This paper outlines a mechanical transformation process for rubber recycling, demonstrating the development of a new material from used tires. With the crumbs obtained using a crusher-compactor, a novel material for t...This paper outlines a mechanical transformation process for rubber recycling, demonstrating the development of a new material from used tires. With the crumbs obtained using a crusher-compactor, a novel material for the manufacture of O-rings has been developed, with properties close to those found on the market. The process includes an experimental methodology of a sulfur vulcanization system choice and the quantification of ingredients, as well as the experimental determination of cure parameters. Mechanical tests on the samples completed the work by providing the mechanical characteristics of both unaged and aged (thermo-oxidative ageing) novel material. This process has a high potential for sustainable development and industrialization, making it a valuable contribution to the recycling of rubber in African developing countries.展开更多
The rapid urbanization and increasing challenges are faced by cities globally,including climate change,population growth,and resource constraints.Sustainable smart city(also referred to as“smart sustainable city”)ca...The rapid urbanization and increasing challenges are faced by cities globally,including climate change,population growth,and resource constraints.Sustainable smart city(also referred to as“smart sustainable city”)can offer innovative solutions by integrating advanced technologies to build smarter,greener,and more livable urban environments with significant benefits.Using the Web of Science(WoS)database,this study examined:(i)the mainstream approaches and current research trends in the literature of sustainable smart city;(ii)the extent to which the research of sustainable smart city aligns with Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs);(iii)the current topics and collaboration patterns in sustainable smart city research;and(iv)the potential opportunities for future research on the sustainable smart city field.The findings indicated that research on sustainable smart city began in 2010 and gained significant momentum in 2013,with China leading,followed by Italy and Spain.Moreover,59.00%of the selected publications on the research of sustainable smart city focus on SDG 11(Sustainable Cities and Communities).Bibliometric analysis outcome revealed that artificial intelligence(AI),big data,machine learning,and deep learning are emerging research fields.The terms smart city,smart cities,and sustainability emerged as the top three co-occurring keywords with the highest link strength,followed by frequently co-occurring keywords such as AI,innovation,big data,urban governance,resilience,machine learning,and Internet of Things(IoT).The clustering results indicated that current studies explored the theoretical foundation,challenges,and future prospects of sustainable smart city,with an emphasis on sustainability.To further support urban sustainability and the attainment of SDGs,the future research of sustainable smart city should explore the application and implications of AI and big data on urban development including cybersecurity and governance challenges.展开更多
Background:People working outdoors in the Map Ta Phut pollution control area of Thailand require comprehen-sive health monitoring.In the past,studies have been done on the health effects of pollutants.However,there ar...Background:People working outdoors in the Map Ta Phut pollution control area of Thailand require comprehen-sive health monitoring.In the past,studies have been done on the health effects of pollutants.However,there are few studies on musculoskeletal disorders(MSDs),and Thailand is struggling to meet the Sustainable Development Goals.Methods:This cross-sectional study examines access to health services and factors affecting MSDs among outdoor pollution workers(OPWs).The sample group includes OPWs,including local fisherman,street vendors,public car drivers,and traffic police.We studied 50 people from each of these groups,for a total of 200 people.Data were analyzed with inferential statistics using Chi-square test,McNemar test,and Univariate logistic regression.Results:The OPWs reported experiencing significantly more total MSDs pain than they did in the past(P<0.05).Factors affecting current MSDs pain,including occupation and working days per week,were significant(P<0.05).The street vendor group and public car driver group had(odds ratio[OR]=2.253,95%confidence interval[CI]:1.101 to 5.019)and(OR=2.681,95%CI:1.191 to 6.032)times higher risks of MSDs pain,respectively.OPWs who work>5 days per week had a(OR=1.464,95%CI:1.093 to 2.704)times higher risk of MSDs pain.52.7%of OPWs with MSDs,pain(n=110)had received an annual health check-up.In the past year,50.9%had minor illnesses and 21.8%had severe illnesses.OPWs receiving free treatment and visiting health service stations for no cost comprised 77.3%and 51.8%,respectively.60.9%used their right to receive treatment with universal health insurance cards.Conclusions:The study indicates that occupational groups with MSDs pain problems should exercise this right,according to the worker protection law.Local health agencies should organize activities or create accessible media to promote preventive medicine services,as many OPWs believe that health services can only be accessed when illness occurs.展开更多
