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Social-ecological indicators and framework for assessing the sustainability of shrimp farming in coastal Bangladesh Kazi Atiah TAIYEBI, Natalie Ann Cooper WELDEN, Md Sarwar HOSSAIN Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (5): 100260-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100260 Abstract （27）   HTML （5）    PDF （965KB）（5）       Knowledge map    Save Shrimp farming is a major global aquaculture activity; however, its social and ecological impacts raise sustainability concerns. While previous research has focused on isolated social or environmental aspects of sustainability in shrimp farming, integrated assessments of these factors using a social-ecological systems (SES) approach are rare. A framework for assessing the sustainability of shrimp farming—comprising a set of social and ecological indicators—is developed and conceptualized in this study for the first time, using an integrated, interdisciplinary, and empirical SES approach. We first identified key social and ecological indicators and developed a conceptual framework based on SES approach, then surveyed 90 shrimp farms across 3 coastal regions (including Satkhira, Bagerhat, and Cox’s Bazar districts) in Bangladesh. Nearly all farmers in Satkhira (97%) and all in Bagerhat (100%) expressed dissatisfaction with the decreasing pattern of shrimp production and profitability over the last decade. In contrast, nearly all respondents in Cox’s Bazar (97%) reported satisfaction with increasing shrimp production. Except in Cox’s Bazar, equity in labor payment remained a concern for the social sustainability of the shrimp farming system. The changing pattern of shrimp production and profitability, which does not ensure equity, poses a threat to the sustainability of shrimp farming. Most of the surveyed farmers recognized the mutual benefits of mangrove forests and shrimp farming (97% in Satkhira and 77% in Cox’s Bazar), which suggests potential for the development of policy on integrated mangrove-shrimp farming with community-based management. This research could help assess the sustainability of the shrimp farming system and contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goals 2 (zero hunger) and 8 (decent work and economic growth). By examining existing practices and developing a novel framework, this study highlights informed decision-making and guides methodological discussion on assessing the sustainability of shrimp farming using the SES approach in coastal regions and different aquaculture systems worldwide. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Insights into material use and economic decoupling in China’s infrastructure for sustainable development GUO Hongwei, HAN Ji Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (5): 100262-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100262 Abstract （18）   HTML （1）    PDF （1784KB）（1）       Knowledge map    Save Quantifying material use in infrastructure development and analyzing its relationship with economic growth is essential for enhancing resource efficiency and steering regional resource management toward sustainable development. This study systematically assessed infrastructure related material use in 30 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities in China during 1978-2022. The result indicated that material stock has experienced significant growth, increasing from 16.91×109 t in 1978 to 103.60×109 t in 2022, with an average annual growth rate of 4.20%. However, from 1978 to 2015, material input followed a strong upward trend but saturated after 2015. At the national level, material input peaked in 2015, after which it began to decline. The central region reached its peak earlier in 2013, while the eastern and western regions peaked in 2015. Using a decoupling analysis framework, this study revealed that nationally, the elasticity value between material stock and gross domestic product (GDP) remained near or above 1.0, reflecting continued reliance on stock accumulation. Regionally, the elasticity value between material stock and GDP has increased in the central and western regions during 1978-2022, whereas elasticity value between material stock and GDP in the eastern region showed a slower growth rate but still struggled to achieve absolute decoupling. Moreover, the elasticity value between material input and GDP has declined at the national level, presenting a relative decoupling, with some regions already achieving absolute decoupling. The eastern region was closer to absolute decoupling, while the central and western regions, though still intensive in material input, exhibited faster declines in elasticity. Accelerating the transition from linear to circular economy is an essential step for China to achieve absolute decoupling and long-term sustainability. Finally, this research recommends promoting the adoption of renewable energy, driving industrial upgrading, implementing compact urban design, and extending the lifespan of infrastructure to reduce material dependency and achieve sustainable infrastructure transformation at the national level. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Dual impact of digitalization on the carbon emissions of Yangtze River Delta urban agglomerations in China: A spatiotemporal perspective WEI Meng, RU Lifei, CAI Zhi, MA Minda Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (5): 100263-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100263 Abstract （15）   HTML （1）    PDF （5791KB）（3）       Knowledge map    Save Digital transformation, as a recent trend in socioeconomic development, is considered as a critical pathway for urban carbon reduction because of its potential to increase productivity and energy efficiency. However, few studies have explored the relationship between urban digitalization and carbon emissions (CE). Therefore, this study systematically analyzed the spatiotemporal distribution and interaction mechanism between digitalization and CE in the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) urban agglomerations of China during 2006-2020 based on a multidimensional indicator system, including digitalization industry level, digitalization application level, and urban green digitalization willingness. The findings revealed that both digitalization and CE in the YRD exhibit a significant and synchronously evolving “core-periphery” spatial pattern. Core cities generated substantial positive spillover effect on periphery cities through technology diffusion and policy demonstration, advancing both regional digitalization and the collaborative governance of CE. However, digitalization had dual impact on CE. On the one hand, it promoted the reduction of CE by enhancing energy efficiency, optimizing industrial structures, and promoting the application of green technologies. On the other hand, the expansion of digital infrastructure introduced a potential risk of increased energy consumption. Therefore, targeted policy recommendations are proposed to facilitate the coordination of environmental sustainability and digitalization in the YRD. This study provides empirical support and policy insights for advancing the coordinated development of regional digital transformation and green low-carbon initiatives. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Conservation agriculture for sustainable food system: Current insights and emerging perspectives Subhashisa PRAHARAJ, Bharat LAL, Himansu Sekhar GOUDA, Amit Kumar PANDEY, Shivasankar ACHARYA, Arunima KUMARI Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (5): 100264-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100264 Abstract （15）   HTML （1）    PDF （2079KB）（1）       Knowledge map    Save Global challenges, including resource inefficiency, rising food demand, sustainability concerns, and climate change, necessitate more efficient and resilient agricultural systems. Conservation agriculture (CA), which is based on the principles of the minimum mechanical soil disturbance, permanent soil organic cover, and species diversification, provides a promising solution. This study examined the principles and mechanisms of CA, assessed its benefits and constraints, and identified key research gaps. This study focused on CA outcomes related to soil health, biodiversity, productivity, and ecosystem services, considering factors such as climate, soil type, and management practices. CA has demonstrated the potential to improve soil health, enhance biodiversity, and boost productivity across diverse regions. However, its effectiveness has been found to vary across studies, emphasizing the need for a more critical understanding of its benefits and limitations. Moreover, variations in outcomes are evident due to differences in experimental methodologies, environmental conditions, and socioeconomic factors. For the widespread adoption of CA practices, it is necessary to make personalized adjustments to it, integrating the corresponding technologies, thereby meeting the needs of farmers. Interdisciplinary research is crucial to refining CA practices and addressing existing knowledge gaps. This study is practiced to enhance the understanding of the potential of CA to promote a sustainable global food production system. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Integrating neglected and underutilized crops (NUCs) in South Asian cropping systems and diets: Challenges and prospects Saira SHAFIQ, Muhammad ZIA UL HAQ, Syed Abbas RAZA NAQVI, Wardha SARFARAZ, Hina ALI, Muhammad Majid ISLAM, Gul Zaib HASSAN, Muhammad NAWAZ, Tasawer ABBAS Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (4): 100242-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100242 Abstract （29）   HTML （2）    PDF （1937KB）（6）       Knowledge map    Save The present review critically examines the role of neglected and underutilized crops (NUCs) in enhancing the resilience of South Asian cropping systems and diets in the context of climate change and nutritional challenges. This analysis reveals that integrating NUCs, such as millets, sorghums, amaranth, and indigenous legumes, into existing cropping systems can significantly improve the climate resilience, dietary diversity, and ecological sustainability of the food systems. These crops exhibit superior tolerance to abiotic stress and offer higher nutritional density compared to staple cereals, such as rice and wheat. However, their adoption faces challenges, including limited research investment, fragmented value chains, etc. We further identify that complementary cropping strategies and climate-smart agriculture (CSA) practices can optimize resource use while boosting smallholder farmers’ income. NUCs are pivotal for the transformation of exist cropping systems towards nutrition-sensitive and climate-resilient agricultural and food systems. Strategic integration of NUCs can simultaneously address food insecurity, biodiversity loss, and rural poverty. Yet, unlocking their potential requires coordinated efforts in genetic improvement, market development, and policy frameworks tailored to regional contexts. This synthesis provides a comprehensive roadmap for policy-makers, researchers, and farmers to leverage NUCs as “Future Smart Food”. By bridging agronomic, nutritional, and socioeconomic perspectives, this study highlights the transformative potential of NUCs in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across South Asian countries. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Adaptive conservation of natural resources determines the sustainable livelihood strategies of farmers in the semi-arid Loess Plateau region of China MA Shengli, XU Mingxiang Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (4): 100244-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100244 Abstract （22）   HTML （1）    PDF （1142KB）（5）       Knowledge map    Save Livelihood improvement and sustainable natural resource utilization are among the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals; however, most farm households either randomly select or just imitate livelihood strategies being practiced in other areas. As the livelihoods of farm households are vulnerable to several challenges in ecologically fragile areas, identifying the livelihood strategies of farm households in arid and semi-arid areas will help for promoting both livelihood security and environmental conservation. Hence, in this study, we constructed a sustainable evaluation index system for the livelihood of farmers in the Loess Plateau region of China by conducting field research and interviews. We employed the composite index method to measure the livelihood capital and the livelihood strategies chosen by farmers, and then analyzed the resource endowment of farmers under different livelihood strategies using logistic regression and structural equation modeling. The results revealed that under the combined influences of livelihood capital and government policy, farm households in the Loess Plateau region selected agro-dependent, agro-pastoral, agro-industrial, non-agricultural livelihood strategies. The key factors influencing the selection of these household livelihood strategies included the household labor capacity, the farmland owned per household, the number of livestock, and the grassland forage-supply ratio. The grassland forage-supply ratio was a crucial factor influencing the choice between agricultural and non-agricultural livelihood strategies. In this context, the grassland forage-supply ratio increased with the stocking rate. However, once the stocking rate exceeded 56.5 sheep/hm2, the grassland forage-supply ratio no longer increased rapidly under the agriculture-based livelihood strategy. The strategy of ecological resource conservation and moderate utilization based on the quality and quantity of natural resources ensures win-win benefits for the environment and human well-being in arid and semi-arid areas. Moderate grazing therefore has the potential to improve farmers’ livelihoods without causing grassland degradation. These results contribute to the synergistic co-adaptation of livelihood improvement and ecological conservation in arid and semi-arid areas. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Exploring the influence of trade openness, energy consumption, natural resource rents, and human capital in achieving carbon neutrality Olani Bekele SAKILU, CHEN Haibo Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (4): 100247-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100247 Abstract （35）   HTML （2）    PDF （1037KB）（6）       Knowledge map    Save Addressing the pressing challenges of climate change and global warming requires a strong commitment to reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and achieving carbon neutrality. Efficient energy use and international trade play crucial roles in promoting sustainable development and enhancing environmental quality. This study investigated the relationships of CO2 emissions with trade openness (export and import), energy consumption (renewable energy consumption and fossil fuel consumption), natural resource rents, and human capital across 20 developing countries (Brazil, Iran, Russia, China, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Colombia, Mexico, South Africa, Costa Rica, Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Pakistan, Türkiye, India, Peru, Viet Nam, Indonesia, and Philippines) from 1990 to 2022 using the augmented mean group (AMG) and common correlated effects mean group (CCEMG) methods. The findings revealed that export, renewable energy consumption, and human capital significantly reduce CO2 emissions, while import, fossil fuel consumption, and natural resource rents increase CO2 emissions, although the effect of natural resource rents is statistically insignificant. Causality tests indicated the bidirectional relationship of CO2 emissions with export, import, renewable energy consumption, and fossil fuel consumption, and the unidirectional causality from human capital to CO2 emissions. CO2 emissions drive the greenhouse effect, thereby raising global temperature and accelerating climate change. As reducing CO2 emissions becomes an urgent global priority, this study provides actionable insights by identifying key variables that mitigate emissions and enhance sustainability. By bridging research and policy, this study offers targeted recommendations to accelerate progress toward a low-carbon future. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Impacts of land use and cover change on carbon storage: Multi-scenario projections in the arid region of Northwest China FENG Xuyu, ZHAO Xiao, TONG Ling, WANG Sufen, DING Risheng, KANG Shaozhong Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (4): 100248-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100248 Abstract （24）   HTML （3）    PDF （4027KB）（6）       Knowledge map    Save Carbon storage serves as a key indicator of ecosystem services and plays a vital role in maintaining the global carbon balance. Land use and cover change (LUCC) is one of the primary drivers influencing carbon storage variations in terrestrial ecosystems. Therefore, evaluating the impacts of LUCC on carbon storage is crucial for achieving strategic goals such as the China’s dual carbon goals (including carbon peaking and carbon neutrality). This study focuses on the Aral Irrigation Area in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China, to assess the impacts of LUCC on regional carbon storage and their spatiotemporal dynamics. A comprehensive LUCC database from 2000 to 2020 was developed using Landsat satellite imagery and the random forest classification algorithm. The integrated valuation of ecosystem services and trade-offs (InVEST) model was applied to quantify carbon storage and analyze its response to LUCC. Additionally, future LUCC patterns for 2030 were projected under multiple development scenarios using the patch-generating land use simulation (PLUS) model. These future LUCC scenarios were integrated with the InVEST model to simulate carbon storage trends under different land management pathways. Between 2000 and 2020, the dominant land use types in the study area were cropland (area proportion of 35.52%), unused land (34.80%), and orchard land (12.19%). The conversion of unused land and orchard land significantly expanded the area of cropland, which increased by 115,742.55 hm2. During this period, total carbon storage and carbon density increased by 7.87×106 Mg C and 20.19 Mg C/hm2, respectively. The primary driver of this increase was the conversion of unused land into cropland, accounting for 49.28% of the total carbon storage gain. Carbon storage was notably lower along the northeastern and southeastern edges. By 2030, the projected carbon storage is expected to increase by 0.99×106, 1.55×106, and 1.71×106 Mg C under the natural development, cropland protection, and ecological conservation scenarios, respectively. In contrast, under the urban development scenario, carbon storage is projected to decline by 0.40×106 Mg C. In line with China’s dual carbon goals, the ecological conservation scenario emerges as the most effective strategy for enhancing carbon storage. Accordingly, strict enforcement of the cropland red line is recommended. This study provides a valuable scientific foundation for regional ecosystem restoration and sustainable development in arid regions. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Analysis of environmental protection priority zones and their impacts on urban planning in small- and medium-sized cities of Indonesia Rizal IMANA, Andrea Emma PRAVITASARI, Didit Okta PRIBADI Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (2): 100211-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100211 Abstract （44）   HTML （6）    PDF （2216KB）（15）       Knowledge map    Save Urbanization in small- and medium-sized cities has often been overlooked in urban studies. Research on urbanization has predominantly focused on large metropolitan cities; however, urbanization in small- and medium-sized cities also contributes to the acceleration of urban sprawl. Urban growth boundary (UGB) is an ecological approach designed to limit urban development. This study aimed to analyze environmental protection priority zones by combining ecological quality and sensitivity indices to identify the areas suitable for UGB implementation. Tegal City and its surrounding areas (including Tegal and Brebes regencies) of Indonesia were selected as the study area. The ecological quality index was calculated using the normalized difference vegetation index, humidity index, land surface temperature, and normalized difference bare soil index. These indices were subsequently subjected to principal component analysis (PCA) to extract orthogonal factors, which were summed to derive the final index value. In parallel, we mapped and evaluated ecological sensitivity based on spatial planning policies and regulations. The results revealed that ecological quality in Tegal and Brebes regencies was predominantly categorized as good and very good ecological quality, whereas Tegal City exhibited moderate and poor ecological quality. Additionally, over 45.00% of the area in Tegal and Brebes regencies demonstrated very high ecological sensitivity. Consequently, more than 50.00% of the area in Tegal and Brebes regencies, along with 27.00% of Tegal City, were classified as ecological constraint zone, making them potential regions for UGB development. The UGB is expected to curtail urban expansion, promote compact city planning, and preserve ecosystem services to achieve urban sustainability. This study implies that planning small- and medium-sized cities is important to prevent urban sprawl and maintain environmental health. Designing UGB to limit urban expansion should be enhanced by better knowledge about its ecological functions in supporting urban sustainability. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Exploring the transformation mechanism of modern agricultural villages in the loess hilly and gully regions using actor-network theory ZHANG Tianyang, LI Linna Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (2): 100212-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100212 Abstract （35）   HTML （6）    PDF （1286KB）（7）       Knowledge map    Save As urbanization accelerates, rural regions in China are experiencing transformative changes. This study examines the transformation mechanism of modern agricultural villages in the loess hilly and gully regions, using Zhaojiawa Village in Shannxi Province of China as a case study. In this study, we explored the village’s evolution amid China’s rural revitalization efforts, highlighting the transition from a traditional agricultural village to a modern agricultural village in the context of rapid urbanization. This study employed actor-network theory (ANT) to investigate the