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Appropriate Wisdom, Technology, and Management toward Environmental Sustainability for Development
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Appropriate Wisdom, Technology, and Management toward Environmental Sustainability for Development

A special issue of Sustainability (ISSN 2071-1050). This special issue belongs to the section "Environmental Sustainability and Applications".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 December 2021) | Viewed by 101892

Printed Edition Available!
A printed edition of this Special Issue is available here.

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Shervin Hashemi

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Institute for Environmental Research, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
Interests: circular economy; conservation and recycling; drinking water management; environmental engineering; environment science; environmental remediation; life cycle assessment; nature-based solutions; public health; risk assessment; sanitation and hygiene; sustainability; waste management; water and wastewater treatment
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Protection and maintenance of environmental resources for future generations require responsible interaction with the environment to avoid wasting natural resources. An ancient Native American proverb says, “we do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children”. This indigenous wisdom could certainly substantially define the meaning of environmental sustainability.

Advances in technologies in recent times could sustain humankind and allow living in comfort. However, not all of these advances may sustain the environment for later generations. Developing societies along with keeping the ecosystem sustainable require appropriate wisdom, technology, and management working together.

The Special Issue (SI) entitled “Appropriate Wisdom, Technology, and Management toward Environmental Sustainability for Development” is proposed for the “Sustainable Use of the Environment and Resources” section of the journal Sustainability.

This SI aims to publish relevant studies on approaches toward environmental sustainability. It appeals for original and novel studies on the provision of responsible consumption, reasonable recycling, and sustainable development of natural resources in different types of environments, including the anthroposphere, atmosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, and lithosphere. Priority will be given to the works based in developing countries.

Studies in the areas and fields below are highly encouraged for consideration. In their cover letter, authors should mention to which of the fields below their study corresponds.

  • Appropriate Wisdom
    • Resource Valorization: Valuing Water, Wastes, and Other Resources
    • Development of Mathematical, Theoretical, and Computational Models
    • Scientific Hypothetical Approaches
    • Analyzing Historical Approaches and Ancient Wisdom
  • Appropriate Technology
    • Nature-Based Solutions
    • Clean Technologies
    • Resource Circulation: Conservation and Recycling
  • Appropriate Management
    • Human ↔ Nature Interactions: Simulation and Optimization
    • Economic Management: Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Circular Economy
    • Social Awareness and Human Rights: Concepts of Leaving No One Behind
    • Sanitation, Hygiene, and Public Health
    • Risk Assessment
    • New Policies
  • Any Other Relevant Topic (should be consulted with the editor)

Submissions are welcomed as Articles and Reviews. The “Instructions for Authors” provided by the journal Sustainability should be carefully followed by the authors to prepare their submissions. The SI follows the policies of the journal Sustainability thoroughly regarding submission, reviewing process, and publication.

Dr. Shervin Hashemi
Guest Editor

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

  • appropriate technology
  • nature-based solutions
  • resource valorization
  • sustainability

Published Papers (19 papers)

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Editorial

Jump to: Research, Review

5 pages, 200 KiB  
Editorial
Borrowing the Earth from the Next Generation: Appropriate Wisdom, Technology, and Management toward Environmental Sustainability for Development
by Shervin Hashemi
Sustainability 2022, 14(14), 8803; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su14148803 - 19 Jul 2022
Viewed by 1170
Abstract
Technological advancements, combined with rapid population growth, have led to an increase in environmental resource consumption [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Appropriate Wisdom, Technology, and Management toward Environmental Sustainability for Development)

