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This study aims to highlight the energy improvement potentials of Pakistan's paper sector that is one of the most energy intensive industries by benchmarking its specific energy consumption (SEC) to produce a similar grade of paper. To address issues such as the lack of indicators for energy efficiency benchmarking in Pakistan's paper industry. Furthermore, energy saving potential was estimated by comparison with paper industries in the United Kingdom and Canada, where energy benchmarks have already been established and data on energy benchmarking is readily available. This study energy consumption data accounts for 75% of the total energy utilized in Pakistan's paper industry and is compared with the energy consumption of the UK and Canada paper sectors where the most up-to-date energy-saving techniques are used. The calculation shows that when compared to the paper industries in the UK and Canada, Pakistan's paper industry utilizes an additional 1.3 MWh of energy for every tonne of paper produced. With a total yearly paper production of 314,549 metric tonnes, this equates to an additional 408,913 MWh of overall annual energy use. It is concluded that if the proposed energy benchmark in this study is applied within the country's mill comparison, savings of 16.4% of overall energy consumption in the Pakistan paper sector can be achieved. It is also shown that the implementation of the best available techniques used in the UK and Canada in Pakistan's paper sector could result in a potential energy saving of 43% of the total energy consumed by this sector.

A growing research interest currently exists in the use of paper as a building material. This work aims to present the results of a measurement campaign developed on innovative waste paper-based building components. The research was carried out in Southern Italy and used some local by-product aggregates. Three different mixture designs were developed in the laboratory by adding three kinds of biomass to a pulp paper blend: fava bean residues (FB), sawdust powder (SP) and coffee grains (CG) extracted from exhausted chaffs. A physical characterization was carried out measuring the bulk density and bulk porosity. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis of the single aggregates was followed by a microstructure analysis of the final components. Bulk density evaluation showed a range between 200 and 348 kg·m−3. Furthermore, thermal performances were measured; the thermal conductivity of the experimented samples ranged from 0.071 to 0.093 W·m−1·K−1, thus it is possible to classify the tested materials as thermal insulators. Moreover, the acoustic properties were evaluated and tested. The normal incidence sound absorption coefficient was measured by the impedance tube on cylindrical specimens. In general, a different behavior was observed between the upper and lower base of each specimen due to the manufacturing process and the shrinkage caused by the different interactions occurring between the aggregates and the pulp paper waste; for example, the presence of sawdust reduced shrinkage in the final specimens, with consequent smaller physical variations among the two faces. The correlation existing between the manufacturing process and the microstructural properties was also investigated by the estimation of the non-acoustical parameters using the inverse method and taking into account the JCA (Johnson, Champoux and Allard) model as a reference.

A growing research interest currently exists in the use of paper as a building material. This work aims to present the results of a measurement campaign developed on innovative waste paper-based building components. The research was carried out in Southern Italy and used some local by-product aggregates. Three different mixture designs were developed in the laboratory by adding three kinds of biomass to a pulp paper blend: fava bean residues (FB), sawdust powder (SP) and coffee grains (CG) extracted from exhausted chaffs. A physical characterization was carried out measuring the bulk density and bulk porosity. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis of the single aggregates was followed by a microstructure analysis of the final components. Bulk density evaluation showed a range between 200 and 348 kg·m−3. Furthermore, thermal performances were measured; the thermal conductivity of the experimented samples ranged from 0.071 to 0.093 W·m−1·K−1, thus it is possible to classify the tested materials as thermal insulators. Moreover, the acoustic properties were evaluated and tested. The normal incidence sound absorption coefficient was measured by the impedance tube on cylindrical specimens. In general, a different behavior was observed between the upper and lower base of each specimen due to the manufacturing process and the shrinkage caused by the different interactions occurring between the aggregates and the pulp paper waste; for example, the presence of sawdust reduced shrinkage in the final specimens, with consequent smaller physical variations among the two faces. The correlation existing between the manufacturing process and the microstructural properties was also investigated by the estimation of the non-acoustical parameters using the inverse method and taking into account the JCA (Johnson, Champoux and Allard) model as a reference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The provision of sustainable housing should factor energy efficiency, the use of sustainable building methods and materials and address the current associated barriers. This consideration triggered an ongoing study in UK which has so far conducted a bibliometric analysis of 275 papers using the VOSviewer software. More