is on sustainability, reducing material disposal, promoting reuse and recycling, and contributing to the circular economy. Technological innovation is also fundamental, with the development of innovative solutions to transform discarded materials into high-value products. The program has a partnership with several institutions, such as the Brazilian Federal Revenue Service (RFB), city halls, schools and NGOs, demonstrating the power of collaboration to generate positive social impact. By generating income for local communities, promoting environmental education and social development, the program contributes to building a fairer and more prosperous future for everyone. Transform Sustainable is an inspiring model that demonstrates the potential of sustainability, innovation and collaboration to build a greener, fairer and more prosperous future for all. Through the union of efforts between IFSULDEMINAS and several institutions, the program is transforming the present and building a more sustainable future for the next generations.

Remediation of antibiotics-contaminated wastewater through photocatalytic techniques: implications for SDGs that support a more sustainable future and a healthy planet

ABSTRACT This paper aims to provide information on the remediation of various antibiotics from contaminated wastewater by photocatalytic treatment techniques. The review includes the mechanism of action of pharmaceuticals, pharmaceuticals as environmental pollutants, antibiotics and their metabolites, toxicity and health implication of antibiotics-contaminated wastewater, measures to manage antibiotics in the environment, the different wastewater treatment technologies, the degradation and mechanism of antibiotics via photocatalysis, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) relating to the treatment of antibiotics-contaminated wastewater. Photocatalysis has more advantages than other treatment techniques due to its simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and higher percentage degradation of antibiotics in wastewater. The use of photocatalytic methods to purify antibiotic-contaminated wastewater has substantial ramifications for several SDGs, hence promoting a healthier world and a more sustainable future. This paper is presumed to offer some insight on the treatment technique that is more efficient and suitable for antibiotics-contaminated wastewater that can be explored on an industrial scale.

Exploring the potential of Technological Innovation in the Hospitality and Tourism Industry to attain Sustainability

Purpose of the study: The hospitality industry is undergoing rapid transformation due to continuous technological innovation in response to intense competition and evolving innovative practices. So, to meet up with the intense competition - technological innovation is inevitable. Methodology: Secondary sources are used to derive fundamental concepts and frameworks of modern technology used in the hospitality and tourism industry to attain sustainability. These sources include articles, books, newspapers, reviews, and company websites. Main Findings: By adopting technological innovation, the industry can reduce its environmental impact, improve operational efficiency, and provide enhanced experiences for guests, thereby moving towards a sustainable future. Implementing technologies in the hospitality industry involves both pros and cons. Applications of the study: Hospitality is the least service-activity sector, and there is a need to explore technological innovation strategies that lead to higher sales turnover, performance, and sustainability. Novelty/Originality of the study: This study's originality lies in its ability to offer updated technology used in the H&T industry to attain sustainable tourism. This concept is depicted with a conceptual model showing skills and innovative trends and their impact on Sustainability.

A Model-Driven Approach for Estimating the Energy Performance of an Electric Vehicle Used as a Taxi in an Intermediate Andean City

Regarding the decision to opt for vehicles with electric propulsion systems to achieve a sustainable future, much research has focused on the electrification of passenger cars, since this class of vehicles is the largest contributor of greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector. The purpose of this paper is to assess the energy performance of an electric vehicle used as a taxi in Loja, Ecuador, an intermediate Andean city, using a model-driven approach. Data acquisition was performed through the OBDII port of the KIA SOUL EV for 24 days and the variable mass of the vehicle was recorded as a function of the number of passengers; the effects of road gradient were also considered. The energy performance of the vehicle was simulated by developing an analytical model in MATLAB/Simulink. An average measured battery performance of 8.49 ± 1.4 km/kWh per day was obtained, where the actual energy regenerated was 31.2 ± 1.5%. To validate the proposed model, the results of the daily energy performance estimated with the simulation were compared with those measured in real driving conditions. The results demonstrated a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.93, indicating a strong positive linear dependence between the variables. In addition, a coefficient of determination of 0.86 and a mean absolute percentage error of 3.35% were obtained, suggesting that the model has a satisfactory predictive capacity for energy performance.

