Sustainable Development Initiatives Research Articles

Determination of Grid-Wise Monsoon Onset and Its Spatial Analysis for India (1901–2019)

Monsoon onset in India has always been a topic of interest for the research fraternity and various stakeholders. This study aimed to determine the monsoon onset date at the grid point scale, to obtain the trend of monsoon onset, and to unravel the spatial distribution of monsoon onset during the period 1901–2019 (especially in different climate modes). Based on observed cumulative rainfall, the piecewise linear regression model (PLRM), which employs least-squares principles, finds changepoints that signify the beginning of the monsoon season with the onset of monsoon. In this study, monsoon onset is examined with respect to several climate modes to evaluate their impact on monsoon onset. Monsoon onset is delayed in El Niño and drought years due to strong negative anomalies that are revealed by a spatial examination of monsoon onset. However, because of local atmospheric circulation impacts, there are outliers. The study also reveals areas with notable monotonic tendencies in monsoon onset, suggesting future changes in onset dates. These areas need more sophisticated frameworks for developing mitigation strategies since they should be viewed as susceptible. The comparison of the PLRM outcomes with objective methods reveals a strong correlation, confirming the accuracy of the PLRM method. Overall, the PLRM has been shown to be a useful tool for predicting the start of the monsoon on fine spatial scales and may be used in conjunction with regional climate models to anticipate the start of the monsoon in various regions of India. The results of this study could have a significant impact on regional planning and policy initiatives for sustainable development.

A Model for Strengthening the Implementation of a Sustainable Development Initiative in Lesotho

A Model for Strengthening the Implementation of a Sustainable Development Initiative in Lesotho

Public spending and natural resources development: A way toward green economic growth in China

The economic rise of China over the past few decades has been nothing short of remarkable. This growth, however, has brought about significant challenges, particularly in terms of environmental sustainability and natural resource management. Through a comprehensive GARCH data analysis spanning 2008 to 2018, the research explores the intricate relationship between public spending patterns and the advancement of green technologies and industries. By focusing on the prudent allocation of resources, particularly in the realm of natural resource utilization, the study assesses China's progress toward fostering a greener economic landscape. This investigation offers insights into the intricate dynamics that underpin the nation's ongoing commitment to balancing economic expansion with ecological preservation. The findings shed light on the policy effectiveness and long-term implications of China's sustainable development initiatives, providing valuable considerations for both policymakers and researchers invested in the sustainable growth paradigms of emerging economies.

Use of biodiesel in non-road mobile machineries for low-carbon construction: Policy review and lifecycle analysis

Carbon reduction is nowadays part of the sustainable development initiative worldwide, and promoting the use of biodiesel as a substitute for conventional diesel in non-road mobile machineries (NRMMs) used in the construction sector is a direct and effective way to reduce carbon emissions in this energy-intensive industry from a lifecycle perspective. In addition, the production and use of biodiesel made from waste cooking oil provide a solution to environmental issues and waste management, achieving a circular economy. Nevertheless, biodiesel usage in NRMMs in Hong Kong is largely limited to public works and the current biodiesel promotion and regulation measures are inadequate. This study aims to review and analyse biodiesel policies and promote the use of biodiesel in Hong Kong for low-carbon construction. Incentive and mandatory policies applicable to NRMMs are reviewed and analysed for two stages: biodiesel production and supply, and biodiesel consumption. Recommendations on biodiesel policies for the construction industry in Hong Kong are made accordingly, including expanding biodiesel production through incentives, and encouraging contractors to use biodiesel in private projects. A lifecycle analysis is then conducted to quantify the carbon reduction capability of using biodiesel. It is estimated that a lifecycle reduction of 3.2 × 104 tCO2e, i.e., a 4.5% decrease could be achieved by using B5 waste cooking oil biodiesel instead of diesel in the construction industry of Hong Kong. This study reviews and analyses biodiesel policies clearly and critically, paving the way for the establishment of feasible and effective regulations for promoting biodiesel use for low-carbon construction.

