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A special issue of Sustainability (ISSN 2071-1050). This special issue belongs to the section "Sustainable Urban and Rural Development".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 August 2023) | Viewed by 26872

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Special Issue Editors

Dr. Adel Juaidi

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Guest Editor

Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, An-Najah National University, Nablus P.O. Box 7, Palestine
Interests: sustainability; net zero energy buildings; renewable energy; sustainable cites; energy policy and energy management

Dr. Gloria Pignatta

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Guest Editor

School of Built Environment, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
Interests: sustainable building development; building energy efficiency; net-zero energy buildings; positive energy districts; climate adaptation and mitigation; energy transitions; energy poverty
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Dr. Amir Vadiee

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Guest Editor

School of Business, Society and Engineering, Mälardalen University, 721 23 Vasteras, Sweden
Interests: digitalisation; renewable energy; resource efficiency includes utilizing bioenergy sources; sustainable cities built in an ecologic, economic, and social sustainable way

Dr. Pietro Bartocci

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Instituto de Carboquimica, Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), 50018 Zaragoza, Spain
Interests: bioenergy; carbon capture; energy storage; alternative fuels
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The majority of the world population live today in cities and by 2050, the projection is that 70% of people in the world will live in cities *. Simultaneously the world population will increase with more than 1 billion people. Not only is it necessary to make cities sustainable and efficient to mitigate climate change but also to be resilient to climate change.

Cities are one key part in making the world sustainable, there are multiple means of improving cities sustainability and resilient to climate change such as prosumers, green infrastructure, resources recovery from wastes, vertical farming and stormwater management. An important part is also to make buildings smart and energy efficient, district heating and careful isolated buildings.

The main challenges to urban infrastructure systems, their main characteristics, as well as the other most relevant analytical perspectives of sustainable urban infrastructures will be discussed mainly in this special issue.

For this special issue, we invite submissions that discuss and address the main challenges of urban infrastructure systems, their main characteristics, as well as the other most relevant analytical perspectives of sustainable urban infrastructures.

The purpose of the special issue is to share knowledge about challenges, barriers, opportunities, and best practices in the development of sustainable cities and infrastructures with special consideration to planning, management, technology, policies, and key sustainability metrics. We are interested in original contributions that explore new trends and possibilities across the globe and demonstrate real case study applications oriented at supporting the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) framework.

In this Special Issue, original research articles and reviews are welcome. Research areas may include (but not limited to) the following:

Sustainable urban development
Decarbonization of cities
Sustainable policy and standards
Building energy efficiency
Circular economy in the built environment
Life Cycle Assessment
Sustainable and high performance architecture
Sustainable energy behaviours
Low carbon materials and infrastructure
Urban heat Island mitigation and adaptation
Sustainable utilization of resources
Sustainable energy communities
Emerging and renewable sources of energy
Energy conservation and management
Energy storage and surplus of energy
Thermal-energy performance of buildings
Indoor/outdoor thermal comfort
AI technologies in sustainable cities
Urban air pollution
E-mobility
Low Carbon and Positive Energy Districts
Waste-to-Energy
Energy Poverty
Post-carbon cities and societies
Urban cooling technologies
Sustainable energy transition

References

* https://www.un.org/development/desa/en/news/population/2018-revision-of-world-urbanization-prospects.html

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Dr. Adel Juaidi
Dr. Gloria Pignatta
Dr. Amir Vadiee
Dr. Pietro Bartocci
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Sustainability is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

sustainable urban development
decarbonization of cities
energy poverty
sustainable energy transition
urban heat island (UHI)
cool materials
low carbon strategies
building energy efficiency
positive energy districts (PEDs)
smart energy management

Published Papers (12 papers)

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Research

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14 pages, 1949 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing the Efficiency of Bi-Facial Photovoltaic Panels: An Integration Approach

by Emad Abdelsalam, Hamza Alnawafah, Fares Almomani, Aya Mousa and Hasan Qandil

Sustainability 2023, 15(20), 14786; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su152014786 - 12 Oct 2023