Lead-Free Halide Double Perovskites for Sustainable Environmental Applications

The development of renewable energy sources has become a crucial objective in today's world due to increasing environmental concerns and the depletion of fossil fuels. Solar energy has emerged as a promising alternative. In recent years, there has been a significant focus on perovskite solar cells due to their remarkable power conversion efficiencies and their ability to be produced in a cost-effective manner. These cells have attracted considerable attention from researchers and industry professionals alike. However, traditional perovskite materials often contain toxic lead, raising concerns about their environmental impact and long-term sustainability. This article highlights the environmental concerns associated with lead-based perovskite materials and explores the advantages, challenges, and potential of lead-free halide double perovskites as sustainable alternatives for achieving an enlightening and sustainable future in the field of photovoltaics. Lead-free halide perovskites have been an area of active research in the field of nanotechnology and material science due to their potential for various applications. We provide an overview of perovskite solar cells as a promising technology, discussing their material properties and device performance. Furthermore, we present a comparative analysis between lead-based and lead-free perovskites, emphasizing the challenges and future perspectives associated with the development and implementation of lead-free alternatives. Through this analysis, we aim to shed light on the potential of lead-free halide double perovskites and inspire further research in the quest for environmentally friendly materials for solar energy applications.

Charting the digital route to net-zero: A framework for sustainable industry practices

This study investigates the application of a comprehensive framework for implementing digital strategies towards achieving net-zero emissions in Spanish manufacturing firms. It explores the adoption of digitally enabled and digital-first strategies in 354 medium-sized companies, utilizing Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies to augment and reinvent environmental management practices. Digitally enabled strategies are found to be prevalent, optimizing existing processes through IoT for resource conservation and predictive maintenance. A modest yet growing number of firms adopt digital-first strategies, integrating AI to create innovative pathways for energy use optimization and waste reduction. However, a subset of firms remains reliant on traditional methods, indicating significant potential for digital integration. The paper highlights the strategic importance of digital tools in enhancing operational efficiencies and developing new, inherently sustainable business models. It emphasizes the need for an integrated approach that combines the strengths of digital innovation with traditional management to drive the industry towards a sustainable and net-zero future. The framework provides a nuanced classification of digital strategies and their contribution to net-zero objectives, offering insights into the effectiveness of these practices across various industrial sectors

A novel incremental ensemble learning for real-time explainable forecasting of electricity price

The development of a stable, safe, secure and sustainable energy future is a challenge for all countries these days. In terms of electricity price, its volatile nature makes its prediction a complex task. A precise real-time forecast of the electricity price can have significant consequences for the economy and risks faced. This work presents a new ensemble learning algorithm for making real-time predictions of electricity price in Spain. It combines long and short-term behavior patterns following an online incremental learning approach, keeping the model always up to date. The detection of novelties and unexpected behaviors in the time series streams allows the algorithm to provide more accurate predictions than the reference machine learning algorithms with which it is compared. In addition, the proposed algorithm predicts in real-time and the predictions obtained are interpretable, thus contributing to the Explainable Artificial Intelligence.

An innovative patternable microelectrode bonding technology for high-performance and cost-effective sealing in microfluidic chips

Microfluidic chips pose as an interdisciplinary frontier as they integrate various fields, while typically serving as a novel technological platform for precise manipulation of minute liquid volumes and biological analysis. However, the chase for enhanced bonding quality in order to fabricate these chips correctly, has led to the use of increasingly complex technology, limiting the marketability of microfluidic products. In this work, a novel microelectrode bonding technology is proposed, which addresses the demands for reliable, low-cost, and high-throughput bonding. The proposed process utilizes the Joule heating effect of microelectrodes at low voltages, in order to rapidly generate sufficient heat and allow for the successful bonding of the chip. The material used for the microelectrodes is nickel, and the method chosen for their fabrication is small-batch electrodeposition. The microelectrodes and microchannels morphology are characterized by Extended Depth of Field Microscopy, while the quality of heating produced is assessed by a high-speed infrared camera. The finalized bonding strength is characterized by measuring the microchannel burst pressure, using an apparatus comprising of a syringe pump, a precision pressure gauge, and a connecting tubing. The results prove that this is a rapid polymer bonding method, which uses less than 3 Volts. Additionally, the results underscore the process’s effectiveness, yielding chips with burst strengths over 2.9 MPa, while microchannel deformations are kept under 10 %. Finally, the advantages of the technology are discussed and its limitations are eliminated by further conceptualization. The proposed method uses no chemicals or contaminants, nor complex equipment, rendering it simple, green, and sustainable. This paves the way for the development of new efficient and greener paradigms, aiming towards leading engineering and manufacturing to a sustainable future.