Exploring the Potential of a Popular EFL Textbook to Foster Both Sustainability Awareness and Competencies among ESD Learners: A Content Analysis Approach

To demonstrate the potential of the fifth edition of the Headway EFL textbook as a means to cultivate sustainability awareness and competence in Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), this study aims to identify themes related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within the textbook. The secondary objective is to identify grammatical concept exercises that can function as a means of augmenting sustainability competencies. Drawing on constructivism research philosophy, this study utilized a content analysis approach to identify themes and patterns of SDGs in the textbook. This involved connecting language skill development (reading, listening, writing, and speaking) within every topic unit of the textbook with each of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Furthermore, we focused on identifying and correlating different grammatical tasks that have the potential of enhancing students’ anticipatory, system-thinking, normative, strategic, and interpersonal sustainability competencies. The findings indicated that, with the exception of SDGs 6 and 1, all of the remaining 15 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are depicted throughout the six levels of the textbook. In addition, it was revealed that exercises pertaining to grammatical concepts, including passive voice, pronouns, conjunctions, adjectives, and emphatic language, simple future tense, serve as significant predictors and enhancers of the five core competencies of sustainability. The present study sheds more light on the current understanding of sustainability awareness and competencies that are crucial for advancing Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) initiatives across various levels of the educational system.

Women's Empowerment and Sustainable Development: A Quantitative Case Study of Ibesikpo Austan Community, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

This quantitative case study examines the role of women in promoting sustainable development in the marginalized Ibesikpo Austan Community of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The community has long faced issues of marginalization and disorientation, presenting obstacles to sustainable development. The study investigates the impact of women's empowerment initiatives on sustainable development outcomes within the community. A sample of 116 respondents was randomly selected, and data was collected through a structured questionnaire and interviews. The study analyzes key sustainable development indicators, including economic growth, social equity, and environmental sustainability. Furthermore, it explores the factors influencing women's empowerment and their active participation in sustainable development initiatives. The findings underscore the presence of gender disparities that hinder women's economic productivity and impede sustainable development progress. The study highlights the potential of leveraging traditional women's networks as effective mobilization mechanisms toward desired goals. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the gender dynamics in sustainable development efforts. It gives valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders seeking to foster inclusive and sustainable development in marginalized communities. Based on the research findings, recommendations include empowering women through educational training, financial support, and community-based interventions to enhance their socioeconomic status.

Optimizing Property Tax Collection: E-KTP and Payment Reminder Approach

This scientific article explores the importance of community involvement in regional development, emphasizing the collaborative efforts between government, citizens, and the business sector. The study focuses on the significant influence of local revenue on the progress of a region, where higher income correlates with improved development. However, certain areas face challenges due to the relatively low contribution of Property Tax (PBB) to Regional Original Income (PAD), mainly attributed to taxpayers' lack of awareness and occasional forgetfulness in meeting payment deadlines. In response, the research proposes an innovative approach to optimize PBB collection by leveraging e-KTP-based service queuing and payment reminders. The implementation of tax education programs covering various tax obligations, such as Pph, PPN, PBB, and Bea Materai, forms a critical aspect of this strategy. The results indicate promising advancements in revenue collection, underscoring the potential implications for sustainable regional development.
 Highlights:
 
 Efficient Collection: Implementing an E-KTP and payment reminder-based system improves the efficiency of property tax collection, ensuring timely payments and maximizing revenue for regional development.
 Citizen Awareness: Raising awareness among taxpayers about their obligations through tax education programs fosters a sense of civic responsibility and encourages voluntary compliance.
 Sustainable Development: Optimal property tax collection plays a pivotal role in financing sustainable regional development initiatives, contributing to improved infrastructure and public services.
 
 Keywords: Property Tax, PBB, E-KTP, Payment Reminder, Regional Development

Analysis of the Survey Results on the Pro-Ecological Awareness of Young People in the Aspect of Sustainable Development

Abstract The objective of this paper is to propose effective methods to implement sustainable development principles among young people, both in schools and universities. The authors of this article recognize the significant potential among young individuals whose actions and choices have a substantial impact on the environment. By analyzing the knowledge and behaviors of young people towards sustainable development and environmental protection, based on surveys conducted among pupils and students from the south-eastern region of Poland, this paper identifies gaps that require improvement and proposes actions aimed at raising pro-ecological awareness among the youth. The analysis revealed that only 25% of the respondents have heard about the “Agenda for Sustainable Development – 2030”, 20% were familiar with the goals of sustainable development, and few have participated in initiatives for sustainable development. However, 58% of respondents claimed to engage in activities for environmental protection in their daily lives. The article also presents the degree of compliance with the assumptions of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development on both global and local scales. Furthermore, the paper analyzes two aspects of students’ awareness of sustainable development: their knowledge of goals and documents, and their pro-ecological behavior in daily life. Based on the findings, this paper proposes ways to introduce sustainable development principles in selected areas of school and university functioning to enhance ecological awareness and shape pro-ecological attitudes among young people. Concrete actions to facilitate implementation are also suggested.