Research

Jump to: Editorial, Review

22 pages, 1509 KiB  
Article
Using a Product Life Cycle Cost Model to Solve Supplier Selection Problems in a Sustainable, Resilient Supply Chain
by Yu-Jwo Tao, Yi-Shyuan Lin, Hsuan-Shih Lee, Guo-Ya Gan and Chang-Shu Tu
Sustainability 2022, 14(4), 2423; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su14042423 - 20 Feb 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2285
Abstract
Supplier selection constitutes a crucial component of manufacturing procurement. We developed a product life cycle cost (PLCC) model to support Taiwanese light-emitting diode (LED) manufacturers in capacity planning for sustainable and resilient supply chain (SC) management. For firms, supply chain PLCC (SCPLCC) is [...] Read more.
Supplier selection constitutes a crucial component of manufacturing procurement. We developed a product life cycle cost (PLCC) model to support Taiwanese light-emitting diode (LED) manufacturers in capacity planning for sustainable and resilient supply chain (SC) management. For firms, supply chain PLCC (SCPLCC) is a key consideration, but relevant evidence is scarce. We applied two types of goal programming, namely multiobjective linear programming and revised multichoice goal programming (RMCGP), to develop a PLCC-based model that minimizes net costs, rejections, and late deliveries. Moreover, we constructed a decision-making tool for application to a case of SC sustainable procurement management in a high-tech Taiwanese LED company. Managers can resolve relevant problems by employing the two approaches of the SCPLCC model with various parameters. The implementation of RMCGP with weighted linear goal programming sensitivity analysis produced sufficient findings, according to a study of five models for practical implications. The primary findings of the current model assist business decision-makers in minimizing PLCC, reducing PLCC cost, minimizing net cost, number of rejections, number of late deliveries, achieving PLCC goals, and selecting the best supplier in the context of sustainable SC development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Appropriate Wisdom, Technology, and Management toward Environmental Sustainability for Development)
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30 pages, 12999 KiB  
Article
Current Trends in Urban Heritage Conservation: Medieval Historic Arab City Centers
by Ahmed Mohamed Shehata
Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 607; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su14020607 - 06 Jan 2022
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 4227
Abstract
Traditional conservation efforts did not improve the conditions in most historic urban centers of Arab cities. The internationally adopted shift in historic urban conservation grants better urban vitality and sustainability for these areas. This study investigates the existing trends and forthcoming changes in [...] Read more.
Traditional conservation efforts did not improve the conditions in most historic urban centers of Arab cities. The internationally adopted shift in historic urban conservation grants better urban vitality and sustainability for these areas. This study investigates the existing trends and forthcoming changes in urban conservation and their implication on historical centers. Urban Heritage Conservation UHC trends were reviewed, conservation parameters were defined, and quality aspects of successful historic urban conservation were identified, and an assessment framework was developed to evaluate the resulting conserved urban heritage. Two case studies of Arab cities, Jeddah and Aman, were analyzed. The findings highlight the most common urban issues such as reusing historic buildings, traffic congestion, and lack of funds. The impact of urban management on historic areas’ quality was revealed. Moreover, the paper ends with recommendations for conservation authorities. These include engaging residents in the conservation efforts, adopting more innovative traffic solutions to ease congestions, turning the historic area into a pedestrian-friendly space, attracting visitors through arranging cultural events, creating new job opportunities through heritage, and improving the image of the areas through urban regulations. The paper’s findings would contribute to the knowledge related to Urban Heritage Conservation (UHC), and its recommendations would help practitioners and decision-makers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Appropriate Wisdom, Technology, and Management toward Environmental Sustainability for Development)
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14 pages, 722 KiB  
Article
Digital Technologies, Circular Economy Practices and Environmental Policies in the Era of COVID-19
by Syed Abdul Rehman Khan, Pablo Ponce, George Thomas, Zhang Yu, Mohammad Saad Al-Ahmadi and Muhammad Tanveer
Sustainability 2021, 13(22), 12790; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su132212790 - 19 Nov 2021
Cited by 93 | Viewed by 5205
Abstract
The degradation of the environment is associated with economic activity, particularly with the linear way in which the economy does not make efficient use of resources. However, the circular economy is opposed to this linear paradigm, since it makes the most of the [...] Read more.