Viewed by 730

Abstract

This work presents a novel approach to increasing the efficiency of photovoltaic (PV) panels by integrating them with a cooling tower (CT). An infusion of water cools the hot, dry ambient air at the top of the CT. Due to gravity, the cooled air drops toward the base of the CT, where it interacts with a turbine placed at the bottom of the CT to produce electricity. The air then exits the CT base, creating a cooled air jet stream. The PV panels were placed at the base of the CT, right at the stream’s exit. As the cooled air passes underneath the PV panels, it exchanges energy with the PV, reducing the panels’ temperature. The results showed that the maximum annual efficiency improvement (6.831%) was observed using two rows of PV panels. The efficiency declined incrementally from 6.831% to 4.652% when the number of rows of PV panels was increased from two to twelve. The results also showed a significant improvement in the temperature of the PV panels. The best results were obtained at noon (maximum ambient temperature), where the solar panel temperature was lowered to 25 °C from 55 °C. Furthermore, the annual electrical energy generated with two rows of panels was 39,207.4 kWh without the CT, compared to 41,768.2 kWh with the CT. In addition, the results showed that with a 10 m diameter and 200 m height CT, the maximum number of PV rows that can be effectively cooled is 24. Future work will investigate integrating additional techniques to improve the system’s efficiency further. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Cities and Infrastructures)

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20 pages, 1098 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling Analysis of the Primary Barriers to Sustainable Construction in Iran

by Saeed Kamranfar, Farid Damirchi, Mitra Pourvaziri, Pardayev Abdunabi Xalikovich, Samira Mahmoudkelayeh, Reza Moezzi and Amir Vadiee

Sustainability 2023, 15(18), 13762; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su151813762 - 15 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1035

Abstract

This paper outlines the obstacles to sustainable construction growth in Iran and thereafter examines the effect and relation between these barriers and the direction of sustainable construction growth as one of the essential objectives for achieving sustainable cities and infrastructure. The study is applied for research purposes that are based on descriptive survey data gathering and correlational data analysis techniques. The statistical population for this study consists of 120 construction-related engineers and university professors who were assessed on a five-point Likert scale. Using SmartPLS software version 4, the responses to the questionnaire were examined. The Kolmogorov–Smirnov assessment was utilized to evaluate the normalcy of the variables, as this assessment is typically employed for this purpose. For data analysis, the PLS (partial least squares) method was used, while SEM (structural equation modeling) methods have been used to assess the study hypotheses. Cronbach’s alpha and the composite reliability coefficient (CR) were applied to determine the instrument’s viability, and the results show that the coefficient connected to all variables is above 7.0, which is an acceptable value. The AVE (average variance extracted) was also used to evaluate the questionnaire’s validity, which was greater than 0.4 and deemed acceptable for coefficients of significance (T-values), coefficient of predictive power (Q2), and coefficient of determination (R2). The obtained results support and confirm all research hypotheses, including that the identified obstacles directly affect the performance of sustainable construction. According to the results of the Friedman test, the legal restrictions variable (CL) is the most significant obstacle to sustainable construction in Iran, with a rank of 4.24. The indicators of political limits (CP) and social and cultural constraints (CSC) came in at second and third, respectively. The results could help government officials make better decisions about where to focus their attention and how to distribute scarce resources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Cities and Infrastructures)

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14 pages, 3730 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Blue Infrastructures: An Exploration of Oceanic Networks and Urban–Industrial–Energy Interactions in the Gulf of Mexico

by Asma Mehan and Zachary S. Casey

Sustainability 2023, 15(18), 13699; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su151813699 - 14 Sep 2023

