Sustainability

25 pages, 2093 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Does the Perception of Climate Change Affect Residents’ Choices of Green Assets?

by Xiujing Qi, Jiaqi Li and Yongliang Yang

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 3263; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17073263 (registering DOI) - 7 Apr 2025

Residents’ choices of green assets typically involve investing in or selecting environmentally beneficial products. How does climate change affect these choices? This study empirically finds that residents’ perception of climate change significantly enhances their adoption of green assets. This positive effect is particularly [...] Read more.

Residents’ choices of green assets typically involve investing in or selecting environmentally beneficial products. How does climate change affect these choices? This study empirically finds that residents’ perception of climate change significantly enhances their adoption of green assets. This positive effect is particularly pronounced among women and residents who are familiar with ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles. Moreover, residents’ ecological values (i.e., their willingness to spend more on environmental protection) mediate all hypothesized relationships. Focusing on green assets in the context of green consumption, this study reveals patterns in residents’ green asset choices across different quantiles. Furthermore, it integrates ecological values into the research framework and provides reusable instrumental variables for future studies. Finally, tailored policy recommendations are proposed based on population heterogeneity to encourage the adoption of green assets. Full article

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20 pages, 829 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Destination Competitiveness Through the Lens of Tourist Spending: A Case Study of the Canary Islands

by Ana María Barrera-Martínez, Agustín Santana-Talavera and Eduardo Parra-López

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 3262; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17073262 (registering DOI) - 7 Apr 2025

Abstract

The competitiveness of tourism destinations is a multidimensional concept encompassing natural and cultural resources, infrastructure, accessibility, and services that cater to an increasingly discerning tourism market. Business ecosystems enhance these competitive conditions by adapting to consumers seeking high-value, differentiated experiences. This study examined [...] Read more.

The competitiveness of tourism destinations is a multidimensional concept encompassing natural and cultural resources, infrastructure, accessibility, and services that cater to an increasingly discerning tourism market. Business ecosystems enhance these competitive conditions by adapting to consumers seeking high-value, differentiated experiences. This study examined the relationship between accommodation supply and tourist expenditure in the Canary Islands based on a sample of 38,071 visitors from the 2024 Tourist Expenditure Survey (EGT) of the Canary Islands Statistics Institute. Using Python and R for statistical processing, the findings revealed distinct spending patterns across accommodation types, from five-star hotels to peer-to-peer rentals, demonstrating how supply diversification influences competitiveness. The results reinforce prior research on the significance of investing in infrastructure, technology, and human capital to optimise the tourist experience. Tourist expenditure serves as an indicator of competitiveness, reflecting visitor preferences and the destination’s capacity to meet them. Accommodation choice is identified as a key determinant of spending patterns and their distribution within the local economy. This study provides an analytical basis for evaluating tourism strategies, emphasising the strategic importance of accommodation heterogeneity. It advances methodological understanding of tourist spending behaviour, offering a practical framework for destination development and strategic planning. Full article

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19 pages, 247 KiB

Open AccessArticle

National Development Planning and Sustainability: The Case of Bhutan

by Mark Turner and Dawa Wangchuk

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 3261; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17073261 (registering DOI) - 6 Apr 2025

Abstract

Bhutan is a developmental success story that since the 1960s has consistently used five-year national development plans to make substantial socio-economic progress and promote sustainability. Many other developing countries had abandoned medium-term national planning by the 1980s, but Bhutan continued using these instruments [...] Read more.

Bhutan is a developmental success story that since the 1960s has consistently used five-year national development plans to make substantial socio-economic progress and promote sustainability. Many other developing countries had abandoned medium-term national planning by the 1980s, but Bhutan continued using these instruments as the principal mechanisms for developing the country and making substantial welfare gains for its population while attending to the sustainability of its development path and environment. Poverty has been greatly reduced, incomes have grown in real terms, life expectancy has markedly increased, there has been enormous growth in the provision of education and the country has become a world leader in environmental protection with 71% of Bhutan still under forest, making it the first carbon negative country in the world. The reasons for Bhutan’s success include always working within the capabilities of government, economy, and society; a demonstrated capacity to reorient development strategies with new plans; a stable political environment; good governance; the gradual inclusion of multiple stakeholders into the development process; a strong supportive relationship with neighbouring India; and the wise use of income from hydropower to fund development. Though there have been disruptions, mistakes, and failures in planning in Bhutan, the general trajectory of solid progress and continued attention to sustainability has been maintained; however, there are considerable challenges ahead for the ambitious Thirteenth Five-Year Plan (2024–2029). To investigate the Bhutanese experience, this article adopts a qualitative case study approach. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