The degradation of the environment is associated with economic activity, particularly with the linear way in which the economy does not make efficient use of resources. However, the circular economy is opposed to this linear paradigm, since it makes the most of the resources in trying to achieve zero waste. In this context, this study investigates the relationship between industry 4.0 technologies, COVID-19 outbreak, environmental regulation policies and circular economy practices. A questionnaire is designed to collect information from 214 big and private manufacturing firms in Ecuador, and subsequently, through CB-SEM, the information is processed, and the study paths are validated. The results suggest that industry 4.0 technologies and environmental regulation policies are driving circular economy practices during the pandemic. The study finds no evidence favoring COVID-19 being a determining factor in the adoption of the circular economy. The results provide a policy framework for the adoption of a circular economy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Appropriate Wisdom, Technology, and Management toward Environmental Sustainability for Development)
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22 pages, 1377 KiB  
Article
Modeling of 3R (Reduce, Reuse and Recycle) for Sustainable Construction Waste Reduction: A Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM)
by Musa Mohammed, Nasir Shafiq, Ali Elmansoury, Al-Baraa Abdulrahman Al-Mekhlafi, Ehab Farouk Rached, Noor Amila Zawawi, Abdulrahman Haruna, Aminu Darda’u Rafindadi and Muhammad Bello Ibrahim
Sustainability 2021, 13(19), 10660; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su131910660 - 25 Sep 2021
Cited by 27 | Viewed by 7997
Abstract
There is a lack of awareness and knowledge among the Malaysian construction industry about waste management reduction. Numerous nations worldwide have understood and have incorporated the concept of the 3R (reduce, reuse, and recycle) in waste management, and it has worked out well. [...] Read more.
There is a lack of awareness and knowledge among the Malaysian construction industry about waste management reduction. Numerous nations worldwide have understood and have incorporated the concept of the 3R (reduce, reuse, and recycle) in waste management, and it has worked out well. This study investigated construction waste issues and developed a model for sustainable reduction by applying 3R using a partial least squares structural equation modeling PLS-SEM in Malaysia. The research methodology adopted the quantitative and qualitative approaches by sending a survey questionnaire to the relevant stakeholders to obtain their views or perceptions and interviewing an expert in the related field about waste reduction in the Malaysian construction industry. Three hundred thirty questionnaires were collected within six months of submission. The significant factors are determined using mean ranking for the reduce, reuse and recycle elements. Based on the results, the exploratory power of the study model is considered sustainable with R2 values of 0.83%. At the same time, the results of relationships between improving factors, policy-related factors, construction waste generated, and sustainable construction waste reduction were significant. Also, the findings revealed that the top factors for waste generation on reducing, reusing, and recycling are lack of design and documentation, and lack of guidance for effective construction waste-collecting. The paper will explore different and dynamic practices, such as recycling, reuse of construction waste management cost reduction, enabling stakeholders and managers to estimate and quantify the actual size of CWM costs and benefits for sustainable development goals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Appropriate Wisdom, Technology, and Management toward Environmental Sustainability for Development)
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23 pages, 1850 KiB  
Article
Using Spatial Patterns of COVID-19 to Build a Framework for Economic Reactivation
by Renato Quiliche, Rafael Rentería-Ramos, Irineu de Brito Junior, Ana Luna and Mario Chong
Sustainability 2021, 13(18), 10092; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su131810092 - 09 Sep 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1957
Abstract
In this article, we propose an application of humanitarian logistics theory to build a supportive framework for economic reactivation and pandemic management based on province vulnerability against COVID-19. The main research question is which factors are related to COVID-19 mortality between Peruvian provinces? [...] Read more.
In this article, we propose an application of humanitarian logistics theory to build a supportive framework for economic reactivation and pandemic management based on province vulnerability against COVID-19. The main research question is which factors are related to COVID-19 mortality between Peruvian provinces? We conduct a spatial regression analysis to explore which factors determine the differences in COVID-19 cumulative mortality rates for 189 Peruvian provinces up to December 2020. The most vulnerable provinces are characterized by having low outcomes of long-run poverty and high population density. Low poverty means high economic activity, which leads to more deaths due to COVID-19. There is a lack of supply in the set of relief goods defined as Pandemic Response and Recovery Supportive Goods and Services (PRRSGS). These goods must be delivered in order to mitigate the risk associated with COVID-19. A supportive framework for economic reactivation can be built based on regression results and a delivery strategy can be discussed according to the spatial patterns that we found for mortality rates. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Appropriate Wisdom, Technology, and Management toward Environmental Sustainability for Development)
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22 pages, 2455 KiB  
Article
Fisheries in the Context of Attaining Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Bangladesh: COVID-19 Impacts and Future Prospects
by Atiqur Rahman Sunny, Mahmudul Hasan Mithun, Shamsul Haque Prodhan, Md. Ashrafuzzaman, Syed Mohammad Aminur Rahman, Md Masum Billah, Monayem Hussain, Khandaker Jafor Ahmed, Sharif Ahmed Sazzad, Md Tariqul Alam, Aminur Rashid and Mohammad Mosarof Hossain