papers have been published in the last 5 years compared to the previous 15, and the UK is less engaged in successful collaborations in comparison to other economically developed nations. The lesser use of innovation in the UK has been identified. Also, the uses of sustainable methods and materials in residential housing are not fully exploited for achieving energy efficiency. A future research direction emerging is the potential to study the combined impact of using innovative materials and methods to achieve greater energy efficiency in UK housing provision. Through technological innovations and the need to move from fossil fuels (for example, through the use of heat pumps) a new approach can move the UK closer to achieving net-zero in housing provision and operations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Additive manufacturing (AM) offers unique capabilities in terms of design freedom and customization, contributing to sustainable manufacturing. However, energy efficiency remains a challenge in the widespread adoption of AM processes. In this paper, we present a comprehensive review of the current research on energy efficiency in AM, addressing challenges, opportunities, and future directions. Our analysis reveals a lack of standardization in the measurement and reporting of energy consumption, making it difficult to evaluate and compare the energy performance of various systems. We propose a holistic framework to address energy efficiency throughout the entire life cycle of the AM process, highlighting the importance of design optimization, material selection, advanced control systems, and energy management strategies. The paper also emphasizes the need for further research on the interactions between process parameters, along with the potential of integrating renewable energy sources into AM systems. This review offers valuable insights for both academics and industry professionals, calling for standardized methodologies and a focus on energy management to optimize energy efficiency in AM processes, ultimately enhancing competitiveness and sustainability in modern manufacturing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The demand for low-carbon and energy-efficient building designs is urgent, especially considering that building energy consumption constitutes a significant part of global energy usage. Unlike small to medium-sized buildings such as residential and office spaces, large public buildings, like sports facilities, have unique usage patterns and architectural forms, offering more significant potential for energy-saving strategies. This review focuses on sports buildings, selecting 62 high-quality papers published in building science over the past 30 years that investigate low-carbon and energy-efficient research. Summarizing and synthesizing these papers reveals that current studies predominantly concentrate on four main areas: indoor air quality, ventilation, thermal environment, and energy consumption. Notably, many studies emphasize improving indoor thermal comfort and reducing energy consumption in sports buildings through measurements and evaluations of indoor thermal environments, temperature distributions, heat transfer phenomena, and energy consumption analyses. Key outcomes indicate that green technology innovations, such as energy substitution technologies, significantly enhance energy efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions. However, present research emphasizes singular energy-saving approaches, suggesting future directions could integrate comprehensive green technologies, life-cycle assessments, and applications of intelligent technologies and the Internet of Things (IoT). These enhancements aim to provide more effective and sustainable solutions for implementing green, low-carbon energy practices in sports buildings. The review emphasizes that in order to accomplish sustainable urban growth and achieve global carbon neutrality targets, a comprehensive approach involving technical innovation, legislative assistance, and extensive preparation is crucial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing global focus on energy efficiency and environmental sustainability, intelligent building materials such as thermochromic glazing have emerged as a hot topic of research. The intent of this paper is to explore the utilization of gel-type thermochromic glazing within the realm of architectural energy conservation calculations. It conducts an exhaustive examination of the material's attributes, its capacity for energy savings, and the obstacles encountered in real-world applications. Through simulation studies and case analyses, this paper assesses the energy efficiency of gel-type thermochromic glazing across various climates and suggests strategies for optimization. The study revealed that the incorporation of gel-based thermochromic glazing leads to a marked reduction in energy usage within buildings, an improvement in indoor comfort levels, and significant environmental advantages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy efficiency is the central focus of energy policies in many countries, and it is also at the forefront of the debate on energy sustainability. To further understand the research frontiers in the energy efficiency field, this paper utilizes a bibliometric analysis with the help of visualization tools: CiteSpace and VOSviewer. The relevant literature during 2010-2020 is collected with the retrieval formulas from the Web of Science Core Collection. Firstly, this paper analyzes the annual indicators, research areas, productive institutions, authors, and journals of publications to comprehend the temporal and spatial distribution characteristics of the energy efficiency