Abstract: Living Wall Systems (LWS) are vertical vegetated building façade systems that offer environmental and social benefits; however, their adoption in South Africa, particularly within the Western Cape (WC), remains limited due to high capital and maintenance costs and the absence of regionally adapted design and cost models. This study investigates the viability and optimisation of LWS in the WC from a Quantity Surveying (QS) perspective, with the aim of developing a context-specific system utilising indigenous plant species and assessing its economic feasibility over the building life cycle. A mixed-method research approach was employed, comprising a review of relevant literature, semi-structured interviews with industry professionals, thematic analysis, cost modelling, and the preparation of a detailed Bill of Quantities (BOQ). Life cycle costing (LCC) techniques were applied to evaluate long-term cost implications. The study resulted in the development of an optimal LWS model, termed Viridis 5045, which satisfies identified environmental, technical, and contextual requirements for the WC. The BOQ, and LCC analyses provide projected capital and operational cost benchmarks for the proposed system. The findings indicate that Viridis 5045 is technically feasible and economically viable within the WC context, supporting its integration into sustainable construction practices. The study further identifies areas for future research, including the monetisation of long-term benefits, greywater integration, and the assessment of psychological impacts associated with green façades.

Abstract: This research aims to compare the use of AI-powered technologies in the energy sector and discuss their role in enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of urban energy systems. The energy sector is both broad and specialized, with many technologies already developed. However, it continues to face challenges such as the simultaneous integration of various systems, cybersecurity concerns, and the further adaptation of renewable energy sources. AI has the potential to help address these issues. Additionally, the study will explore the risks associated with the transition to green energy and the widespread implementation of AI. The methods employed in this research include the analysis of statistical data and insights from various scientists. Therefore, this study seeks to provide a comprehensive approach to optimizing energy usage in cities through the utilization of AI.

Abstract: This article presents the design and implementation of a strategic sustainability framework for the Portuguese Center of Vocational Excellence (CoVE) in Sustainable Energy (SECoVE), coordinated by the Polytechnic Institute of Porto. The initiative aims to strengthen regional capacity and interinstitutional cooperation among universities, vocational education providers, industry, and public actors, promoting green skills, applied innovation, and collaborative governance within the energy transition ecosystem. Based on an evidence-based situational and ecosystem analysis, including SWOT analysis and stakeholder mapping, the study identifies key internal and external drivers shaping the CoVE’s strategic development and its contribution to sustainable regional transformation. A distinctive feature of SECoVE is the integration of educational and immersive technologies, such as Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and interactive digital learning environments, supporting the development of high-quality, technology-enhanced educational programs in sustainable energy. The proposed strategic framework defines four interrelated objectives: strengthening technical and green qualifications aligned with national and European agendas; establishing SECoVE as a hub for applied research and innovation; expanding strategic partnerships among education, industry, and public actors; and ensuring a diversified and resilient financial structure. The study contributes to the academic debate on the Centers of Vocational Excellence as catalysts for the green and digital transitions.

Abstract:

Research Objective: The aim of this study was to conduct a multi-criteria assessment of the impact of farming systems (organic vs. integrated) and variable hydrothermal conditions on yield stability, tuber fractional structure, and quality parameters of seven potato cultivars in the Małopolska region between 2022 and 2024. The analysis aimed to identify genotypes with the highest plasticity in the context of adaptation to the Sustainable Land Management strategy. Methodology: A field experiment was conducted using a split-plot design. The scope of analyses included total and marketable yield, tuber size architecture, starch and dry matter yield and concentration. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and advanced variance component analysis were used to test the hypotheses, allowing for a precise determination of the contribution of genetic and environmental factors to phenotypic variability. Results: Potato productivity was strongly determined by the cultivation system; yields in the organic system were 20–57% lower compared to the integrated system. The main limiting ecological factors were Phytophthora infestans pressure and virus infections, the impact of which was modified by the natural resistance of the cultivars. The choice of system was shown to significantly differentiate starch and dry matter yield, highlighting the role of plant protection in optimizing the accumulation of reserve nutrients. The lack of a significant three-way interaction (S×V×Y) for quality traits indicates the high predictability of tuber technological parameters based on genotype selection alone. Conclusions: Organic potato production in the warming climate of Southern Poland is economically and environmentally viable, provided rigorous variety selection (e.g., Lavender) and the implementation of biological innovations. Research demonstrates that quality stability of the raw material is achievable even with reduced chemical inputs, which provides the foundation for building resilient and environmentally friendly food production models.