The study offers a conceptual framework illuminating sustainable rural development by a continuous cycling interplay among five interdependent systems,physical,social,economic,knowledge,and creative.The framework is a...The study offers a conceptual framework illuminating sustainable rural development by a continuous cycling interplay among five interdependent systems,physical,social,economic,knowledge,and creative.The framework is applied to analyze the livelihood transition in the economic system and conversion of traditional knowledge in the creative system for farm households engaged in large cardamom cultivation in Northern mountainous region in Vietnam.This study used a probit model to examine a data set comprising 300 households and confirmed that factors within the social and physical systems(such as labor,access to information,social networks,land use,and transportation infrastructure)determined livelihood transition to tourism employment within the economic system.In addition,the conversion of traditional knowledge in the creative system was found to be contingent upon non-farm employment and credit capital in the economic system,as well as traditional knowledge and knowledge exchange in the knowledge system.This study demonstrates how the sustainable development of rural agriculture can be achieved by converting traditional knowledge and transferring livelihood,contributing to attain Sustainable Development Goals 2(Zero Hunger)and SDG 12(Responsible Consumption and Production).展开更多
At the turn of the 21st century,specifically from 10 to 12 October 2000,the first Ministerial Conference of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation(FOCAC)was held in Beijing,following prior consultations.More than 80 mi...At the turn of the 21st century,specifically from 10 to 12 October 2000,the first Ministerial Conference of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation(FOCAC)was held in Beijing,following prior consultations.More than 80 ministers from China and 44 African countries attended.In a joint declaration issued at the end of the conference,both sides expressed strong appreciation for the stable development of Sino-African relations over the past decades,full confidence in future cooperation,and a shared belief that a solid foundation exists for friendly relations and collaboration,rooted in their long-standing traditional friendship.展开更多
In the terraced fields in Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture,southwest China’s Yunnan Province,the morning mist drifts up from the valleys while the tiered ridges spread like the fingerprints of the earth.
Blindness affected 45 million people globally in 2021,and moderate to severe vision loss a further 295 million.[1]The most common causes,cataract and uncorrected refractive error,are generally the easiest to treat,and...Blindness affected 45 million people globally in 2021,and moderate to severe vision loss a further 295 million.[1]The most common causes,cataract and uncorrected refractive error,are generally the easiest to treat,and are among the most cost-effective procedures in all of medicine and international development.[1-2]Thus,vision impairment is both extremely common and,in principle,readily manageable.展开更多
The water-energy nexus is a key area of focus in efforts to achieve the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals.As population growth and climate change continue to strain both water and energy systems,innovativ...The water-energy nexus is a key area of focus in efforts to achieve the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals.As population growth and climate change continue to strain both water and energy systems,innovative and integrated solutions are required that take into account the inextricable interdependen-cies of these systems.Optimizing resource use,reducing carbon emissions,and increasing system resilience are no longer optional;they are critical imperatives for a sustainable future.This special issue of Engineering presents groundbreaking research exploring the synergies and tradeoffs within the water-energy nexus,offer-ing invaluable insights for policymakers,engineers,and researchers.展开更多
Gabon,located on the west coast of Central Africa,is one of the most forested countries.This small but richly biodiverse country is covered by rainforests,which make up approximately 85%of its land area.These forests ...Gabon,located on the west coast of Central Africa,is one of the most forested countries.This small but richly biodiverse country is covered by rainforests,which make up approximately 85%of its land area.These forests are home to a wide variety of wildlife,including elephants and numerous bird species,making Gabon a crucial area for conservation efforts.展开更多
The World Sustainability Standards Organization(WSSO)was established in October 2023.This organization aims to unify various standards in the fields of sustainable development such as energy,carbon sinks,green finance...The World Sustainability Standards Organization(WSSO)was established in October 2023.This organization aims to unify various standards in the fields of sustainable development such as energy,carbon sinks,green finance,ecological environment industries,energy conservation and environmental protection,carbon neutrality-related technologies,and ESG.WSSO supports the implementation of projects stipulated in the Paris Agreement such as the carbon market,and enhance the global coordination efforts in areas such as the digital currency of central banks and the carbon payment settlement system by connecting the digital currencies of various countries.展开更多
The Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs)are crucial in tackling the sustainability challenges and emerging issues faced by humanity,with government attention being a significant factor in promoting their successful ach...The Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs)are crucial in tackling the sustainability challenges and emerging issues faced by humanity,with government attention being a significant factor in promoting their successful achievement.However,there is limited quantitative research systematically examining the impacts of government attention on SDGs progress.This study employs text analysis and a panel regression model to analyze the impacts of government attention intensity,text similarity,and tone on the achievement of SDGs,utilizing data extracted from China’s Government Work Reports spanning the decade from 2010 to 2020.The findings reveal that the Chinese government attention to the SDGs has generally increased over time.The heightened focus has notably bolstered the achievement of the SDGs,with the most significant impact observed post-2015.Government attention intensity was identified as the most impactful factor.Moreover,government attention intensity,text similarity,and tone have positively influenced the coupling coordination relationship between 17 SDGs,as measured by the coupling coordination degree,leading to a more harmonious and balanced achievement of socioeconomic and environmental goals in China.Financial investment served as a moderating factor,enhancing the positive impacts of attention intensity,text similarity and tone on the promotion of SDGs attainment.The effects of government attention on SDGs progress were notably positive in the eastern region,exhibiting greater significance in areas with stronger governance capacity compared to those with weaker governance capacity.This study provides insightful information for enhancing the modernization and efficiency of China’s national governance system,promoting SDGs at local and global scales,and fostering sustainable transformation.展开更多
At present,the AI field is in a golden window period,which provides a historic opportunity for establishing new AI standards.Over the years,sensing enhanced AI technology has constantly developed,promoting the develop...At present,the AI field is in a golden window period,which provides a historic opportunity for establishing new AI standards.Over the years,sensing enhanced AI technology has constantly developed,promoting the development and progress of industries.With the development of new technologies,the demand for standards has become more prominent.The Global Center for Sensing Enhanced AI(GCSEA)is expected to integrate domestic and foreign resources and make joint efforts to promote the development of relevant sensing standards.展开更多
Exploring the specific environmental impacts and mechanisms of China’s sustainable development pilot policy can enrich and expand China’s institutional and practical experiences,offering valuable insights and refere...Exploring the specific environmental impacts and mechanisms of China’s sustainable development pilot policy can enrich and expand China’s institutional and practical experiences,offering valuable insights and references for advancing global environmental sustainability.This study selects the National Innovation Demonstration Zone for Sustainable Development Agenda(NIDZSDA)as the sample and empirically evaluates the effects of the policy on urban environmental quality,using panel data from 74 prefecture-level cities in China between 2006 and 2020.The findings indicate that the sustainable development policy significantly improves urban environmental quality.Two key mechanisms identified are the aggregation of high-quality talent and the enhancement of technological innovation capabilities.Furthermore,the policy exhibits heterogeneous effects across different types of cities,with more pronounced improvements observed in mega and super cities,as well as in resource-based cities.展开更多
Global coffee giant Starbucks has been rooted in the Chinese market for 26 years,committed to bringing high-quality products and excellent experiences to consumers.As an“old friend”of the China International Supply ...Global coffee giant Starbucks has been rooted in the Chinese market for 26 years,committed to bringing high-quality products and excellent experiences to consumers.As an“old friend”of the China International Supply Chain Expo(herei naf ter refer red to as the“CISCE”),Starbucks has participated in this event for two consecutive years and will draw a blueprint for the sustainable development of the coffee industry from the perspective of building a green industrial and supply chain at the 3rd CISCE.展开更多
Against the background of energy conservation and emission reduction,green construction and intelligent buildings have become an inevitable trend in the transformation of the construction industry.They effectively red...Against the background of energy conservation and emission reduction,green construction and intelligent buildings have become an inevitable trend in the transformation of the construction industry.They effectively reduce environmental damage and pollution caused by construction projects during the construction process,improve the comfort and health of buildings,and are conducive to promoting the sustainable development of China’s construction industry.This paper analyzes the relationship between green construction and intelligent buildings,examines the dilemmas faced by the integrated development of green construction and intelligent buildings,and proposes measures such as optimizing architectural design schemes,advancing technological innovation,improving energy utilization efficiency,actively applying BIM technology,and strengthening building lifecycle management,so as to promote the sustainable development of China’s construction industry.展开更多
Sustainable Development Goal 2(SDG 2,zero hunger)highlights that global hunger and food insecurity have worsened since 2015,driven in part by growing imbalance.Addressing the challenge of achieving SDG 2 in the face o...Sustainable Development Goal 2(SDG 2,zero hunger)highlights that global hunger and food insecurity have worsened since 2015,driven in part by growing imbalance.Addressing the challenge of achieving SDG 2 in the face of rapid global population growth requires sustained attention to global and national cropland changes.Accurately quantifying the correlation between population and cropland area(i.e.,SDG 2.4.1 per capita cropland)and analyzing the trends of global cropland imbalance are essential for a comprehensive understanding of SDG 2.In this study,we utilized a new global 30 m land-cover dynamic dataset(GLC_FCS30D)to analyze cropland dynamics,quantify per capita cropland and its changes across various countries and levels of