15-min Cities: the Potential of a Medium-Sized Polycentric Latin American City.

Urban sustainability and sustainable mobility have become the central focus of sustainable development initiatives. The city of 15 models seeks to ensure that urban development is sustainable. This paper evaluates the current state of mobility and the use of sustainable transport in the specific context of the city of Antofagasta, which, due to its characteristics of urban expansion and its mining activity, has been considered an international reference case. In particular, we study how the current urban structure shapes the city's travel patterns and identify opportunities for public policy actions to focus their investment and urban intervention efforts on the essential aspects that make it possible to achieve 15- or 20-min territories. The results reveal the need for urban development initiatives to focus on improving the supply of goods and services in areas with low installed capacity, promoting the culture of micro-neighbourhoods, and encouraging cycling. In particular, only 10% of trips, for all purposes and all modes of transport, are completed in less than 15min. And about 58% of trips, for all purposes and all modes, are completed in less than 30min. In the marginal effects of the multinomial logit model, a one-unit increase in travel time increases the probability of choosing to travel by public transport by 63% and decreases the probability of walking by 41%.

Tracing the Lines of Power, Coloniality, and Neoliberalism in UNESCO’s Education for Sustainable Development Policy

This paper critically analyses a reflection paper commissioned by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) that proposes a future where we, humans, learn to coexist with the non-human world and thereby contribute to its preservation. The paper, titled Learning To Become With the World: Education for Future Survival, represents a response to previous unsuccessful Education for sustainable development (ESD) initiatives. Drawing on Carol Bacchi’s (2009), “What’s the problem represented to be?” method, our analysis sheds light on assumptions and silences and considers potentially conflicting interests among different actors in formulating the policy proposed by the paper. Through this critical approach to analysis, several crucial implications have emerged. We argue that the report lacks practical applicability by ignoring human complexities and diversity and does not pay enough attention to the potential important role Indigenous ways of knowing, learning, and teaching could play for education for sustainable development.

Library and Information Science Initiatives and Resources for Sustainable Development

Library and Information Science Initiatives and Resources for Sustainable Development

Smart city strategies – A driver for the localization of the sustainable development goals?

To achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), urgent action is needed across all scales, with an increased importance being placed on local initiatives. In this context, the notion of localizing the SDGs is highlighted as essential. Simultaneously, the smart city concept is promoted to address local sustainability challenges, and smart city strategies are used to support urban sustainability transitions. Despite the extensive literature on smart city transitions, no work was found that studies how such strategies may concretely support the localization of the SDGs. In response, we analyze 57 smart city strategies across 29 countries using the SDG framework to pinpoint which SDGs and accompanying Targets are localized through smart city initiatives. The results indicate that strategies strongly support the localization of four Goals (SDGs 7, 8, 9, and 11) along with several individual Targets. While the SDGs treated by the strategies depend on the local context, smart city strategy documents promote sustainable development initiatives across a spectrum of themes. However, for cities that use smart city strategies to encourage a fundamental shift towards a more sustainable urban model, careful attention must be paid to include initiatives on often untreated topics (SDGs 2, 5, and 15).

The New Conception of Radiological Sustainability Possibilities by Reutilization of Residues Products and Building Materials

The concept of radiological sustainability has been reviewed using the possibility of the reutilization of NORMs regarding the 2050 sustainable development concepts. This study is reviewing the capability of re-production of NORM residues based on their properties and the applicable treatment before reutilization. Linking the waste producers and construction materials industry as mineral end-users could contribute to the creation of industrial symbiosis and result in waste reduction and preserving natural resources on one hand, and CO2 reducing and energy saving on the other hand. According to EU-BSS (European Basic Safety Standards Directive), the characterization of NORMs as a secondary raw material for use as construction materials is necessary, however as an additive or secondary material their radiological behavior and material properties are quite important regardless of their origin. This is to say that the reutilization of NORM residues provides a better financial and environmental solution while reducing possible radiological effects on humans. NORM residue or waste could become a high material resource for the cement industry. In this regard, the assessment of radium equivalents (Raeq) and external and internal indexes (I-indexes) are useful tools to classify NORM residues before their inclusion in building products. This assessment and/or indexes reflect the risk of external exposure much better than the specific activity concentration of Ra-226, Th-232 and K-40. Equally, building material properties such as density and thickness should be taken into consideration when designing building materials that contain NORM residue. Furthermore, mixtures or additives of NORM residues are proven to result in the reduction of activity concentration in the raw residue with other raw materials, and this offers flexible reuse options depending on the final product. By integrating radiological considerations into sustainable development initiatives, we can work towards a safer, healthier and more sustainable future.

