The Journal of Sustainability is an interdisciplinary journal that aims to provide practical advice to businesses, policymakers, and civil society on accelerating the transition towards a more sustainable economy. This journal is a collective effort by leading scholars and practitioners around the world who are excited about furthering the discourse on the concept of sustainability. All our articles are open access and oriented towards practical application. We pay our editors and reviewers, and we aim to offer peer-review that is fast and constructive. We are keen to help you publish your research. If you have any questions about this journal, please reach out to: editor@journalofsustainability.net
Barriers and Enablers to Sustainability in Higher Education: A Systematic Review of Governance, Leadership, and Organisational Change
Higher education institutions are increasingly expected to advance sustainability through teaching, research, campus operations, and public engagement, yet implementation remains uneven. This systematic review synthesises the literature on barriers and enablers to sustainability in higher education through the lenses of governance, leadership, and organisational change. Following PRISMA 2020 reporting principles, peer-reviewed studies published between 2005 and 2025 were searched in Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, and ERIC, yielding a final corpus of 87 articles. The review finds that fragmented governance, weak accountability, reliance on individual champions, disciplinary silos, and project-based implementation continue to be recurrent barriers. By contrast, whole-institution strategies, distributed leadership, participatory change processes, and integration into planning and reporting systems consistently enable progress. An integrative framework is proposed to explain how these mechanisms interact in the process of sustainability institutionalisation. The review concludes with practical implications for university leaders and policymakers seeking more durable sustainability transitions.
Copyright (c) 2026 Joedel Peñaranda, Marianne Agnes Mendoza, Cristie Ann Jaca https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
CSR Performance and Firm Value: A Case Study from the S&P 500
This paper examines the association between CSR engagement and both firm value and goodwill. The sample data covers 497 firms from the S&P 500 Index. The period under review is from 2007 to 2021. This period was selected because it encompasses two major episodes of market disruption — the 2007–2009 global financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic — providing an empirically rich setting for assessing the resilience and valuation relevance of ESG performance across varying macroeconomic conditions. The findings carry implications for investors, suggesting that firms with strong ESG profiles may offer superior long-term value prospects. We use IV-GMM, with firm value as the dependent variable. In this study, the effect of CSR performance, represented by the ESG score, on the firm value is examined. The S&P 500 dataset provides an ideal empirical setting for examining this relationship, given its breadth, international relevance, and data quality. Our findings suggest that the overall ESG combined score is positively and significantly associated with firm value. Moreover, the ESG score has positive relationships with firm goodwill. Several unexpected findings also emerge, which are examined in detail in the empirical results section. Findings suggest that stronger ESG performance is associated with greater firm value and goodwill. The study provides a foundation for future inquiry into the long-term valuation consequences of corporate sustainability engagement.
Copyright (c) 2026 Maya Katenova, Peter Schmunkamp https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Building the Capacities for Sustainable Development Goal 4 in an Elementary Last-Mile School in Iloilo Province, Philippines: A Sustainability Science Perspective
Achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) remains a challenge in geographically isolated and disadvantaged schools. This study examined the socio-ecological conditions influencing SDG 4 attainment in a Last Mile School in Iloilo Province, Philippines. A sustainability-oriented, descriptive qualitative case study design, supported by official school inventory documents and literacy assessment records, was employed to analyze learning outcomes, school resources, instructional contexts, and institutional conditions. Findings revealed severe learning deficits, with no Grade 6 learners attaining independent reading proficiency and no learners in Grades 4–6 meeting grade-level numeracy standards. These outcomes were associated with inadequate infrastructure, limited learning resources, multigrade teaching demands, and heavy teacher workloads. Systems analysis showed that these challenges are interconnected and reinforced by social and environmental factors. Using the sustainability capacities framework, the study highlights the need for integrated interventions that strengthen resource provision, teacher support, governance, and adaptive learning systems. The findings underscore that achieving SDG 4 in Last Mile Schools requires systems-oriented reforms that address the broader socio-ecological conditions shaping educational inequities.
Copyright (c) 2026 Michael Garlan, Renelda P. Nacianceno, Bernie F. Piad, Jan Rex P. Osano https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Climate Resilience of Pastoral Livelihoods among Borana Oromo in Southern Ethiopia
This study examines household resilience to climate change among Borana Oromo pastoralists in southern Ethiopia, focusing on two production subsystems: Dirree and Golboo. Data were collected through a household survey (n = 360), focus group discussions, and key informant interviews. The Household Climate Resilience Index (CRI) was developed using FAO’s key resilience components, including assets, income and food access, adaptive capacity, social safety nets, access to public services, and system stability. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was applied to determine the relative contribution of indicators, while Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) measured overall household resilience. Differences in resilience components were further analysed using Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA). The findings reveal significant variation in adaptive capacity among social groups, adult men, women, and youth across the two subsystems. Dirree exhibits higher resilience in most components compared to Golboo, except in access to social safety nets. These differences are largely attributed to variations in local conditions and disparities in access to public services. The results underscore the importance of context-specific interventions tailored to the unique characteristics of each subsystem. The study emphasises that strengthening system-level resilience is essential for improving pastoral livelihoods in the Borana lowlands. It recommends targeted actions to address key constraints within resilience components. Furthermore, long-term resilience requires integrating indigenous environmental knowledge into development planning, enhancing institutional capacity, improving access to services and cross-border resources, and promoting peace building, innovation, and supportive policy frameworks.
