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1 – 10 of 216Ganesh Narkhede, Satish Chinchanikar, Rupesh Narkhede and Tansen Chaudhari
With ever-increasing global concerns over environmental degradation and resource scarcity, the need for sustainable manufacturing (SM) practices has become paramount. Industry 5.0…
Abstract
Purpose
With ever-increasing global concerns over environmental degradation and resource scarcity, the need for sustainable manufacturing (SM) practices has become paramount. Industry 5.0 (I5.0), the latest paradigm in the industrial revolution, emphasizes the integration of advanced technologies with human capabilities to achieve sustainable and socially responsible production systems. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the role of I5.0 in enabling SM. Furthermore, the review discusses the integration of sustainable practices into the core of I5.0.
Design/methodology/approach
The systematic literature review (SLR) method is adopted to: explore the understanding of I5.0 and SM; understand the role of I5.0 in addressing sustainability challenges, including resource optimization, waste reduction, energy efficiency and ethical considerations and propose a framework for effective implementation of the I5.0 concept in manufacturing enterprises.
Findings
The concept of I5.0 represents a progressive step forward from previous industrial revolutions, emphasizing the integration of advanced technologies with a focus on sustainability. I5.0 offers opportunities to optimize resource usage and minimize environmental impact. Through the integration of automation, artificial intelligence (AI) and big data analytics (BDA), manufacturers can enhance process efficiency, reduce waste and implement proactive sustainability measures. By embracing I5.0 and incorporating SM practices, industries can move towards a more resource-efficient, environmentally friendly and socially responsible manufacturing paradigm.
Research limitations/implications
The findings presented in this article have several implications including the changing role of the workforce, skills requirements and the need for ethical considerations for SM, highlighting the need for interdisciplinary collaborations, policy support and stakeholder engagement to realize its full potential.
Originality/value
This article aims to stand on an unbiased assessment to ascertain the landscape occupied by the role of I5.0 in driving sustainability in the manufacturing sector. In addition, the proposed framework will serve as a basis for the effective implementation of I5.0 for SM.
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Yan Li, Shuangliang Tai and Zirui Tai
Green construction is increasingly vital in promoting sustainability within the construction industry. The development and promotion of green construction technologies are central…
Abstract
Purpose
Green construction is increasingly vital in promoting sustainability within the construction industry. The development and promotion of green construction technologies are central to this endeavor. However, existing evaluations mainly target building components, construction projects or certain construction processes. There is a notable absence of research into the greenness of construction technologies. Assessing the greenness of construction technologies is crucial for streamlining resource utilization and reducing waste. To address this gap, this study aims to establish a Greenness of Construction Technologies (GCT) evaluation model using the method of analytic network process (ANP).
Design/methodology/approach
Green construction is increasingly vital in promoting sustainability within the construction industry. The development and promotion of green construction technologies are central to this endeavor. However, existing evaluations mainly target building components, construction projects or certain construction processes. There is a notable absence of research into the greenness of construction technologies. Assessing the greenness of construction technologies is crucial for streamlining resource utilization and reducing waste. To address this gap, this study establishes a GCT evaluation model using the method of ANP.
Findings
Among the four formwork technologies of plastic, steel, plywood and wooden formwork, the plastic formwork exhibits the best performance in terms of environmental friendliness, economic and social effects, while facing issues like material wastage and low static strength. The results align with practical observations which validates the model’s applicability.
Originality/value
This research contributes to the field by introducing the concept of greenness into construction technology evaluation for the first time. The establishment of the GCT evaluation model promotes the adoption of green construction technologies and advances sustainable practices in the construction industry.
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Mira Schwarz, Lara Greta Müller and Bernhard Schmitz
It is inherent in human nature to pursue a fulfilling life. The art-of-living approach provides strategies to help individuals attain higher well-being. Based on current research…
Abstract
Purpose
It is inherent in human nature to pursue a fulfilling life. The art-of-living approach provides strategies to help individuals attain higher well-being. Based on current research approaches on the art-of-living, we aimed to develop, implement and evaluate an online training that enhances art-of-living and well-being scores of flight attendants.