Terrorist attacks and environmental social and governance performance: Evidence from cross‐country panel data

AbstractThis study is motivated by the absence of similar research that investigates the link between terrorism level and social and environmental performance measured by the ESG score. This study adopts cross‐country panel data represented by 5082 worldwide companies during the period 2011 to 2020. The terrorism level has been measured using the Global Terrorism Index as reported by The Institute for Economics and Peace Limited. Our findings indicate that the occurrence of terrorist events has a significant negative impact on ESG performance, both collectively and individually, due to the various consequences. Many businesses may suspend operations in countries where the threat of terrorism is increasing, resulting in a flight of investors and the disruption of development projects, which may weaken overall economic performance and voluntary projects. Thus, it is likely to result in undermining companies' environmental and social practices. In addition, as fears of terrorist attacks grow, the general system of corporate governance may deteriorate, halting sustainable development initiatives in these countries. Terrorist attacks introduce complex moral dilemmas, challenge stakeholder priorities, affect a company's legitimacy, and reshape the institutional landscape. Companies must navigate these multifaceted challenges, balancing immediate stakeholder concerns, reputation restoration, compliance obligations, and evolving societal expectations. Our findings are significant, with numerous implications for different stakeholders such as regulators, policymakers, investors, managers, and government agencies.

Assessing criteria on sustainable campus development of public universities in Malaysia through content analysis

Sustainability is no longer just a fiercely disputed topic with broad consequences in academia and society, it is also vital for organisations in a number of industries including higher education institutions (HEIs). However, the lack of implementation of Sustainable Campus Development (SCD) in universities jeopardised the continuation of the sustainable agenda towards achieving the sustainable goal. Therefore, this paper aim is to assess the criteria contributing to SCD among public universities in Malaysia through content analysis. A list of participating public universities in UI-GreenMetric Ranking (UI-GMR) was assessed. The web content of sixteen (16) websites was examined and any relevant PDF documents that were related to the university sustainability reports were also analysed. Five (5) numbers of universities were selected to present sustainable initiatives to fulfil sustainable development criteria hence achieving UI-GMR. The initiatives were compiled based on six (6) criteria listed in UI-GMR and a relation between the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the UI-GMR were also determined. Although the initiatives provided by universities vary from one another, there are similarities in contributing to sustainability by providing campus practices towards the sustainability. From the findings, Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) has taken the sustainable development initiatives the most while Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) has taken the least sustainable initiatives. Some limitations apply to the findings due to the established criteria obtained content from the websites without human validation and resulted to inadequate assessment and may be influenced by other causes such as technological difficulties and the degree of information transparency. Hence, additional analysis may be useful to obtain more robust data by incorporating other method which is through an in-depth face-to-face interview with sustainable campus leaders.

Ecodesign and initiatives of sustainable development in the dimension of passion of artistic and design creativity

The fashion industry under modern circumstances is one of the most developed industries, which determines its tangible impact on people and nature. The purpose of the article is to analyze ecodesign and sustainable development initiatives through the dimension of passion for artistic and educational creativity. The theoretical and empirical methods of scientific research were used. In the results, it was established that previously the requirements of environmental friendliness were perceived to a greater extent as limitations in the creative process. They are the basis and a kind of impetus for the generation of new creative ideas. The novelty of the work consists in proving the development of clothing design as an element of the designer's personality development as a leading specialist not only in design matters, but also in creating an organic combination of all components of the product creation process. The practical significance of the work is to determine the future of the fashion industry in the use of environmentally friendly and technological fabrics. In the conclusions, it is noted that new creative searches are due to the vital need for a new philosophy of world perception, which will influence ecodesign in the future.