development.Our results indicate that the global cropland area expanded by 0.944 million km^(2)from 1985 to 2022,with an average expansion rate of 2.42×10^(4)km^(2)/yr.However,the global per capita cropland area decreased from 0.347 ha in 1985 to 0.217 ha in 2022,mainly due to a higher population increase of nearly 65%in the same period.In the context of globalization,cropland expansion and per capita cropland exhibited spatial imbalances globally,particularly in developing countries.Developing countries saw an increase in total cropland area by 7.09%but a significant decrease in per capita cropland area by 37.38%.From a temporal perspective,the global imbalance has been steadily increasing with the Gini index rising from 0.895 in 1985 to 0.909 in 2022.Consequently,this study reveals an increasing imbalance of global per capita cropland across various countries,which threatens the attainment of the targets of SDG 2.展开更多
China actively fosters practical green cooperation to advance global sustainable development,and strengthens global environmental governance initiatives,including the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goal...China actively fosters practical green cooperation to advance global sustainable development,and strengthens global environmental governance initiatives,including the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs).However,this approach has often positioned China as more of a doer than a talker,leading to insufficient recognition in the international community.Domestic Chinese research has frequently highlighted these issues within the ecological civilization,especially in its global dimension.Building on existing research,this study contends that the disparity in recognition stems from three crucial gaps:a conceptual gap between ecological civilization as a new narrative and established international governance frameworks;a practical gap between how China’s ecological civilization advances sustainable development governance versus international understanding;and a communication gap between its substantial achievements and inadequate communication of these experiences.To address these gaps,this paper recommends that China strengthen its efforts in three key areas:First,maintain strategic resolve by deepening green practices and strengthening corporate environmental standards to advance green norms.Second,promote the global co-construction of ecological civilization and strengthen global governance featuring extensive consultation and joint contributions for shared benefits.Third,enhance fairness,representativeness,and inclusiveness in international sustainable de‐velopment negotiations.Finally,China,along with Global South countries,should continue advancing global ecological civilization.This serves as both a response to current environmental governance challenges and a long-term pathway toward a global community of shared future.展开更多
Ending extreme poverty and achieving sustainable development by 2030 poses a significant challenge for de veloping countries.In the past decade,China has pioneered the Targeted Poverty Alleviation(TPA)strategy and imp...Ending extreme poverty and achieving sustainable development by 2030 poses a significant challenge for de veloping countries.In the past decade,China has pioneered the Targeted Poverty Alleviation(TPA)strategy and implemented a range of anti-poverty programs,aiming to reconcile poverty reduction with environmental restoration.However,the effectiveness of the TPA strategy in facilitating sustainable development in the poor areas of China(PAC)remains unclear.Drawing on a perspective of systems,this study compiles a panel dataset of 832 nationally designated poverty-stricken counties in China from 2013 to 2020 and employ the coupling coordination degree model to examine the coupling and coordination relationships among economic,social,and environmental systems in the PAC.We find that during the TPA period,the socioeconomic level developed rapidly,while the environmental quality was slightly improved in the PAC.The TPA strategy promotes the co ordinated development of social,economic,and ecological systems in the PAC,shifting the relationship between human and environment from imbalance to coordination.Our findings underscore the necessity for the Chinese government to persist in its environmental restoration efforts in the PAC to guarantee a sustained development progress.展开更多
The evolution of human societal systems rarely manifests qualitative leaps or revolutionary transformations.More commonly observed are subtle,cumulative evolutionary processes characterized by smooth transitions of in...The evolution of human societal systems rarely manifests qualitative leaps or revolutionary transformations.More commonly observed are subtle,cumulative evolutionary processes characterized by smooth transitions of incremental developments.Such evolutionary trajectories can generally be described through quantitative change patterns within societal systems.Yet,what constitutes sustainable development in human society?How might sustainable development be articulated or operationalized?The Three Chains Theory under the framework of System Exchange Theory provides a preliminary exploration and analysis of these questions,offering tentative interpretations.展开更多
