Sustainable Transformation Research Articles

Integrating circular economy policies in urban policy making: Strategies for green energy and environmental management to reinforce city image in China.

The implementation of circular economy (CE) policies in the management of urban policies have become essential for improving overall quality of life, development of green energy, and environmental management hence improving the image of cities. This research focuses on uncovering the core concepts of CE within urban environments, emphasizing actions that can improve green energy and environmental management. The CE aims to create a closed-loop system by prioritizing practices like remanufacturing, reusing, and recycling, which collectively help decrease resource usage and limit environmental damage. Therefore, in the study, the fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and fuzzy VIekriterijumsko KOmpromisno Rangiranje (VIKOR) are used to assess the identified several key factors and strategies for integrating CE activities for sustainable urban policy making and reinforce city image in China. The results of fuzzy AHP indicated that economic viability, policy and governance, and technological innovation are the key factors. While the cost effectiveness, policy flexibility and adaptability, and resource efficiency are identified as most crucial sub-factors. The fuzzy VIKOR presented that green building and sustainable development policies, green infrastructure development, and policy alignment and institutional support are the key strategies in handling and mitigating environmental issues as well as supporting economic growth, thus CE policies holds the key in creating a better perception of cities as innovative and sustainable. The contributions to this research are significant as it provides a structure for policymakers by offering a framework to integrate CE principles into urban policies. It also shows how CE can solve environmental challenges, promote growth in economy, and contribute to sustainable urban transformation. The implications of this study extend to policymakers, urban planners, and stakeholders dealing with greener and more adaptable cities consistent with global sustainability goals.

Connecting resonance theory with social‐ecological thinking: Conceptualizing self‐world relationships in the context of sustainability transformations

Connecting resonance theory with social‐ecological thinking: Conceptualizing self‐world relationships in the context of sustainability transformations

What factors enable or limit the role of intermediaries in strengthening transformative capacities? Case studies of intermediaries in two Cambodian cities

Urban transformative capacities can be strengthened through the role of intermediaries, who are individuals or organisations that work between agencies and identify ways to form coalitions and broker knowledge, drive reforms across scales, and address power disparities. There is limited research to date to understand the factors that enable or limit the role of intermediaries in urban sustainability transformations. Through comparing the roles of intermediaries and their evolution in two case studies cities of urban Cambodia – Battambang and Sihanoukville – through the lens of the urban transformative capacities’ framework of Wolfram (Cities 51: 121–130, 2016), we have identified key factors that impact the effectiveness of these intermediaries. Through qualitative interviews and focus groups, we have found that long-term, place-based, and networked engagement, with political trust and support, is important, alongside the need to demonstrate results and build momentum for transformation through pilots and collaboration. Underpinning these factors are the local power dynamics and structural conditions, as well as the capabilities and attributes of the intermediary actors.

Recent Advances in Asymmetric Organometallic Electrochemical Synthesis (AOES).