literature. Meanwhile, this paper identifies the productive institutions and authors and the influential journals. Then, we construct the collaboration networks among countries/regions/insti tutions, references, and authors to know the collaborative relationships. By analyzing the keywords from highly cited papers with clustering, timeline view, and time zone view, the trend of changes is grasped over time in the energy efficiency literature. Finally, conclusions and some directions for future research are put forward in terms of the bibliometric analysis findings, which may make some references for researchers in the energy field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Internet of Things technology is named as a key ingredient in the evolution towards digitization of many applications and services. A deployment based on battery-powered remote Internet of Things (IoT) devices enables easy installation and operation, yet the autonomy of these devices poses a crucial challenge. A too short lifespan is undesirable from a functional, economical, and ecological point of view. This paper presents a unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-based approach to recharge remote Internet of Things (IoT) nodes. An in-depth study of the charging efficiency and optimization of key parameters, and measurements-based verification, is reported on. An actual corresponding design and implementation of the full UAV-based charging system and its proof-ofconcept validation are presented. Finally, the sustainability of the proposed solution is discussed. The results presented in this paper hence confirm that the proposed UAV-based approach and design are functionally successful and efficient charging can be achieved, provided the constraints and challenges coming with the approach are adequately dealt with. Moreover, it comes with an overall reduction in ecological footprint for IoT applications relying on batterypowered nodes in need of medium energy and/or considerable lifetime expectation (5 years or more). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The excessive use of energy from fossil fuels, which corresponds to population, industrialisation, and unsustainable economic growth, is the cause of carbon dioxide production and climate change. The Water–Energy–Food (WEF) nexus is an applicable conceptual framework that helps manage the balance between human development and natural resource constraints, and it becomes a valuable tool to address the challenges of resource depletion and clean energy. This article aims to analyse the relationship between the WEF nexus and clean energy through a statistical analysis and a systematic review of knowledge on energy sustainability. The methodology involves the selection of bibliographic information databases such as Scopus and Web of Science (WoS), a statistical analysis, specifically the Scientometrics applied to the information obtained, and the identification of 179 scientific publications related to the study variables through a screening process called Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). The interaction of green energy and sustainability with the WEF nexus has been approached mainly by developed countries such as China (10%), the United States (9.49%), India (7.26%), and Brazil (5.02%). The review of 55 scientific papers identified strategies that balance economic growth and environmental impact, applying clean energy systems (e.g., solar and wind), and the importance of adaptation to the subsystems of the WEF nexus. This study also highlights adaptability to climate change in rural and urban communities. Therefore, it is consistent with the four pillars of sustainable development (Economic: 7 papers, Environmental: 22, Social: 18, and Cultural: 8). This study highlights the following: (a) the importance of the use of renewable energy either in mixed systems and consumption, energy storage, and seeking energy efficiency in systems adapted to diverse environments and (b) the relevance of community participation in the decision-making process for the use of clean energy, such as a strategy for climate change adaptation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A prerequisite for decreasing the intensification of energy in buildings is to evaluate and understand the influencing factors of building energy performance (BEP). These factors include building envelope features and outdoor climactic conditions, among others. Based on the importance of the influencing factors in the development of the building energy prediction model, various researchers are continuously employing different types of factors based on their popularity in academic literature, without a proper investigation of the most relevant factors, which, in some cases, potentially leads to poor model performance. However, this can be due to the absence of an adequate comprehensive analysis or review of all factors influencing BEP ubiquitously. Therefore, this paper conducts a holistic and comprehensive review of studies that have explored the various factors influencing energy use in residential and commercial buildings. In total, 74 research articles were systematically selected from the Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Institute of Electrical Electronics Engineers (IEEE) databases. Subsequently, by means of a systematic and bibliometric analysis, this paper comprehensively analyzed several important factors influencing BEP. The results reveals the important factors (such as windows and roofs) and engendered or shed light on the application of some energy-efficient strategies such as the utilization of a green roof and photovoltaic (PV) window, among others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reviews