Sustainable Practices Research Articles

ANÁLISE DAS CERTIFICAÇÕES INTERNACIONAIS E O NÍVEL DE CONFORMIDADE DOS PRODUTORES DO VALE DO SÃO FRANCISCO: DESENVOLVIMENTO DE UM CÓDIGO DE MELHORES PRÁTICAS PARA EXPORTAÇÃO SUSTENTÁVEL DE FRUTAS

The São Francisco Valley is a major fruit production hub in Brazil, especially for grapes and mangoes, supported by an efficient irrigation system. This study analyzes the compliance of local producers with international certifications such as GlobalG.A.P., Fair Trade, and Rainforest Alliance, and proposes a code of best practices for sustainable export. The literature review highlights the importance of certifications for sustainable practices and social responsibility. The diagnosis reveals that less than half of the producers are certified, facing barriers such as high costs and lack of financial support. The proposed code covers environmental sustainability, social inclusion, and quality management, aligning with the principles of the Graduate Program in Agroecology and Territorial Development (PPGADT). It concludes that there is an urgent need to support producers in obtaining certifications to promote sustainability and competitiveness, recommending partnerships between producers, educational institutions, and NGOs.

The Role of Sustainable Packaging in Saudi Arabian Supply Chains FMCG: Analyzing Consumer Acceptance and Marketing Strategies for Enhancing Environmental Impact

Sustainable packaging trends have, therefore, shaped consumers' behavior in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector in Saudi Arabia. A quantitative approach has been taken in this present study to test the hypothesis that environmental concern, cost consciousness, and cultural values, along with positive portrayals of sustainable packaging, would influence consumer acceptance and satisfaction and marketing strategies toward the product. By applying partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) to survey data from Saudi consumers, research has demonstrated that environmental concerns drive satisfaction and demand, whereas positive portrayals drive advocacy and consumer perceptions. Other findings point to nuances in the role of cost awareness and cultural values in marketing strategy and brand loyalty. This research provides useful insights to businesses and policymakers on how to combine sustainable practices for environmental impact and consumer engagement in Saudi Arabia.

The hidden danger from farm to table: transforming food safety through innovative approaches to reducing harmful chemicals in the American food system

The American food system faces significant challenges in ensuring food safety, particularly in mitigating the presence of harmful chemicals from farm to table. From pesticide residues in crops to chemical additives in processed foods, these contaminants pose risks to public health and the environment. This paper explores innovative approaches to reducing harmful chemicals in the food supply chain, emphasizing technological advancements, regulatory reforms, and sustainable agricultural practices. Key strategies include the adoption of precision agriculture to minimize pesticide use, the integration of biopesticides and organic fertilizers, and the development of advanced food processing techniques to limit chemical exposure. The role of regulatory frameworks is also examined, highlighting the need for stricter enforcement of safety standards and enhanced monitoring systems to track chemical use and contamination levels. Furthermore, this study underscores the importance of public awareness and consumer advocacy in driving change within the food industry. Collaborative efforts between policymakers, agricultural producers, food manufacturers, and researchers are essential to achieving a safer food system. The paper demonstrates how leveraging technology such as blockchain for traceability and artificial intelligence for real-time monitoring can significantly reduce chemical risks while improving transparency across the supply chain. Case studies from successful initiatives provide actionable insights into how these approaches have led to measurable reductions in harmful chemical exposure. By addressing these challenges and opportunities, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the hidden dangers in the food system and outlines a path toward a safer, more sustainable future. Key findings reveal that an integrated approach combining innovation, policy, and consumer engagement is critical to transforming food safety standards and protecting public health. Keywords: Food Safety, Harmful Chemicals, American Food System, Precision Agriculture, Biopesticides, Regulatory Frameworks, Sustainable Practices, Blockchain Traceability, Public Health, Chemical Reduction.

A comparative study of agricultural education and extension practices in the US and India: Implications for sustainable farming

This comparative case study investigates agricultural education and extension practices in the United States (US) and India, focusing on experiential learning, extension services, public-private partnerships, bridging research and practice, and sustainable farming practices. Results show that Indian agricultural education practices demonstrate higher student engagement, broader extension service reach, and more impactful public-private partnerships compared to the US. Specifically, experiential learning programs in India led to higher student engagement and career interest, while extension services provided by Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) in India showed greater effectiveness and rural reach. Public-private partnerships, notably initiatives like Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) in India, exhibited higher perceived impact and resource mobilization. Moreover, successful strategies identified in India for bridging research and practice have implications for enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability globally. The study underscores the importance of experiential learning, effective extension services, and collaborative partnerships in promoting sustainable farming practices.