Viewed by 1020

Abstract

Urban infrastructures serve as the backbone of modern economies, mediating global exchanges and responding to urban demands. Yet, our comprehension of these complex structures, particularly within diverse socio-political terrain, remains fragmented. In bridging this knowledge gap, this study delves into “boundary objects”—entities enabling diverse stakeholders to collaborate without a comprehensive consensus. Central to our investigation is the hypothesis that oceanic infrastructural developments are instrumental in molding the interface of urban, industrial, and energy sectors within marine contexts. Our lens is directed at the Gulf of Mexico, which is distinguished by its industrial depth and expansive marine grid. We highlight the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway’s (GIWW) paramount role in regional movement and the ecological facets of practices such as dredging, which is vital for transport and coastal conservation. A striking revelation of our study is the transformation of offshore structures in the Gulf into vibrant marine habitats. Emphasizing the intertwined nature of marine infrastructures, we denote oceans as pivotal platforms for impending urban expansion, especially as land resources wane. Our research aspires to validate the role played by oceans as a nexus in the urban–industrial–energy fusion. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Cities and Infrastructures)

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12 pages, 775 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Treatability Study of Car Wash Wastewater Using Upgraded Physical Technique with Sustainable Flocculant

by Mai Fayed, M. A. Shewitah, R. R. Dupont, Mohamed Fayed and Mai M. Badr

Sustainability 2023, 15(11), 8581; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su15118581 - 25 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1446

Abstract

Grease, oil, hydrocarbon residues, heavy metals, and surfactants are all present in car wash wastewater (CWW), which all can have detrimental effects on the environment and human health. This study was designed to assess CWW treatment using an upgraded physical technique combined with a range of conventional and more sustainable coagulants. Physical treatment effectively lowered the oil and grease (O&G) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) of the CWW by 79 ± 15% and 97 ± 1.6%, respectively. Additional treatment was provided using chemical coagulation–flocculation–settling. In jar test studies, humic acid (HA) and alum were found to provide significantly higher turbidity removal, 79.2 ± 3.1% and 69.8 ± 8.0%, respectively, than anionic polyacrylamide (APA), 7.9 ± 5.6% under influent turbidity values from 89 to 1000 NTU. Overall physical/chemical treatment of CWW yielded 97.3 ± 0.8% COD removal, and 99.2 ± 0.4% O&G removal using HA and alum. Due to the numerous problems created when using synthetic coagulants, naturally occurring coagulants that have no impact on human health, such as HA, are highly desirable options. The findings of this study show that treating CWW provides several advantages for sustainable development, health and well-being, and raising public knowledge and support for water reuse. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Cities and Infrastructures)

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20 pages, 3126 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Novel Design of a Hybrid Solar Double-Chimney Power Plant for Generating Electricity and Distilled Water

by Emad Abdelsalam, Fares Almomani, Shadwa Ibrahim, Feras Kafiah, Mohammad Jamjoum and Malek Alkasrawi

Sustainability 2023, 15(3), 2729; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su15032729 - 02 Feb 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1901

Abstract

The classical solar chimney offers passive electricity and water production at a low operating cost. However, the solar chimney suffers from high capital cost and low energy output density per construction area. The high capital investment increases the levelized cost of energy (LCOE), making the design less economically competitive versus other solar technologies. This work presents a new noteworthy solar chimney design for high energy density and maximizing water production. This was achieved by integrating a cooling tower with the solar chimney and optimizing the operating mood. The new design operated day and night as a hybrid solar double-chimney power plant (HSDCPP) for continuous electricity and water production. During the daytime, the HSDCPP operated as a cooling tower and solar chimney, while during the night, it operated as a cooling tower. The annual energy output from the cooling towers and solar chimney (i.e., the HSDCPP) totaled 1,457,423 kWh. The annual energy production from the cooling towers alone was 1,077,134 kWh, while the solar chimney produced 380,289 kWh. The annual energy production of the HSDCPP was ~3.83-fold greater than that of a traditional solar chimney (380,289 kWh). Furthermore, the HSDCPP produced 172,344 tons of fresh water per year, compared with zero tons in a traditional solar chimney. This led to lower overall capital expenditures maximizing energy production and lower LCOE. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Cities and Infrastructures)