22 pages, 17482 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Design, Development, and Validation of Driving Simulators for Enhancing the Safety and Sustainability of Electric Microvehicles

by Zoi Christoforou, Anastasios Kallianiotis and Nadir Farhi

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 3260; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17073260 (registering DOI) - 6 Apr 2025

Abstract

Micromobility vehicles, e-scooters and e–bicycles in particular, gain an increasing popularity but also receive criticism, mainly due to road safety issues and their carbon footprint, particularly in relation to their Li-ion batteries. Available field data are not sufficient to explore those issues. Important [...] Read more.

Micromobility vehicles, e-scooters and e–bicycles in particular, gain an increasing popularity but also receive criticism, mainly due to road safety issues and their carbon footprint, particularly in relation to their Li-ion batteries. Available field data are not sufficient to explore those issues. Important input variables, such as riders’ reaction time, the impact of human factors on riders’ safety, battery performance degradation with time, remain unknown. This paper presents the design, development, initial calibration and validation of two novel driving simulators, one for an e-scooter and one, for an e-bicycle. The simulators are already operational and used to acquire new knowledge on driving behavior and battery performance. By enabling a better understanding of e-vehicle performance and safety, these simulators contribute to reducing the environmental impact of micromobility by optimizing battery usage and improving vehicle design for sustainability. The paper describes the overall configuration and the main technical specifications of both simulators and provides a thorough description of all their mechanical and electromechanical components. It documents the initial calibration process before launching the experiments and presents the validation methodology with the participation of over 100 users. The outcomes of future experiments are expected to be beneficial to (i) researchers who will gain new insights on e-vehicle performance, (ii) users, enabling them to make informed decisions on vehicle choice and riding patterns, (iii) urban planners on improving urban infrastructure design, (iv) vehicle manufacturers on identifying customer needs and enhancing vehicle design for sustainability, and (v) Public Authorities on adjusting vehicle and infrastructure specifications to reduce the carbon footprint of urban mobility. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)

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39 pages, 2456 KiB

Open AccessReview

Energy-Efficient Technologies and Strategies for Feasible and Sustainable Plant Factory Systems

by Hong-Seok Mun, Eddiemar Baguio Lagua, Seong-Ki Hong, Sang-Bum Ryu, Md Sharifuzzaman, Md Kamrul Hasan, Young-Hwa Kim and Chul-Ju Yang

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 3259; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17073259 (registering DOI) - 6 Apr 2025

Abstract

The challenge of meeting the increasing global food demand has driven a shift toward controlled-environment agriculture, particularly in plant factories. However, the high energy consumption associated with these systems raises concerns about their long-term sustainability and economic feasibility. A comprehensive review was conducted [...] Read more.

The challenge of meeting the increasing global food demand has driven a shift toward controlled-environment agriculture, particularly in plant factories. However, the high energy consumption associated with these systems raises concerns about their long-term sustainability and economic feasibility. A comprehensive review was conducted to identify existing and potential technologies and strategies that can enhance the energy efficiency of plant factories. Data regarding environmental conditions, energy efficiency, water efficiency, and space efficiency were also extracted to facilitate comparison across studies. Findings indicate that optimizing crop yields and reducing energy consumption are key to improving the efficiency of plant factories. These can be achieved by integrating advanced environmental control technologies, energy-efficient system designs, modular plant factory configurations tailored to local climatic conditions, and effective management practices. While adopting renewable energy alone is insufficient to meet total energy demands, it significantly reduces energy costs and carbon emissions. Furthermore, strategically integrating plant factories with other industries will promote the efficient use of residual resources, fostering a circular economy and enhancing resource efficiency within plant factory systems and the broader economic framework. The insights provided in this review will contribute to developing sustainable and economically viable plant factory systems, supporting future advancements in controlled-environment agriculture. Full article

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22 pages, 1936 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Window Size Modification on Energy Consumption in UK Residential Buildings: A Feasibility and Simulation Study

by Yue Zhang, Siddig Omer and Ruichang Hu

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 3258; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17073258 (registering DOI) - 6 Apr 2025

Abstract

This study investigates window renovation strategies for a detached building in Belper, UK, analyzing double- and triple-glazed, vacuum, and low-E vacuum windows with varying gas fillings, pillar radii, and spacing. The results reveal that increasing glass layers reduces energy consumption, while a larger [...] Read more.