Enhancing sustainable construction decisions: integrating BIM and VR for circular economy assessment

ABSTRACT The significant environmental impact of the construction industry requires a shift towards sustainable practices and circular economy (CE) processes. BIM-based VR has demonstrated great potential for allowing project teams to visualize and understand the complexity of projects and can be used early in the design process to establish a circularity perspective during the decision-making processes. This paper presents a framework named ‘DecideCircular’, which combines BIM and VR to enhance the selection of construction products and materials under a circular approach by providing an immersive and interactive solution. Employing a Design Science Research methodology, the study outlines the conceptual model approach together with the relevant indicators to include in the selection of construction products. Then, the framework is implemented in existing software and evaluated through a case study. Within the VR environment, stakeholders are able to check the different metrics (environmental, social, circularity and economic) of the building products and the entire building to optimize them in alignment with project objectives and sustainability considerations. The results demonstrate that the DecideCircular framework significantly enhances the accessibility and comprehensibility of CE-related information, leading to more informed and sustainable construction decisions.

Assessing the Impacts of Coal Mining on Soil Quality in Kogi East, Nigeria

This study investigates the effects of coal mining on soil physical and chemical properties in Kogi East, Nigeria, focusing on two mined sites (Ika-Ogboyaga and Okaba) and one unmined control site (Abache). Soil samples were collected from 32 plots across mined areas and 16 plots in the unmined site using a 200m x 200m belt transect method. Samples were analyzed for particle size, bulk density, soil pH, organic matter, nitrogen, phosphorus, exchangeable cations, and heavy metal concentrations using standard laboratory methods. Results show minimal differences in soil texture (sandy clay loam) across all sites, with slightly higher bulk density in mined areas (1.89±0.2g/cm3, 1.87±0.6 g/cm3), indicating soil compaction from mining activities. Chemical properties, including pH, organic carbon, nitrogen, and cation exchange capacity, showed minor variations, while heavy metal concentrations (Zn, Cu, Fe, Pb) were within safe limits across all sites. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) (F-value=0.00449; F-crit=3.1907; P-value=0.995511) showed no significant differences in most soil properties between mined and unmined areas, suggesting limited impact of coal mining on soil quality in the region. To improve soil health and sustainability the study recommended mitigating soil compaction, implementing vegetation rehabilitation with native species, conducting continuous soil monitoring, raising community awareness, and promoting sustainable mining practices.

Dust exposure and its health implications to miners in Mererani artisanal and small-scale mining industry

ABSTRACT This study aimed to identify and quantify the total dust exposure to underground miners in Mererani, Tanzania, and its composition to generate evidence for informed decision- and policy-making. The Analytical Air Monitoring System (AMS) was used for dust collection, and analysis was conducted gravimetrically. The dust composition was analysed using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy. The results showed significant variation in dust exposure levels across different mining zones, with miners inhaling up to 1859 mg of dust over an 8-hour period in drilling zones (DZ), 797 mg in loading zones (LZ), and 382 mg in resting zones (RZ). The mean value of dust exposure was significantly different, with a p-value of <0.05. Miners had higher levels of heavy metal and silica than those from unmined sites, with chromium being the most dominant element across all samples. Cumulative exposure to dust over time is linked to long-term respiratory impairment and serious health conditions such as lung cancer. These findings highlight the need for intervention, including education on dust hazards, provision of personal protective equipment (PPE), and enforcement of safety standards to safeguard miners’ health. Addressing these issues is critical to promoting policy reforms and sustainable mining practices in Mererani and similar communities.

Strategies for Selecting Potentially Effective Biofumigant Species for Optimal Biofumigation Outcomes

Soil-borne diseases threaten sustainable agriculture, traditionally managed by chemical fumigants, whose use is now restricted due to environmental and health concerns. This study evaluates the biofumigation potential of Brassicaceae species, specifically Brassica carinata A.Braun., Brassica juncea (L.) Vassiliĭ Matveievitch Czernajew., Raphanus sativus L., and Sinapis alba L., cultivated in central Spain. Field trials across two growing cycles assessed biomass production, glucosinolate (GSL) concentration, photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) interception, and radiation use efficiency (RUE). Biomass production varied across species and sampling dates, with S. alba and R. sativus outperforming other species in shorter cycles, while B. juncea and B. carinata showed a more efficient GSL profile regarding soil-borne disease control, particularly in aliphatic GSLs like sinigrin. Results highlight B. juncea and B. carinata as potent biofumigants due to their high GSL levels, whereas S. alba and R. sativus are more suited to early biomass production. The study also explores the chlorophyll content index (SPAD) as a potential field indicator of GSL concentration, providing a practical approach for optimizing biofumigation timing. These findings support the selection of specific Brassicaceae species adapted to climatic conditions and crop cycles for effective biofumigation in sustainable agricultural practices.