the integration of blockchain technology, smart microgrids, and the energy market, highlighting its potential to revolutionize the energy industry. The integration of blockchain technology into smart microgrids aims to address challenges related to energy efficiency, reliability, and sustainability. The paper provides an overview of blockchain technology, emphasizing its transparency, immutability, and decentralization characteristics. It explores the concept of smart microgrids, which enable efficient energy management and integration of renewable energy sources. The combination of blockchain and smart microgrids offers several benefits such as increased efficiency, reduced transaction costs, enhanced security, and improved grid reliability. One of the key advantages of this convergence is the ability to facilitate peer-to-peer energy trading. Blockchain technology allows for transparent and auditable energy transactions, enabling direct trading between energy producers and consumers. This empowers prosumers to actively participate in the energy market, promoting renewable energy adoption and democratizing energy access. However, some challenges need to be addressed, including scalability, interoperability, and regulatory frameworks. Ongoing initiatives, projects, and pilot studies are exploring the implementation of blockchain-enabled smart microgrids, and case studies provide real-world examples of successful deployments. In conclusion, the convergence of blockchain, smart microgrids, and the electrical energy market has the potential to transform the energy industry. Collaboration among stakeholders, including energy companies, technology providers, regulators, and consumers, is crucial to fully realize the benefits of this integration. By leveraging blockchain and smart microgrids, the energy industry can pave the way for a more efficient, sustainable, and decentralized energy future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water removal during paper manufacturing is of primary importance to production rate and cost efficiency for the pulp and paper industry. It is crucial to develop methods to reduce energy consumption by increasing the percent solids in the paper web entering the dryers from the presses. This research aimed to develop a fundamental understanding of the effect of bio-chemo-mechanical pretreatments on a bleached softwood fiber matrix and evaluate the impact on the percent solids of the paper web after pressing. Experiments included enzymatic, refining, and cationic polymer pretreatments on the bleached softwood pulps, followed by laboratory papermaking and determining the equilibrium moisture content (EMC) after pressing and the pulp and paper properties. The combined effect of mild refining, controlled enzymatic pretreatments, and cationic strength aids proved to enhance the water removal during wet pressing (up to 35 % reduction) and increase paper strength (up to 60 % increase). The results of increased solids after pressing were used to calculate the potential reduction in drying energy during paper manufacturing. Energy savings of around 10 % for paper drying could be achieved through fiber matrix modification by bio-chemo-mechanical pretreatment. Enzymatic pretreatments have previously been conventionally applied before refining as an energy-saving method. However, this research shows that synergistic actions of enzymes added after refining modify the fibers and create the optimal conditions for enhancement in drainage, press dewatering, and paper properties. [Display omitted] • Enzyme-assisted fiber modifications improve press dewatering and paper strength. • Enzyme blends can enhance fiber cell wall flexibility and fibrillation. • Synergistically, enzymes increased ∼35% press dewatering and ∼60% tensile strength. • Enzymes, mild refining, and cationic biopolymers enhance paper process efficiency. • This research introduces alternative methods for decarbonizing the paper industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Turning ships in port turning basins is an important and responsible operation, mainly involving the ship itself and the port tugboats. Such operations involve many maneuvers that consume a lot of energy (fuel) and emit a lot of emissions. Turning basins in harbors and quay approaches are, in most cases, relatively shallow. This paper examines the turning of ships in port turning basins using harbor tugboats, the effect of shallow depth on ship turning, energy (fuel) consumption and the generation of emissions during such maneuvers of harbor tugboats. This paper presents the developed theoretical models, and the experimental results on theoretical models that were verified on real ships and using calibrated simulators. Discussions and conclusions were prepared on the basis of the research results. The use of the developed methodology makes it possible to increase shipping safety, optimize maneuvers and reduce energy (fuel) consumption when turning ships in the port and, at the same time, reduce the amount of fuel consumed by port tugboats and reduce the number of emissions of tugboats during such operations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable smart cities (SSCs) target decarbonisation by optimising energy consumption through the emerging capabilities of technology. Nevertheless, the energy consumption behaviour of end users has the potential to compromise the effectiveness of technological interventions, reflecting the importance of active social engagement in realising decarbonisation goals. Although extensive research exists on energy consumption behaviour, little is known about how technology engagement affects it, the nature of these technologies, and their role in SSC. The paper