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Opportunities and Challenges in Sustainability
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Opportunities and Challenges in Sustainability (OCS)
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ISSN (print): 2957-7217
ISSN (online): 2957-9643
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2024: Vol. 3
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Opportunities and Challenges in Sustainability (OCS) is a distinctive journal dedicated to exploring sustainable development's benefits and challenges. It stands out for its comprehensive focus on both theoretical and practical aspects of sustainability, covering environmental, social, and economic dimensions. OCS provides a unique platform for discussing practical solutions and the impact of sustainability practices, contributing significantly to the field. What sets OCS apart from other journals is its balanced exploration of both opportunities and challenges in sustainable development. Published quarterly by Acadlore, the journal typically releases its four issues in March, June, September, and December each year.

  • Professional Service - Every article submitted undergoes an intensive yet swift peer review and editing process, adhering to the highest publication standards.

  • Prompt Publication - Thanks to our proficiency in orchestrating the peer-review, editing, and production processes, all accepted articles see rapid publication.

  • Open Access - Every published article is instantly accessible to a global readership, allowing for uninhibited sharing across various platforms at any time.

Editor(s)-in-chief（1）
ercan özen
University of Uşak, Uşak, Turkey
ercan.ozen@usak.edu.tr | website
Research interests: Financial Analysis; Corporate Finance; Finance; Financial Accounting; Financial Statement Analysis; Financial Management; Banking and Finance; Financial Risk Management; Investment; Risk Management

Aims & Scope

Aims

Opportunities and Challenges in Sustainability (OCS) is an international open-access journal that not only highlights advancements but also addresses the multifaceted challenges in sustainable development. The mission of OCS is to publish the latest findings and critical analyses on the benefits, complexities, and practical solutions in sustainable development. This includes shedding light on the challenges that impede progress towards sustainability goals, such as resource scarcity, environmental degradation, and socio-economic disparities. OCS welcomes original submissions in various forms, including comprehensive reviews, in-depth research papers, and succinct communications, as well as Special Issues focusing on specific sustainability topics. The journal is committed to inspiring policy-makers, scientists, and practitioners by providing a global forum for studies related to sustainability, especially emphasizing contributions from and implications for emerging countries.

In line with its mission, OCS encourages authors to delve into both the theoretical and experimental aspects of sustainability, presenting detailed research without restrictions on paper length. Distinguishing features of the journal include:

  • Every publication benefits from prominent indexing, ensuring widespread recognition.

  • A distinguished editorial team upholds unparalleled quality and broad appeal.

  • Seamless online discoverability of each article maximizes its global reach.

  • An author-centric and transparent publication process enhances submission experience.

Scope

The scope of OCS covers an extensive array of topics, offering a rich and detailed exploration of sustainability issues:

  • Air Pollution and Climate Change: Comprehensive studies on air quality degradation, greenhouse gas emissions, and the global implications of climate change.

  • Biodiversity Preservation: In-depth analysis of strategies for conserving biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance.

  • Disaster Management: Explorations of sustainable approaches to disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.

  • Distributed Energy Systems: Examination of localized, sustainable energy solutions and their role in reducing carbon footprints.

  • Drought and Desertification: Investigations into the causes, impacts, and mitigation strategies for drought and desertification.

  • Urban and Rural Sustainability Dynamics: Comparative research on sustainability challenges and solutions in both urban and rural contexts.

  • Ecological Disasters and Environmental Degradation: Studies on human-induced ecological crises and their long-term environmental impacts.

  • Integrated Economic, Social, and Environmental Challenges: Multidisciplinary approaches to understanding the interconnectedness of economic growth, social equity, and environmental sustainability.

  • Sustainability Education and Awareness: Analysis of educational initiatives and public awareness campaigns aimed at promoting sustainable practices.

  • Energy Efficiency: Innovative research on improving energy efficiency in various sectors to achieve sustainability.

  • Environmental Regulation: Critical evaluation of policy frameworks and their effectiveness in promoting environmental sustainability.

  • Green Energy Development: Research on the advancement and integration of renewable energy sources in sustainable development.

  • Life Cycle Assessment: Detailed assessments of the environmental impact of products and services from production to disposal.