Firm Value Impact of Global Oil and Gas Mergers and Acquisitions: The Role of Environmental Policy Framework

The oil and gas (O&amp;G) industry is under increasing pressure to decarbonize and adopt sustainable practices. While some firms are transitioning toward renewable energy, many continue to expand their traditional O&amp;G operations. This study examines how financial markets perceive the value creation potential of business-as-usual mergers and acquisitions (M&amp;As) by the world’s largest O&amp;G companies from 2000 to 2021. Using an event study methodology, we focus on the role of home-country environmental policy stringency (EPS) in shaping market reactions. Our findings reveal that higher EPS in the acquirer’s home country is associated with a greater perceived loss in shareholder value upon the announcement of traditional O&amp;G M&amp;A deals, suggesting that EPS signals significant operational and financial risks related to hydrocarbon investments. However, when these deals are cross-border, the adverse impact of the acquirer’s home-market EPS diminishes, indicating that expanding beyond domestic markets may help O&amp;G firms mitigate the financial consequences of stricter environmental regulations. JEL Classification: G11, G14, G34, Q40, Q58

How do we build and sustain a teacher community? The case of Korean language teachers

ABSTRACT The current study explores how teachers create, engage in, and sustain a teacher community utilizing collaborative self-study. By articulating and sharing the teachers’ experiences on the process of building and sustaining a teacher community, we aim to develop a critical understanding of what constitutes a teacher community and what factors contribute to its sustainability. Specifically, we ask 1) how do teachers describe their experiences using collaborative self-study to build a teacher community? and 2) what are the characteristics that contribute to a sustainable teacher community? The participants were four Korean language teachers in an intensive summer program at a university in the U.S. Data were gathered from group discussions, observations, reflective journals, and interviews. The findings indicate that teacher-oriented process and woori culture contributed to building a strong teacher community and are crucial factors for maintaining a sustainable practice in the field.

Advancing Quality and Safety Culture in Healthcare: Insights From the Evaluation of an Improvement Science Program for Nurses and Midwives.

This paper presents the outcomes and insights gained from the implementation of an Improvement Science program tailored for nursing and midwifery staff within a large local health district in New South Wales. The programme aimed to enhance frontline clinicians' confidence and capability in quality improvement, ultimately improving patient outcomes and safety culture. Through an explanatory sequential mixed-methods evaluation study, we assessed the programme's effectiveness in building capacity, sustaining practice changes and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Quantitative data were collected through pre-post knowledge surveys, post workshop feedback and programme participation rates. Qualitative data were then collected via nine interviews with programme participants. Simple descriptive statistical analysis for quantitative data and a thematic analysis of qualitative data was undertaken. Data were then integrated from these multiple sources to gain a deeper understanding of the outcomes of the Improvement Science Program. Key findings indicate that coaching and mentoring support significantly contributed to project completion and sustained practice changes. Structured coaching sessions, collaborative team meetings, and executive sponsorship were vital components that facilitated successful outcomes. Notably, effective leadership, often demonstrated by Clinical Nurse Educators and Consultants, played a crucial role in fostering staff collaboration and participation. Insights from qualitative interviews highlight the transformative impact of the programme on participants' skills, confidence and practice. The paper concludes with recommendations for future Improvement Science programs, emphasising the importance of structured coaching, accountability mechanisms, and the identification and support of future coaches. Overall, this study underscores the value of ongoing training initiatives in promoting a culture of safety, quality improvement and enhanced patient outcomes in healthcare settings. This study had no patient or public contribution. Adherence to Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR) EQUATOR guidelines (see Supplementary file).