aims to identify, categorise, and investigate the smart technologies that impact household energy consumption behaviours and their integration into the larger SSC system. Following a systematic review of 60 articles from the Scopus database (2013–2023), the study found 45 smart technologies cited, with 49% affecting efficiency behaviour and 51% affecting curtailment behaviour. While these technologies inform the city administration level in the SSC framework, the role of end users remains unclear, suggesting a technocratic approach. The study proposes the Sustainable Smart City Network to facilitate a grassroots approach, identifying five key domains: government policies, smart technology adoption, smart technology engagement, smart city infrastructure, and urban sustainability. The study provides an original contribution to knowledge by unveiling the key technologies affecting energy consumption behaviour and outlining the pragmatic requirements for achieving decarbonisation through a grassroots approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an overview for the Special Issue (SI) of Clean Technology and Environmental Policy journal (CTEP), and it includes accepted papers from 16th Conferences on Sustainable Development of Energy, Water and Environment Systems (SDEWES) held from October 10–15, 2021, in Dubrovnik, Croatia. Considering CTEPs policy of high-quality research papers, guest editors have invited 35 research articles, presented at the SDEWES 2021 conference. After a vigorous review process, 12 papers have been accepted for publication in this special issue. All 12 accepted papers are briefly presented in this overview together with a wider view that presents research efforts within the SDEWES community published through previous SDEWES special issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the face of the rapid rise in global waste production and the pressing need to shift towards sustainable energy options, advanced Waste-to-Energy (WtE) technologies have emerged as a highly promising solution. These innovative technologies effectively utilize waste as a valuable resource, presenting a viable pathway for sustainable energy recovery and making a substantial contribution to the principles of the circular economy paradigm. This review provides a comprehensive overview of advanced WtE technologies, including thermal, biological, and chemical methods, such as gasification, pyrolysis, plasma arc gasification, anaerobic digestion, fermentation, transesterification, and hydrothermal carbonization. The efficiency of these technologies is evaluated based on their energy recovery potential, environmental impact, and economic feasibility. Case studies on successful implementations of advanced WtE technologies are analyzed to highlight their practicality and effectiveness. Finally, the paper addresses technical, regulatory, and policy challenges in this field and provides future perspectives. The objective is to underscore the role of advanced WtE technologies in achieving a sustainable and resource-efficient circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficient highway lighting is crucial for ensuring road safety and reducing energy consumption and costs. Traditional highway lighting systems rely on timers or simple photosensors, leading to inefficient operation by illuminating lights when not needed or failing to adjust to changing conditions. The emergence of the Internet of Things (IoT) and related technologies has enabled the development of smart automated highway lighting systems that can dynamically control illumination levels based on real-time data. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the current state-of-the-art in smart automated highway lighting systems employing IoT technologies. Key components, communication protocols, data processing techniques, and lighting control strategies are discussed. The integration of renewable energy sources and energy storage systems is explored for environmentally sustainable operations. Practical implementation case studies are analyzed to highlight benefits and challenges. Open research issues and future directions for further enhancements are identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents an innovative concept of the fluidization of an adsorption bed carried out under low-pressure conditions. Additionally, different bed mixes were used to test the effects of the bed composition on fluidization. Fluidization was caused by the pressure difference and the velocity of the flowing water vapor. These features make the research presented in this article significantly different from other studies known in the literature and constitute the main novelty of the paper. Silica gel with a particle diameter of 200–250 µm (Geldart group B) with aluminum and carbon nanotube additives was fluidized under reduced pressure (10–25 mbar). The pressure difference results in the flow of water vapor and, consequently, induces fluidization. The pressure in the evaporator was approx. 10 mbar, while in the reaction chamber it was approx. 