Sustainability 2021, 13(17), 9912; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su13179912 - 03 Sep 2021
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 6938
Abstract
Fisheries and the aquaculture sector can play a significant role in the achievement of several of the goals of the 2030 Sustainable Development agenda. However, the current COVID-19 situation can negatively impact the fisheries sector, impeding the pace of the achievement of development [...] Read more.
Fisheries and the aquaculture sector can play a significant role in the achievement of several of the goals of the 2030 Sustainable Development agenda. However, the current COVID-19 situation can negatively impact the fisheries sector, impeding the pace of the achievement of development goals. Therefore, this paper highlighted the performance and challenges of the fisheries sector in Bangladesh, emphasising the impact of COVID-19 and the significance of this sector for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), through primary fieldwork and secondary data. The total fish production in the country has increased more than six times over the last three decades (7.54 to 43.84 lakh MT) with improved culture techniques and extension services. Inland closed water contributions have increased to 16%, while inland open water has declined to 10%, and marine fisheries have dropped to 6% over the past 18 financial years (2000–2001 to 2018–2019). COVID-19, a significant health crisis, has also affected various issues associated with aquatic resources and communities. Transportation obstacles and complexity in the food supply, difficulty in starting production, labour crisis, sudden illness, insufficient consumer demand, commodity price hikes, creditor’s pressure, and reduced income were identified as COVID-19 drivers affecting the fisheries sector. The combined effect of these drivers poses a significant threat to a number of the SDGs, such as income (SDG1), nutrition (SDG2), and food security (SDG3 and SDG12), which require immediate and comprehensive action. Several recommendations were discussed, the implementation of which are important to the achievement of the SDGs and the improved management of the aquatic sector (SDG14—life below, and SDG16—life above water). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Appropriate Wisdom, Technology, and Management toward Environmental Sustainability for Development)
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20 pages, 1475 KiB  
Article
Issues and Potential Solutions to the Clean Heating Project in Rural Gansu
by Dehu Qv, Xiangjie Duan, Jijin Wang, Caiqin Hou, Gang Wang, Fengxi Zhou and Shaoyong Li
Sustainability 2021, 13(15), 8397; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su13158397 - 28 Jul 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1738
Abstract
Rural clean heating project (RCHP) in China aims to increase flexibility in the rural energy system, enhance the integration of renewable energy and distributed generation, and reduce environmental impact. While RCHP-enabling routes have been studied from a technical perspective, the economic, ecological, regulatory, [...] Read more.
Rural clean heating project (RCHP) in China aims to increase flexibility in the rural energy system, enhance the integration of renewable energy and distributed generation, and reduce environmental impact. While RCHP-enabling routes have been studied from a technical perspective, the economic, ecological, regulatory, and policy dimensions of RCHP are yet to be analysed in depth, especially in the underdeveloped areas in China. This paper discusses RCHP in rural Gansu using a multi-dimensional approach. We first focus on the current issues and challenges of RCHP in rural Gansu. Then the RCHP-enabling areas are briefly zoned into six typical regions based on the resource distribution in Gansu Province, and a matching framework of RCHP is recommended. Then we focus on the economics and sustainability of RCHP-enabling technologies. Based on the medium-term assessment of RCHP in the demonstration provinces, various technical schemes and routes are analysed and compared in order to determine which should be adopted in rural Gansu. In addition to technical and economic effects of those schemes, the corresponding ecology, policy, finance, and market implications are also concerned. We briefly discuss how the national regulators incentivise the implementation of RCHP in rural Gansu. Major barriers to RCHP are identified as the sustainability of technology, economy, ecology, policy, finance, and market. Subsequently, some policy solutions to overcome these barriers are proposed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Appropriate Wisdom, Technology, and Management toward Environmental Sustainability for Development)
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10 pages, 1023 KiB  
Article
Development of Rice Husk Power Plants Based on Clean Development Mechanism: A Case Study in Mekong River Delta, Vietnam
by Nguyen Van Song, Thai Van Ha, Tran Duc Thuan, Nguyen Van Hanh, Dinh Van Tien, Nguyen Cong Tiep, Nguyen Thi Minh Phuong, Phan Anh Tu and Tran Ba Uan
Sustainability 2021, 13(12), 6950; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su13126950 - 21 Jun 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3580
Abstract
In this research, we planned and conducted estimations for developing a pilot-scale Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) project for group plant activities in the Vietnam electricity/energy sector. The overall aim of this paper is to assess the power generation potential of rice husk power [...] Read more.