Ecosystems play a pivotal role in advancing Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs)by providing indispensable and resilient ecosystem services(ESs).However,the limited analysis of spatiotemporal heterogeneity often re str...Ecosystems play a pivotal role in advancing Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs)by providing indispensable and resilient ecosystem services(ESs).However,the limited analysis of spatiotemporal heterogeneity often re stricts the recognition of ESs’roles in attaining SDGs and landscape planning.We selected 183 counties in the Sichuan Province as the study area and mapped 10 SDGs and 7 ESs from 2000 to 2020.We used correlation analysis,principal component analysis,Geographically and Temporally Weighted Regression model,and self organizing maps to reveal the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of the impacts of the bundle of ESs on the SDGs and to develop spatial planning and management strategies.The results showed that(1)SDGs were improved in all counties,with SDG 1(No Poverty)and SDG 3(Good Health and Well-being)exhibiting poor performance.West ern Sichuan demonstrated stronger performance in environment-related SDGs in the Sichuan Province,while the Sichuan Basin showed better progress in socio-economic-related SDGs;(2)habitat quality,carbon sequestration,air pollution removal,and soil retention significantly influenced the development of 9 SDGs;(3)supporting,regulating,and provisioning service bundles have persistent and stable spatiotemporal heterogeneity effects on SDG1,SDG8,SDG11,SDG13,and SDG15.These findings substantiate the need for integrated management of multiple ESs and facilitate the regional achievement of SDGs in geographically intricate areas.展开更多
文摘This paper outlines a mechanical transformation process for rubber recycling, demonstrating the development of a new material from used tires. With the crumbs obtained using a crusher-compactor, a novel material for the manufacture of O-rings has been developed, with properties close to those found on the market. The process includes an experimental methodology of a sulfur vulcanization system choice and the quantification of ingredients, as well as the experimental determination of cure parameters. Mechanical tests on the samples completed the work by providing the mechanical characteristics of both unaged and aged (thermo-oxidative ageing) novel material. This process has a high potential for sustainable development and industrialization, making it a valuable contribution to the recycling of rubber in African developing countries.
文摘The rapid urbanization and increasing challenges are faced by cities globally,including climate change,population growth,and resource constraints.Sustainable smart city(also referred to as“smart sustainable city”)can offer innovative solutions by integrating advanced technologies to build smarter,greener,and more livable urban environments with significant benefits.Using the Web of Science(WoS)database,this study examined:(i)the mainstream approaches and current research trends in the literature of sustainable smart city;(ii)the extent to which the research of sustainable smart city aligns with Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs);(iii)the current topics and collaboration patterns in sustainable smart city research;and(iv)the potential opportunities for future research on the sustainable smart city field.The findings indicated that research on sustainable smart city began in 2010 and gained significant momentum in 2013,with China leading,followed by Italy and Spain.Moreover,59.00%of the selected publications on the research of sustainable smart city focus on SDG 11(Sustainable Cities and Communities).Bibliometric analysis outcome revealed that artificial intelligence(AI),big data,machine learning,and deep learning are emerging research fields.The terms smart city,smart cities,and sustainability emerged as the top three co-occurring keywords with the highest link strength,followed by frequently co-occurring keywords such as AI,innovation,big data,urban governance,resilience,machine learning,and Internet of Things(IoT).The clustering results indicated that current studies explored the theoretical foundation,challenges,and future prospects of sustainable smart city,with an emphasis on sustainability.To further support urban sustainability and the attainment of SDGs,the future research of sustainable smart city should explore the application and implications of AI and big data on urban development including cybersecurity and governance challenges.
基金grant Fundamental Fund of National Science Research and Innovation Fund(NSRF)via Burapha University of Thailand(Grant number 52/2024).
文摘Background:People working outdoors in the Map Ta Phut pollution control area of Thailand require comprehen-sive health monitoring.In the past,studies have been done on the health effects of pollutants.However,there are few studies on musculoskeletal disorders(MSDs),and Thailand is struggling to meet the Sustainable Development Goals.Methods:This cross-sectional study examines access to health services and factors affecting MSDs among outdoor pollution workers(OPWs).The sample group includes OPWs,including local fisherman,street vendors,public car drivers,and traffic police.We studied 50 people from each of these groups,for a total of 200 people.Data were analyzed with inferential statistics using Chi-square test,McNemar test,and Univariate logistic regression.Results:The OPWs reported experiencing significantly more total MSDs pain than they did in the past(P<0.05).Factors affecting current MSDs pain,including occupation and working days per week,were significant(P<0.05).The street vendor group and public car driver group had(odds ratio[OR]=2.253,95%confidence interval[CI]:1.101 to 5.019)and(OR=2.681,95%CI:1.191 to 6.032)times higher risks of MSDs pain,respectively.OPWs who work>5 days per week had a(OR=1.464,95%CI:1.093 to 2.704)times higher risk of MSDs pain.52.7%of OPWs with MSDs,pain(n=110)had received an annual health check-up.In the past year,50.9%had minor illnesses and 21.8%had severe illnesses.OPWs receiving free treatment and visiting health service stations for no cost comprised 77.3%and 51.8%,respectively.60.9%used their right to receive treatment with universal health insurance cards.Conclusions:The study indicates that occupational groups with MSDs pain problems should exercise this right,according to the worker protection law.Local health agencies should organize activities or create accessible media to promote preventive medicine services,as many OPWs believe that health services can only be accessed when illness occurs.