Abstract: Natural disasters disrupt maritime operations, yet their environmental consequences remain underexplored. This study quantifies CO₂ emission changes following the February 2023 İskenderun Bay earthquakes (Mw 7.7 and 7.6) using AIS-derived port visit data and graph neural network modeling. Analyzing 25,837 port visits across a 36-month period (January 2022–December 2024), we compared emissions during baseline (pre-earthquake), acute disruption (February–June 2023), and recovery phases. Results revealed a statistically significant 35.9% increase in per-visit CO₂ emissions during the acute phase (t = 11.79, p < .001, Cohen's d = 0.27), driven by extended port visit durations (from 77.87 to 105.82 hours). Counterfactual analysis estimated 27,574 tonnes of excess CO₂ emissions directly attributable to earthquake disruption. Network analysis showed 23.8% reduction in edge density during the acute phase. The Temporal Graph Attention Network model achieved R² = 0.985 (baseline) and R² = 0.997 (recovery) in predicting emission patterns, while acute phase showed predictability collapse (R² = −1.591). These findings demonstrate that seismic events generate significant environmental externalities beyond immediate physical damage, with implications for disaster preparedness, port resilience planning, and maritime emission accounting under frameworks such as the EU MRV Regulation.

Abstract: Biogas has been identified as one of the viable options which can be used to reduce energy poverty, deforestation and overreliance on the use of biomass and fossil fuels. Despite being introduced in the country decades ago, its uptake has remained limited. To address this challenge, this research was conducted to identify ways to increase its adoption in Malawi and to reduce its dis-adoption. The study employed qualitative methods to gather experience from biogas adopters, disadopters, potential adopters, and energy experts across four districts. The research study was carried out in four districts namely Mchinji, Mzimba, Ntcheu, and Chikwawa. The data collected was an-alyzed through thematic analysis. Results of the study indicated that there are several obstacles that are hindering adoption of biogas technology in the country and these in-clude high investment costs, a lack of post-installation services, socio-cultural barriers, lack of technical support, and a lack of clear policy frameworks. To address these chal-lenges, respondents proposed several holistic strategies which can be used to improve biogas adoption. These involve increasing public awareness, provision of subsidies and soft loans, creating strong technical support systems, setting biogas standards, decen-tralizing demonstration sites, and encouraging cross-sector collaboration. The research observed that a combined approach, supported by policy and driven by community engagement, is essential for increasing biogas technology and guiding Malawi towards clean, affordable, and sustainable energy solutions.

Abstract: Against the background of dramatic climate change, resource constraints and industrial upgrading, optimising the coupling and coordination of the water-energy-food (WEF) system in the northeast region is crucial to ensuring regional security and sustainable development. Existing research lacks long-term continuity and inter-provincial analysis. This article uses data from 2005 to 2023 to evaluate the development of the three northeastern provinces through 24 index frameworks covering safety, coordination and resilience. The methods include entropy weight method, coupling coordination model and constraint model. The result shows: (1) The overall development level fluctuates and has an upward trend, reaching a medium-coordinated level, and there are significant differences between provinces. (2) Coordination initially differentiated, and then gradually converged. From close to the improvement of the disorder to the level of moderate coordination, Liaoning Province declined under the impact of policies. (3) Systemic obstacles are structural and cross-regional, with energy self-sufficiency and water efficiency as key limiting factors. In order to achieve a high level of coordination between water, energy and food systems, it is necessary to formulate tailor-made subsystem governance policies, enhance the technological empowerment of water and energy conservation and efficiency improvement, and promote the development of resilient infrastructure. This integrated approach will systematically resolve resource competition conflicts, thus enhancing the overall resilience and sustainability of regional development.