Copyright (c) 2026 Boru Daniel https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Cross-Dimensional Differences in Sustainability Disclosures: Evidence from Large-Cap NSE-Listed Companies in India
This paper explores cross-dimensional variations in sustainability disclosure intensity in 50 large-cap National Stock Exchange (NSE)-listed companies through an integrated model based on Business Responsibility and Sustainability Reporting (BRSR) requirements and Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standards. It focuses on the transition from voluntary to mandatory BRSR adoption over the financial years 2021-22 and 2022-23. Sustainability disclosures are measured using weighted percentage scores derived from a structured BRSR-GRI mapping framework. The results show that there is systematic disclosure variability by dimension, with specific dimensions being uniformly more emphasized. Nonparametric tests (Friedman and Wilcoxon signed-rank) substantiate the presence of significant cross-dimensional differences and identifies the significant change in the level of disclosures over time, whereas the relative positioning across dimensions remains rather stable. These trends are in line with the regulatory shift to compulsory BRSR and are reflective of the changing disclosure practices, yet causal inference falls outside the scope of the study. The findings point at stable relative ordering cross-dimensional imbalances and the necessity of more balanced reporting guidance. The paper adds value by operationalising an integrated BRSR-GRI framework, and offering comparative evidence on sustainability disclosure behaviour in an emerging market.
Copyright (c) 2026 Adrija Shandilya, Gour Gopal Banik https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Artificial Intelligence, ESG and Nation Brand: Pathways to Sustainable Development
This study explores how national AI capability relates to sustainable development through ESG outcomes and nation brand perceptions. Using the techno-economic paradigm and social capital theory, the research integrates two global AI indices with country-level ESG and Nation Brand Index data across 51–56 countries. Results show AI performance positively associates with ESG outcomes, which in turn strengthens nation brand perceptions especially in politically stable environments. The Tortoise AI Index demonstrates both direct and ESG-mediated links to nation brand, while the Oxford AI Readiness Index connects to nation brand primarily via ESG. A gap-based clustering identifies four national profiles (AI-dominant, ESG/NBI-dominant, balanced, and capacity-constrained) with corresponding strategic priorities. Overall, aligning AI deployment with ESG improvements, including climate action, social inclusion, and transparent governance, may enhance reputational standing and advance Sustainable Development Goals. The proposed framework offers policymakers a practical diagnostic tool, though findings should be interpreted cautiously given the cross-sectional, perception-based design.
Copyright (c) 2026 Geeho Jeon https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Communicating Sustainability for Behaviour Change: A Systematic Review of Development Communication Strategies in Environmental and Social Transitions
This systematic review synthesises how development communication strategies support sustainability-related behaviour change across environmental and social transitions. Following PRISMA 2020 reporting principles, studies published between 2000 and 2025 were identified in Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, and Communication & Mass Media Complete. After screening 784 records, 32 studies met the eligibility criteria. Five recurrent strategy clusters were identified: participatory and dialogic communication; narrative and values-based framing; social norms and feedback; social marketing and community-based campaign design; and digital and multi-platform engagement. The review's contribution is not to restate that awareness alone is insufficient, but to show how these meso-level strategies activate distinct micro-level mechanisms and depend on macro-level transition conditions. Evidence was strongest for short-run norm and feedback effects, while participatory studies most clearly illuminated trust, ownership, and contextual fit. The review offers a heuristic framework to guide policy, practice, and future comparative research.