ConspectusIn recent years, our research group has dedicated significant effort to the field of asymmetric organometallic electrochemical synthesis (AOES), which integrates electrochemistry with asymmetric transition metal catalysis. On one hand, we have rationalized that organometallic compounds can serve as molecular electrocatalysts (mediators) to reduce overpotentials and enhance both the reactivity and selectivity of reactions. On the other hand, the conditions for asymmetric transition metal catalysis can be substantially improved through electrochemistry, enabling precise modulation of the transition metal's oxidation state by controlling electrochemical potentials and regulating the electron transfer rate via current adjustments. This synergistic approach addresses key challenges inherent in traditional asymmetric transition metal catalysis, particularly those related to the use of redox-active chemical reagents. Furthermore, the redox potentials of molecular electrocatalysts can be conveniently tuned by modifying their ligands, thereby governing the reaction regioselectivity and stereoselectivity. As a result, the AOES has emerged as a powerful and promising tool for the synthesis of chiral compounds.In this Account, we summarize and contextualize our recent efforts in the field of AOES. Our primary strategy involves leveraging the controllability of electrochemical potential and current to regulate the oxidation state of organometallics, thereby facilitating the desired reactions. An efficient asymmetric synthesis platform was established under mild conditions, significantly reducing the reliance on chemical redox reagents. Our research has been systematically categorized into three sections based on distinct electrolysis modes: asymmetric transition metal catalysis combined with anodic oxidation, cathodic reduction, and paired electrolysis. In each section, we highlight our innovative discoveries tailored to the unique characteristics of the respective electrolysis modes.In many transformations, transition metal-catalyzed reactions involving traditional chemical redox reagents and those utilizing electrochemistry exhibit similar reactivities. However, we also observed notable differences in certain cases. These findings include the following: (1) Enhanced efficiency in asymmetric electrochemical synthesis: for instance, the Rh-catalyzed enantioselective electrochemical functionalization of C-H bonds demonstrates superior efficiency. (2) Expanded scope of transformations: certain transformations, previously challenging in traditional transition metal catalysis, can be achieved through electrochemistry due to the tunability of redox potentials. A notable example is the enantioselective reductive coupling of aryl chlorides, which significantly expands the range of accessible transformations. Additionally, our mechanistic studies explore unique techniques intrinsic to electrochemistry, such as controlled potential electrolysis experiments, the impact of electrode materials on catalyst performance, and cyclic voltammetry studies. These investigations provide a more intuitive understanding of the behavior of metal catalysts through the study of electrochemical mechanisms, which can also guide the design of new catalytic systems.The advancements in this field offer a robust platform for environmentally friendly and sustainable selective asymmetric transformations. By integrating electrochemistry with transition metal catalysis, we have developed a versatile approach for organic synthesis that not only enhances the efficiency and selectivity of reactions but also reduces the environmental impact. We anticipate that this Account will stimulate further research and innovation in the realm of AOES, leading to the discovery of new catalytic systems and the development of more sustainable synthetic methodologies.

The Role of Ionic Liquids in Textile Processes: A Comprehensive Review.

Thanks to their unique physicochemical properties, ionic liquids (ILs) have moved from niche academic interest to critical components in various industrial applications. The textile industry, facing significant environmental and economic pressures, has begun to explore ILs as sustainable alternatives to traditional solvents and chemicals. This review summarizes research on the use of ILs in various textile processes, including dyeing, finishing, and fiber recycling, where their high thermal stability, tunable solubility, and low volatility are exploited to reduce resource consumption and environmental impact. The discussion also extends to the integration of ILs in textile waste recycling, highlighting innovative approaches to fiber dissolution and regeneration aimed at circular economy goals. Despite these advances, challenges such as high production costs and scalability remain barriers to the widespread adoption of ILs in the textile sector. Addressing these barriers through continued research and development is essential to fully realize the potential of ILs for sustainable transformation in textiles.

The Global Food System and Its Environmental Impact: A Call for Sustainable Transformation

The modern global food system—spanning production, processing, distribution, and consumption—has emerged as a significant contributor to environmental degradation. It drives greenhouse gas emissions, land and water degradation, biodiversity loss, and resource depletion. Sustainable nutrition, which integrates environmental considerations into dietary choices, has become a key concern, emphasizing plant-based proteins, seasonal food consumption, and minimal ecological impact. With the global population projected to reach 10 billion by 2050, ensuring food security while minimizing environmental harm is crucial. Agriculture accounts for about 24% of global greenhouse gas emissions, driven by methane from livestock and nitrous oxide from fertilizers. Land use changes for agriculture contribute to deforestation, biodiversity loss, and soil degradation, exacerbating climate change. Water use in agriculture, the largest consumer of freshwater, further strains ecosystems, while pollution from agricultural runoff causes eutrophication. Effective strategies for sustainable transformation include agroecology, regenerative agriculture, dietary shifts, reducing food waste, and technological innovations. Practices like crop rotation and managed grazing improve soil health and sequester carbon. Transitioning to plant-based diets and reducing food waste could significantly lower emissions. Precision agriculture and alternative protein sources offer promising advancements. Holistic approaches involving policy reform, innovation, and behavioral change are needed to create a resilient, environmentally friendly food system that sustains both human and planetary health.