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20 pages, 9494 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Status Assessment of the Transit-Oriented Development in Doha’s Education City

by Mooza Al-Mohannadi, Reem Awwaad, Raffaello Furlan, Michael Grosvald, Rashid Al-Matwi and Rima J. Isaifan

Sustainability 2023, 15(3), 1913; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su15031913 - 19 Jan 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1895

Abstract

Doha, the capital of the State of Qatar, has seen rapid growth in recent years, resulting in challenges that can be addressed through sustainable urban design strategies. Such approaches, including Transit-Oriented Development, aim to provide compact urban forms with mixed-use development enabling easy access to the city’s transit services. In light of such objectives, and with the 2022 World Cup being hosted in Qatar, the government has invested heavily in its public transportation system and in implementing Transit-Oriented Development. This work presents an analysis of the current status of Transit-Oriented Development in the knowledge hub in Doha known as Education City. A case study methodology was used, which included site observation, photographic documentation, mapping, and statistical analysis based on recent census data. The analysis shows that the use of public transportation throughout the site is relatively low, largely due to the region’s hot climate and the local mobility culture, in which there is a general preference for private vehicle use. The culmination of this investigation is a master plan for the study area, which foresees further enhancement of the area while still holding to the aims of Transit-Oriented Development. To this end, key recommendations for modifying the prevailing mobility culture are suggested, such as increasing the availability of multimodal transportation in order to improve public transportation functionality and modifying certain aspects of the public transportation system so that it is convenient and comfortable, even during periods of very hot weather. The findings of this study highlight the potential of urban design to change people’s behavior and increase awareness of multimodal transport options. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Cities and Infrastructures)

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19 pages, 7385 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improving the Thermal Performance of Building Envelopes: An Approach to Enhancing the Building Energy Efficiency Code

by Muhannad Haj Hussein, Sameh Monna, Ramez Abdallah, Adel Juaidi and Aiman Albatayneh

Sustainability 2022, 14(23), 16264; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su142316264 - 06 Dec 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1964

Abstract

Cities on the east Mediterranean coast, especially in Palestine, are struggling to move towards sustainability as they are vulnerable to climate change and lack natural resources, especially energy resources, and this situation is further aggravated by high energy prices. The problem is the building sector, which is the most challenging sector when it comes to cities’ sustainability and, specifically, energy sustainability. In Palestine, this sector is the main consumer of energy but it lacks energy efficiency measures, such as up-to-date building energy codes. This study analyzed building thermal performance under different scenarios with a focus on building envelopes. We aimed to evaluate the benefits of introducing an updated building energy code—mainly addressing U-values for building envelopes—on future reductions in energy demand. We used a simulation tool (DesignBuilder) to evaluate typical existing building-envelope thermal and energy performances. Then, we undertook a comparison between the existing conditions and the proposed application of different scenarios, including the existing Palestinian building energy code and green building guidelines, the ASHRAE code for building envelopes, and the Jordanian building energy code, in order to introduce an updated building envelope energy code. The results showed that the current situation—building without applying any energy code or applying the existing Palestinian building energy code—is far from the high-energy performance that could be achieved by applying international or local green building codes. The use of thermal insulation could reduce the energy demand for heating by 83 to 43%, depending on the building type, climatic zone, and U-value. We recommend utilizing different U-values for building envelopes in different climatic zones to achieve high thermal performance. The results from this study have implications for construction industry professionals, local governments, and researchers seeking to establish high-energy-performance building envelopes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Cities and Infrastructures)