Technological Innovation and Risk Management in Projects: Pathways to a Sustainable Future

Technological Innovation and Risk Management in Projects: Pathways to a Sustainable Future

The Impact of Fintech and Green Bonds on The Indian Renewable Energy Production

This study explores the important roles of Fintech and green bonds in promoting clean energy generation in India, while also analyzing the related risk dynamics. Expanding on prior research that emphasizes the significant influence of digital finance and innovative financial instruments on sustainable development, this study employs a rigorous methodology and thorough data analysis to offer fresh perspectives on their collaborative connection. Previous research has shown how Fintech can make finance more accessible to everyone, lower transaction costs, and improve transparency by utilizing technologies like digital platforms, mobile payments, and blockchain. In the same vein, green bonds have gained recognition for their ability to attract investment for environmental initiatives. This study expands on these findings in the Indian context, demonstrating how Fintech can further improve financing for renewable energy projects and how green bonds can contribute to sustainable energy initiatives. The research highlights the significance of proactive regulatory frameworks to adapt to the changing market landscape, guaranteeing strong regulations and effective risk management. This study provides valuable insights into the role of policymaking in promoting a sustainable future, which can help enhance environmental sustainability efforts in India.

Using simulations to prepare healthcare leaders for an environmentally sustainable future

With growing recognition that climate change is a significant threat to human health, healthcare leaders are increasingly recognised as critical allies in addressing this threat. This paper describes the approach that the International Hospital Federation’s Geneva Sustainability Centre is pursuing to better prepare healthcare leaders for this reality and the evidence-based principles informing the team’s work. We also share lessons learned so far, as well as recommendations for health system leaders pursuing work within their own organisations and communities.

Integrating 4IR technologies in microgrid development: Implications for sustainable economic growth in rural areas of Nigeria

Integrating Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies in microgrid development offers significant potential to drive sustainable economic growth in rural areas of Nigeria. This paper explores how advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and blockchain can be leveraged to enhance the efficiency, reliability, and scalability of microgrids, which are critical for providing reliable electricity in underserved regions. The integration of 4IR technologies can optimize energy generation and distribution, enabling real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and decentralized energy management. These innovations not only improve the operational efficiency of microgrids but also facilitate the creation of new economic opportunities by powering local industries, supporting agricultural productivity, and enabling digital services in rural areas. Furthermore, the deployment of 4IR-enhanced microgrids can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of energy systems in rural communities by promoting the use of renewable energy sources. This contributes to Nigeria's broader sustainability goals and aligns with global efforts to combat climate change. The study also examines the socio-economic impacts of microgrid development, including job creation, improved quality of life, and the empowerment of local communities through increased access to electricity. The findings suggest that integrating 4IR technologies in microgrid development can play a pivotal role in addressing energy poverty, fostering economic resilience, and promoting inclusive growth in rural Nigeria. This research underscores the need for supportive policies, investment in technological infrastructure, and capacity-building initiatives to fully realize the potential of 4IR technologies in transforming rural energy systems. The implications for sustainable economic growth are profound, offering a pathway for rural areas to leapfrog into a more prosperous and sustainable future.