This study investigates window renovation strategies for a detached building in Belper, UK, analyzing double- and triple-glazed, vacuum, and low-E vacuum windows with varying gas fillings, pillar radii, and spacing. The results reveal that increasing glass layers reduces energy consumption, while a larger pillar radius decreases efficiency. More pillars improve window performance. For windows with the same U-value, a higher SHGC enhances energy efficiency by maximizing solar heat gain, particularly in colder climates. Conversely, reducing the U-value while maintaining a constant SHGC enhances insulation and minimizes heat loss. The study emphasizes the necessity of balancing U-value and SHGC for optimal window performance in different climates. The most effective strategy involves using a low-E vacuum window with a 0.25 mm pillar radius and 40 mm spacing while doubling the south-facing window area, leading to a 7.01 GJ heating load reduction—a 27.9% improvement over modifying the window type alone. Additionally, a key ratio, SHGC/(U_window − U_wall), is introduced to assess window size modifications. The results indicate that enlarging windows is beneficial when solar heat gain surpasses additional heat loss, underscoring the importance of balancing heat conduction and solar energy utilization in energy-efficient building design. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Architecture: Energy Efficiency in Buildings)

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7 pages, 171 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Hydrosphere Under the Driving of Human Activity and Climate Change: Status, Evolution, and Strategies

by Yong Xiao, Jianping Wang and Jinlong Zhou

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 3257; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17073257 (registering DOI) - 6 Apr 2025

Abstract

The hydrosphere is a foundational component of the Earth’s systems, sustaining biological processes, regulating environmental stability, and enabling socioeconomic development [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Hydrosphere under the Driving of Human Activity and Climate Change: Status, Evolution and Strategies)

25 pages, 502 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Can ESG Performance Promote Corporate Green Transformation? Evidence from Green OFDI in China

by Xiaochong Li, Wenwen Dang and Yanxi Li

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 3255; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17073255 (registering DOI) - 6 Apr 2025

Abstract

Under the pressure of the global low-carbon transition, green initiatives have gradually emerged as a critical direction for outward foreign direct investment (OFDI). In the context of China’s high-level opening up, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance can promote sustainable development of firms. [...] Read more.

Under the pressure of the global low-carbon transition, green initiatives have gradually emerged as a critical direction for outward foreign direct investment (OFDI). In the context of China’s high-level opening up, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance can promote sustainable development of firms. However, there is lack of research on the influence of ESG performance from the perspective of corporate green OFDI. This study examines the impact mechanism of ESG performance on corporate green OFDI in terms of its propensity and depth, using a sample of Chinese A-share listed firms from 2009 to 2023. The findings indicate that ESG performance promotes corporate green OFDI, a result that remains robust after a series of endogeneity and robustness tests. The internal mechanism analysis reveals that ESG performance enhances corporate green OFDI by reducing financing constraints and managerial myopia and by promoting risk-taking and foreign institutional investors’ shareholdings. The external mechanism analysis verifies that ESG institutional constraints in the home country and ESG locational advantages in host countries strengthen the positive effect of ESG performance on corporate green OFDI. Further analysis shows that ESG performance facilitates corporate green innovation development through collaborative and independent innovation by promoting corporate green OFDI. By extending the theoretical understanding of the impact of ESG performance on the process of corporate green OFDI, this study provides strategic guidance for the sustainable development of firms in China and other similar developing countries. Full article

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20 pages, 15244 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Spatial and Temporal Correlation Between Habitat Quality and Habitat Fragmentation in the West Qinling Mountains, China

by Caihong Hui, Xuelu Liu and Xiaoning Zhang

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 3256; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17073256 (registering DOI) - 5 Apr 2025

Abstract

In recent decades, with the acceleration of industrialization and urbanization, the contradiction between resource development and environmental protection has become more and more prominent. Scientific simulation of the spatial and temporal correlation between habitat quality (HQ) and habitat fragmentation at a suitable scale [...] Read more.