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17 pages, 5779 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of the Indian Future Weather File Generator Based on Representative Concentration Pathways

by Naga Venkata Sai Kumar Manapragada, Anoop Kumar Shukla, Gloria Pignatta, Komali Yenneti, Deepika Shetty, Bibhu Kalyan Nayak and Venkataramana Boorla

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15191; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su142215191 - 16 Nov 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2457

Abstract

India’s fossil-fuel-based energy dependency is up to 68%, with the commercial and residential sectors contributing to the rise of building energy demand, energy use, and greenhouse gas emissions. Several studies have shown that the increasing building energy demand is associated with increased space-cooling ownership and building footprint. The energy demand is predicted to grow further with the conditions of global warming and the phenomenon of urban heat islands. Building designers have been using state-of-the-art transient simulation tools to evaluate energy-efficient envelopes with present-day weather files that are generated with historical weather datasets for any specific location. Designing buildings with historical climatic conditions makes the buildings vulnerable to the predicted climate change impacts. In this paper, a weather file generator was developed to generate Indian future weather files using a geo-filtering-based spatial technique, as well as the temporal downscaling and machine learning (ML)-based bias correction approach proposed by Belcher et al. The future weather files of the three representative concentration pathways of 2.6, 4.5, and 8.5 could be generated for the years 2030, 2050, 2070, 2090, and 2100. Currently, the outputs of the second-generation Canadian Earth System Model are being used to create future weather files that will aid architects, urban designers, and planners in developing a built environment that is resilient to climate change. The novelty lies in using observed historical data from present-day weather files on the typical meteorological year for testing and training ML models. The typical meteorological weather files are composed of the concatenation of the monthly weather datasets from different years, which are referred to for testing and training ML models for bias correction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Cities and Infrastructures)

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23 pages, 1092 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of Green Supermarket Evaluation Model Based on Green Process and Green Output—Case of Bangkok City

by Ittipat Vipusanapat, Chavalit Ratanatamskul and Achara Chandrachai

Sustainability 2022, 14(17), 10745; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su141710745 - 29 Aug 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1958

Abstract

The study aimed to develop a green supermarket evaluation model based on a green process and green output to provide empirical evidence on the model’s relationship with the green process, green output, and green supermarket. To this end, the study combined data from a survey of one store manager, one facility manager, and three assistant store managers from each of the 190 supermarket branches in Bangkok, Thailand with data from an in-depth interview of a sample group of green supermarket management specialists. The green supermarket evaluation model is divided into three levels, two elements (green process and green output), nine major indicators for green supermarket evaluation, and one hundred one sub-indicators for green supermarket evaluation, according to the findings. The five major indicators of the green process are green procurement, green storage, green service, green transportation and green environmental and energy management system, while the four major indicators of green output are social performance, environmental performance, economic performance, and organization image performance. In addition, the sub-indicator details were also identified for this evaluation model. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Cities and Infrastructures)

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30 pages, 3778 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Logical Analysis on the Strategy for a Sustainable Transition of the World to Green Energy—2050. Smart Cities and Villages Coupled to Renewable Energy Sources with Low Carbon Footprint

by Alina Ștefania Chenic, Alin Ioan Cretu, Adrian Burlacu, Nicolae Moroianu, Daniela Vîrjan, Dragos Huru, Mihaela Roberta Stanef-Puica and Vladimir Enachescu

Sustainability 2022, 14(14), 8622; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su14148622 - 14 Jul 2022