文摘The study offers a conceptual framework illuminating sustainable rural development by a continuous cycling interplay among five interdependent systems,physical,social,economic,knowledge,and creative.The framework is applied to analyze the livelihood transition in the economic system and conversion of traditional knowledge in the creative system for farm households engaged in large cardamom cultivation in Northern mountainous region in Vietnam.This study used a probit model to examine a data set comprising 300 households and confirmed that factors within the social and physical systems(such as labor,access to information,social networks,land use,and transportation infrastructure)determined livelihood transition to tourism employment within the economic system.In addition,the conversion of traditional knowledge in the creative system was found to be contingent upon non-farm employment and credit capital in the economic system,as well as traditional knowledge and knowledge exchange in the knowledge system.This study demonstrates how the sustainable development of rural agriculture can be achieved by converting traditional knowledge and transferring livelihood,contributing to attain Sustainable Development Goals 2(Zero Hunger)and SDG 12(Responsible Consumption and Production).
文摘At the turn of the 21st century,specifically from 10 to 12 October 2000,the first Ministerial Conference of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation(FOCAC)was held in Beijing,following prior consultations.More than 80 ministers from China and 44 African countries attended.In a joint declaration issued at the end of the conference,both sides expressed strong appreciation for the stable development of Sino-African relations over the past decades,full confidence in future cooperation,and a shared belief that a solid foundation exists for friendly relations and collaboration,rooted in their long-standing traditional friendship.
文摘In the terraced fields in Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture,southwest China’s Yunnan Province,the morning mist drifts up from the valleys while the tiered ridges spread like the fingerprints of the earth.
文摘Blindness affected 45 million people globally in 2021,and moderate to severe vision loss a further 295 million.[1]The most common causes,cataract and uncorrected refractive error,are generally the easiest to treat,and are among the most cost-effective procedures in all of medicine and international development.[1-2]Thus,vision impairment is both extremely common and,in principle,readily manageable.
文摘The water-energy nexus is a key area of focus in efforts to achieve the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals.As population growth and climate change continue to strain both water and energy systems,innovative and integrated solutions are required that take into account the inextricable interdependen-cies of these systems.Optimizing resource use,reducing carbon emissions,and increasing system resilience are no longer optional;they are critical imperatives for a sustainable future.This special issue of Engineering presents groundbreaking research exploring the synergies and tradeoffs within the water-energy nexus,offer-ing invaluable insights for policymakers,engineers,and researchers.
文摘Gabon,located on the west coast of Central Africa,is one of the most forested countries.This small but richly biodiverse country is covered by rainforests,which make up approximately 85%of its land area.These forests are home to a wide variety of wildlife,including elephants and numerous bird species,making Gabon a crucial area for conservation efforts.
文摘The World Sustainability Standards Organization(WSSO)was established in October 2023.This organization aims to unify various standards in the fields of sustainable development such as energy,carbon sinks,green finance,ecological environment industries,energy conservation and environmental protection,carbon neutrality-related technologies,and ESG.WSSO supports the implementation of projects stipulated in the Paris Agreement such as the carbon market,and enhance the global coordination efforts in areas such as the digital currency of central banks and the carbon payment settlement system by connecting the digital currencies of various countries.
基金supported by Guizhou Province Major Science and Technology Achievement Transformation Project(QKHCG[2024]ZD016)the Excellent Young Scientists Fund from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.42422105)+1 种基金Guizhou Province Natural Science Research Project(Qian Jiao Ji[2023]No.033)Provincial Science and Technology Program of Guizhou Province(Grant No.20201Y288).