Abstract: Climate change has caused tremendous concerns in many societies on all continents. However, the decline in biodiversity, which is at least as serious a crisis, is mostly ignored. An increasing number of technological approaches for carbon dioxide reduction (CDR), which are in fact geoengineering, are being studied, partially at the pilot scale. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) supports technologies such as direct air capture (DAC), carbon capture and storage (CCS) and the use of captured CO2 (CCU). A new concept for objectively judging “sustainability” is described: entropy as a generally applicable criterion for sustainability, followed by an analysis of whether CDR technologies are sustainable. It becomes clear that such technologies are seriously unsustainable. Therefore, after the CDR potential of natural ecosystems is explored, the contributions of bioagriculture to CO2 capture and long-term storage (deeply in soil) are shown, as well as their impact on biodiversity recovery via fully integrated bioagriculture – which proves to be sustainable according to the entropy criterion. Practical examples are taken from the German Kattendorf biofarm (450 hectares leased pastures and fields). Their experience with solar and bioenergy will be reported, bird/plant species diversity will be detailed for selected areas, and CO2eq emissions vs. storage figures will be given for milk production, cheese manufacturing and for the whole farm. CDR by natural/renaturalized ecosystems, including bioagriculture, is not only sustainable but also much more capable than CDR technologies and contributes to biodiversity recovery, in contrast to technological approaches. We must address species decline and climate change without mitigating one crisis with approaches that exacerbate the other.

Abstract: Taiwan faces significant water resource challenges driven by pronounced seasonal variability, regional hydrological contrasts, and growing anthropogenic pressures. To mitigate shortages and uneven distribution, this article emphasizes the urgent need for integrated water resource management that jointly considers surface water and groundwater. Building on principles of sustainability and resilience, we synthesize recent advances in hydrological modeling, sediment transport analysis, and infrastructure optimization—including reservoir desiltation, seawater desalination, rainwater harvesting, and assessments of land subsidence from groundwater extraction. Particular attention is given to spatial sediment dynamics across river reaches and their implications for enhancing storage capacity. We further evaluate the feasibility of single-unit seawater desalination facilities in Taiwan’s coastal zones, analyzing energy demand and unit water costs under varying scenarios. Design guidelines for rainwater harvesting systems are proposed to reflect the distinct hydrological characteristics of northern and southern Taiwan, while integrating ecological resilience and cultural narratives. By bridging technical rigor with socio-cultural perspectives, this article offers a holistic framework for sustainable water resource planning in Taiwan and comparable island contexts. Finally, we outline preliminary guidelines for incorporating artificial intelligence into future management strategies. This research proposes reasonable cost reflection, differentiated water pricing, recycling goals, and a social equity perspective. These measures all have positive indicator benefits for the implementation of carbon budget management, global energy conservation, carbon reduction, and zero-carbon emission goals, and the achievement of carbon reduction targets of 40% reduction by 2030 and 50% reduction by 2050 for Taiwan.

Abstract: Agriculture in Europe needs to progress towards a new business system, where sustainable agricultural practices are the driving force behind this business. These sustainable practices will contribute to Europe's climate neutrality by 2050. Carbon farming has practices that help to sequester CO2 in the soil and mitigate CO2 from the atmosphere. Increasing SOC (Soil organic carbon) in soil through carbon farming practices will promote soil quality and fertility, which is essential for soil ecosystem services protection. This study aims to identify new proposals, such as technical and policy instruments, that help promote carbon farming practices through a bibliometric analysis of carbon farming, as there is a gap in bibliometric review studies on carbon farming in the scientific literature. The bibliometric analysis results showed that the principal common terms include “carbon farming,” “carbon sequestration, “climate change” and "Australia” and there is a lack of terms related with carbon credit market and adaptation from farmers. Australia is the country with the most published carbon farming documents. Carbon farming aims to be an eco-agrosystem to be broadly embraced by farmers.