In this research, we planned and conducted estimations for developing a pilot-scale Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) project for group plant activities in the Vietnam electricity/energy sector. The overall aim of this paper is to assess the power generation potential of rice husk power plants in the Mekong Delta. We intend to set up a rice husk energy balance flowchart for the whole Mekong River Delta in the year 2021 and suggest policies that can be used for the power generation of unused rice husk, to avoid having them pollute rivers and canals. We put forward a safe and environmentally friendly solution to thoroughly minimize the current serious pollution of rivers and canals in the Mekong River Delta caused by the increasing quantity of unused rice husk. The results of this paper are based on the estimation of electricity potential of a group of rice husk power development plants in the Mekong River Delta with a capacity of 11 MW per plant, including carbon dioxide emission reductions (CERs) and CER credits, along with estimations of their economic criteria (NPV, B/C, IRR), both W/CDM and W/O CDM. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Appropriate Wisdom, Technology, and Management toward Environmental Sustainability for Development)
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17 pages, 734 KiB  
Article
Role of Ethical Marketing in Driving Consumer Brand Relationships and Brand Loyalty: A Sustainable Marketing Approach
by Muhammad Tanveer, Abdul-Rahim Ahmad, Haider Mahmood and Ikram Ul Haq
Sustainability 2021, 13(12), 6839; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su13126839 - 17 Jun 2021
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 16211
Abstract
This research is focused on studying the impact of ethical marketing practices on value-adding product sustainability and customer brand relationship sustainability. It further investigates the consequent effects of value-adding product sustainability and customer brand relationship sustainability on brand loyalty. Data for this study [...] Read more.
This research is focused on studying the impact of ethical marketing practices on value-adding product sustainability and customer brand relationship sustainability. It further investigates the consequent effects of value-adding product sustainability and customer brand relationship sustainability on brand loyalty. Data for this study were collected from a sample of 1500 customers having multiple interactions with goods and brands of retail organizations in Pakistan. We employed structural equation modeling (SEM) using SPSS 24.0 to analyze our data. The findings of this paper provide empirical support to the proposed relationships. More specifically, ethical marketing practices were found to have a significant impact on value-adding product sustainability and customer-value brand relationship sustainability. The findings also support a positive impacts of value-adding product sustainability and customer-value brand relationship sustainability on brand loyalty. This study provides some valuable implications for the theory and practice in that it identifies and empirically validates key ethical marketing factors affecting loyalty in business-to-consumer interactions. Besides, this study advocates implications for firms regarding some key aspects of ethical marketing practices that should be strengthened to achieve sustained brand loyalty. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Appropriate Wisdom, Technology, and Management toward Environmental Sustainability for Development)
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14 pages, 2917 KiB  
Article
Mechanical Properties of Silica Fume Modified High-Volume Fly Ash Rubberized Self-Compacting Concrete
by Wesam Salah Alaloul, Muhammad Ali Musarat, Sani Haruna, Kevin Law, Bassam A. Tayeh, Waqas Rafiq and Saba Ayub
Sustainability 2021, 13(10), 5571; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su13105571 - 17 May 2021
Cited by 66 | Viewed by 3316
Abstract
The existing form of self-compacting concrete (SCC) comprises of a large amount of powdered and fine materials. In this study, a part of the cementitious material was replaced with constant high-volume fly ash, and a portion of fine aggregates was substituted by crumb [...] Read more.
The existing form of self-compacting concrete (SCC) comprises of a large amount of powdered and fine materials. In this study, a part of the cementitious material was replaced with constant high-volume fly ash, and a portion of fine aggregates was substituted by crumb rubber (CR). Besides that, silica fume (SF) was added, with the hope that by implementing a new type of nanomaterial, the loss in mechanical strength due to previous modifications such as rubberization and replacement will be prevented. Two variables were found to influence the constituent/component in the mix design: SF and CR. The proportion of SF varies from 0% to 10%, while that of CR from 0% to 30% by volume of the total river sand, where 55% of cement was replaced by the fly ash. A total of 13 rubberized SCC samples with CR and SF as controlling variables were made, and their design mix was produced by a Design of Experiment (DOE) under the Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The results reveal a slight increase in the mechanical properties with the addition of SF. The theoretical mathematical models and equation for each different mechanical strength were also developed after incorporating the experimental results into the software. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Appropriate Wisdom, Technology, and Management toward Environmental Sustainability for Development)
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11 pages, 3132 KiB  
Article
An Experimental Study on the Performance of Corrugated Cardboard as a Sustainable Sound-Absorbing and Insulating Material
by Chun-Won Kang, Mina K. Kim and Eun-Suk Jang
Sustainability 2021, 13(10), 5546; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su13105546 - 16 May 2021
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4445