  • Sustainability in Peripheral Regions: Focused studies on unique sustainability challenges faced by peripheral and ultra-peripheral regions.

  • Sustainable Development Policies: Examination of global, national, and local policies designed to promote sustainable development.

  • Urban Sustainability: Strategies and challenges in creating sustainable urban environments.

  • Border Region Sustainable Planning: Special focus on sustainability issues and strategic planning in border regions.

  • Sustainable Production and Consumption Patterns: Exploration of sustainable practices in production and consumer behavior.

  • Natural Resource Management: Strategies for the sustainable utilization and conservation of natural resources.

  • Sustainable Tourism Practices: Studies on the implementation of sustainable practices in the tourism sector.

  • Impact of Urbanization on Sustainability: Analysis of how urban sprawl and population growth affect sustainable development.

  • Innovative Waste Management and Recycling: Exploration of effective waste management strategies and recycling technologies.

  • Water Management: Research on sustainable water use, pollution control, and treatment methods.

  • Specialized Areas of Sustainability: Including education, business, marketing, economic growth, and their relationship with sustainable development.

Articles
Recent Articles
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Open Access
Research article
Evaluation of Railway Infrastructure Managers’ Efficiency Using a Pearson’s Correlation-Based DEA Method Model
aida kalem ,
snežana tadić ,
mladen krstić ,
nermin čabrić ,
adisa medić ,
nedžad branković
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Available online: 12-30-2024

Abstract

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Efficient management of railway infrastructure is recognized as a cornerstone for the sustainable development of the transport sector, as it plays a critical role in reducing congestion, mitigating environmental pollution, and enhancing mobility. The modernization and optimization of railway systems are essential for the optimal utilization of resources and the advancement of a more competitive and environmentally sustainable sector. Railway infrastructure managers (RIMs) are entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring efficient infrastructure management, maintenance, and modernization, thereby guaranteeing the safety, reliability, and sustainability of railway systems. In this study, a methodological framework was proposed for evaluating the efficiency of RIMs by integrating Pearson’s correlation and the Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) method. The efficiency evaluation was conducted based on key performance indicators (KPIs) associated with railway infrastructure management. Pearson’s correlation was employed to analyze the relationships among 35 KPIs, while the DEA method was utilized to identify efficient managers. The developed framework offers a novel approach for creating analytical tools tailored to RIMs, providing regulatory bodies and decision-makers with a valuable toolset to implement best practices and enhance competitiveness. The findings of this study have practical implications, enabling performance comparisons, the development of management strategies, and the formulation of policies aimed at fostering a more sustainable and efficient railway industry.

Open Access
Research article
Evaluation of Activated Carbon as an Alternative Treatment for Agrochemical-Contaminated Water in Rural Areas
patricia aline bressiani ,
geiciane locatelli alves ,
inara giacobbo de marco ,
mariana tonello biffi ,
sabrina ishikawa ,
vilmar steffen ,
fernando césar manosso ,
eduardo michel vieira gomes ,
ticiane sauer pokrywiecki ,
ana paula de oliveira schmitz ,
elisângela düsman
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Available online: 12-30-2024

Abstract

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The excessive application of agrochemicals has resulted in significant workplace exposure for agriculturists and environmental interaction for the general public, particularly in communities adjacent to agricultural zones. Such exposure is associated with detrimental health effects, including mutagenic and cytotoxic impacts. Agrochemical contamination frequently occurs through water, especially in rural villages where conventional water treatment systems are not designed to address these specific contaminants. The efficacy of activated carbon was investigated in this study as an adsorbent for the removal of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) from contaminated water. The concentration of 2,4-D in water samples was quantified using ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy at a wavelength of 283 nm. Preliminary adsorption experiments identified pH 2 as the optimal condition for 2,4-D uptake. The adsorption kinetics were best described by the Elovich model, with an equilibrium time of 480 minutes. Equilibrium studies revealed that three isotherm models—Redlich-Peterson, Temkin, and Toth—effectively represented the experimental data, with a maximum adsorption capacity of 252.8 mg/g. The findings underscore the potential of activated carbon as a cost-effective and straightforward treatment method for the removal of 2,4-D from drinking water, particularly in rural areas lacking access to advanced water treatment infrastructure.