Enhancing Firm Efficiency Measurement Using DEA and Fuzzy Approaches with Integrated Corporate Social Responsibility

Purpose: We propose a new scientific approach by integrating Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) into the measurement of firm efficiency through a dynamic fuzzy Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) model. It aims to investigate the relationship between CSR practices and firm performance over time across industries.Findings: Higher CSR engagement companies appear to obtain better efficiency scores and show resilience when adapting to external challenges. Especially, capital-intensive industries where environmental risk is high benefit most from integrating CSR into their operational structures. The corresponding dynamic fuzzy DEA model introduced by Yang, et al. (2023) successfully analyses the non-neutrality of input metrics on CSR resilience, along with uncertainties inherent in CSR metrics, hence offering valuable insights into their industry-specific and temporal variability.Novelty: This research is the first to apply a dynamic fuzzy DEA approach to integrating CSR in terms of a key measure of firm efficiency. This study fills the gap between sustainability practices and operational performance by addressing the complexity of multifaceted impacts of CSR.Implications: These results provide practical recommendations for policy makers and managers to reflect the reconciliation of environmental or social objectives with financial performance in CSR strategies. Moreover, the methodological framework paves the way for other studies to consider dynamic and uncertain variables into efficiency measurement.

Sustainable practices in lead acid battery recycling

Recycling automotive batteries is a vital practice in the context of sustainability. Purchasing power in developing and emerging economies has increased dramatically over the past decades, especially when considering the proliferation of consumer cars worldwide. Consequently, the growing manufacturing volume of automotive batteries inevitably leads to increased battery waste, thus placing significant pressure on the sustainable development of human society. Recycling lead-acid batteries as a sustainable product is not only environmentally beneficial but also economically beneficial. A typical new lead-acid battery contains up to 80% recycled lead, and the plastic and battery components are also recyclable. When combined, almost all environmentally hazardous materials in the battery can be recycled. In this paper, we will study the recycling of lead-acid batteries used in fuel-powered cars. The results show that 54.4% of the metals in the battery, 28% of the plastics, and 17% of the liquids can be recycled, which provides materials for the manufacture of new batteries or for other uses.

Assessing the role of production capacity in mitigating carbon emissions: a case study of Algeria

This study examines the relationship between productive capacity and CO2 emissions in Algeria, addressing the pressing challenge of sustainable development in the context of climate change. The aim is to explore how enhancing production capacity can influence environmental outcomes, particularly in terms of carbon emissions. To achieve this, the study employs an Auto Regressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model, with results validated through an Error Correction Model (ECM), using data from 1990 to 2023. The findings reveal that improvements in productive capacity contribute to a long-term reduction in CO2 emissions per capita. However, an increase in energy consumption has the potential to undermine these gains, underlining the need for greater energy efficiency. Key policy recommendations suggest prioritizing investments in energy-efficient technologies, thereby enhancing Algeria’s productive capacity while minimizing environmental impact. This framework provides a valuable pathway for aligning economic growth with sustainable environmental practices, offering actionable insights for policymakers aiming to balance development with climate goals.

Exploring Silkworm Litter as a Liquid Manure: A Key to Boost Mulberry Growth and Productivity

Mulberry (Morus spp.) is the primary food source for silkworm, Bombyx mori L. Mulberry growth and nutritional quality are critical for successful sericulture. With the increasing demand for sustainable agricultural practices particularly in rearing silkworms with chemical free mulberry leaves, the use of organic inputs has gained attention as an alternative to synthetic fertilizers. Silkworm litter, a by-product of silkworm rearing is rich in organic matter and essential nutrients, making it a potential resource for recycling into organic manure. This study explores the effectiveness of silkworm litter based liquid organic manure (SLLM) at different doses along with Recommended Dose of Fertilizers (RDF) in improving the growth, yield and nutritional quality of mulberry. The treatment RDF + Soil drenching of 250 l acre-1 of 20% SLLM at 10 Days after pruning (DAP) + Foliar spray of 150 l acre-1 of 10 % SLLM at 25 DAP (T9) recorded longest shoot length (89.36 cm and 133.28 cm), maximum shoots per plant (16.53 and 23.80), leaves per shoot (22.17 and 32.02), maximum leaf area (153.44 cm2 and 226.56 cm2) at 45 and 60 DAP, respectively and leaf yield (67.31 Tonnes ha-1 year-1). Leaf quality parameters such as total chlorophyll (2.37 mg g-1), crude protein (21.56 %) and carbohydrate content (20.26%) were also found superior in T9. This shows that SLLM being liquid manure contained nutrients in readily available form which has supplied the nutrients that are required for mulberry growth and development. Indicating enhanced mulberry growth, yield along with improved quality parameters.