Design/methodology/approach
The training focused on six art-of-living components – self-knowledge, savoring, bodily care, coping with events, positive attitude toward life and serenity. In total, 94 participants were randomly assigned to 3-day (n = 34) or 9-day (n = 30) training groups or to 2 corresponding control groups (CGs) (n = 30). Art-of-living and well-being were measured using self-reported questionnaires at pre-intervention, post-intervention and two-week follow-up.
Findings
Results showed significant pre-post differences in art-of-living and well-being scores in both experimental groups, while scores for the CGs remained stable across assessments. Intervention effects were sustained over the two-week follow-up period. We found no significant differences in efficacy between the shorter and longer training, suggesting that brief training can be effective.
Practical implications
These results demonstrate that well-being can be enhanced through online art-of-living training, which is promising in terms of the practical implementation of such training in resource-constrained work environments.
Originality/value
The presented, conducted and evaluated work intervention represents the first study to apply the multi-component approach of “art-of-living” in an online setting, comparing two trainings of varying durations. This approach offers a framework perfectly suited for future implementation in flight attendants’ work settings to increase well-being and a possible subsequent implementation in other professional groups that would benefit from online training (e.g. in a hybrid work context).
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Mohammad B. Hamida, Hilde Remøy, Vincent Gruis and Brian van Laar
Circular building adaptability (CBA) in adaptive reuse – building transformation – projects can facilitate a resource-efficient and futureproof redevelopment of the built…
Abstract
Purpose
Circular building adaptability (CBA) in adaptive reuse – building transformation – projects can facilitate a resource-efficient and futureproof redevelopment of the built environment. However, there has been a lack of practical tools that guide practitioners on how to foster CBA in adaptive reuse. Therefore, this study aims to collaboratively develop a guiding framework for CBA in adaptive reuse (CBA-AR) projects in general. The CBA-AR framework is a descriptive and content-oriented synthesis mapping a series of strategies to the CBA determinants alongside their enablers and inhibitors.
Design/methodology/approach
A participatory research-oriented approach was followed. First, an archival research was conducted to develop the CBA-AR framework based on literature review and case studies. Second, two co-creation workshops, triangulated with structured interviews, were conducted to validate and expand the framework.
Findings
The first version of the CBA-AR framework comprises 30 CBA strategies. It also brings seven enablers and six inhibitors together with the 30 CBA strategies. The outcomes of the participatory approach contributed to refining and expanding the framework. The final of the CBA-AR framework version comprises CBA 33 strategies. This version brings 10 enablers and 7 inhibitors together with the 33 strategies.
Practical implications
This framework can be used as a guiding and reporting instrument by designers and property developers while transforming vacant or obsolete properties in the Netherlands. Policy makers can refer to this framework and amend adaptive reuse legislation.
Originality/value
The CBA-AR framework can introduce a transformative change in theory and practice, as it is based on theoretical, empirical and participatory research.
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Harshad Sonar, Isha Sharma, Nikhil Ghag and Bhagyashri Raje
The agri-food industry is experiencing a revolutionary shift due to the introduction of Industry 4.0 technologies to improve efficiency, transparency and sustainability. The…
Abstract
Purpose
The agri-food industry is experiencing a revolutionary shift due to the introduction of Industry 4.0 technologies to improve efficiency, transparency and sustainability. The importance of agri-food supply chains (AFSC) in promoting sustainability is expanding as the globe struggles with issues including resource scarcity, climate change and population growth. In order to better understand how Industry 4.0 might improve sustainability in a world that is changing quickly, this work aims to focus on identifying various sustainability assessment factors influencing AFSC to increase overall sustainability, minimize resource consumption, cut waste and streamline operations.
Design/methodology/approach
Important sustainability assessment factors are identified from the past academic literature and are then validated using the fuzzy-Delphi method. A method called decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) is used to examine and analyze structural models with complex causal linkages. The results are then validated using sensitivity analysis.