Copyright (c) 2026 Marianne Agnes Taveros Mendoza https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Governing the Paradox: Regenerative Coordination in Nigeria’s Energy Transition
This study developed and tested a system-level account of sustainability coordination in Africa’s extractives-to-energy transition, addressing the absence of a validated construct that captures how multi-actor coordination shapes regenerative outcomes when legacy extractive assets simultaneously constrain and enable decarbonisation. We introduced the Resource Regeneration Coordination Index (RRCI) and the Multi-Actor Resource Regeneration Systems Framework (MARSF), theorising coordination strength as an emergent ecosystem property comprising inter-firm regenerative alignment, socio-environmental embedding, and cross-sectoral resilience integration. Using 42 semi-structured interviews across three Nigerian transition corridors to generate and refine measures, we then surveyed 372 ecosystem participants spanning operators, renewable developers, EPC firms, financiers, regulators, grid actors, and community-facing leaders. Confirmatory factor analysis supports reliability and convergent and discriminant validity for RRCI’s sub-dimensions, and a two-stage higher-order composite model yields consistent measurement performance. Structural estimation indicates that regenerative alignment predicts environmental regseneration, socio-environmental embedding predicts community resilience, and resilience integration predicts ecosystem legitimacy, with substantial explained variance across outcomes. Cross-validation assessment indicates out-of-sample utility, and multigroup comparisons across three ecosystem archetypes reveal context-contingent path strengths. Conceptually, we formalised a regenerative coordination paradox: extractive infrastructures become transition platforms only when alignment, embedding, and resilience routines cohere. In practice, RRCI provides an auditable diagnostic for targeting guarantees, contractual covenants, remediation oversight, and disclosure alignment at the weakest coordination links in transition governance.
Copyright (c) 2026 Augustine Okeke https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Teachers’ Perspectives and Self-Reported Practices in Climate Change Education: Basis for the Development of CEASE Conceptual Model
Climate change remains a critical global challenge requiring integrated responses, with education playing a central role in fostering climate literacy. This study examined the climate change perspectives and self-reported practices of 102 public secondary science teachers and developed a conceptual model to enhance climate change education. Using a descriptive-correlational and comparative design, data were collected through a validated questionnaire (α=.94). Findings revealed highly positive personal and professional perspectives (M = 4.33), while overall reported practices were only moderate (M= 3.40). Teachers demonstrated high engagement in curriculum development (M= 3.64), but only moderate practices in instructional materials development (M= 3.37), teaching strategy innovation (M= 3.18), and the implementation of teaching-learning activities (M = 3.39). A significant positive relationship was found between teachers’ perspectives and practices (r=.573, p < .01), with perspectives accounting for 32.9% of the variance (r2=.329). While no significant differences in practices were observed between male and female teachers overall, a statistically significant difference emerged in instructional materials development (t=3.56, p < .01), with male teachers reporting higher engagement. Key challenges included limited innovative strategies, time constraints, and insufficient training, revealing an “action-practice gap.” In response, the Climate Education Action for Sustainable Engagement (CEASE) conceptual model is proposed to enhance pedagogical integration through curriculum alignment, contextualized instructional materials, methodological innovation, participatory learner-centered activities, and research capability building. The study contributes both empirical evidence and practical model aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 13 (Climate Action).
Copyright (c) 2026 Alma Marcelino Corpuz, Cynthia Garcia Quiambao https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
A Theory-Guided Alignment Analysis of Department of Education Policy Corpus through the Lens of Sustainable Governance
This study analyzes the extent to which the governance policy architecture of the Philippine Department of Education (DepEd) aligns with principles of sustainable governance relevant to the pursuit of Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4). Using a theory-guided qualitative document analysis anchored in the capacity-to-govern framework, a systematically curated DepEd policy corpus was examined. The analysis evaluated the degree of alignment across five governance dimensions. Findings indicate that the Department of Education is policy-rich and moderately aligns with principles of sustainable governance by Clark and Harley (2020). Strong normative commitments to SDG 4 coexist with uneven governance capacities needed to operationalize them. While policy coherence and equity commitments are generally well articulated, most policies demonstrate only moderate operationalisation in terms of resource capacity, multi-level governance, and adaptive capacity. The study contributes to sustainability science by demonstrating the applicability of the capacity-to-govern framework in educational policy analysis, provides an analytical model for examining how policy architectures support or constrain systemic progress toward SDG 4 and highlights the need for future research using empirical implementation data to validate identified gaps.
Copyright (c) 2026 Michael Garlan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Advancing the Sustainable Urban Air Mobility Indicators (SUAMI) Framework: Integrating Non-Core Indicators and Proposing New Metrics for UAM
The integration of Urban Air Mobility (UAM) into urban transportation systems represents a significant step towards sustainable and innovative mobility solutions. Building upon the Sustainable Urban Air Mobility Indicators (SUAMI) framework introduced previously, this study extends the framework by analysing and integrating non-core indicators from the Sustainable Urban Mobility Indicators (SUMI). Each indicator’s relevance and applicability to UAM are systematically evaluated, and necessary adaptations are proposed. Furthermore, this paper identifies critical gaps in the existing framework and introduces new indicators tailored to address the unique characteristics and challenges of UAM. These include environmental, operational, societal, and infrastructure-specific metrics essential for the practical assessment and successful implementation of UAM in smart cities. By refining and expanding the SUAMI framework, this work provides municipalities and policymakers with a comprehensive tool to evaluate and guide UAM integration, supporting sustainability, safety, and efficiency objectives.