Abstract:

Ground‑mounted photovoltaics, including agrivoltaic concepts, are increasingly deployed on agricultural land. In practice, damaged modules from repowering modules are sometimes stored on‑site for prolonged periods, creating localized vegetation suppression and land‑stewardship concerns that are rarely quantified. We present two anonymized case studies from Czechia (nominal capacities of 0.861 and 1.109 MWp; commissioned 2010 and 2009; repowered 2022 and 2021), where cracked backsheets and/or broken front‑glass modules were stacked and stored directly on grasslands within PV parcels. Using GIS delineation on orthophotos supported by field photographs, we quantified the land area (19,560 and 22,100 m²), PV panel area (plan‑ view; 4,960 and 5,080 m²), and stored PV module area (plan‑ view storage footprint; 109 and 100 m²). Stored module counts were estimated from visible stacks (≈1800 and ≈2000 modules). Using a conservative mass range of 18–25 kg/module, the stored masses were ~32–45 t and ~36–50 t, respectively. Although the storage footprints constitute <1% of the land area, they create persistent “dead zones” on agricultural land and concentrate tens of tonnes of material directly on the soil. We discuss regulatory and economic barriers to timely removal in the context of circular‑economic goals and propose practical reporting indicators for repowering projects on agricultural land: A_store (m²), N_store (pcs), M_store (t), storage duration, condition class, and storage interface.

Abstract: This study aims to optimize the physical, mechanical, and thermal properties of 100% Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBFS) based geopolymer wood-composite panels. Pine fibers were used as the primary reinforcement, while glass and hemp fibers were added as secondary reinforcements. The research investigated the effects of fiber pretreatments (hot water and 1% sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution and varying proportions (3%, 6%, 9% by weight) of these secondary reinforcements on the slag-based geopolymer matrix. Properties such as density, water absorption (WA), thickness swelling (TS), thermal conductivity (λ), modulus of rupture (MOR), modulus of elasticity (MOE), and internal bond (IB) strength were determined. Furthermore, microstructural and chemical interactions were examined through Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analyses. Results indicate that GGBFS successfully geopolymerized upon alkali activation, exhibiting strong mechanical properties due to the formation of N-A-S-H and C-A-S-H gels. While hot water pretreatment provided a slight improvement in the fiber-matrix interface, NaOH pretreatment led to alkali-induced degradation, causing significant reductions in performance. Glass fiber reinforcement generally resulted in higher density and systematically increased MOR, MOE, and IB values, significantly enhancing the mechanical performance and water resistance of the composites. In contrast, hemp fiber reinforcement typically yielded lower density values and reduced mechanical properties due to fiber agglomeration and high hydrophilicity. However, HF-containing groups, particularly with 9% addition, showed a notable reduction in thermal conductivity (down to 0.10 W/m·K), suggesting potential for lightweight insulation applications. FTIR, XRD, and SEM analyses corroborated the effects of fiber-matrix interactions and microstructural defects on the observed macro-properties. This study provides valuable insights into utilizing industrial and agricultural wastes in geopolymer composites, supporting sustainable and carbon-neutral construction goals.

Abstract: The archaeological terraces of Petra (southern Jordan) have long been recognized for their role in agriculture and flood mitigation. Despite the dominance of fine-grained sediments behind many terrace walls, these systems exhibit high infiltration capacity and remarkable resistance to erosion. This study investigates the hydrological behavior of terrace-trapped sediments through detailed soil texture, aggregate stability, salinity, and chemical analyses across eight representative sites in and around Petra. Grain-size distributions derived from dry and wet sieving, supplemented by laser diffraction, reveal that dry sieving substantially overestimates sand content due to aggregation of fine particles into unstable peds. Wet analyses demonstrate that many terrace soils are clay- or sandy-clay-dominated yet remain highly permeable. Chem-ical indicators (nitrate, phosphate, potassium, pH, and salinity) further suggest that terracing enhances downward water movement and salt leaching irrespective of clay content. These findings indicate that terrace architecture and sediment structure exert a stronger control on hydrological functioning than texture alone. The results have direct implications for under-standing ancient land management in Petra and for informing sustainable terracing practices in modern arid and semi-arid landscapes.