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 3569

Abstract

This paper brings, as an element of novelty and originality, a strategic feasibility study, in the form of a logical analysis related to the proposed objective, with particularization to the area of the EFTA plus the UK and Ireland. We tried to achieve an overall picture of a sustainable and prudent transition at the macroeconomic level, but also at the microeconomic and local levels, with specific values of ecological and energy-smart villages/towns. The convergent actions of the signatory states of the climate treaty COP-26/2021—Glasgow, UK are to improve the logistics and financing of the large-scale replacement of fossil fuels used in the economy and lives of human society. Various strategies have been discussed to address the energy mixes that could be used in the transition phase in stages and combined-cycle natural-gas plants, conditioned by the implementation of CCUS technology. The preliminary stage will focus on the provision and implementation of modern technologies for the production of electricity in photovoltaic and wind power. Starting with the 2030s, the industrialized production of blue and green hydrogen is expected; the first is expected to be obtained from the chemical synthesis of natural gas with the separation and storage of residual carbon from chemical reactions, and the second directly from ocean water through the phenomenon of H₂O electrolysis. As a basic legislative element, the strategy aims to refine the idea of a carbon tax at the border or at the user, in order to discourage the use of fossil fuels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Cities and Infrastructures)

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Review

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27 pages, 3213 KiB

Open AccessReview

Mycelium-Based Thermal Insulation for Domestic Cooling Footprint Reduction: A Review

by Shouq Al-Qahtani, Muammer Koç and Rima J. Isaifan

Sustainability 2023, 15(17), 13217; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su151713217 - 03 Sep 2023

Viewed by 3922

Abstract

Domestic cooling demands in arid and hot climate regions, including Qatar, induce a significant challenge to reduce the area’s cooling energy consumption and carbon footprint, primarily due to the heavy reliance on electricity-intensive air conditioning systems. The inadequacy and inefficiency of conventional construction and insulation materials and their improper implementation further exacerbate this issue. Considering such challenges, this research comprehensively evaluates an unconventional and innovative solution recently proposed for this purpose: mycelium-based thermal insulation. Mycelium is the vegetative, thread-like structure of fungi, consisting of a network of branching hyphae that facilitate nutrient absorption and environmental interactions. This review paper analyses mycelium-based composites, focusing on their mechanical, physical, and chemical characterization. It also explores the potential of mycelium as a sustainable solution for indoor temperature regulation, particulate matter absorption, and bioremediation. Moreover, this review examines various available insulation materials and highlights the unique advantages offered by mycelium-based composites. As a result, the literature review indicates that mycelium exhibits exceptional thermal and acoustic insulation properties owing to its low thermal conductivity, favorable water absorption coefficient, porous structure, and considerable mechanical strength. This porous architecture facilitates efficient air purification, improving indoor air quality. Additionally, mycelium shows promise in actively degrading pollutants such as hydrocarbons, heavy metals, and pesticides in soil and water. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Cities and Infrastructures)

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27 pages, 830 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Review of the Integrated Renewable Energy Systems for Sustainable Urban Mobility

by Hanadi Al-Thani, Muammer Koç, Rima J. Isaifan and Yusuf Bicer

Sustainability 2022, 14(17), 10517; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su141710517 - 24 Aug 2022

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 3365

Abstract

Several challenges have emerged due to the increasing deterioration of urban mobility and its severe impacts on the environment and human health. Primary dependence on internal combustion engines that use petrol or diesel has led to poor air quality, time losses, noise, traffic jams, and further environmental pollution. Hence, the transitions to using rail and or seaway-based public transportation, cleaner fuels, and electric vehicles are some of the ultimate goals of urban and national decision-makers. However, battery, natural gas, hybrid, and fuel cell vehicles require charging stations to be readily available with a sustainable energy supply within urban regions in different residential and business neighborhoods. This study aims to provide an updated and critical review of the concept and recent examples of urban mobility and transportation modes. It also highlights the adverse impacts of several air pollutants emitted from internal combustion engine vehicles. It also aims to shed light on several possible systems that integrate the electric vehicle stations with renewable energy sources. It was found that using certain components within the integrated system and connecting the charging stations with a grid can possibly provide an uninterrupted power supply to electric vehicles, leading to less pollution, which would encourage users to use more clean vehicles. In addition, the environmental impact assessments, as well as several implementation challenges, are discussed. To this end, the main implementation issues related to consumer incentives, infrastructure, and recommendations are also reported. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Cities and Infrastructures)

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