Role of AI in reducing global Plastics use: Predictive analytics for global sustainability

The growth, from a global perspective, in plastic waste sees its necessary promise in Artificial Intelligence. The driving force of Machine Learning, Computer Vision, and Predictive Analytics, shapes each style of waste management and effective collection routes to recycling. In this paper, therefore, the discussion will be on how AI can ensure a reduction in plastic waste, focusing on developing countries such as Nigeria. The theoretical underpinning of this research is on AI adoption, the Technology Acceptance Model, a few real-world case studies in AI for waste reduction, and many challenges that need to be focused on due to issues of data sparsity, infrastructure limitations, and ethics. Using these challenges for unlocking the full potential of AI in the direction of a more sustainable future, with minimal plastic waste at the forefront of environmental well-being, could be better negotiated. As the global community faces the pressing need to tackle plastic pollution, especially in areas with inadequate waste management systems and severe environmental challenges AI technologies present groundbreaking solutions to improve waste management methods, eliminate environmental harm, and foster sustainable growth. A crucial factor influencing the future of AI-driven plastic waste reduction in developing countries is the ongoing progress and implementation of AI technologies.

Green infrastructure and sustainability initiatives in the construction industry: A review of current practices and future directions

This paper presents a comprehensive review of current practices and future directions regarding the integration of green infrastructure and sustainability initiatives within the construction industry. With the growing concern over environmental degradation and the need for sustainable development, there has been an increasing emphasis on adopting eco-friendly practices in construction processes. The primary objective of this review is to explore the role of green infrastructure and sustainability initiatives in transforming traditional construction practices towards more environmentally responsible and resource-efficient approaches. Through a systematic literature review, this paper examines various aspects including the adoption of green building standards, implementation of renewable energy technologies, utilization of eco-friendly materials, and incorporation of nature-based solutions in construction projects. Additionally, the research methodology involves analyzing case studies, industry reports, and governmental policies to provide a comprehensive understanding of current practices and emerging trends in the field. Key findings indicate a growing awareness and adoption of green infrastructure and sustainability initiatives within the construction industry, driven by regulatory requirements, economic incentives, and shifting societal values. Moreover, successful implementation of these initiatives has been shown to yield numerous benefits such as reduced environmental impact, improved energy efficiency, enhanced occupant health and wellbeing, and long-term cost savings. This review underscores the significant role of green infrastructure and sustainability initiatives in reshaping the construction industry towards a more sustainable future. However, it also highlights the need for further research, technological innovation, and policy support to overcome existing challenges and accelerate the transition towards truly sustainable construction practices

TEACHERS PERCEPTION OF INTEGRATING SUSTAINABILITY THROUGH CLIL AT THE PRIMARY LEVEL ENGLISH LANGUAGE CLASSROOMS IN BANGLADESH

Being one of the signatories of the United Nations (2015) Sustainable Development Goals, Bangladesh is committed to achieving the goals which is also the demand of time in this 21st century. To attain sustainability for a habitable future, teaching sustainability is a mustthat is possible to achieve in the English language classroom.The research paper aims to find teachers perceptions of ensuring teaching sustainability in the English language classroom at the primary level of education in Bangladesh. It analyses the contents of the National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB) approved English textbook of Class-V to see how many of them align with the criteria of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). It also tries to identify the pedagogy of English language teaching at the primary level from the teachers perspectives so that the researchers can also comprehend their perceptions of students current learning outcomes. The study grounded on the Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) and Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) approach is mixed method research that is descriptive in type. Content analysis, surveys, and interviews of teachers are done to collect the data. The research involves 4 primary school teachers in Bangladesh to understand their perception of teaching sustainability and students sustainability awareness along with their language skills. In this research, the purposive sampling of non-probability sampling has been used. The study finds teachers positive approach to ensuring teaching sustainability following the existing textbook. However, their mixed perception is uncovered about integrating CLILfor building an advantageous situation for both teachers and students to result in order toachievesustainable goals and prepare students better for the future.

Integrating Sustainability into Curricula: A Systematic Review of Education for Sustainable Development

Integrating sustainability into curricula is crucial for preparing students to address global environmental challenges. This systematic literature review, conducted using the PRISMA methodology, focuses on identifying effective pedagogical strategies for integrating sustainability into curricula and examines their impacts on students' learning outcomes. By analyzing 28 articles published between 2019 and 2024, the review highlights key pedagogical strategies such as problem-based learning, project-based learning, and service learning. These approaches are applied across various educational levels, including school, pre-university, and university settings. Additionally, it highlights the impacts of these integrations on students' learning outcomes, including the development of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) competencies, fostering sustainability literacy, fostering global citizenship, and preparing students for sustainability-related careers. These findings provide valuable insights for educators and institutions aiming to effectively integrate sustainability into education, thereby equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge to tackle global environmental challenges and contribute to a sustainable future.