Environmental and Human Health Risks of Estrogenic Compounds: A Critical Review of Sustainable Management Practices

Environmental and Human Health Risks of Estrogenic Compounds: A Critical Review of Sustainable Management Practices

Sustainable Additive Manufacturing: An Overview on Life Cycle Impacts and Cost Efficiency of Laser Powder Bed Fusion

This overview study investigates integrating advanced manufacturing technologies, specifically metal additive manufacturing (AM) and laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) processes, within Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0 frameworks, to enhance sustainability and efficiency in industrial production and prototyping. The manufacturing sector, a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions and resource consumption, is increasingly adopting technologies that reduce environmental impact while maintaining economic growth. Selective laser melting (SLM), as the subsection LPBF technologies, is highlighted for its capability to produce high-performance, lightweight, and complex components with minimal material waste, thus aligning with circular economy goals for metal alloys. Life cycle assessment (LCA) and life cycle costing (LCC) analyses are essential methods for evaluating the sustainability of any new technology. Sustainable technologies could support the concepts of the factory of the future (FoF), fulfilling the requirements of digital transformation and digital twins. This overview study reveals that implementing AM—specifically SLM—has the potential to reduce the environmental impact of manufacturing. It underscores the ability of these technologies to promote sustainable and efficient manufacturing practices, thereby accelerating the shift from Industry 4.0 to Industry 5.0.

Kinetic study on the extraction of ethanimidic acid from hibiscus flowers using microwave assisted hydrodistillation

Microwave extraction of active compounds from plants offers an efficient alternative to traditional methods, highlighting the need to investigate its modeling and kinetic mechanisms for comprehensive understanding. This study evaluated kinetic models for the microwave-assisted hydrodistillation (MAHD) of ethanimidic acid from hibiscus flowers. Experimental data, including ethanimidic acid concentration as a function of time, power, and solid-to-liquid ratio, were analyzed using three-parameter empirical models. The second-order model demonstrated superior accuracy (R² = 0.954), outperforming the first-order model, and effectively described the two-stage extraction process: washing and diffusion. The second-order kinetic model ensures precise control of ethanimidic acid extraction, enabling efficient scalability for industrial production and consistent quality for pharmacological applications, emphasizing sustainable and cost-effective manufacturing practices. This model provides a robust framework for advancing MAHD applications in the industrial production of bioactive compounds, promoting innovation in sustainable technologies, and enhancing the economic feasibility of bioactive compound recovery.

Trends and Drivers of Greenhouse Gas Emissions in India: A Decadal Analysis (2010-2020)

This paper analyses trends and determinants of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in India in 2010-2020, the decade with some of the fastest economic growth rates and the increased awareness of environmental issues. The research pays attention to India, the world's third-largest emitter of GHG, which will be analysed regarding emissions in four sectors: energy, industry, agriculture, and waste management. A time series analysis of data drawn from national and international agencies, such as the World Bank and India's Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Climate Change, was applied in this study. Statistical analysis and data visualisation were performed using the R software. The key findings show an increase of 42% in the total emissions of GHG over the last decade, with the energy sector dominating at 68% in 2020. Other significant contributors were industry (20%), agriculture (9%), and waste (3%). Growth in population, along with accompanying urbanisation and industrial expansion, is cited as the main factor responsible for emission rise. However, there are also indications of decoupling between growth in the economy and emissions intensity. The study analyzes the greenhouse gas emission trends for major emitters between 2010 and 2020, in India. The dynamic panel data model analyses indicate signs of decoupling of emissions from economic growth in developed economies and the role of renewable energy and carbon pricing. Research findings further indicate that stronger climate policy and investment in clean energy is the necessity to decrease global emissions.The paper identifies policy issues that require strong activity in enforcing efficiency measures, fastening the shift toward krenewable sources of energy, and effective sustainable planning and waste management practices in urbanisation processes. In that respect, examination of policies like the PAT scheme and promotion of electric vehicles has shown where more aggressive implementation may be seen as necessary to ensure India's climate commitments. This elaborate decadal review finds most of its utility within the framework of policy designing for sustainable development and climate change mitigation by policymakers and stakeholders in the Indian scenario.

Dimensional Accuracy of Polyether Elastomeric Impression Materials After Using Chitosan as a Disinfectant: A Sustainable Approach to Dental Infection Control

Dimensional Accuracy of Polyether Elastomeric Impression Materials After Using Chitosan as a Disinfectant: A Sustainable Approach to Dental Infection Control