Abstract
The continuing development of industrialization and increasing population density has led to the emergence of noise as an increasingly common problem, requiring various types of sound absorption and insulation methods to address it. Meanwhile, the recycling of resources to ensure a sustainable future [...] Read more.
The continuing development of industrialization and increasing population density has led to the emergence of noise as an increasingly common problem, requiring various types of sound absorption and insulation methods to address it. Meanwhile, the recycling of resources to ensure a sustainable future for the planet and mankind is also required. Therefore, this study investigates the potential of corrugated cardboard as a resource for noise reduction. The sound absorption and insulation performance of non-perforated corrugated cardboard (NPCC) were measured, and modified corrugated boards were fabricated by drilling holes either through the surface of the corrugated board alone or through the corrugated board in its entirety. The sound-absorption/insulation performance both of perforated corrugated cardboard (PCC) and perforated corrugated cardboard with multi-frequency resonators (PCCM) were measured using the transfer function method and the transmission matrix method. To determine the effectiveness of NPCC, PCC, and PCCM in noise reduction, the sound pressure level was analyzed by applying it to a home blender. The results showed PCCM’s sound absorption and insulation performance to be excellent. On the basis of these findings, we propose the use of PMMC as an eco-friendly noise-reduction material. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Appropriate Wisdom, Technology, and Management toward Environmental Sustainability for Development)
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26 pages, 2125 KiB  
Article
Construction Sector Contribution to Economic Stability: Malaysian GDP Distribution
by Wesam Salah Alaloul, Muhammad Ali Musarat, Muhammad Babar Ali Rabbani, Qaiser Iqbal, Ahsen Maqsoom and Waqas Farooq
Sustainability 2021, 13(9), 5012; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su13095012 - 29 Apr 2021
Cited by 62 | Viewed by 12746
Abstract
The construction sector exerts an exceptional impact on economic development all over the world. Adequate buildings and infrastructures made by the construction sector ensure that a country reaches certain targets like social development, industrialization, freight transportation, sustainable development, and urbanization. This study aims [...] Read more.
The construction sector exerts an exceptional impact on economic development all over the world. Adequate buildings and infrastructures made by the construction sector ensure that a country reaches certain targets like social development, industrialization, freight transportation, sustainable development, and urbanization. This study aims to determine the construction sector’s connectivity with other sectors through complex linkages that contribute immensely to the economy and gross domestic product (GDP). The data were collected from the Department of Statistics Malaysia and the World Bank from the year 1970 to 2019, and the Pearson correlation test, the cointegration test, and the Granger causality test were conducted. The vector error correction model (VECM) was created for short-term and long-term equilibrium analysis and impulse response function (IRF) was performed to study construction industry behavior. Afterwards, the forecasting was done for the year 2020 to 2050 of the Malaysian economy and GDP for the required sectors. It was revealed that some sectors, such as agriculture and services, have forward linkages while other sectors, such as manufacturing and mining, are independent of construction sector causality, which signifies the behavior of the contributing sectors when a recession occurs, hence generating significant revenue. The Malaysian economy is moving towards sustainable production with more emphasis on the construction sector. The outcome can be used as a benchmark by other countries to achieve sustainable development. The significance of this study is its usefulness for experts all over the world in terms of allocating resources to make the construction sector a sustainable sector after receiving a shock. A sustainable conceptual framework has been suggested for global application that shows the factors involved in the growth of the construction industry to ensure its sustainable development with time. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Appropriate Wisdom, Technology, and Management toward Environmental Sustainability for Development)
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24 pages, 507 KiB  
Article
Using Blockchain-Enabled Solutions as SDG Accelerators in the International Development Space
by Ahmet Faruk Aysan, Fouad Bergigui and Mustafa Disli
Sustainability 2021, 13(7), 4025; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su13074025 - 05 Apr 2021
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3511
Abstract
As the world is striving to recover from the shockwaves triggered by the COVID-19 crisis, all hands are needed on deck to transition towards green recovery and make peace with nature as prerequisites of a global sustainable development pathway. In this paper, we [...] Read more.