complex interactions among diverse actors that drive rural transformation. ANT interlinks spatial relationships with intricate social networks. We utilized Google Earth remote sensing images in 2015 and 2021 and interview data to construct ANT. Three key dimensions of rural transformation are identified: economic structure transformation, social relationship reorganization, and spatial layout reconstruction. The transformation mechanism in Zhaojiawa Village is underpinned by a network of diverse actors, both human and non-human, aligned around two pivotal stages of agricultural village development (i.e., construction stage and development stage). In the initial construction stage, the Suide County government led a complex actor network to enhance rural living and production spaces. In the development stage, the village committee emerged as a central actor, with increased participation from villagers and external enterprises, facilitating the creation of a multifunctional space. The evolving goals and roles of these key actors contributed to the reconfiguration of the actor network, promoting rural transformation. These insights are applicable to other ecologically vulnerable and economically challenged rural areas in the loess hilly and gully regions, suggesting that collaboration among stakeholders can effectively facilitate the transition to specialized and integrated industries, thereby fostering rural revitalization. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Relationship between environmental performance indices and blockchain-based sustainability-focused companies: Evidence from countries in Europe and America Hussain Mohi-ud-Din QADRI, Hassnian ALI, Atta UL MUSTAFA Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (2): 100214-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100214 Abstract （42）   HTML （4）    PDF （952KB）（6）       Knowledge map    Save As the world grapples with increasing environmental challenges, innovative technologies are essential for promoting sustainability and accountability. This study examined the impact of environmental performance indices (EPIs) on the growth and investment trends of blockchain-based sustainability-focused companies in 15 countries (Belgium, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, Poland, Sweden, Spain, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States) from Europe and America during 2010-2022. This study used the negative binomial regression model to assess the relationship between EPIs and blockchain-based sustainability-focused companies based on the data from the CrunchBase and EarthData. Results indicated that in ecosystem vitality, national terrestrial biome protection efforts were negatively correlated the formation of blockchain-based sustainability-focused companies, while global terrestrial biome protection efforts and marine protected areas had a positive impact on the formation of these companies and the number of funding rounds. In environmental health, PM2.5 exposure had a positive impact on the number of funding rounds. Conversely, pollutants such as sulfur dioxide (SO2) and ocean plastics deterred the formation of blockchain-based sustainability-focused companies and reduced the number of funding rounds. In climate change performance, adjusted emission growth rate for carbon dioxide (CO2), adjusted emission growth rate for F-gases, and adjusted emission growth rate for black carbon had a significantly positive impact on the formation of blockchain-based sustainability-focused companies. Conversely, adjusted emission growth rate for Nitrous Oxide (N2O) and projected greenhouse gas emissions in 2050 negatively affected the formation of these companies. These findings highlight the dual role of EPIs as driving factors and barriers in the development and investment of blockchain-based sustainability-focused companies in countries from Europe and America. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Controlling agricultural product price volatility: An empirical analysis from Cameroon Ivette Gnitedem KEUBENG, George Achu MULUH, Vatis Christian KEMEZANG Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (2): 100215-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100215 Abstract （36）   HTML （2）    PDF （884KB）（9）       Knowledge map    Save Motivated by a significant impact of price volatility on food security and economic stability in Cameroon, this study aims to understand the factors influencing agricultural product price volatility (APPV) and formulate effective policies for mitigating its negative impact and promoting sustainable economic growth. Specifically, this research used the autoregressive distributed lag-error correction model (ARDL-ECM) to analyse the impact of agricultural productivity, agricultural product imports, population, temperature variation, gross domestic product (GDP) per capita, and government expenditure on APPV based on the annual data from 2000 to 2021. The ARDL-ECM estimation results revealed that agricultural productivity (β=4.901), agricultural product imports (β=1.012), population (β=13.635), and GDP per capita (β=2.794) were positively related to APPV, while temperature variation (β= -0.990) and government expenditure (β= -8.585) were negatively related to APPV in the long term. However, temperature variation had a positive relationship with APPV in the short term. Moreover, the Granger causality test showed that there were bidirectional causality of APPV with agricultural productivity and agricultural product imports, and unidirectional causality of APPV with population, temperature variation, GDP per capita, and government expenditure. The findings highlight the importance of public policies in stabilizing agricultural product prices by investing in agricultural research, improving access to agricultural inputs, strengthening farmer capacities, implementing climate adaptation measures, and enhancing rural infrastructure. These policies can reduce APPV, improve food security, and promote inclusive economic growth in Cameroon. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Sustainable smart city and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): A review Z. R. M. Abdullah KAISER, Apu DEB Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (1): 100193-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100193 Abstract （114）   HTML （6）    PDF （3150KB）（240）       Knowledge map    Save 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. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Cost and benefit analysis of Climate-Smart Agriculture interventions in the dryland farming systems of northern Ghana Felix KPENEKUU, Philip ANTWI-AGYEI, Fred NIMOH, Andrew DOUGILL, Albert BANUNLE, Jonathan ATTA-AIDOO, Frank BAFFOUR-ATA, Thomas Peprah AGYEKUM, Godfred ADDAI, Lawrence GUODAAR Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (1): 100196-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100196 Abstract （107）   HTML （11）    PDF （611KB）（13）       Knowledge map    Save There is a need for more focus in understanding the economic benefits of Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) interventions, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where extreme climate events are significantly affecting agriculture and rural livelihoods. This study used the Net Present Value (NPV), Internal Rate of Return (IRR), Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR), and payback period to evaluate the economic viability of the adopted CSA interventions in the three villages (Doggoh, Jeffiri, and Wulling) of the dryland farming systems of northern Ghana, where CSA interventions were mostly practiced. Data were collected from 161 farm households by the questionnaire survey. The results showed that CSA interventions including livestock-crop integration, mixed cropping, crop rotation, nutrient integration, and tie ridging enhanced crop yield and the household income of smallholder farmers. The five CSA interventions selected by smallholders were in the following order of priority: livestock-crop integration (BCR=2.87), mixed cropping (BCR=2.54), crop rotation (BCR=2.24), nutrient integration (BCR=1.98), and tie ridging (BCR=1.42). Results further showed that livestock-crop integration was the most profitable CSA intervention even under a pessimistic assumption with a long payback period of 5.00 a. Moreover, this study indicated that the implementation of CSA interventions, on average, was relatively profitable and had a nominal financial risk for smallholder farmers. Understanding the economic viability of CSA interventions will help in decision-making process toward selecting the right CSA interventions for resilience development. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Quantifying the impacts of land use/land cover changes on ecosystem service values in the upper Gilgel Abbay watershed, Ethiopia Wassie Abuhay ASCHENEFE, Temesgen Gashaw TAREKEGN, Betelhem Fetene ADMAS, Solomon Mulu TAFERE Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (1): 100197-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100197 Abstract （45）   HTML （4）    PDF （757KB）（8）       Knowledge map    Save Human well-being and livelihoods depend on natural ecosystem services (ESs). Following the increment of population, ESs have been deteriorated over time. Ultimately, land use/land cover (LULC) changes have a profound impact on the change of ecosystem. The primary goal of this study is to determine the impacts of LULC changes on ecosystem service values (ESVs) in the upper Gilgel Abbay watershed, Ethiopia. Changes in LULC types were studied using three Landsat images representing 1986, 2003, and 2021. The Landsat images were classified using a supervised image classification technique in Earth Resources Data Analysis System (ERDAS) Imagine 2014. We classified ESs in this study into four categories (including provisioning, regulating, supporting, and cultural services) based on global ES classification scheme. The adjusted ESV coefficient benefit approach was employed to measure the impacts of LULC changes on ESVs. Five LULC types were identified in this study, including cultivated land, forest, shrubland, grassland, and water body. The result revealed that the area of cultivated land accounted for 64.50%, 71.50%, and 61.50% of the total area in 1986, 2003, and 2021, respectively. The percentage of the total area covered by forest was 9.50%, 5.90%, and 14.80% in 1986, 2003, and 2021, respectively. Result revealed that the total ESV decreased from 7.42×107 to 6.44×107 USD between 1986 and 2003. This is due to the expansion of cultivated land at the expense of forest and shrubland. However, the total ESV increased from 6.44×107 to 7.76×107 USD during 2003-2021, because of the increment of forest and shrubland. The expansion of cultivated land and the reductions of forest and shrubland reduced most individual ESs during 1986-2003. Nevertheless, the increase in forest and shrubland at the expense of cultivated land enhanced many ESs during 2003-2021. Therefore, the findings suggest that appropriate land use practices should be scaled-up to sustainably maintain ESs. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Innovation in two contrasting value chains: Constraints and opportunities for adopting alternative crop production in the Vietnamese Mekong River Delta Sang Thanh LE, Nhu Huynh MAO, Paul KRISTIANSEN, Michael COLEMAN Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (1): 100198-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100198 Abstract （61）   HTML （7）    PDF （499KB）（5）       Knowledge map    Save Agricultural production (especially intensive rice production) is a primary income source for over 2.0×107 people in the Vietnamese Mekong River Delta. However, adverse climate change impacts, socio-economic change, and high dependence on farm inputs for intensive production constrain the longer-term sustainability of rice systems. Government and agribusiness actors are encouraging more farmers to grow non-rice crops and supporting the upscaling of alternative crops to paddy rice. We used a qualitative approach to investigate the value chain characteristics, as well as constraints and opportunities of alternative crops via two case studies (baby corn and honeydew melon) in An Giang and Hau Giang provinces, Vietnam. Data collection involved focus group discussions with local farmers and interviews with farmers and industry experts. Thematic analysis was used to compile the findings, and the results were validated with local government staff. The baby corn value chain featured on-going and stable market demand (including value-addition) and better vertical coordination (e.g., written contracts and financial support). The honeydew melon value chain featured positive relationships between farmers and traders despite less-developed vertical coordination. There are opportunities for value chain engagement through product quality certification, value-addition, and accessing high-value domestic and export markets. However, farmers require crop-specific and generic support from private and public sectors. Increased labour requirements and limited access to finance and credit limit value chain participation. Upscaling and marketing alternative crops can enhance farmer profitability and support non-farming agricultural business establishment, economic growth, and community development. Efficient value chains will be critical to ensure the adoption of alternative crops and development of crop-specific agribusiness models. These findings can inform policy-makers and change facilitators in designing targeted interventions to support the adoption of alternative crops in the study area as well as in Vietnam and globally. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Evolutionary characteristics of export trade network in the Arctic region MA Xing, QIANG Wenli, WANG Shijin, LIU Jiayi, Arunima MALIK, LI Mengyu, WANG Xiang Regional Sustainability    2024, 5 (4): 100176-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2024.100176 Abstract （62）   HTML （3）    PDF （2262KB）（11）       Knowledge map    Save The economic potential induced by environmental changes in the Arctic region garnered substantial interest, which positions Arctic trade as a crucial indicator in forecasting the impacts of climate change on the global economy. Nevertheless, attention devoted to the evolving dynamics of trade in the Arctic region remains scarce. In this study, we constructed export trade network in the Arctic region (including Denmark, Finland, Sweden, Norway, Iceland, the Canadian Arctic, the Russian Arctic, Alaska State of the USA, and Greenland) from 1990 to 2019 and analyzed its topology and evolutionary characteristics through complex network theory. We used a structural entropy index based on the distribution of the number of trading partners and the degree of trade concentration to assess export diversity, while we also utilized a revealed comparative advantage index to evaluate product export competitiveness using the share of trade volume of each type of product. The results indicate that the total export trade in the Arctic region increased by 53.4% during 1990-2019, with the most significant growth observed in the exports of chemical products and mineral fuels. The increasing complexity of trade network in the Arctic region resulted in the region’s export destinations no longer being concentrated on a few major countries and regions. The proportion of exports from the Arctic region to Europe decreased by 13.5%, while the proportion of exports from the Arctic region to Asia and North America increased by 6.8% and 3.1%, respectively. The Arctic region exhibited clear distinctions in the range of flows of different products, and its export trade was becoming increasingly diversified. Although differences in comparative advantages between products within individual countries or regions have narrowed, substantial gaps persist. The findings of this study can enhance the comprehensive understanding of the significance and function of Arctic trade activities within the global economy, providing a scientific basis for addressing the associated challenges and opportunities in the context of climate change. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Application of Cellular Automata and Markov Chain model for urban green infrastructure in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Jafarpour Ghalehteimouri KAMRAN, Che Ros FAIZAH, Rambat SHUIB Regional Sustainability    2024, 5 (4): 100179-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2024.100179 Abstract （38）   HTML （2）    PDF （3246KB）（18）       Knowledge map    Save Kuala Lumpur of Malaysia, as a tropical city, has experienced a notable decline in its critical urban green infrastructure (UGI) due to rapid urbanization and haphazard development. The decrease of UGI, especially natural forest and artificial forest, may reduce the diversity of ecosystem services and the ability of Kuala Lumpur to build resilience in the future. This study analyzed land use and land cover (LULC) and UGI changes in Kuala Lumpur based on Landsat satellite images in 1990, 2005, and 