文摘The Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs)are crucial in tackling the sustainability challenges and emerging issues faced by humanity,with government attention being a significant factor in promoting their successful achievement.However,there is limited quantitative research systematically examining the impacts of government attention on SDGs progress.This study employs text analysis and a panel regression model to analyze the impacts of government attention intensity,text similarity,and tone on the achievement of SDGs,utilizing data extracted from China’s Government Work Reports spanning the decade from 2010 to 2020.The findings reveal that the Chinese government attention to the SDGs has generally increased over time.The heightened focus has notably bolstered the achievement of the SDGs,with the most significant impact observed post-2015.Government attention intensity was identified as the most impactful factor.Moreover,government attention intensity,text similarity,and tone have positively influenced the coupling coordination relationship between 17 SDGs,as measured by the coupling coordination degree,leading to a more harmonious and balanced achievement of socioeconomic and environmental goals in China.Financial investment served as a moderating factor,enhancing the positive impacts of attention intensity,text similarity and tone on the promotion of SDGs attainment.The effects of government attention on SDGs progress were notably positive in the eastern region,exhibiting greater significance in areas with stronger governance capacity compared to those with weaker governance capacity.This study provides insightful information for enhancing the modernization and efficiency of China’s national governance system,promoting SDGs at local and global scales,and fostering sustainable transformation.
文摘At present,the AI field is in a golden window period,which provides a historic opportunity for establishing new AI standards.Over the years,sensing enhanced AI technology has constantly developed,promoting the development and progress of industries.With the development of new technologies,the demand for standards has become more prominent.The Global Center for Sensing Enhanced AI(GCSEA)is expected to integrate domestic and foreign resources and make joint efforts to promote the development of relevant sensing standards.
基金fund support was received from National Social Science Fund of China[Grant No.23BJL010].
文摘Exploring the specific environmental impacts and mechanisms of China’s sustainable development pilot policy can enrich and expand China’s institutional and practical experiences,offering valuable insights and references for advancing global environmental sustainability.This study selects the National Innovation Demonstration Zone for Sustainable Development Agenda(NIDZSDA)as the sample and empirically evaluates the effects of the policy on urban environmental quality,using panel data from 74 prefecture-level cities in China between 2006 and 2020.The findings indicate that the sustainable development policy significantly improves urban environmental quality.Two key mechanisms identified are the aggregation of high-quality talent and the enhancement of technological innovation capabilities.Furthermore,the policy exhibits heterogeneous effects across different types of cities,with more pronounced improvements observed in mega and super cities,as well as in resource-based cities.
文摘Global coffee giant Starbucks has been rooted in the Chinese market for 26 years,committed to bringing high-quality products and excellent experiences to consumers.As an“old friend”of the China International Supply Chain Expo(herei naf ter refer red to as the“CISCE”),Starbucks has participated in this event for two consecutive years and will draw a blueprint for the sustainable development of the coffee industry from the perspective of building a green industrial and supply chain at the 3rd CISCE.
文摘Against the background of energy conservation and emission reduction,green construction and intelligent buildings have become an inevitable trend in the transformation of the construction industry.They effectively reduce environmental damage and pollution caused by construction projects during the construction process,improve the comfort and health of buildings,and are conducive to promoting the sustainable development of China’s construction industry.This paper analyzes the relationship between green construction and intelligent buildings,examines the dilemmas faced by the integrated development of green construction and intelligent buildings,and proposes measures such as optimizing architectural design schemes,advancing technological innovation,improving energy utilization efficiency,actively applying BIM technology,and strengthening building lifecycle management,so as to promote the sustainable development of China’s construction industry.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(Grant No.2023YFB3907403)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.42201499)the Open Research Program of the International Research Center of Big Data for Sustainable Development Goals(Grant No.CBAS2022ORP03).
文摘Sustainable Development Goal 2(SDG 2,zero hunger)highlights that global hunger and food insecurity have worsened since 2015,driven in part by growing imbalance.Addressing the challenge of achieving SDG 2 in the face of rapid global population growth requires sustained attention to global and national cropland changes.Accurately quantifying the correlation between population and cropland area(i.e.,SDG 2.4.1 per capita cropland)and analyzing the trends of global cropland imbalance are essential for a comprehensive understanding of SDG 2.In this study,we utilized a new global 30 m land-cover dynamic dataset(GLC_FCS30D)to analyze cropland dynamics,quantify per capita cropland and its changes across various countries and levels of development.Our results indicate that the global cropland area expanded by 0.944 million km^(2)from 1985 to 2022,with an average expansion rate of 2.42×10^(4)km^(2)/yr.However,the global per capita cropland area decreased from 0.347 ha in 1985 to 0.217 ha in 2022,mainly due to a higher population increase of nearly 65%in the same period.In the context of globalization,cropland expansion and per capita cropland exhibited spatial imbalances globally,particularly in developing countries.Developing countries saw an increase in total cropland area by 7.09%but a significant decrease in per capita cropland area by 37.38%.From a temporal perspective,the global imbalance has been steadily increasing with the Gini index rising from 0.895 in 1985 to 0.909 in 2022.Consequently,this study reveals an increasing imbalance of global per capita cropland across various countries,which threatens the attainment of the targets of SDG 2.