In recent decades, with the acceleration of industrialization and urbanization, the contradiction between resource development and environmental protection has become more and more prominent. Scientific simulation of the spatial and temporal correlation between habitat quality (HQ) and habitat fragmentation at a suitable scale is of great significance for maintaining the stability of regional ecosystems and achieving high-quality development. This study took the West Qinling Mountains as an example, where, firstly, the appropriate grid scale was determined based on the spatial stability of HQ, and the evolution characteristics of HQ were analyzed from 2000 to 2020 based on the InVEST model and GeoDa software. Secondly, the habitat fragmentation process was simulated from three characteristic dimensions of habitat area, habitat shape, and habitat distribution. Finally, the GWR model was used to explore the correlation mechanism between habitat fragmentation and HQ. The results showed the following: (1) The 3 km grid scale was a suitable scale for HQ evaluation and analysis in the West Qinling Mountains, and the scale effect was consistent across years. (2) The degree of HQ was at a higher level, where, from 2000 to 2020, it showed a decreasing trend, with a clear phenomenon of bipolar sharpening. The spatial distribution showed a pattern of “high in the west and low in the east, low in the north and high in the south”, and exhibited obvious spatial double clustering characteristics. (3) The degree of habitat fragmentation was at a medium level, where, from 2000 to 2020, it showed a increasing trend, with a clear bipolar contraction state. The spatial distribution showed a pattern of “high in the east and low in the west, high in the north and low in the south”, and the overall spatial distribution was retained with the change in time scale. (4) The effects of habitat fragmentation on HQ showed significant spatial and temporal non-stationary with a non-linear negative correlation. From 2000 to 2020, the degree of negative effect gradually increased, and the staggered distribution of forest, unused land, and water might offset the negative impact of unused land on HQ. The results could provide scientific evidence for the optimization of ecological patterns and ecological prevention and control in the West Qinling Mountains. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Resources and Sustainable Utilization)

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32 pages, 2267 KiB

Open AccessReview

Smart Intersections and Connected Autonomous Vehicles for Sustainable Smart Cities: A Brief Review

by Masoud Khanmohamadi and Marco Guerrieri

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 3254; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17073254 (registering DOI) - 5 Apr 2025

Abstract

As the importance of safety, efficiency, and sustainability in urban transportation becomes more apparent, intelligent transportation systems are changing and growing. Smart intersections play a crucial role in different parts of this context. Technologies such as Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communication, artificial intelligence, multi-sensor data [...] Read more.

As the importance of safety, efficiency, and sustainability in urban transportation becomes more apparent, intelligent transportation systems are changing and growing. Smart intersections play a crucial role in different parts of this context. Technologies such as Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communication, artificial intelligence, multi-sensor data fusion, and more are incorporated into these intersections to improve capacity and safety and reduce damage to the environment. This literature review aims to merge various recent works on advancing smart intersection technologies, their thematic application, methodological approach, and regional implementations. Highlighting adaptive traffic signal control, real-time data processing, and connected autonomous vehicle (CAV) integrations sheds light on the way the effectiveness of transportation in cities can be improved. At the same time, this study tackles questions of cybersecurity and standardization. This review provides insights for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners who aim to improve transportation systems’ sustainability, fairness, and operability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)

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19 pages, 470 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of the Korean Media in Shaping Sustainable Tourism Among American Audiences

by Hyung-Min Choi and Daniel Kessler

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 3253; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17073253 (registering DOI) - 5 Apr 2025

Abstract

The global popularity of South Korean dramas (K-dramas), central to the “Korean Wave”, has significantly influenced international perceptions of Korea and its tourism appeal. This study examines the impact of K-drama consumption on American audiences’ intentions to visit South Korea, with a focus [...] Read more.

The global popularity of South Korean dramas (K-dramas), central to the “Korean Wave”, has significantly influenced international perceptions of Korea and its tourism appeal. This study examines the impact of K-drama consumption on American audiences’ intentions to visit South Korea, with a focus on the sustainability messaging embedded within the media. Integrating the theory of planned behavior (TPB) and uses and gratifications theory (UGT), this research explores how cultural perceptions and the engagement with Korean culture shape sustainable tourism attitudes and travel intentions. A survey of 554 U.S.-based participants reveals that positive cultural perceptions foster engagement, which mediates the relationship with sustainable attitudes and intentions to visit Korea. Furthermore, sustainability messaging in K-dramas enhances the connection between cultural engagement and eco-conscious travel behaviors. The findings highlight the influential role of the media in shaping sustainable tourism and offer strategic insights for leveraging K-dramas in tourism marketing. While K-dramas may not fulfill a direct diplomatic function, they contribute to Korea’s soft power by enhancing cultural exposure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Hospitality and Tourism Strategies: Aligning Stakeholder Behavior Towards Wellness in Protected Natural Sites)