Sustainable Urban Air Mobility Indicators (SUAMI)
Sustainable Urban Mobility Indicators (SUMI)
Copyright (c) 2026 Anna Palaiologk, Kyriaki Daskaloudi, Eleftheria Georganti https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Urban Challenges and Planning in the Global South: An Introduction to the Strategic Management Sustainability Framework (SMSF) and Tool (SMST)
Rapid urbanisation is one of the biggest challenges of the Global South. This paper introduces the Strategic Management Sustainability Framework (SMSF) and Tool (SMST), its relevance and applications to challenges of urban planning in the Global South. It aims to show how the SMSF or SMST can be used to meet the challenges of town and city urban planning by building preparedness, resilience and better conditions for liveability and sustainability in these areas. This is done through an expanded PESTLE Analysis-based multi-sectoral SMSF, which has been developed into a computerized Tool (SMST). The two (also referred to as the African PESTLE Analysis (APA)) comprise the same innovation, which is conceptually grounded in the principles/values of the African woman, particularly in villages.
Copyright (c) 2026 Karamo N. M. Sonko, Mariama Sonko https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Waste is Not a Waste: The Material and Temporal Value of Waste in the Anthropogenic Era
Waste has had a persistent material and cultural presence that has co-evolved with human societies. Throughout history, waste has functioned as both a life-sustaining resource and a destabilising force when neglected. Contemporary consumer economies have produced unprecedented waste volumes, leading to increasing instances of environmental pollution. Simultaneously, advancements in infrastructure systems have led to waste outputs becoming increasingly invisible, distancing the public from accumulation volumes. This distancing reinforces stigmatisations of waste as valueless, dirty, and external to human life, obscuring its material continuity and ecological agency. A review of environmental history, waste infrastructures, cultural narratives, and artistic practices reveals that the designation of items as waste is not intrinsic to materials, but socially constructed. This perception perpetuates psychological barriers in designating value in waste, a vital component in meeting circular economy objectives. Reframing waste within an ongoing “Anthro-cycle” can reposition humans as embedded agents within cyclical flows of matter. Greater visibility of waste across its lifecycle, alongside cultural, behavioural, and regulatory shifts, is essential for developing equitable and genuinely circular socio-ecological systems. Such revaluation redefines waste as a resource and an opportunity.
Copyright (c) 2026 Randa L Kachef, Gayle Chong Kwan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Effective Communication in Alternative Food Networks: A Scoping Review and Implications for Scottish Food Systems
This study conducts a scoping review of primarily European literature (2015-2025) to synthesise reported communication strategies within Alternative Food Networks (AFNs) and derive implications for enhancing local food systems in Scotland. The synthesis indicates that the literature most frequently reports a combined use of direct interpersonal engagement and digital platforms as an effective approach. A dominant, cross-cutting theme is the strategic use of narrative construction through storytelling, branding and labelling, to convey messages concerning product quality, sustainability and community. These communicative practices are associated with reported gains in social and economic capital for AFNs. Based on this synthesis, we suggest that for Scottish AFNs, consistently developing a coherent narrative identity and employing an integrated, multi-channel strategy represent promising considerations for strengthening community engagement and network resilience.
Copyright (c) 2026 Nsongurua Inyang, Shadi Hashem, Katrin Prager https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Assessing the Gender–Labor–Growth Nexus in West Africa: Econometric Evidence from The Gambia and Senegal
Gender equality is central in the 17 SDG goals, especially in emerging and developing countries, where disparities in gender remain persistent. This study shows the relationship between gender inequality, labour force and economic growth in two countries in Sub-Saharan Africa: The Gambia and Senegal. Data was collected from the World Bank database covering the period from 2000 to 2023. Advanced econometric techniques, including panel data fixed and random effects estimation and System GMM, were used as an endogeneity test. The Hausman specification test reveals that random effects are more appropriate for our data analysis. Random effects estimates reveal that a one-unit increase in the Gender Parity Index reduces GDP per capita by approximately 2.42 units (p < 0.05), while a 1% rise in female primary enrolment boosts GDP by 0.085 units. On the other hand, promoting women's school attendance, elementary education and labour force involvement pays off economically. The multi-model results consistently show that gender disparity has both negative and positive effects on GDP per capita, depending on the dimension examined.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ebrima K. Ceesay, Fatou Cisse, Lamin Fatou Bayo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Residential Smart Dual Fuel Switching System (SDFSS) for Simultaneous Reduction of Energy Cost and GHG Emissions
As technology shifts toward more environmentally friendly alternatives, future heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in Canada are expected to transition away from natural gas heating to electrical heating. However, a relatively rapid large-scale shift from natural gas to electricity will pose issues for utilities and consumers. In order to smooth the transition from a natural gas-dominated space heating infrastructure to an electrically powered heat pump, an intermediary solution is needed to allow society to transition efficiently and cost-effectively. The proposed intermediary technology integrates a natural gas furnace (NGF) with an air source heat pump (ASHP) and utilises a smart dual fuel switching system (SDFSS) controller. In this study, an SDFSS is implemented in residential houses to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and overall operational costs. The heat-mapping analysis of the hybrid system with the SDFSS controller shows a clear seasonal shift in ASHP operation. During milder winter months, such as April, the ASHP operates significantly more, accounting for 57% of the total hours (414). ASHP usage drops dramatically in January, when it runs for only 2% of the hours (12 hours) due to higher operating costs in extremely cold conditions. This indicates that while the ASHP is a cost-effective option during moderate weather, the NGF is the preferred choice for the tested house during periods of extreme cold. The study also highlights that the SDFSS has the potential to reduce operational costs by up to 33% compared to the single-variable switching system.