Abstract: The ongoing miniaturization of electronic systems and the increasing demand for sustainable, autonomous technologies driven by the Internet of Things (IoT) highlight the importance of efficient, ultra-low-power energy harvesting devices. This study evaluates fifteen such devices manufactured by five of the eight industry leaders. The study assesses the technological suitability of these devices for small-scale, intelligent, autonomous seed germination systems. The evaluation is based on a flexible, practical, multicriteria analysis framework that incorporates a broad set of criteria related to the context of the case study system. The framework also considers the functional and operational limitations of the low-power energy harvesters under analysis. The findings suggest that a comprehensive and transparent methodological approach can generate a prioritized list of energy harvesters aligned with the case study system. This list facilitates selecting the most suitable energy harvesters for IoT-based, small-scale seed germination systems. The analysis demonstrates the feasibility of systematically and structurally selecting the analyzed energy harvesting devices while considering conflicting technical, economic, and environmental priorities. Finally, the study emphasizes that distinct device prioritization lists can emerge when the scope or objective of the project changes because these alterations impact the set of evaluation criteria, their ranking, and weighting. This study outlines a structured evaluation framework that can be adapted to different contexts to facilitate technology selection. Technology researchers and practitioners can use this replicable, auditable tool to identify the advantages and disadvantages of incorporating technology into specific projects.

Abstract: In the fight against climate change, it is important to recognize the role that agriculture can play. As a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions, agriculture also acts as a carbon sink and holds great potential for mitigating climate change. Faced with growing challenges, it is increasingly important to explore ways in which agriculture can contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing carbon sequestration. This study investigates four different barley varieties (Rex, Lord, Barun, Panonac) grown in the continental Croatia during 2021 and 2022 to assess their potential for climate change mitigation by carbon sequestration and sustainable biomass management. The aim of this research is to determine the dry matter yield, the amount of carbon sequestered by barley biomass, and its distribution among different plant parts. Total dry matter yield ranged from 12.97 t/ha (Rex) to 15.43 t/ha (Panonac), while the amount of sequestered carbon ranged from 5.86t C/ha to 6.74 t C/ha, depending on the variety. Annual differences were statistically significant (P< 0.05), with 2022 showing a 29% reduction in both biomass and carbon content compared to 2021. The highest proportion of carbon was found in the grain and husk (approximately 45%), while the lowest was recorded in the awn (around 1%).

Abstract: Additive manufacturing is gaining recognition and popularity due to its potential for rapid and easily customizable production, but the current plastic-based methods are en-ergy-intensive and environmentally harmful. This study showed that 3D printing with ambient-temperature extrusion of upcycled biomaterials such as oyster shell and pista-chio shell bound with xanthan gum reduced energy consumption by up to 89% and over-all environmental impact by up to 94% (as measured by ReCiPe Endpoint H points). This was for the Netherlands and EU, with relatively clean electricity and high recycling rates; improvements for the same printer in the US were even higher. While these novel materi-als may require printer modifications and the products exhibit lower strength and print quality, they are already suitable for low-load applications such as prototypes and archi-tectural models. Compared to traditional plastic and even 'green' PLA bioplastic printing, this method has excellent sustainability potential. Further developments in materials and pre- and post-processing techniques could extend its functionality and make low-impact 3D printing a scalable alternative for a wide range of applications.

Abstract:

Brazilian aquaculture, particularly fish farming, has shown remarkable growth over the past decade, becoming one of the fastest-expanding sectors in animal production. This study presents the development and validation of an electronic system and a methodology designed to estimate carbon dioxide (CO₂) concentration in excavated fishponds, aiming to enhance understanding of the carbon footprint in aquaculture. The proposed system, composed of small-scale greenhouses equipped with ESP32 microcontrollers and CO₂ and temperature sensors, was tested in fishponds located in western Paraná, Brazil. Correlations between temperature and CO₂ concentration were analyzed under different weather conditions—clear sky, cloudy, and nighttime periods. Results indicated a significant negative correlation between temperature and CO₂ concentration outside the greenhouses, suggesting that daytime heating reduces ambient CO₂ levels. In contrast, internal concentrations within the greenhouses remained relatively stable, averaging 400 ppm on clear days and 416 ppm on cloudy days. During the nighttime, average CO₂ concentrations reached 588 ppm outside and 416.8 ppm inside the greenhouse. These findings highlight the temporal and climatic variability of CO₂ levels in aquaculture environments and reinforce the importance of accurate monitoring systems for assessing the carbon footprint in excavated pond systems.