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18 pages, 1456 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Long-Term Multi-Treatment Experiments on Organic Matter and Enzymatic Activity in Sandy Soil

by Krystyna Kondratowicz-Maciejewska, Joanna Lemanowicz and Iwona Jaskulska

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 3252; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17073252 (registering DOI) - 5 Apr 2025

Abstract

This study shows an evaluation of the condition of organic matter against enzymatic activity in soil. Long-term static field experiments with fertilisation with manure (FYM), different minerals, and mineral–manure were used for the research. Assays were obtained of the content of total organic [...] Read more.

This study shows an evaluation of the condition of organic matter against enzymatic activity in soil. Long-term static field experiments with fertilisation with manure (FYM), different minerals, and mineral–manure were used for the research. Assays were obtained of the content of total organic carbon (TOC), dissolved fraction (DOC), susceptibility to oxidation (CL1) and (CL), total nitrogen (TN), dissolved nitrogen fraction (DTNT), and available forms of potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium. The activity of enzymes dehydrogenases, catalase, β-glucosidase, proteases, alkaline, and acid phosphatase was determined. We calculated the enzymatic indices and those evaluating the labile organic carbon management (CMI and CPI) in soil. An increase in TOC, up to 8.85 g kg⁻¹ and 8.56 g kg⁻¹ (FYM, FYM + KN), respectively, as compared with the control (5.67 g kg⁻¹), did not have a significant effect on the content of labile carbon fraction CL for the fertilisation treatments. Only a higher CL content was found in the soil with the FYM + PN and FYM + NPK + Mg treatments (2.07 g kg⁻¹ and 2.05 g kg⁻¹). All the fertilisation treatments under study demonstrated a decrease in the value of the carbon management index (CMI). Similar DOC values (on average, 75.14 mg kg⁻¹) were noted. The average percentage share of the DOC fraction accounted for 1.163% TOC, and it was lower as compared with the control variant (1.33% TOC). The mineral fertilisation treatments decreased soil enzyme activities. Multiparametric enzymatic soil fertility indices differed due to soil properties, depending on the fertilisation applied. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Soil Quality and Innovation in Agriculture: Dynamics, Indicators, and Sustainability)

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32 pages, 13159 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Can China’s Carbon Emissions Trading Pilot Improve New Quality Productivity?

by Min Lu, Xuehan Zhou, Xiaosa Ren and Xing Wang

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 3251; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17073251 (registering DOI) - 5 Apr 2025

Abstract

Our research investigated whether the carbon emissions trading pilot policy (CET), while mitigating environmental pollution externalities and fostering green economic and social transformation, can also enhance China’s new quality productivity (NQP) as a key driver of economic growth. This study addresses a research [...] Read more.

Our research investigated whether the carbon emissions trading pilot policy (CET), while mitigating environmental pollution externalities and fostering green economic and social transformation, can also enhance China’s new quality productivity (NQP) as a key driver of economic growth. This study addresses a research gap by examining the CET from an integrated perspective of economic development and environmental protection. We have developed an NQP evaluation indicator system based on three productivity factors, revealing that the CET can elevate NQP levels in pilot provinces through the advancement of green finance (GF) and industrial structure upgrading (ISU). Furthermore, we analyzed the relationship between the CET and NQP from the perspective of low-carbon energy consumption (LCEC), demonstrating that the level of LCEC can reinforce the CET’s positive impact on NQP and moderate the path before and after the mediating process. Our findings offer valuable insights into leveraging market-based environmental regulation tools to support NQP development, thereby facilitating its cultivation and enhancement. Full article

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16 pages, 1524 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of the Factors Influencing Grain Supply Chain Resilience in China Using Bayesian Structural Equation Modeling

by Jiaqian Yao, Rizhao Gong, Hui Long and Xiangling Liu

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 3250; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17073250 (registering DOI) - 5 Apr 2025

Abstract

As worldwide emergencies occur with growing frequency, including extreme weather, geopolitical conflicts, and pandemics, there is a crucial need to improve grain supply chain resilience to ensure food sustainability during such emergencies. This study investigates the cross-cutting effects of certain key factors potentially [...] Read more.