As the world is striving to recover from the shockwaves triggered by the COVID-19 crisis, all hands are needed on deck to transition towards green recovery and make peace with nature as prerequisites of a global sustainable development pathway. In this paper, we examine the blockchain hype, the gaps in the knowledge, and the tools needed to build promising use cases for blockchain technology to accelerate global efforts in this decade of action towards achieving the SDGs. We attempt to break the “hype cycle” portraying blockchain’s superiority by navigating a rational blockchain use case development approach. By prototyping an SDG Acceleration Scorecard to use blockchain-enabled solutions as SDG accelerators, we aim to provide useful insights towards developing an integrated approach that is fit-for-purpose to guide organizations and practitioners in their quest to make informed decisions to design and implement blockchain-backed solutions as SDG accelerators. Acknowledging the limitations in prototyping such tools, we believe these are minimally viable products and should be considered as living tools that can further evolve as the blockchain technology matures, its pace of adoption increases, lessons are learned, and good practices and standards are widely shared and internalized by teams and organizations working on innovation for development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Appropriate Wisdom, Technology, and Management toward Environmental Sustainability for Development)
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14 pages, 556 KiB  
Article
Yield and Cost Effects of Plot-Level Wheat Seed Rates and Seed Recycling Practices in the East Gojam Zone, Amhara Region, Ethiopia: Application of the Dose–Response Model
by Yirgalem Eshete, Bamlaku Alamirew and Zewdie Bishaw
Sustainability 2021, 13(7), 3793; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su13073793 - 29 Mar 2021
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2661
Abstract
Previous studies investigated the effects of seed rates and seed recycling practices on the yield and yield-related variables. However, higher yield does not always guarantee cost-efficiency. This study aimed to investigate the yield effects of plot-level seed rate and the cost–benefit analysis of [...] Read more.
Previous studies investigated the effects of seed rates and seed recycling practices on the yield and yield-related variables. However, higher yield does not always guarantee cost-efficiency. This study aimed to investigate the yield effects of plot-level seed rate and the cost–benefit analysis of seed recycling practices. This study has introduced the dose–response model to the existing analytical methods used in analyzing the effect of different agrochemicals on crop yield. A multi-stage stratified sampling technique was used to select a total of 450 sample respondents. Data were gathered using a mix of data collection tools. Descriptive statistics along with the dose–response model were applied for data analysis. Farmers of the study were found to be dissimilar in terms of their seed rate application. A dose–response analysis indicated that the highest average wheat yield was associated with a seed rate of 50 kg ha−1 above what is recommended. The yield effect of seed recycling was also assessed, and a one-time seed recycling has caused a yield decline of 665 kg ha−1 compared to the non-recycled seeds. The cost reduced using recycled seed is by far lower than the economic gains associated with using unrecycled and fresh seeds. The cost–benefit analysis made clear that farmers can reduce their seed costs through seed recycling, but their yields and net income can be best improved by using unrecycled certified bread wheat seed (CBWS). Thus, farmers must be encouraged to use unrecycled seed by establishing agricultural credit schemes geared towards seed procurement and seed price subsidy as key strategies to reduce economically wasteful seed recycling practices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Appropriate Wisdom, Technology, and Management toward Environmental Sustainability for Development)
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9 pages, 5932 KiB  
Article
Hazardous Solid Waste Confined in Closed Dump of Morelia: An Urgent Environmental Liability to Attend in Developing Countries
by M. Lourdes González-Arqueros, Gabriela Domínguez-Vázquez, Ruth Alfaro-Cuevas-Villanueva, Isabel Israde-Alcántara and Otoniel Buenrostro-Delgado
Sustainability 2021, 13(5), 2557; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su13052557 - 26 Feb 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2177
Abstract
In developing countries, landfills of urban solid waste (USW) are a major source of contamination. One reason is the common practice of the illegal confinement of hazardous waste (HW). The contamination is mainly due to deficitary design location, operation and lack of liner, [...] Read more.
In developing countries, landfills of urban solid waste (USW) are a major source of contamination. One reason is the common practice of the illegal confinement of hazardous waste (HW). The contamination is mainly due to deficitary design location, operation and lack of liner, which enables the dispersion of pollutants. The aim of our work is to demonstrate the presence of heavy metals (HM) and arsenic (As) in USW of the closed dump of Morelia, which clandestinely confined HW for 20 years. Solid samples of USW were collected from eight opencast wells with different age of confinement. Composition, degradation status, physical-chemical characterization and analysis of HM and As were carried out. The results showed the presence of Pb, Cu, Ni, Zn, Cr, Fe and high concentrations of As. This study provides evidence about the usual and illegal practice of landfill HW together with USW; the hazard due to the presence of HM and As; the deficiency in the operation and closure; and, the lack of competent legislation on the subject. This information is essential to establish background information for improving laws and help decision makers in territorial planning to improve public and environment health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Appropriate Wisdom, Technology, and Management toward Environmental Sustainability for Development)
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Review