25 mbar. The pressure difference of about 10–15 mbar allows for a flow of water vapor between the evaporator and the reaction chamber. During the tests, the pressures, temperatures and mass were measured. The pressure drop in the bed was closely related to the mass change in the fluidized bed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the challenges inherent in the development of a decarbonized transportation system are thoroughly examined. Sustainable transportation practices that can contribute to the limitation of greenhouse gas emissions and overall sustainability are identified. Furthermore, the most effective and innovative research avenues being pursued by the research community to enhance transportation sustainability are reviewed and discussed. The review framework has been designed to facilitate the identification of key areas of interest through the implementation of a systematic literature review approach. Firstly, an in-depth analysis is provided concerning the main barriers encountered in the realization of sustainable transportation. These barriers are categorized into five dimensions, namely regulatory, technological, financial, organizational, and social. Subsequently, attention is directed towards the emerging approaches that actively support the implementation of sustainable transportation. Lastly, the primary policy measures intended to promote sustainable mobility are the subject of discussion. The findings unveiled in this paper possess the potential to provide managers and policy makers with a comprehensive understanding of transportation sustainability issues. Furthermore, they carry practical implications that can contribute to the construction of sustainable transportation systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Buildings are an important part of worldwide efforts to reduce energy consumption and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change. Despite recent technological developments in the area of energy consumption reduction, energy use is on the rise, highlighting the significance of considering occupant behavior with regard to controlling energy consumption and supporting climate resilience. Energy performance of residential buildings is a function of various aspects such as properties of the building envelope, climatic location characteristics, HVAC system, and, more importantly, occupant behavior and activities towards energy utilization. This study carries out a comprehensive review of the impact of occupant behavior on reducing the energy performance gap in residential buildings since residential buildings account for 70% of building floor area around the globe. Findings have revealed that a dearth of literature on occupants' behavior scholarship leads to inaccurate simplifications in building modeling and design. Thus, there is a strong need to obtain appropriate occupant behavioral data to develop strategies to close the energy performance gap as much as possible to achieve better energy efficiency in residential buildings to contribute to resilience and sustainability. Findings have also revealed a lack of objective and subjective data on occupants' behavior towards energy efficiency in residential buildings. In response to these gaps, the current paper has proposed a conceptual framework for occupant behavior toward a modification of thermal comfort to reduce energy use. Based on the findings of this paper, understanding the variety of factors influencing occupants' behavior should be considered a major influential factor in the design and retrofit of residential buildings with a view toward long-term resilience and sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

More energy is consumed by domestic appliances all over the world. By reducing energy consumption, sustainability can be improved in domestic contexts. Several earlier approaches to this problem have provided a conceptual overview of green and smart buildings. This paper aims to provide a better solution for reducing energy consumption by identifying the fields of abnormal energy consumption. It creates a better environment-friendly smart building to adopt the various lifestyles of people. This paper's main objective is to monitor and control the energy efficiency of smart buildings by integrating IoT sensors. This paper mainly analyzes various prime factors that can help to improve energy efficiency in smart buildings. Factors impacting energy consumption are analyzed, and outliers of energy consumption are predicted and optimized to save energy. Various parameters are derived from IoT devices to improve energy efficiency in lighting and HVAC controls, energy monitoring, building envelope and automation systems, and renewable energy. The parameters used in water, network convergence, and electrical and environmental monitoring are also used for improving energy efficiency. This paper uses various IoT devices for monitoring and generating data in and around a smart building and analyzes it by implementing an intelligent Information Communication Technology (ICT) model called the Dynamic Semantic Behavior Data Analysis (DSBDA) Model to analyze data concerning dynamic changes in the environment and user behavior to improve energy efficiency and provide better sustainable lifestyle-based smart buildings. From the analyzed output, the outliers of the power consumption and other abnormalities are identified and controlled manually or automatically to improve sustainability regarding energy use in smart buildings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it." Well said by Robert Swa. This research paper focuses on this belief that we need to pay attention towards green initiative for environment conservation and energy efficiency as it is very essential for earth for long term sustainability. PCMC (Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Co-orporation) has planned to spend Rs. 5000 crores on Green projects. One of Greenest and first in India Corporate Campus in World is Suzlon One earth situated in Magarpatta road, Hadapsar, Pune. This Campus is completely relying on renewable energy sources, utilizing a combination of hybrid wind turbines, solar panels, and photovoltaic cells for power generation. This studies depicts importance of green building initiative and by 2025, the majority of residential areas in PCMC are expected to transition into selfsustaining real