As worldwide emergencies occur with growing frequency, including extreme weather, geopolitical conflicts, and pandemics, there is a crucial need to improve grain supply chain resilience to ensure food sustainability during such emergencies. This study investigates the cross-cutting effects of certain key factors potentially influencing grain supply chain resilience, namely infrastructure development, technological innovations, and government aid. It develops a structural equation model of these influencing factors based on Chinese data and applies Bayesian estimation. The results show that government aid is the most critical factor influencing the resilience of the grain supply chain, with a direct impact on grain supply chain resilience of 0.459, an indirect impact through technological innovations of 0.33, and an indirect impact through infrastructure development of 0.026. The study found that the resilience of China’s grain supply chain generally exhibits an upward trend, with a high level of government aid and deficiencies in infrastructure and technological innovation. This paper not only provides new research ideas and methods for the study of grain supply chain resilience, but it also offers policy references for reducing the risk of grain supply deficiencies and improving the sustainability of grain systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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26 pages, 1558 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Organic Agriculture in the Republic of Bulgaria: A Model for Sustainable Development and Diversification of Agricultural Business

by Marina Nikolova, Krasimira Slaveva and Pavlin Pavlov

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 3249; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17073249 (registering DOI) - 5 Apr 2025

Abstract

The European Green Deal creates both opportunities and challenges in the process of transition to sustainable farming models. In modern conditions, it is crucial that this transition leads to a higher degree of sustainability of a healthy and environmentally friendly food system. The [...] Read more.

The European Green Deal creates both opportunities and challenges in the process of transition to sustainable farming models. In modern conditions, it is crucial that this transition leads to a higher degree of sustainability of a healthy and environmentally friendly food system. The role of farmers is becoming particularly prominent due to their efforts in introducing environmentally friendly agricultural practices for effective combat against climate change, protection and conservation of biodiversity and the environment. On the one hand, agriculture stands at the “front line” as regards the consequences of climate change and biodiversity loss, and on the other hand, unsustainable agricultural practices are a major factor in biodiversity loss. The aim of this study is to identify the differences or the regional specificities of an innovative agricultural model and its potential for developing and strengthening socioeconomic indicators on a national scale. The thesis of the study is that organic agriculture in Bulgaria, as a sustainable model for agricultural production, not only has the potential for development but is also an opportunity for diversification and development of agricultural business on the regional level, with a key role and priority in the national agricultural policy. Full article

26 pages, 9216 KiB

Open AccessArticle

AGENT-BASED MODEL APPLIED FOR THE STUDY OF OVERTOURISM IN AN URBAN CONTEXT

by Janwar Moreno, Jairo Parada and David Daniel Peña-Miranda

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 3248; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17073248 (registering DOI) - 5 Apr 2025

Abstract

This research aims to analyze the spatial and temporal distribution of residents and tourists in an urban context, assessing the risk of overtourism. To achieve this, a tourist city is conceptualized as a complex system and examined through an agent-based model (ABM), which [...] Read more.

This research aims to analyze the spatial and temporal distribution of residents and tourists in an urban context, assessing the risk of overtourism. To achieve this, a tourist city is conceptualized as a complex system and examined through an agent-based model (ABM), which simulates the interactions between heterogeneous agents and their environment. This computational approach enables the exploration of emergent spatial-temporal patterns and facilitates the interpretation of overtourism as a real-world experiment. The case study focuses on Santa Marta (Colombia), a well-established coastal destination currently facing potential entry into a phase of tourism decline if management remains reactive. Simulation results reveal a high risk of overtourism and illustrate the differentiated effects of two plausible management strategies at distinct spatial scales. Additionally, this study proposes a tourism intensity indicator, addressing the problem of overestimating tourism pressure in existing metrics. The proposed model offers a valuable decision-support tool for assessing impacts and designing proactive management measures in destinations experiencing rapid tourist growth across multiple spatial and temporal dimensions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development in Urban and Rural Tourism)

16 pages, 32660 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fe-N-Modified Sludge Biochar for Enhanced Acetic Acid Production from Sludge Anaerobic Fermentation

by Lingling Wei, Jinquan Wan, Zhicheng Yan and Yan Wang

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 3247; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17073247 (registering DOI) - 5 Apr 2025

Abstract

Sustainable recycling of carbon resources from waste-activated sludge (WAS) is essential for advancing the circular wastewater economy. Anaerobic fermentation provides an eco-efficient pathway for converting organic matter from waste-activated sludge into volatile fatty acids (VFAs). In this study, Fe-N modified biochar was innovatively [...] Read more.