Abstract:

Deep Eutectic Solvents (DESs) and in essence naturally available DESs (NADESs) are considered to be green solvents due to their low vapor pressure, non-flammability, thermal stability, good solvent power and low oxicity. These properties make them attractive as safer and more environmentally acceptable solvent options. Green Chemistry promotes the use of renewable and biocompatible compounds such as amino acids, lipids and acids of natural origin to yield more sustainable DESs, which yields their application in several industrial processes. Driven by the current requisite for sustainable progress, along with overcoming dependence on fossil-based resources, the current work details important findings pertaining to the design of sustainable NADESs from the perspective of green chemistry to exhibit suitable physico-chemical properties and a low toxicological profile. Biodegradation studies using OECD 301D closed bottle test (CBT) were performed to observe the biodegradability of 15 selected NADESs. Toxicity controls were run along with the CBT run to observe the behavior of these NADESs in the environment. In this framework, the present paper investigates the development of safer NADESs. The results obtained suggest that our synthesized NADESs, have high biodegradability and low toxicity towards microalgae. Although a conventional threat to the environment would seem out of reach, it must be hypothesized that such compounds might act as enhancers of eutrophication phenomena.

Abstract: The Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is a perennial herb traditionally valued for its aromatic and therapeutic properties. In recent years, however, growing attention has shifted toward the technical and environmental potential of the plant’s industrial by-products, particularly the fibrous material left after extraction. This review integrates botanical knowledge with engineering and industrial perspectives, highlighting the role of licorice fiber in advancing sustainable innovation. The natural fiber obtained from licorice roots exhibits notable physical and mechanical qualities, including lightness, biodegradability, and compatibility with bio-based polymer matrices. These attributes make it a promising candidate for biocomposites used in green building and other sectors of the circular economy. Developing efficient recovery processes requires collaboration across disciplines, combining expertise in plant science, materials engineering, and industrial technology. The article also examines the economic and regulatory context driving the transition toward more circular and traceable production models. Increasing interest from companies, research institutions, and public bodies in valorizing licorice fiber and its derivatives is opening new market opportunities. Potential applications extend to agroindustry, eco-friendly cosmetics, bioeconomy, and sustainable construction. By linking botanical insights with innovative waste management strategies, licorice emerges as a resource capable of supporting integrated, competitive, and environ-mentally responsible industrial practices.

Abstract: Existing soil remediation approaches are either lacking in cost effectiveness, environmental impacts or societal acceptance. Environmental remediation techniques are often characterized by considerable time requirements, and may leave residual effects on the natural ecosystems, thereby potentially compromising net environmental benefits. This study investigated the oil adsorption capacity of aerogels produced from waste orange peels. Aerogels are highly porous three-dimensional materials made from organic and inorganic materials, with low density, and high adjustable specific surface area. Orange peels aerogel was produced from waste orange peels using combined methods of physical, chemical, and thermal modification process, and was dried using freeze-drying method. Adsorption and reusability test were conducted after characterization of the aerogel. Surface characterization of the orange peels aerogel indicated it has an ultra-light density of 0.010417g/cm3, high porosity of 99%, and contact angle measurement of 102o. Adsorption experiment was conducted with sandy and clay soils, and the maximum oil adsorption capacities of the orange peels aerogel was 13.55mg/g and 9.60mg/g for sandy and clay soil respectively. High oil adsorption capacity was shown by the produced aerogel and attributed to the ultra-light density of 0.010417g/cm3 and high porosity of 99% of the orange peel aerogel. In conclusion, the higher oil adsorption capacity of orange peels aerogel in sandy soil than clay soil indicated that soil texture and aerogel properties influenced the oil remediation capacity of orange peel aerogels. The reusability test in three adsorption trials indicated that orange peels aerogel is a sustainable material for the remediation of oil-contaminated soil.