2021and employed the overall accuracy and Kappa coefficient to assess classification accuracy. LULC was categorized into six main types: natural forest, artificial forest, grassland, water body, bare ground, and built-up area. Satellite images in 1990, 2005, and 2021 showed the remarkable overall accuracy values of 91.06%, 96.67%, and 98.28%, respectively, along with the significant Kappa coefficient values of 0.8997, 0.9626, and 0.9512, respectively. Then, this study utilized Cellular Automata and Markov Chain model to analyze the transition of different LULC types during 1990-2005 and 1990-2021 and predict LULC types in 2050. The results showed that natural forest decreased from 15.22% to 8.20% and artificial forest reduced from 18.51% to 15.16% during 1990-2021. Reductions in natural forest and artificial forest led to alterations in urban surface water dynamics, increasing the risk of urban floods. However, grassland showed a significant increase from 7.80% to 24.30% during 1990-2021. Meanwhile, bare ground increased from 27.16% to 31.56% and built-up area increased from 30.45% to 39.90% during 1990-2005. In 2021, built-up area decreased to 35.10% and bare ground decreased to 13.08%, indicating a consistent dominance of built-up area in the central parts of Kuala Lumpur. This study highlights the importance of integrating past, current, and future LULC changes to improve urban ecosystem services in the city. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Relationship between drought and soil erosion based on the normalized differential water index (NDWI) and revised universal soil loss equation (RUSLE) model Muhammad RENDANA, Wan Mohd Razi IDRIS, Febrinasti ALIA, Supli Effendi RAHIM, Muhammad YAMIN, Muhammad IZZUDIN Regional Sustainability    2024, 5 (4): 100183-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2024.100183 Abstract （92）   HTML （7）    PDF （1408KB）（23）       Knowledge map    Save The Langat River Basin in Malaysia is vulnerable to soil erosion risks because of its exposure to intensive land use activities and its topography, which primarily consists of steep slopes and mountainous areas. Furthermore, climate change frequently exposes this basin to drought, which negatively affects soil and water conservation. However, recent studies have rarely shown how soil reacts to drought, such as soil erosion. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to evaluate the relationship between drought and soil erosion in the Langat River Basin. We analyzed drought indices using Landsat 8 satellite images in November 2021, and created the normalized differential water index (NDWI) via Landsat 8 data to produce a drought map. We used the revised universal soil loss equation (RUSLE) model to predict soil erosion. We verified an association between the NDWI and soil erosion data using a correlation analysis. The results revealed that the southern and northern regions of the study area experienced drought events. We predicted an average annual soil erosion of approximately 58.11 t/(hm2•a). Analysis of the association between the NDWI and soil erosion revealed a strong positive correlation, with a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.86. We assumed that the slope length and steepness factor was the primary contributor to soil erosion in the study area. As a result, these findings can help authorities plan effective measures to reduce the impacts of drought and soil erosion in the future. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Green transformation paths of resource-based cities in China from the configuration perspective GONG Qunxi Regional Sustainability    2024, 5 (3): 100158-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2024.100158 Abstract （47）   HTML （7）    PDF （575KB）（91）       Knowledge map    Save Green transformation is an unavoidable choice for resource-based cities (RBCs) that face resource depletion and environmental pollution. Existing research has focused primarily on specific RBCs, making it challenging to apply green transformation strategies universally across cities. The fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) is a combination of qualitative and quantitative analyses that can handle multiple concurrent causality problems and determine how different conditions combine into configurations and generate an outcome. Thus, to address this gap, in this study, we established a research framework for green transformation and utilized the fsQCA to examine the configurations of 113 RBCs in China. By incorporating the element of time, this study explored the dynamic evolution of solutions in 2013, 2016, and 2019. The main findings indicate that individual elements do not constitute the necessary conditions for improving the green transformation efficiency (GTE), and the systematic combination of multiple conditions is an effective path for realizing the improvement of the GTE in RBCs. Green transformation paths of RBCs exhibit the same destination through different paths. Additionally, the combination of system environment elements and system structure elements is both complementary and alternative. Differences in RBCs have led to various factor combinations and development paths, but there are some similarities in the key elements of the factor combinations at different stages. Economic environment, government support, and technological innovation are key factors that universally enhance the GTE in RBCs. These insights can assist city managers in formulating policies to drive green transformation and contribute to a better theoretical understanding of green transformation paths in RBCs. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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