estate developments. The PCNTDA (Pimpri Chinchwad New Town Development Authority) has outlined a structured, forwardthinking, and eco-conscious approach to real estate development in PCMC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The focus of this paper is the relationship between sustainable energy sources and financial development. The main research hypothesis assumes a positive link between these areas, with inevitable differences across countries and business sectors. The following research questions were asked: Is the impact of financial development on sustainable energy resources the same in different EU countries advanced in green transition processes? How is transition towards renewable energy sources progressing in different economic sectors? Does financial development influence sectoral transition in particular countries? This study uses the TOPSIS method and 25 variables for EU countries from 2013 to 2021. Key findings reveal that the link between sustainable energy sources and financial development varies across EU countries, country size affects energy autonomy, and the transition also differs by business sector. Surprisingly, higher financial development correlates with less progress in sustainable energy initiatives. The results of our research may be useful for government decision-makers in the process of designing and controlling the country's transition to sustainable energy. The original contribution of the study is expressed in its the diagnosis of the relationship between financial development and sustainable energy sources, while most studies have focused on the relationship between the energy market and financial development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs) play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance, a cornerstone of environmental health for thriving biodiversity and undisturbed natural processes. This balance is crucial for the sustainability of ecosystems, directly influencing human health, biodiversity, and the overall quality of our natural environment. WWTPs contribute to this equilibrium by efficiently removing pollutants and harmful substances from wastewater, thus averting the degradation of water bodies that are essential for numerous ecological processes. WWTPs encompass multiple stages of wastewater and sludge treatment and are significant energy consumers globally, especially in secondary treatment, particularly the activated sludge method which is the most common method. With an upcoming directive from the European Union aiming to reduce energy consumption in WWTPs, this paper focuses on a literature review examining global practices implemented across all stages of WWTP treatment processes. It summarizes the key points of each study, focusing primarily on the outcomes of each application. This document concludes with an in-depth review of each study and provides general conclusions for each group of studies. The objective is to identify methods that have effectively reduced energy consumption and enhanced the overall energy efficiency of WWTPs. The main conclusions indicate that the studies encompass a wide range of applications that achieve significant reductions in energy consumption. However, additional testing of these applications in more diverse operating environments through trials could further enhance their reliability and increase acceptance among WWTP operators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Buildings consume 30% of the total energy consumption around the globe and 29% of the energy consumption in Egypt, which in 2022 had a total population of 102 million, out of which 43% live in urban areas. The operation of buildings contributes to around 30% of global CO2 emissions due to their high energy consumption. Among the efforts made towards improving the energy efficiency of buildings are Advanced Energy Design Guides (AEDGs), building rating systems, codes, and standards. Furthermore, numerous research studies that are either literature review studies, experimental studies, or computational studies addressed the topic of energy efficiency in buildings. In this paper, 124 articles are systematically reviewed with the purpose of identifying the research gap in available research with a focus on Egypt. The identified gap is the development of a prescriptive path for the Egyptian Green Pyramid Rating System (GPRS) energy efficiency category based on whole building energy simulations. Furthermore, recommendations for future research are given based on gaps in the existing literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optimizing path planning for energy efficiency is critical for achieving sustainable vehicular transportation. This paper presents a novel framework for evaluating the impact of path planning algorithms (PPAs) on energy consumption within a simulated environment. We leverage the CARLA simulator to conduct a comparative analysis between the widely used A* and a Hybrid Genetic Algorithm (HGA) across diverse vehicular scenarios. This investigation aims to quantify the influence of PPA selection on vehicle energy expenditure, enabling data-driven optimization for energy minimization. We leverage an offline energy estimation model to further streamline the comparison of the two PPAs. Extensive simulations are employed to demonstrate the efficiency and adaptability of the proposed framework. The findings contribute to the development of energy-efficient path-planning strategies, promoting advancements toward sustainable transportation systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the contemporary era, conventional energy sources like oil, coal, and natural gas overwhelmingly contribute 89.6% to global CO2 emissions, intensifying