Perceptions of Organizational Change Readiness for Sustainable Digital Transformation: Insights from Learning Management System Projects in Higher Education Institutions

The adoption of Learning Management Systems (LMS) in Higher Education Institutions (HEI) offers a transformative potential to enhance educational quality, operational efficiency, and cost-effectiveness while promoting sustainable digital transformation. However, resistance to LMS implementation often undermines these benefits. Initial perceptions of an Organizational Change Readiness (OCR) play a crucial, as they shape attitudes and behaviors, often resulting in rumors, disengagement, and resistance. The objective of the study is to explore how attributes of change, leadership support, internal organizational context, and attributes of change targets impact OCR in the context of LMS implementation. Drawing from organizational change management and information systems literature, this study examines key factors influencing these early perceptions within LMS initiatives. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 316 university personnel across seven public universities and three private colleges. Data were analyzed using partial least squares, revealing that vision clarity, change appropriateness, top-management support, project champion effectiveness, and organizational flexibility explaining 75% of the variance in perceived OCR. Conversely, factors such as change efficacy, organizational history of change, organizational conflicts, and group self-efficacy demonstrated limited influence. These findings underscore the importance of aligning LMS initiatives with institutional goals, fostering sustainable digital practices, and enhancing policy frameworks to facilitate smooth adoption. This study provides actionable insights for promoting sustainable educational transformation in HEIs, particularly in contexts where traditional teaching methods prevail and resistance to technological change is common.

KOLABORASI MAHASISWA DAN PT PROXI DALAM PENGEMBANGAN KEAHLIAN KEAMANAN JARINGAN UNTUK MENDUKUNG TRANSFORMASI DIGITAL YANG AMAN

This community service activity aims to improve students competence in network security strategies through collaboration with PT Proxi, an internet service provider company. This training focuses on the use of MikroTik devices and Winbox applications for firewall configuration as an effort to improve network security. Simulations are carried out using a simple topology between MikroTik and laptop devices to implement network filtering with certain rules. The results of this activity show that the firewall configuration is able to block access to unwanted sites or IP addresses, increasing protection against cyber threats. Thus, this activity is expected to not only increase student capacity but also provide benefits to the community in supporting a safer and more sustainable digital transformation.

Knowledge Integration and Analysis of Technological Innovation in Prefabricated Construction

Prefabricated construction (PC) plays a critical role in advancing the sustainable and high-quality transformation of the construction industry. Nevertheless, the fragmented and variable nature of technological innovations in PC complicates their acquisition, comprehension, and practical application, thereby hindering the process of innovation transformation. In response to these challenges, this study applies knowledge graph techniques to aggregate, correlate, and store knowledge pertaining to PC technological innovations. Specifically, using patent data from the past five years, and grounded in knowledge management and complex network theories, this study employs text mining, topic modeling, and association rule algorithms to perform clustering, evolutionary, and association analyses. The extracted entities and relationships obtained from the analyses are then stored in a Neo4j graph database for the construction and interactive visualization of a knowledge graph for PC technological innovation. According to the knowledge graph, a question-and-answer system framework is further proposed, providing practical application guidance. This research provides a comprehensive overview of the technological landscape, key nodes, and development trends in PC. It makes a meaningful contribution to knowledge management theory and complex network theory, advancing innovative applications in PC technology.

Analysis of Transformation and Upgrading Path of a Steel Structure Company in Zibo City, Shandong Province under the Concept of Sustainable Development

In the context of global climate change, green and low-carbon development has emerged as an international consensus. China has established a dual-carbon target, aiming for carbon peaking by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2060, thereby necessitating the green transformation of high-energy-consuming and high-emission industries. As a major carbon emitter, the construction industry needs novel development models to achieve sustainable development. The circular economy concept aligns well with steel structures, noted for their energy efficiency, environmental sustainability, recyclability, and high assembly efficiency. And this is a crucial pathway for the sustainable transformation of the building sector. This paper selects a typical steel structure enterprise in Zibo, Shandong Province as the research target. The corporate sustainability report and financial data from 2019 to 2023 employ the mutation level method to evaluate the impact on the enterprises economic performance, green performance, and operational performance across dimensions such as technological innovation, R&D investment, environmental protection expenditures, policy environment, and human resource allocation. The results show that the enterprise, under the guidance of the policy and its own strategic adjustment, has achieved remarkable results in its green transformation and continued to improve its performance indicators, while revealing the key paths of resource allocation optimization and green innovation.