Smart Dual Fuel Switching System (SDFSS)
Copyright (c) 2026 King Tung, Alan S. Fung, Rakesh Kumar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Determinants of Building-Sector CO2 Emissions in the EU: A Combined Econometric and Machine Learning Approach
The research aims to explore the structural, environmental, and climatic factors that influence carbon dioxide emissions in the building sector across the 27 member states of the European Union between 2005 and 2023. It is evident that higher activity in the primary sector, along with higher forest area, is associated with reduced building sector emissions, while environmental stress, air pollution, and demands for heating and cooling are positively related to building sector emissions. Subsequent analyses show that there are significant differences between EU member states, differentiating between those that are classified under high-emitting patterns, including pollution, inefficient energy, and adverse climatic conditions, and those that are classified under low-emitting patterns, including clean energy sources and favourable environmental conditions.
Copyright (c) 2026 Marco Mele, Alberto Costantiello, Fabio Anobile, Angelo Leogrande https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Economic Growth, Energy Consumption, and Environmental Quality in Sub‑Saharan Africa: Testing the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) Hypothesis
This paper empirically tests the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis for sub-Saharan Africa, using CO₂ emission as a proxy for environmental quality. The analysis employs panel pooled data for 39 countries from 1990 to 2019. We find evidence of an inverted U-shaped relationship between income and emissions, as GDP per capita has a positive effect and its square has a negative effect on CO₂ emissions, thereby supporting the EKC hypothesis. Our results reveal a dual role for renewable energy. When CO₂ emissions are the dependent variable, renewable energy consumption significantly reduces emissions, while non-renewable energy increases them. Additionally, population size and literacy rate are found to positively affect CO₂ emissions. In contrast, when economic growth is the dependent variable, renewable energy has a positive and significant influence. These findings indicate that expanding renewable energy production in sub-Saharan Africa offers a dual advantage, enhancing environmental quality while also contributing to stronger economic performance. By demonstrating that renewable energy reduces CO₂ emissions and supports growth, the results provide important guidance for policymakers seeking to advance sustainable development pathways that are compatible with long‑term environmental conservation across the region.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ebrima K. Ceesay, Matarr Njie, Emmanuel Igbinoba, Etse Yawo Dzakpa, Mohamed Ben Omar Ndiaye, Amie M. Jobe, Amadou Cham, Ebrima B. Jallow, Cherno Jallow, Lamin B. Jammeh https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Reframing Clean Beauty: Governance, Transparency, and Biodiversity-Related Practices in the Global Cosmetics Sector with Implications for Japan
The rapid global expansion of clean beauty, which relies extensively on natural capital, raises questions about its environmental impact, particularly in relation to biodiversity conservation. While the industrial demand for natural ingredients continues to rise, empirical assessments linking clean beauty practices and biodiversity outcomes remain limited. This study presents an exploratory, governance-oriented assessment of biodiversity-related practices among clean beauty brands, based on publicly available disclosures. This study develops a quantitative scoring framework for evaluating 10 major international and Japanese clean beauty brands using a small-10 pilot design across five domains: (1) sustainable sourcing, (2) biodiversity conservation initiatives, (3) supply-chain traceability, (4) ESG disclosure, and (5) environmental innovation. Japan's comparison is institutionally motivated. The results indicate that biodiversity performance is determined less by the use of natural ingredients or market scale and more by governance mechanisms, such as structured sourcing programs, third-party certifications, and transparent reporting systems. International brands consistently outperform Japanese brands, reflecting stronger institutional environments and higher biodiversity literacy abroad. In contrast, domestic brands showed lower disclosure levels and greater performance variance, partly due to weaker national standards and limited public awareness of biodiversity issues. The findings suggest that clean beauty should be reframed not as a category defined by naturalness, but as a governance model that enables coexistence with nature. In addition to standardisation by industry organisations, policy implications include the need for standardised biodiversity metrics in Japan and potential governmental support, such as subsidies to help small- and medium-sized enterprises obtain internationally recognised sustainability certifications. Future research should integrate and evaluate industry standards and life-cycle assessment to assess biodiversity impacts in the cosmetics sector.