Sustainable recycling of carbon resources from waste-activated sludge (WAS) is essential for advancing the circular wastewater economy. Anaerobic fermentation provides an eco-efficient pathway for converting organic matter from waste-activated sludge into volatile fatty acids (VFAs). In this study, Fe-N modified biochar was innovatively prepared from WAS for acetic acid yield enhancement, and the system realized the closure of the material cycle. Results show that adding Fe-N-modified biochar (made under the conditions of 0.2M FeCl₃ and 10 g/L urea) led to a 38.8% increase in acetic acid yield (1745 mg/L) and a 5.7% increase in its percentage (60.5%) compared to the control. It also improved sludge hydrolysis and hydrolase activity. In addition, Fe-N-modified biochar increased the relative abundance of Chloroflexi, Actinobacteria, and Bacteroidetes, among which Chloroflexi is an electro-active microorganism that promotes the transformation of propionic and butyric acids to acetic acid, while Bacteroidetes is the primary microorganism responsible for VFA production. In summary, Fe-N-modified biochar may serve as an effective material for promoting acetic acid production during the anaerobic fermentation of WAS. Full article

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24 pages, 1682 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Direct Air Transport Connectivity to Boost Sustainable Tourism in BRICS+ Nations

by Zamaswazi Pretty Cele and Xiaolong Zou

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 3246; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17073246 (registering DOI) - 5 Apr 2025

Abstract

Tourism is a critical driver of economic growth, particularly in BRICS+ nations, where it contributes significantly to GDP and fosters multilateral cooperation. However, challenges such as limited direct air connectivity, regulatory barriers, and financial constraints hinder seamless travel experiences and impact tourism and [...] Read more.

Tourism is a critical driver of economic growth, particularly in BRICS+ nations, where it contributes significantly to GDP and fosters multilateral cooperation. However, challenges such as limited direct air connectivity, regulatory barriers, and financial constraints hinder seamless travel experiences and impact tourism and trade. This study investigates the potential of direct air transport links among BRICS+ nations to alleviate these challenges, focusing on economic benefits, policy recommendations, and sustainability implications. Using a mixed-methods approach, including policy analysis and economic impact modeling, the findings reveal that enhanced air connectivity could reduce logistical inefficiencies, promote cultural exchange, and drive sustainable economic growth. This study concludes with strategies for implementing direct air routes and collaborative frameworks to advance the sustainable development goals of BRICS+ countries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue BRICS+: Sustainable Development of Air Transport and Tourism)

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17 pages, 688 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bridging Governance Gaps: A Political Ecology Analysis of Water Challenges in Guanajuato, Mexico

by Luzma Fabiola Nava

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 3245; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17073245 (registering DOI) - 5 Apr 2025

Abstract

In this study, the systemic challenges of water governance in Guanajuato, Mexico, are examined through a political ecology framework, identifying how governance failures, power asymmetries, and socio-environmental inequalities contribute to water scarcity and mismanagement. Guanajuato, a key agricultural and industrial hub in Mexico’s [...] Read more.

In this study, the systemic challenges of water governance in Guanajuato, Mexico, are examined through a political ecology framework, identifying how governance failures, power asymmetries, and socio-environmental inequalities contribute to water scarcity and mismanagement. Guanajuato, a key agricultural and industrial hub in Mexico’s semi-arid Bajío region, faces severe aquifer depletion, pollution, and institutional fragmentation, disproportionately affecting rural and marginalized communities. Using a qualitative research design, 25 semi-structured expert interviews and a case study analysis were conducted, applying thematic coding and content analysis to examine governance structures, regulatory gaps, and socio-environmental conflicts. The findings revealed that institutional fragmentation, preferential water allocation to industry, and weak enforcement mechanisms perpetuate governance failures, with community resistance and alternative governance strategies emerging as key responses. The results of this study emphasize the need for adaptive governance reforms, including measures such as integrating local knowledge, strengthening participatory decision-making, and fostering cross-sector collaboration to ensure equitable resource distribution and environmental sustainability. Guanajuato’s case offers critical insights for improving water governance in arid regions globally, demonstrating the relevance of political ecology in analyzing and addressing governance asymmetries in water management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Water Management)

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