Findings
The factors that emerged as the highest ranked for evaluating the sustainability of Industry 4.0 in AFSC are market competitiveness, and knowledge and skill development, followed by resource efficiency. Industry 4.0 technologies are essential for increasing the marketability of agricultural products because of the major implications of market competitiveness. The significance of knowledge and skill development draws attention to Industry 4.0’s contribution to the promotion of chances for farmers and agricultural employees to increase their capability.
Practical implications
By outlining the nexus between Industry 4.0 technologies and sustainability, the study presents a comprehensive framework that would be relevant for researchers, policymakers and industry stakeholders who want to leverage Industry 4.0 technology to build more sustainable AFSC in the future. The study findings can help the farmers or producers make sensible choices that adhere to sustainability standards and guarantee long-term financial viability.
Originality/value
The originality of this work lies in the identification of sustainability assessment factors especially for AFSC in the era of digitalization which has not been discussed previously.
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Francesco Pomponi, Robert Crawford, André Stephan, Jim Hart and Bernardino D'Amico
The construction and operation of buildings is a major contributor to global energy demand, greenhouse gases emissions, resource depletion, waste generation, and associated…
Abstract
The construction and operation of buildings is a major contributor to global energy demand, greenhouse gases emissions, resource depletion, waste generation, and associated environmental effects, such as climate change, pollution and habitat destruction. Despite its wide relevance, research on building-related environmental effects often fails to achieve global visibility and attention, particularly in premiere interdisciplinary journals – thus representing a major gap in the research these journals offer. In this article we review and reflect on the factors that are likely causing this lack of visibility for such a prominent research topic and emphasise the need to reconcile the construction and operational phases into the physical unity of a building, to contribute to the global environmental discourse using a lifecycle-based approach. This article also aims to act as a call for action and to raise awareness of this important gap. The evidence contained in the article can support institutional policies to improve the status quo and provide a practical help to researchers in the field to bring their work to wide interdisciplinary audiences.
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Mukesh Kondala and Nisha Kumari
As more and more cities adopt resilient, inclusive and sustainable principles, circular economy (CE) emerges as a critical ally in developing smart cities. The technology-driven…
Abstract
As more and more cities adopt resilient, inclusive and sustainable principles, circular economy (CE) emerges as a critical ally in developing smart cities. The technology-driven environment of smart cities and CE's resource-efficient principles are perfectly compatible, overcoming challenges and highlighting benefits like increased resource efficiency. The integration of CE in smart cities is thoroughly analyzed in this chapter using VOSviewer and RStudio, tracing its history and pointing urban innovators towards a circular future. The categorization of obstacles to CE implementation in smart cities, the provision of knowledge about barriers and the facilitation of methodical solutions constitute a critical focus of research. Additionally, by analyzing pertinent literature, this investigation highlights the importance of integrating the concepts of the CE and the smart cities, illuminating the interdisciplinary nature of this field. This synthesis provides policymakers and planners with the knowledge they can use to advance sustainable urbanization effectively.
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While most efforts to combat climate change are focussed on energy efficiency and substitution of fossil fuels, growth in the built environment remains largely unquestioned. Given…
Abstract
While most efforts to combat climate change are focussed on energy efficiency and substitution of fossil fuels, growth in the built environment remains largely unquestioned. Given the current climate emergency and increasing scarcity of global resources, it is imperative that we address this “blind spot” by finding ways to support required services with less resource consumption.
There is now long overdue recognition to greenhouse gas emissions “embodied” in the production of building materials and construction, and its importance in reaching targets of net zero carbon by 2050. However, there is a widespread belief that we can continue to “build big”, provided we incorporate energy saving measures and select “low carbon materials” – ignoring the fact that excessive volume and area of buildings may outweigh any carbon savings. This is especially the case with commercial real estate.