Copyright (c) 2026 Miyuki Nagai https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Mainstreaming Nature-based Solutions for Climate-induced Disaster Risk Reduction in the Philippines’ Build Better More Project: From Vicious to Virtuous Cycles
The Philippines confronts an escalating climate crisis, with annual disaster losses projected to reach 7.6% of GDP by 2030. Despite the proven efficacy of nature-based solutions (NbS), their integration into national development planning remains marginal, as epitomised by the flagship “Build Better More” (BBM) project. This study diagnoses this implementation gap as a fundamental systems failure: the systematic undervaluation of critical natural capital. This capital is conceptualised as a synergistic socio-ecological life-support system—the integrated integrity of ecological resilience, abiotic surroundings, and biotic communities (A+B+C=D). Consequently, NbS are treated as peripheral add-ons, perpetuating a self-reinforcing vicious cycle of maladaptive grey infrastructure investment and costly reconstruction. Employing systems thinking and causal loop modelling, we demonstrate how the BBM Project’s current structure actively degrades this foundation (A+B+C=D), locking development into a path of accelerating risk. A quantitative system dynamics model proves that a hybrid NbS-grey portfolio yields vastly superior economic and resilience outcomes. We therefore prescribe a transformative triple-track intervention: (1) innovative finance, for example, resilience bonds; (2) governance restructuring to integrate environmental mandates; and (3) legally embedded equity safeguards such as mandatory Social Equity and Distributional Impact Assessments. This integrated blueprint is designed to dismantle the vicious cycles and initiate stabilising virtuous cycles of socio-ecological resilience. We conclude that the BBM Project’s objectives are unattainable without this foundational institutional shift. While grounded in the Philippines, our diagnostic framework of vicious and virtuous cycles provides a transferable roadmap for climate-vulnerable nations to transition from costly degradation to a climate-resilient future.
Copyright (c) 2026 Choy Yee Keong, Lizan E. Perante-Calina, Ramces M. Dili https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Building a Product-level Bio-based Circularity Monitoring Framework
Despite the proliferation of circular economy (CE) indicators and the lack of harmonised measurement conventions, bio-based industries still lack tailored, product-level metrics to guide their circular transition. Three sectors are particularly relevant due to their environmental impacts: fertilisers, packaging, and textiles. This article builds upon indicator mappings by critically assessing how existing indicators account for relevant CE principles and activities, and by developing complementary indicators to address identified gaps. The goal is to propose a product-level circularity monitoring and benchmarking framework tailored for bio-based fertilisers, packaging, and textiles. Following the design research method, existing metrics were characterised, those covering the largest number of CE practices were selected, and complementary indicators were developed to extend the information provided by the original metrics. The framework bridges recurring gaps by incorporating the ratio of biodegradable or compostable materials used in manufacturing, the consumption of virgin materials in packaging manufacturing and textile fibre treatment, and the speed of fertiliser nutrient release. The proposed framework was ultimately feasibility-tested through sectoral applications and industry engagement, demonstrating data availability for computation, interpretive usefulness, and managerial relevance for eco-innovative firms under the tested conditions. Results should be interpreted as comparative screening and monitoring outputs, rather than certification-like estimates.
Copyright (c) 2026 Hasler Iglesias, Ana Paredes Ortiz, Francisca Sánchez-Liarte, David Fernández-Gutiérrez, Andrés J. Lara-Guillén https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Assessing Vulnerability to Poverty for Households in Western African Countries: Evidence from Rural Gambia
This study assesses household vulnerability to poverty in rural Gambia using the Vulnerability as Expected Poverty (VEP) approach, based on cross-sectional data. This approach provides a forward-looking measure of welfare, moving beyond static poverty headcounts to identify households at risk of future poverty. We interchanged income, total consumption, and food consumption to estimate vulnerability, thereby employing multiple welfare metrics to ensure robust, dimension-specific findings. A three-step Feasible Generalised Least Squares (FGLS) method was applied: first, estimating the ex-ante mean using OLS; second, modelling variance from squared residuals; and third, correcting for heteroskedasticity to predict vulnerability. Findings show that household size has a positive and significant effect on expected log income, while its squared term is negative and significant, indicating diminishing returns. The age of the household head has a slightly positive but statistically insignificant effect on income, with the squared term weakening this effect. Employment status is positively associated with income; a one-unit increase leads to a 2.9% rise in expected log income and reduced vulnerability. Educational attainment also shows a positive, though insignificant, effect. Non-land production assets significantly reduce vulnerability, with a one-unit increase lowering it by 18.8%. The share of irrigated land contributes to a 4.4% reduction in vulnerability. To reduce vulnerability in rural Gambia, government efforts should focus on expanding access to irrigation and productive assets, especially for smallholder farmers. Employment programs targeting rural youth and women can enhance income stability. Strengthening vocational education and improving access to agricultural extension services will also help households build resilience and reduce future vulnerability and poverty risks.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ebrima K. Ceesay, Massimo Morelli https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Wetland Destruction Trends in Three African Cities and Their Sustainability Implications
Sustainable city development encompasses the integration of the natural environment; as such, key ecosystems such as wetlands are essential in ensuring ecological equilibrium and urban sustainability. Rapid urbanisation, weak regulatory frameworks, and socioeconomic pressures have led to a massive degradation of urban wetlands in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This study examines the rate of wetland depletion in Dar es Salaam, Accra and Lagos, primarily relying on satellite imagery from the year 2000 to 2024. The result of the study is worrying and shows significant wetland loss across these three major cities. For instance, the rate of wetlands coverage in Dar es Salaam dropped from 11% in 2004 to 6% in 2024, while the coverage of built-up/developed areas rose from 18% to 67%. Land cover results for Accra and Lagos also showed similar trends. These changes over time suggest the need to adopt innovative, tried and tested approaches that can be used to protect the natural environment in developing countries. The study recommends approaches such as Conservation easements, Purchase of Development Rights (PDR), Transfer of Development Rights (TDR), and Urban Growth Boundaries (UGB) for the protection and preservation of wetlands in SSA. Incorporating these into urban planning and public awareness campaigns can help stop more loss and create sustainable urban futures in SSA cities.