Development of High-Quality Organic Fertilizer from Biomass Waste and the Application of Biochar in Local Areas of Sakon Nakhon Province, Northeastern Thailand

This study investigates the production of high-quality organic fertilizers from biomass waste in the Ban Wa Yai community of Sakon Nakhon Province, Northeastern Thailand, aimed at promoting sustainable agricultural practices amidst challenges such as soil degradation and reliance on chemical fertilizers. The primary objective was to develop organic fertilizers that enhance soil health and support plant growth while utilizing locally sourced biomass materials, including cow and buffalo manure, finely ground fermented leaf scraps, and weed debris. A fermentation process lasting 15 to 30 days was used, integrating biochar to improve nutrient profiles and microbial activity. Results showed optimal pH levels of 8.04 after 15 days and 7.94 after 30 days of fermentation, beneficial for addressing the region’s acidic soil conditions (pH 4.67 - 5.38). The germination index (GI) was notably high at 129 ± 1.86 after 30 days, indicating effective growth promotion potential. Analytical assessments confirmed nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) concentrations in the organic fertilizers met or exceeded organic standards, supporting plant nutrition and fostering healthy microbial ecosystems. The organic matter (OM) and organic carbon (OC) content were approximately 40 - 60 % higher than commercial alternatives, enhancing soil structure, aeration, and water retention. Additionally, calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) levels improved the nutrient profile, with Ca slightly exceeding standard limits, which helps ameliorate soil acidity. Economic analysis indicated a 40 % reduction in fertilizer costs for local farmers, promoting a shift towards organic practices. Overall, this study emphasizes the significance of self-reliance and the sufficiency economy philosophy in fostering sustainable agriculture practices within the Ban Wa Yai community. By utilizing local resources and transitioning from chemical fertilizers to high-quality organic fertilizers, the community enhances agricultural productivity while promoting economic independence and resilience. Such initiatives exemplify the potential for integrating traditional practices with modern agricultural methods to ensure a sustainable future. HIGHLIGHTS The study developed high-quality organic fertilizers from local biomass waste, enhancing sustainable agricultural practices in the Ban Wa Yai community. Fermentation resulted in optimal pH and nutrient levels (N, P, K, Ca, and Mg), surpassing commercial fertilizer standards and improving soil health. Transitioning to organic fertilizers led to a 40 % cost reduction for farmers, promoting self-reliance and aligning with the sufficiency economy philosophy. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Clustering Analysis of Food Security, Waste and Loss: Malaysia Agricultural Insights

As the world population grows rapidly nowadays, the demand for food has come to rise. The escalating demand for food has caused substantial wastage and loss, which not only hampers food security efforts but also aggravates greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, intensifying the environmental crisis. Among numerous countries, Malaysia, with its diverse agricultural profile, emerges as a good fit for our case study. This study chooses the clustering technique to examine food sector data in Malaysia and investigate the link between the clustering results on food data and the data on GHG emissions. This case study aims to find crops depending on their production efficiency, underline those that match major waste, and estimate their contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. Three clustering techniques, Gaussian Mixture Modelling (GMM), Birch, and Density Peak clustering, are applied in the Production and Supply Utilisation Accounts (SUA) datasets, help to identify and cluster crops based on their similar traits to acquire uncovered patterns between the food sector and environmental issues. Using cutting-edge clustering algorithms and visualization tools, this study investigated in-depth the complex interactions among food production, waste, and greenhouse gas emissions in Malaysia. By addressing food production efficiency and waste reduction, the outcome will be a cascade of benefits that not only improve food security but also help to lessen negative environmental effects. This study illuminates the multifaceted dynamics of food production, waste, and environmental impact, offering valuable insights and pathways toward a more sustainable future for Malaysia and potentially other nations.