As the inception and planning phases of projects offer most potential for reduction in both operational and embodied carbon, we must turn our attention to previously overlooked options such as “build nothing” or “build less”. This involves challenging the root cause of the need, exploring alternative approaches to meet desired outcomes, and maximising the use of existing assets. If new build is required, this should be designed for adaptability, with increased stewardship, so the building stock of the future will be a more valuable and useable resource.
This points to the need for increased understanding and application of the principles of strategic asset management, hitherto largely ignored in sustainability circles, which emphasize a close alignment of assets with the services they support.
Arguably, as the built environment consumes more material resources and energy than any other sector, its future configuration may be critical to the future of people and the planet. In this regard, this paper seeks to break new ground for deeper exploration.
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Kilian Fricke, Thomas Bergs, Philipp Ganser and Martin Seimann
The aviation industry has seen consistent growth over the past few decades. To maintain its sustainability and competitiveness, it is important to have a comprehensive…
Abstract
Purpose
The aviation industry has seen consistent growth over the past few decades. To maintain its sustainability and competitiveness, it is important to have a comprehensive understanding of the environmental impacts across the entire life cycle of the industry, including materials, processes and resources; manufacturing and production; lifetime services; reuse; end-of-life; and recycling. One important component of aircraft engines, integral rotors known as Blisks, are made of high-value metallic alloys that require complex and resource-intensive manufacturing processes. The purpose of this paper is to assess the ecological and economical impacts generated through Blisk production and thereby identify significant ‘hot-spots’.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper focuses on the methodology and approach for conducting a full-scale Blisk life cycle assessment (LCA) based on ISO 14040/44. Unlike previous papers in the European Aerospace Science Network series, which focused on the first two stages of LCA, this publication delves into the “life cycle impact assessment” and “interpretation” stages, providing an overview of the life cycle inventory modeling, impact category selection and presenting preliminary LCA results for the Blisk manufacturing process chain.
Findings
The result shows that the milled titanium Blisk has a lower CO2 footprint than the milled nickel Blisk, which is less than half of the global warming potential (GWP) of the milled nickel Blisk. A main contributor to GWP arises from raw material production. However, no recycling scenarios were included in the analysis, which will be the topic of further investigations.
Originality/value
The originality of this work lies in the detailed ecological assessment of the manufacturing for complex engine components and the derivation of hot spots as well as potential improvements in terms of eco-footprint reduction throughout the products cradle-to-gate cycle. The LCA results serve as a basis for future approaches of process chain optimisation, use of “greener” materials and individual process improvements.
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Kaisu Laitinen, Mika Luhtala, Maiju Örmä and Kalle Vaismaa
Insufficient productivity development in the global and Finnish infrastructure sectors indicates that there are challenges in genuinely achieving the goals of resource efficiency…
Abstract
Purpose
Insufficient productivity development in the global and Finnish infrastructure sectors indicates that there are challenges in genuinely achieving the goals of resource efficiency and digitalization. This study adapts the approach of capability maturity model integration (CMMI) for examining the capabilities for productivity development that reveal the enablers of improving productivity in the infrastructure sector.
Design/methodology/approach
Civil engineering in Finland was selected as the study area, and a qualitative research approach was adopted. A novel maturity model was constructed deductively through a three-step analytical process. Previous research literature was adapted to form a framework with maturity levels and key process areas (KPAs). KPA attributes and their maturity criteria were formed through a thematic analysis of interview data from 12 semi-structured group interviews. Finally, validation and refinement of the model were performed with an expert panel.
Findings
This paper provides a novel maturity model for examining and enhancing the infrastructure sector’s maturity in productivity development. The model brings into discussion the current business logics, relevance of lifecycle-thinking, binding targets and outcomes of limited activities in the surrounding infrastructure system.
Originality/value
This paper provides a new approach for pursuing productivity development in the infrastructure sector by constructing a maturity model that adapts the concepts of CMMI and change management. The model and findings benefit all actors in the sector and provide an understanding of the required elements and means to achieve a more sustainable built environment and effective operations.
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