基金funded by the Key Project of Philosophy and Social Sciences Research of the China Ministry of Education[Grant No.2022JZDZ011]the University Project of China Foreign Af‐fairs University[Grant No.JY2023027].
文摘China actively fosters practical green cooperation to advance global sustainable development,and strengthens global environmental governance initiatives,including the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs).However,this approach has often positioned China as more of a doer than a talker,leading to insufficient recognition in the international community.Domestic Chinese research has frequently highlighted these issues within the ecological civilization,especially in its global dimension.Building on existing research,this study contends that the disparity in recognition stems from three crucial gaps:a conceptual gap between ecological civilization as a new narrative and established international governance frameworks;a practical gap between how China’s ecological civilization advances sustainable development governance versus international understanding;and a communication gap between its substantial achievements and inadequate communication of these experiences.To address these gaps,this paper recommends that China strengthen its efforts in three key areas:First,maintain strategic resolve by deepening green practices and strengthening corporate environmental standards to advance green norms.Second,promote the global co-construction of ecological civilization and strengthen global governance featuring extensive consultation and joint contributions for shared benefits.Third,enhance fairness,representativeness,and inclusiveness in international sustainable de‐velopment negotiations.Finally,China,along with Global South countries,should continue advancing global ecological civilization.This serves as both a response to current environmental governance challenges and a long-term pathway toward a global community of shared future.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Founda-tion of China(Grants No.72373153 and 41871183).
文摘Ending extreme poverty and achieving sustainable development by 2030 poses a significant challenge for de veloping countries.In the past decade,China has pioneered the Targeted Poverty Alleviation(TPA)strategy and implemented a range of anti-poverty programs,aiming to reconcile poverty reduction with environmental restoration.However,the effectiveness of the TPA strategy in facilitating sustainable development in the poor areas of China(PAC)remains unclear.Drawing on a perspective of systems,this study compiles a panel dataset of 832 nationally designated poverty-stricken counties in China from 2013 to 2020 and employ the coupling coordination degree model to examine the coupling and coordination relationships among economic,social,and environmental systems in the PAC.We find that during the TPA period,the socioeconomic level developed rapidly,while the environmental quality was slightly improved in the PAC.The TPA strategy promotes the co ordinated development of social,economic,and ecological systems in the PAC,shifting the relationship between human and environment from imbalance to coordination.Our findings underscore the necessity for the Chinese government to persist in its environmental restoration efforts in the PAC to guarantee a sustained development progress.
文摘The evolution of human societal systems rarely manifests qualitative leaps or revolutionary transformations.More commonly observed are subtle,cumulative evolutionary processes characterized by smooth transitions of incremental developments.Such evolutionary trajectories can generally be described through quantitative change patterns within societal systems.Yet,what constitutes sustainable development in human society?How might sustainable development be articulated or operationalized?The Three Chains Theory under the framework of System Exchange Theory provides a preliminary exploration and analysis of these questions,offering tentative interpretations.
基金supported by the Second Tibetan Plateau Scien-tific Expedition and Research Program(STEP)of China(Grant No.2019QZKK0402).
文摘Ecosystems play a pivotal role in advancing Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs)by providing indispensable and resilient ecosystem services(ESs).However,the limited analysis of spatiotemporal heterogeneity often re stricts the recognition of ESs’roles in attaining SDGs and landscape planning.We selected 183 counties in the Sichuan Province as the study area and mapped 10 SDGs and 7 ESs from 2000 to 2020.We used correlation analysis,principal component analysis,Geographically and Temporally Weighted Regression model,and self organizing maps to reveal the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of the impacts of the bundle of ESs on the SDGs and to develop spatial planning and management strategies.The results showed that(1)SDGs were improved in all counties,with SDG 1(No Poverty)and SDG 3(Good Health and Well-being)exhibiting poor performance.West ern Sichuan demonstrated stronger performance in environment-related SDGs in the Sichuan Province,while the Sichuan Basin showed better progress in socio-economic-related SDGs;(2)habitat quality,carbon sequestration,air pollution removal,and soil retention significantly influenced the development of 9 SDGs;(3)supporting,regulating,and provisioning service bundles have persistent and stable spatiotemporal heterogeneity effects on SDG1,SDG8,SDG11,SDG13,and SDG15.These findings substantiate the need for integrated management of multiple ESs and facilitate the regional achievement of SDGs in geographically intricate areas.