Long-term effects of institutional quality on financial inclusion in Asia–Pacific countries

Financial inclusion has recently emerged as an important pillar for sustainable economic growth, poverty eradication, and social transformation globally. While the effects of institutional quality on financial inclusion have been widely investigated, their long-term effects have largely been underexplored, particularly for the Asia–Pacific region. We are especially interested in these long-term effects because institutional reforms require time for implementation and their impacts on various socioeconomic issues are only gradually observed. This paper has developed a new index of institutional quality for countries in the Asia–Pacific region from 2004 to 2020 using the principal component analysis. We estimate the long-term effects of institutional quality on financial inclusion using long-term estimators, including the augmented mean group and the common correlated effects mean group estimators. In our study, institutional quality is proxied by the new index developed in this paper and then by each of the five fundamental aspects of institutional quality: (i) business freedom, (ii) regulatory quality, (iii) investment freedom, (iv) government effectiveness, and (v) the rule of law. We find that improved institutional quality is fundamental to achieving financial inclusion in the region. These effects are particularly prominent in high-income countries in the Asia–Pacific region. However, a closer look at these long-term effects reveals that this effect is conditional on the income level. Interestingly, this long-term effect can be established for high-income countries such as Australia and Japan but not for Singapore. In addition, in the case of middle-income countries, the long-term effect can be confirmed for countries such as Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines but not for Thailand and Vietnam. Our results show that institutional reform, albeit very important, should not be considered the only fundamental pillar ensuring financial inclusion, sustainable economic growth, and social transformation in the long run.

Towards Intelligent Universities Enhanced with Artificial Intelligence (AI)

This paper presents a comprehensive and integrated paradigm for intelligent universities using artificial intelligence (AI) to transform management systems and teaching, thus complementing sustainable development objectives. Through a systematic examination of top worldwide universities’ AI applications, this study reveals key achievements, obstacles, and strategies for successfully implementing AI-driven intelligent universities. Every case study focuses on a particular AI-driven project, including the adaptive learning systems at MIT, the AI teaching assistant Jill Watson at Georgia Tech, and the AI-enabled quality control system at Cambridge University. Combining systematic review, meta-analysis, and case studies under a mixed-methods approach, the study provides a practical guide for implementing artificial intelligence to improve administrative and academic roles. Results show how artificial intelligence can solve institutional issues, automate quality assurance, and personalize learning. Recommendations advocate for gradual adoption strategies, ethical AI deployment, and capacity-building measures to enable sustainable digital transformation.

Identity Construction of Dayak [Ethnic]: Citation and Thematic Analysis of Systematic Literature Review

Objective: This research examines the adaptive capacity of university public relations from a self-referential autopoiesis communication perspective. It explores how the university ecosystem and the rhetorical expressions produced by University- PR function as differentiation mechanisms within the organizational system in Makassar Regency Theoretical Framework: This dissertation uses Niklas Luhmann's (2002) self-referential autopoiesis communication perspective to explore the adaptive capacity of Public Relations through the meaning of the university ecosystem and the expression of governance and rhetoric produced as differentiation of organizational science function systems. Method: This research uses a radical constructivism paradigm with comparative case studies at three universities. Data collection techniques include observation, interviews, and focus group discussions with university leaders, directors, heads of Public Relations, and staff of Public Relations, while rhetorical production is tracked by media content analysis. Data were analysed by triangulation, reduction, presentation, and conclusion. Results and Discussion: The research findings indicate that Public Relations at Unhas identifies environmental challenges by interpreting university autonomy and the PTN BH League, enhancing human resources, and fostering research and innovation as a Maritime continent campus, while temporarily achieving a World Class University ranking of 500-1000. In contrast, UINAM's Public Relations addresses sustainability issues within the Public Service Agency, aligning with the Chancellor's vision and responding to digital transformation. UMI's Public Relations focuses on institutional competition, partnership development, and maintaining Islamic identity, targeting improvements in Tridharma and aiming for a 500-1000 Asian World Class University ranking. Differences in governance structures reflect universities' complexities, with distinct coordination lines across institutions. Research Implications: This study emphasizes that universities employ unique communication strategies that diverge from the conventional business and government focus in public relations research, revealing the need for a more nuanced understanding of their public relations practices. Originality/Value: The research reveals that Unhas Public Relations tackles environmental issues through university autonomy and innovation, achieving a temporary World Class ranking. UINAM focuses on sustainability and digital transformation, while UMI emphasizes competition and Islamic identity, aiming for academic excellence. Governance structures vary, reflecting the complexities of each institution.