Jump to: Editorial, Research

30 pages, 1576 KiB  
Review
A Review of Groundwater Management Models with a Focus on IoT-Based Systems
by Banjo Ayoade Aderemi, Thomas Otieno Olwal, Julius Musyoka Ndambuki and Sophia Sudi Rwanga
Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 148; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su14010148 - 23 Dec 2021
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4339
Abstract
Globally, groundwater is the largest distributed storage of freshwater and plays an important role in an ecosystem’s sustainability in addition to aiding human adaptation to both climatic change and variability. However, groundwater resources are dynamic and often change as a result of land [...] Read more.
Globally, groundwater is the largest distributed storage of freshwater and plays an important role in an ecosystem’s sustainability in addition to aiding human adaptation to both climatic change and variability. However, groundwater resources are dynamic and often change as a result of land usage, abstraction, as well as variation in climate. To solve these challenges, many conventional solutions, such as certain numerical techniques, have been proffered for groundwater modelling. The global evolution of the Internet of Things (IoT) has enhanced the culture of data gathering for the management of groundwater resources. In addition, efficient data-driven groundwater resource management relies hugely on information relating to changes in groundwater resources as well as their availability. At the moment, some studies in the literature reveal that groundwater managers lack an efficient and real-time groundwater management system which is needed to gather the required data. Additionally, the literature reveals that the existing methods of collecting data lack the required efficiency to meet computational model requirements and meet management objectives. Unlike previous surveys, which solely focussed on particular groundwater issues related to simulation and optimisation management methods, this paper seeks to highlight the current groundwater management models as well as the IoT contributions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Appropriate Wisdom, Technology, and Management toward Environmental Sustainability for Development)
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26 pages, 1710 KiB  
Review
The Recent Progress of Natural Sources and Manufacturing Process of Biodiesel: A Review
by Eko Supriyanto, Jayan Sentanuhady, Ariyana Dwiputra, Ari Permana and Muhammad Akhsin Muflikhun
Sustainability 2021, 13(10), 5599; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su13105599 - 17 May 2021
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2513
Abstract
Biodiesel has caught the attention of many researchers because it has great potential to be a sustainable fossil fuel substitute. Biodiesel has a non-toxic and renewable nature and has been proven to emit less environmentally harmful emissions such as hydrocarbons (HC), and carbon [...] Read more.
Biodiesel has caught the attention of many researchers because it has great potential to be a sustainable fossil fuel substitute. Biodiesel has a non-toxic and renewable nature and has been proven to emit less environmentally harmful emissions such as hydrocarbons (HC), and carbon monoxide (CO) as smoke particles during combustion. Problems related to global warming caused by greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions could also be solved by utilizing biodiesel as a daily energy source. However, the expensive cost of biodiesel production, mainly because of the cost of natural feedstock, hinders the potential of biodiesel commercialization. The selection of natural sources of biodiesel should be made with observations from economic, agricultural, and technical perspectives to obtain one feasible biodiesel with superior characteristics. This review paper presents a detailed overview of various natural sources, their physicochemical properties, the performance, emission, and combustion characteristics of biodiesel when used in a diesel engine. The recent progress in studies about natural feedstocks and manufacturing methods used in biodiesel production were evaluated in detail. Finally, the findings of the present work reveal that transesterification is currently the most superior and commonly used biodiesel production method compared to other methods available. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Appropriate Wisdom, Technology, and Management toward Environmental Sustainability for Development)
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14 pages, 1207 KiB  
Review
Role of Traditional Ethnobotanical Knowledge and Indigenous Communities in Achieving Sustainable Development Goals
by Ajay Kumar, Sushil Kumar, Komal, Nirala Ramchiary and Pardeep Singh
Sustainability 2021, 13(6), 3062; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su13063062 - 11 Mar 2021
Cited by 30 | Viewed by 11209
Abstract
The sustainable development goals (SDGs) are a set of 17 goals with 169 targets. The Agenda 2030 of the United Nations envisages a holistic approach to achieve these goals by focusing on humankind and the planet. In this review, we analyzed the scientific [...] Read more.
The sustainable development goals (SDGs) are a set of 17 goals with 169 targets. The Agenda 2030 of the United Nations envisages a holistic approach to achieve these goals by focusing on humankind and the planet. In this review, we analyzed the scientific literature and technical reports of international bodies such as the United Nations and Food and Agriculture Organization relating to traditional ethnobotanical knowledge (TEK). The literature on TEK was mapped with the targets of the SDGs to determine the role of traditional knowledge in the realization of selected goals and targets. Our extensive and systematic reviewing of available literatures suggests that, of the 17 goals, at least seven goals are associated with TEK. To achieve these seven goals, a thorough understanding is required to disentangle the intricacies involving TEK, indigenous people holding TEK, and their future role in achieving the SDGs. Our review points towards the role of TEK in achieving goals linked to poverty, health and wellbeing, responsible consumption and production, climate action, life on land, and partnerships. In summary, we argue that achieving the intended outcomes of the SDGs and the targets requires concerted efforts of all relevant stakeholders, including indigenous communities, common citizens, scientists, policy makers, and world leaders. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Appropriate Wisdom, Technology, and Management toward Environmental Sustainability for Development)
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