Sustainable tourism development: Insights from accommodation facilities in Bukhara along the silk road

In recent years, the tourism industry has encountered substantial challenges due to the pandemic, economic and political circumstances. Nevertheless, sustainable development frameworks can enhance the sector’s resilience and generate social, economic, and environmental advantages for the destination’s populace. Achieving this necessitates developing the destination under a coherent, content-rich brand, implementing precise marketing strategies, and promoting stakeholder collaboration. This research surveyed approximately 200 accommodation facilities in Bukhara, Uzbekistan, a prominent Central Asian tourism destination and a significant component of the Silk Road legacy. The study aimed to investigate their perceptions of the Silk Road brand, involvement in sustainable development initiatives, collaboration with the public sector, and the status of their service offerings. Based on the results, the paper concludes and offers specific recommendations.

Exploring the Contemporary Challenges of Urbanization and the Role of Sustainable Urban Development: A Study of Lagos City, Nigeria

As urbanization accelerates, sustainable approaches are necessary to counter the adverse environmental impacts. The study investigates the multifaceted challenges of Lagos City due to urbanization and evaluates the effectiveness of sustainable urban development in tackling these problems. It employed a mixed-methods approach to provide informed decisions for liveable urban environments. Census data, satellite imagery, interviews, surveys, and focus group discussions provided a comprehensive understanding of Lagos’s urbanization and its effects. Findings reveal pressing problems such as housing shortages, infrastructure strain, traffic congestion, waste management difficulties, and socio-economic disparities in Lagos City. Local authorities and NGOs have implemented sustainable urban development initiatives, including transport upgrades, green space promotion, waste management, and housing solutions. Such case studies have revealed various interventions, such as informal settlement transformation, renewable energy integration, and urban regeneration. However, persistent issues still exist due to the city’s urbanization. Therefore, Integrated urban planning, inclusivity in policy-making, and technological advances are essential for tackling these challenges. The findings contribute to the academic discourse by providing insights into Lagos City’s urbanization and practical implications for sustainable urban development. It also highlights the need for comprehensive strategies to build a prosperous, equitable, and eco-friendly city.

Empowering Urban Diplomacy: Surabaya’s Sister City Collaboration with Kitakyushu, Japan for Sustainable Development

This research examines the dynamic paradiplomacy practices of Surabaya City Government through its robust Sister City cooperation with Kitakyushu, Japan, forged since 1997. Paradiplomacy, as a guide for foreign policy conducted by sub-national actors, provides a platform for cities to engage in international networks and pursue their interest. By applying the International Cooperation Theory and Concepts of Paradiplomacy, this study employs a descriptive qualitative research approach with literature study and interviews to analyze the successful implementation of this collaboration. The research focuses on the city’s concerted efforts towards achieving a Green Sister City status, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals and promoting environmental sustainability. Surabaya’s paradiplomatic endeavors complement the national diplomatic efforts, showcasing Indonesia’s rising regional government’s role in international affairs. The study highlights the significance of urban diplomacy in driving sustainable development initiatives through cross-border collaborations.

Perceptions of the academic community on the performance of sustainable development initiatives in higher education

AbstractSince the UN Conference on the Human Environment was held in Stockholm in 1972, higher education institutions (HEIs) have been adapting to assume their social role in supporting societies in promoting sustainable lifestyles. However, HEIs are complex institutions composed of several interdependent subsystems. Sustainable improvement requires holistic assessment measures to comply with established goals. To date, few studies have focused on comparing the different perceptions of sustainability in HEIs and considering the views of the academic community in shaping the efforts and better disseminating sustainable development initiatives. To fill this gap, this work aimed to implement a methodology that compares the perceptions of sustainability and the implemented actions among members of HEIs to show the discrepancies between perceptions and facts. Many studies report either the perception of members of the academic community or the technical assessment of the sustainable performance of the institution in isolation. The novelty of this work lies in developing a tool that allows the use of a similar scale to compare the perception of users of academic services with the valuation attributed by technicians responsible for implementing sustainable development initiatives at HEIs. Analysing of these results enables the identification of dimensions with discrepancies, guiding managers as they carry out actions to promote greater community engagement in implementing sustainability initiatives that boost the consolidation of these values in the institutional culture. Additionally, it is highlighted that the proposed methodology could be adapted for use in other types of institutions, maintaining the same benefits described here.