Photocatalytic Methanol Dehydrogenation with Switchable Selectivity.

Switchable selectivity achieved by altering reaction conditions within the same photocatalytic system offers great advantages for sustainable chemical transformations and renewable energy conversion. In this study, we investigate an efficient photocatalytic methanol dehydrogenation with controlled selectivity by varying the concentration of nickel cocatalyst, using zinc indium sulfide nanocrystals as a semiconductor photocatalyst, which enables the production of either formaldehyde or ethylene glycol with high selectivity. Control experiments revealed that formaldehyde is initially generated and can either serve as a terminal product or intermediate in producing ethylene glycol, depending on the nickel concentration in the solution. Mechanistic studies suggest a unique role of ionic nickel as an additional photoelectron competitor that can significantly influence selectivity, alongside its well-established function as a hydrogen evolution reaction cocatalyst under photocatalytic conditions. The demonstrated switchable selectivity provides a new tool for producing diverse products from methanol, while advancing the understanding of cocatalyst behavior for versatile catalytic performance.

Adaptive Rhetorical Strategies in Public Relations: Analyzing Scientific Deliberation and Reputation in Makassar Universities with Emphasis on Quality Education

Objective: This research examines the adaptive capacity of university public relations from a self-referential autopoiesis communication perspective. It explores how the university ecosystem and the rhetorical expressions produced by University- PR function as differentiation mechanisms within the organizational system in Makassar Regency Theoretical Framework: This dissertation uses Niklas Luhmann's (2002) self-referential autopoiesis communication perspective to explore the adaptive capacity of Public Relations through the meaning of the university ecosystem and the expression of governance and rhetoric produced as differentiation of organizational science function systems. Method: This research uses a radical constructivism paradigm with comparative case studies at three universities. Data collection techniques include observation, interviews, and focus group discussions with university leaders, directors, heads of Public Relations, and staff of Public Relations, while rhetorical production is tracked by media content analysis. Data were analysed by triangulation, reduction, presentation, and conclusion. Results and Discussion: The research findings indicate that Public Relations at Unhas identifies environmental challenges by interpreting university autonomy and the PTN BH League, enhancing human resources, and fostering research and innovation as a Maritime continent campus, while temporarily achieving a World Class University ranking of 500-1000. In contrast, UINAM's Public Relations addresses sustainability issues within the Public Service Agency, aligning with the Chancellor's vision and responding to digital transformation. UMI's Public Relations focuses on institutional competition, partnership development, and maintaining Islamic identity, targeting improvements in Tridharma and aiming for a 500-1000 Asian World Class University ranking. Differences in governance structures reflect universities' complexities, with distinct coordination lines across institutions. Research Implications: This study emphasizes that universities employ unique communication strategies that diverge from the conventional business and government focus in public relations research, revealing the need for a more nuanced understanding of their public relations practices. Originality/Value: The research reveals that Unhas Public Relations tackles environmental issues through university autonomy and innovation, achieving a temporary World Class ranking. UINAM focuses on sustainability and digital transformation, while UMI emphasizes competition and Islamic identity, aiming for academic excellence. Governance structures vary, reflecting the complexities of each institution.