Copyright (c) 2025 Kwaku Karikari Manu, Seth Appiah-Opoku, Nana Serwaa Antwi, Kwasi Aning Dwumah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Enterprise Architecture Principles to Foster Societal Responsibility
How to implement sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR) is an important question for organisations. In investment decisions, these issues must be taken into consideration because they represent long-term prospects. In discussions about Enterprise Architecture (EA), which provides a long-term view of an organisation's development, these issues are considered by many authors to be an essential part of the EA. However, in practice, architects struggle with how to implement these topics in their EA. In this paper, we introduce a framework to classify sustainability and CSR goals. Based on this framework, we propose a set of EA principles that architects can adapt to their organisation to tailor the EA to these goals.
Copyright (c) 2025 Henk Plessius https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Shifting Capital Toward Sustainable Business Models: How Entrepreneurial Stories Resonate with Impact Investors
In impact investing, there is a tension between the expected financial return on investment (ROI) and the positive benefits to society (impact) of a particular investment. Balancing ROI and impact is a persistent challenge for impact investors as they scale up and support the ecological transition. Conversely, sustainable entrepreneurs engaged in this transition seek to position themselves for impact investment by crafting stories that resonate with impact investors. The theory of cultural entrepreneurship provides a lens through which to understand this process. By applying this theory to the ROI-impact balancing decision, this qualitative study advances the theoretical understanding of what leads to resonance in an investment context through interviews with impact investors. The study has practical relevance by articulating a framework for the ROI-impact balancing decision that can be useful to impact asset owners and managers.
Copyright (c) 2026 Philip Glynn, Justin Catanoso https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Disappearing Green: Ecosystem Service Loss in Atlanta, Georgia
Urban green spaces play a critical regulatory role in sustaining ecosystem functions, however, rapid urbanization has significantly altered land-use patterns, reduced green cover, and intensified both urban heat island effects and air pollution in many cities around the world. This study assesses the spatiotemporal land-use/land-cover (LULC) changes in Atlanta, Georgia, and examines their effects on ecosystem services, urban heat island (UHI) intensity, and air-quality conditions. Landsat imagery from 1995, 2005, 2015, and 2025 was processed using Support Vector Machine (SVM) classification to quantify LULC transitions, while NDVI-based emissivity land surface temperature (LST) retrieval and interpolated PM2.5 concentrations were used to evaluate thermal and air-quality patterns. Results indicate substantial ecosystem service depletion, with forest cover declining by 19.94% and water bodies by 65.17%, while developed land increased by 83.46% between 1995 and 2025. UHI analysis for 2025 showed temperatures ranging from 21.8°C in vegetated zones to 38.4°C in highly urbanized areas, representing a relative UHI intensity of 16.6°C. Air-quality patterns revealed similarly concerning trends, with PM2.5 concentrations rising to 18–22 µg/m³ in built-up areas over 40% higher than levels in undeveloped areas. The study identifies uncontrolled population growth, urban sprawl, and infrastructure expansion as key drivers of these changes and recommends promoting infill development, expanding green infrastructure, and integrating nature-based solutions such as green roofs and bioswales in future urban planning.