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Municipal solid waste (MSW) management has become an urgent global issue, with incineration emerging as a viable waste-to-energy (WtE) technology. The process of incineration, which involves the combustion of organic compounds in waste, generates municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) ash, a byproduct with potential applications in soil stabilization. This review explores the use of MSWI ash to enhance the engineering properties of Indian black cotton soil (BCS), a soil type known for its expansive nature and associated challenges in construction. Soil stabilization is a critical process aimed at improving the strength and durability of weak soils for use in civil engineering applications. The review discusses the mineralogical and morphological characteristics of MSWI ash, highlighting its potential to improve the mechanical properties of BCS. The addition of calcium-based additives, including lime and calcium hydroxide, facilitates the stabilization process by interacting with the expansive clay minerals present in the soil. This green technology not only improves the strength characteristics of BCS but also contributes to sustainable construction practices by reducing the demand for conventional building materials, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, and cutting costs. Experimental findings indicate that the optimal improvement in the unconfined compressive strength (UCS) and California bearing ratio (CBR) of BCS is achieved with the incorporation of 25% MSWI ash. Specifically, the UCS increases from 28.8 kPa to 53.4 kPa, and the CBR value rises from 3.38% to 9.38% with the addition of 25% ash. Such enhancements make MSWI ash a promising material for use in the construction of embankments, roads, and sub grade highways, where the improvement of expansive soil characteristics is critical for infrastructure stability.

Abstract

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This study investigates the relationship between financial risk management, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and sustainable development within the petrochemical industry. The research aims to explore the impact of financial risk management practices on CSR initiatives and to assess how these factors collectively contribute to the long-term sustainability of petrochemical companies. A key focus of the study is the role that CSR plays in advancing sustainable development, particularly in sectors facing significant financial and operational risks. The research is applied in nature, offering practical insights for improving risk management strategies in petrochemical corporations. The study sample consisted of 130 experienced managers from the petrochemical industry, selected based on the number of items in the survey questionnaire. The measurement tool used was a researcher-developed questionnaire, which was designed following an extensive review of relevant literature and consultations with subject matter experts. To ensure the validity of the instrument, content validity was assessed, and reliability was confirmed through the calculation of Cronbach's alpha coefficient. Data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares (PLS) software, which revealed significant findings regarding the influence of financial risk management on CSR and sustainable development. The results underscore the crucial role of effective financial risk management in facilitating CSR initiatives and enhancing the sustainability of petrochemical companies. Additionally, CSR was found to positively affect sustainable development, with a particular emphasis on the integration of social activities, product and service innovation, and human resource management practices. It is concluded that prioritizing CSR, along with strategic financial risk management, is essential for achieving long-term sustainability in the petrochemical sector. These findings offer valuable insights for both academic research and industry practice, contributing to the development of more effective risk management frameworks in the context of sustainable development.

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Manufacturing industry clusters contribute to the optimization of regional industrial structures and the improvement of economic growth efficiency. The role of inter-county carriers can further enhance the cluster effects of the manufacturing industry in Sichuan Province, promoting coordinated development across industries and accelerating the transformation of new productive forces. This study evaluates the degree of industrial agglomeration of the manufacturing industry in 183 counties in Sichuan Province. The results indicate that Sichuan's manufacturing industry exhibits a clear clustering effect, with a particularly pronounced structural agglomeration centered around Chengdu. However, economic development across counties in the province remains unbalanced. The Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) regression analysis confirms that total factor productivity (TFP) and industrial interlinkages exert a significant positive influence on the agglomeration of the manufacturing industry.

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With the growing prominence of environmental issues, sustainable development has become a global consensus. Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors have emerged as key focal points for companies and their stakeholders. Using a sample of Chinese A-share listed companies from 2011 to 2022, a comprehensive indicator of attention was constructed from a stakeholder perspective to examine the interactions and mechanisms among ESG quality, attention, and enterprise value. Findings indicate that enhanced ESG performance significantly contributes to increased enterprise value, with attention serving as a critical mediating factor in the relationship between ESG performance and enterprise value. Furthermore, notable differences were observed in this process based on firm ownership, with ESG performance exerting a more substantial impact on enterprise value within state-owned enterprises. These insights offer valuable perspectives for companies on how to leverage improved ESG performance to enhance enterprise value.