Towards a Holistic Approach to Sustainable Development: Inner Development as a Missing Link for Sustainability Transformation

The discourse on understanding and implementing sustainable development has so far focused primarily on the external aspects, neglecting the internal dimension of people. The main purpose of our paper is to contribute to addressing this research gap. Therefore, we intend to (1) substantiate existing aspects of the Inner Development Goals (IDGs), (2) complement them, and (3) link the concept of the IDGs to normative discourses in Christian Social Ethics and Social Philosophy. Our results show that the dimensions of Being, Relating, and Collaborating in the IDG Framework can be substantiated by the normative discourse on spirituality and by reference to the social principle of personality in Christian Social Ethics, as well as by the Indian Social Philosophical Perspective of Vimala Thakar which focuses on a value-based approach. This paper suggests that the concept of the IDGs will be strengthened by adding the dimension of Caring—understood as the concern and responsibility for the wholeness in the combining of the inner and outer dimensions. By linking the concept of the Inner Development Goals to the existing normative discourses in Christian Social Ethics and Social Philosophy, our research contributes to making the concept connectable and deepens the discussions on a practical and theoretical level.

Evolutionary Game Analysis of Complex Networks in Enterprise Green Technology Innovation From a Prospect Theory Perspective

ABSTRACTGreen technological innovation in enterprises is a key driving force for achieving sustainable development and industrial transformation. However, how enterprises formulate effective innovation strategies by integrating subjective factors with objective market conditions within complex industrial networks remains an area requiring further exploration. This study aims to construct a complex network evolution model based on prospect theory and examines how subjective factors, such as reference points, risk preferences, and loss aversion, influence the adoption of green technology innovation in different network environments. It further explores how network characteristics, including topology, size, and node degree, affect the diffusion of innovation. Numerical analysis results indicate that in scale‐free networks, lowering reference points for enterprise gains, reducing loss aversion, increasing risk preference, expanding network size, and raising average node degree generally promote higher adoption of green technology innovation. In small‐world networks, the dependence on reference points is relatively lower, risk preference and average node degree demonstrate more complex impacts. Additionally, a moderate rewiring probability can enhance green technology innovation adoption in small‐world networks. These findings provide new insights and practical implications for understanding the driving mechanisms of green technological innovation in enterprises. They further emphasize the importance of government interventions tailored to the specific characteristics of industrial networks to effectively facilitate the diffusion of green technological innovation.

Sustainable Digital Transformation in Healthcare: Challenges and Directions in the Society 5.0 Era

Sustainable Digital Transformation in Healthcare: Challenges and Directions in the Society 5.0 Era

VIETNAM’S COMPREHENSIVE EDUCATIONAL REFORM

This study evaluates the progress of Vietnam’s educational reform, initiated under Resolution No. 29-NQ/TW in 2013, which aimed to align the nation’s education system with socio-economic objectives such as industrialization, modernization, and global integration. Using a mixed-methods approach that combines quantitative and qualitative analyses, the research examines achievements, challenges, and limitations across key areas such as learner-centered education, digital transformation, teacher development, and internationalization. Significant progress has been observed, including the universalization of preschool education, improvements in teacher qualifications, and the integration of digital tools, positioning Vietnam as a regional leader in education. However, challenges remain, including insufficient preparation of financial and human resources, inconsistent policy implementation, and the lack of a cohesive educational philosophy. Persistent inequities, outdated teaching methodologies, and limited alignment with labor market demands further constrain reform efforts. The findings emphasize the importance of targeted investments in teacher training, infrastructure, and governance, alongside fostering stronger international partnerships. This study highlights Vietnam’s potential to establish a globally competitive education system and provides actionable recommendations for addressing systemic barriers. The results contribute to global discussions on educational reform in developing nations, offering lessons for sustainable and equitable transformation.

Distributive justice discourses, time and futures: a social media discourse analysis of the loss and damages debate

ABSTRACT There is a growing concern with issues of distributive justice in sustainability transformations. Justice discourses are related to time, and particularly futures. However, there is a lack of in-depth knowledge about how futures and justice discourses interact. Combining insights from futures studies and the political philosophy literature on justice, this exploratory paper unpacks the construction of distributive justice discourses and the role of temporal dimensions herein. Based on a social media discourse analysis, using the Loss and Damage debate among readers of a Dutch online news outlet as an empirical focus, this paper shows how justice discourses and temporal dimensions interact leading to two main conclusions: (1) the temporal perspective plays a crucial role in the configuration of justice discourses (alignment of scope, pattern and currency), and (2) expected futures can be used (also strategically) to legitimise certain justice discourses, and thus the allocation of responsibilities.