Copyright (c) 2025 Kwaku Karikari Manu, Seth Appiah-Opoku, Madusha Maha Gamage, Kwadwo Nketia Kumankuma Sarpong, Jacob Nchagmado Tagnan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Paradox of Consumption: Material Happiness vs. Environmental Impact
This article analyses the correlation between consumerism and happiness, investigating whether owning more material goods contributes to increasing happiness levels. The research addresses the issue of the ecological footprint since the consumerist lifestyle contributes significantly to increasing environmental impact. The methodology adopted is quantitative, using a questionnaire to collect the data. The data was statistically analysed to identify patterns, correlations, and possible differences between the groups, considering variables such as age, monthly income, gender, and the region of the planet where the participants lived most of their lives. The results show that monthly income does not influence happiness, and that young people are concerned about the environment. However, those aged 18 to 24 are the ones who acquire more goods for the sake of status, especially males. They tend to prioritise personal relationships over material achievements as they get older. This work will contribute to the discussion on the role of consumerism in contemporary society, reflecting not only on the implications for individual happiness but also for global sustainability.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ricardo Ramos, Maria José Rodrigues, Isilda Rodrigues https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Gendered Food Insecurity: Achieving SDG 2 for Climate-Affected Women in Rural Economies
This article examines systemic and structural governance barriers to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 2 (SDG 2) for rural women in climate-affected regions of the Global South, using Ghana and Bangladesh as focal countries. While the centrality of women's roles in food systems is acknowledged in literature, intersecting gender inequalities, climate vulnerability, and institutional blind spots continue to marginalise rural women within food security and adaptation policies. The study employs an integrative literature review and interpretive qualitative content analysis, grounded in an intersectional and rights-based analytical framework, to synthesise how gender, land tenure, climate exposure, economic informality, and policy recognition are addressed within SDG 2–related scholarship and policy documents. The focal countries provide illustrative reference contexts that help the analysis identify recurring patterns and omissions that constrain gender-responsive food systems governance. The review indicates that the absence of appropriate policy frameworks is not the major impediment to achieving SDG 2 goals. Still, rather fragmented institutional framing, including gender-blind adaptation strategies, insecure land governance, undervaluation of informal labour, and weak participatory accountability, are the greater impediments to success. The study concludes by outlining governance-oriented policy implications for aligning SDG 2 implementation with gender equity and climate resilience.
Copyright (c) 2026 Cynthia C. Umezulike https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Weighing on the Capabilities of Big Data Analytics for Sustainable Supply Chain Management in Construction Projects
The construction industry faces significant challenges in implementing sustainable Supply Chain Management (SSCM) practices. This study explores the capability of big data analytics in enhancing SSCM in construction projects. A comprehensive literature review was conducted to identify the benefits, challenges, and barriers of adopting Big Data technologies in SSCM. The findings highlight the importance of big data analytics in improving supply chain visibility, reducing risks, and promoting sustainable practices. The study also identifies several challenges and barriers to the adoption of Big Data technologies in SSCM, including social, economic, and environmental concerns. The research provides insights into the role of big data analytics in driving SSCM in the construction industry. The study's findings have significant implications for construction companies, policymakers, and stakeholders seeking to improve the sustainability of their supply chains. By leveraging big data analytics, construction companies can enhance their SSCM practices, reduce their environmental impact, and improve their bottom line. This study contributes to the growing body of research on Big Data and SSCM in the construction industry.
Sustainable Supply Chain Management (SSCM)
Copyright (c) 2026 Samuel Egwunatum, Nwabueze M. Anosike, MercyJane N. Ihekweme https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Effect of Carbon Accounting and Pricing on a Discounted Cash Flow-based Investment Decision in Real Estate
The real estate sector must transition towards a low-carbon economy. In current investment decisions, carbon emissions are insufficiently considered and may not contribute to a low-carbon portfolio aligned with the sector's target. Therefore, investors require a change in the current DCF model-based investment decision to direct capital to projects that support this goal. This paper examines the impact of carbon accounting and pricing on a standard investment model using the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Three additional cash flows are modelled, representing the costs for Embodied Carbon (ECC), Operational Carbon Cost (OCC), and Maintenance Carbon Cost (MCC). This paper introduces a novel application of carbon pricing in real estate investment, accounting for embodied, operational, and maintenance-related emissions during the use phase, which results in a practical framework and guide for practitioners. The Carbon Price needs to be sufficiently high to make an impact and contribute to excluding energy-inefficient assets as an investment opportunity. Furthermore, the influence of ECC is minor compared to OCC, making carbon pricing for ECC less relevant in investment decisions. Ultimately, the MCC is a significant factor to consider when making an investment decision. Carbon pricing can encourage the use of circular and biobased materials, reducing emissions during the construction, renovation, and use phases. Investors should apply a carbon price to affect investment decisions by excluding carbon-intensive assets from investment portfolios. Investors could align their capital with the sector's low-carbon goal by including monetised carbon emissions in an investment decision.
Copyright (c) 2025 Jorg de Jonge, Michaël Peeters, Arjan van Timmeren, Ellen van Bueren https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0