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This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the intersections between environmental issues, poverty, and the role of new media, including social media, over the period from 2016 to 2022. By conducting a systematic literature review combined with a bibliometric analysis of keyword co-occurrence, insights into the thematic focus and development trends within these domains were offered. Data were extracted from 46 articles indexed in the Scopus database, identified through the search criteria “environment” AND “poverty” OR in titles, abstracts, and keywords that contain the terms “news” AND “media.” Analysis was conducted using VOSviewer v.1.6.18, revealing four prominent research streams within this multidisciplinary intersection: (1) the relationships among population dynamics, poverty, and environmental degradation; (2) examination of factors influencing environmental degradation and the areas most affected; (3) environmental policy frameworks and the processes involved in policy decision-making; and (4) risk mitigation in environmental policy, with a focus on inclusive economic development. This bibliometric analysis contributes to a refined categorization of existing literature and provides a framework for future research trajectories. By tracking the evolution of publications within each identified research stream over the past seven years, four key research questions were proposed to further explore these critical intersections. The findings aim to enhance scholarly understanding of the complex interdependencies among environmental challenges, poverty alleviation, and the transformative impact of media in the digital era.

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The rise of advanced digital technologies (ADT) within Industry 4.0 has transformed modern industrial operations, with select industry leaders emerging as pioneers in the integration of these technologies. This has positioned them as benchmarks for companies with limited digital capabilities. The vulnerabilities of Industry 4.0 to external disruptions, including natural disasters such as the earthquakes in Japan and Turkey, the COVID-19 pandemic, and especially the ongoing energy crises, exemplified by the war in Ukraine and sanctions on the Russian Federation, have necessitated a shift in business continuity management (BCM) strategies. Traditionally focused on safeguarding information technologies, BCM now places greater emphasis on ensuring energy independence and reducing reliance on state-controlled critical infrastructure. In response to these risks, enterprises are increasingly adopting resilient production models designed to restore functionality after cyberattacks, solar flares, extended power outages, and internet disruptions. The journey toward energy independence spans from initial recognition of the need for action to the implementation of robust solutions, such as Faraday cages for server protection and off-grid energy systems. While rare a decade ago, energy-independent enterprises are becoming more common, as illustrated by the copper smelter in Sevojno, a pioneering example. The acceleration of energy independence among companies has been driven by a series of crises, prompting significant BCM advancements. Early responses to these threats primarily focused on information technology (IT) disaster management methodologies, but Industry 4.0 discussions have evolved toward risk-resilient production systems. This study explores theoretical approaches to enhancing enterprise resilience to modern energy challenges, offering insight into emerging strategies aimed at safeguarding continuity in an increasingly volatile global landscape.

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Water is regarded as the most critical natural resource in Idaho, with drinking water identified as its most essential aspect. To assess public perceptions and evaluations of drinking water quality, a survey instrument was developed and distributed to Idaho residents over the past 35 years. Key areas of focus included the safety of home drinking water, the use of in-home water filters, consumption of bottled water, frequency of water testing, and concerns about potential pollutants. Surveys were administered in 1988, 1993, 1998, 2002, 2005, 2010, 2015, 2018, and 2022, with findings indicating a gradual decline in perceived drinking water safety, from 90.2% in 1988 to 80.2% in 2022. The use of in-home water filtration systems increased significantly, rising from 16.2% in 1988 to 29.7% in 2022, potentially driven by extensive advertising campaigns rather than increased contamination concerns. Bottled water usage peaked at 33% in 2010 but has since declined to less than 11% in 2022, a trend attributed to heightened public awareness of tap water safety and environmental concerns related to plastic waste. No significant long-term patterns in water testing were observed, although rural residents, who rely on private wells, were more likely to test their water due to the absence of regular testing requirements. Hard water (with a high content of Ca and/or Mg) emerged as the primary contaminant identified by respondents, with no other significant pollutants widely reported. These findings offer valuable insights into shifting public perceptions of water quality and the factors influencing household water consumption practices in Idaho over the last three decades.
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