environmental challenges. Recognizing the urgency of addressing climate concerns, a pivotal shift towards renewable energy, encompassing solar, wind, and biofuels, is crucial for bolstering environmental sustainability. Bioethanol, a globally predominant biofuel, offers a versatile solution, replacing gasoline or integrating into gasoline–ethanol blends while serving as a fundamental building block for various valuable compounds. This review investigates the dynamic landscape of biomass generations, drawing insightful comparisons between the first, second, third, and fourth generations. Amid the drive for sustainability, the deliberate focus on the initial generation of biomass, particularly corn, in bioethanol production is grounded in the current dependence on edible crops. The established utilization of first-generation biomass, exemplified by corn, underscores the necessity for a comprehensive examination of its advantages and challenges, allowing for a nuanced exploration of existing infrastructure and practices. To produce bioethanol from corn feedstock, various milling methods can be employed. Thus, this paper delves into a comparative assessment of dry-milling and wet-milling processes scrutinizing their efficiency, environmental impact, and economic feasibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the potential benefits and feasibility of integrating Building Energy Management Systems (BEMSs) with Building Information Modeling (BIM) in, but not limited to, the construction and building management sectors. By examining advantages, challenges, and real-world case studies, this study offers valuable insights into the impact of BEMS-BIM integration on building operations. The research methodology includes a literature review and bibliometric analysis to understand the subject domain and identify prevalent keywords. Additionally, case studies demonstrate the effectiveness of BEMS-BIM integration in real-world scenarios. This study investigates the possibilities and challenges of BIM to the BEMS methodology for energy-efficient industrial buildings, emphasizing the importance of addressing uncertainties and enhancing software interoperability. This research highlights the potential of BEMS-BIM integration to revolutionize building performance, enhance sustainability, and contribute to a greener and more efficient future for the construction and building management industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The scientific community has shown considerable interest in Industry 4.0 due to its capacity to revolutionise the manufacturing sector through digitalisation and data-driven decision-making. However, the actual implementation of Industry 4.0 within complex industrial settings presents obstacles that are typically beyond the scope of mainstream research articles. In this paper, a comprehensive case-study detailing our collaborative partnership with a leading medical device manufacturer is presented. The study traces its evolution from a state of limited digitalisation to the development of a digital intelligence platform that leverages data and machine learning models to enhance operations across a wide range of critical machines and assets. The main business objective was to enhance the energy efficiency of the manufacturing process, thereby improving its sustainability measures while also saving costs. The project encompasses energy modelling and analytics, Fault Detection and Diagnostics (FDD), renewable energy integration and advanced visualisation tools. Together, these components enable informed decision making in the context of energy efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aerogels, with their exceptional properties such as high insulation performance, lightness, and eco-friendliness, present immense potential for use in the construction industry. This paper reviews the progress in research and application of various types of aerogels in construction, highlighting notable case studies demonstrating energy efficiency gains and sustainability impacts. It delves into the lifecycle of aerogels, discussing environmental implications at each stage. Despite their potential, aerogels face certain limitations including production complexity, brittleness, and high cost which hinder their widespread adoption. The paper further discusses these challenges and highlights the need for continuous research and development efforts to overcome them, with a view to achieving more scalable production, enhanced mechanical properties, and cost reduction. Looking forward, the paper discusses the expansive horizon of aerogel research, emphasizing the potential of smart aerogels, their integration with renewable energy systems, and exploring the possibility of recycling or creating bio-based aerogels to enhance their overall sustainability. While still in early stages, aerogels promise to be a major contributor to the future of construction, leading to more sustainable and efficient built environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is well known that buildings have a sizeable energy and environmental footprint. In particular, in environments like university campuses, the occupants as well as occupancy in shared spaces varies over time. Systems for cooling in such environments that are centrally controlled are typically threshold driven and do not account for occupant feedback and thus are often relying on a reactive approach (fix after identifying problems). Therefore, having a fixed thermal operating set point may not be optimal in such cases—both from an occupant comfort and well-being as well as an energy efficiency perspective. To address this issue, a study was conducted which involved development and deployment of an experimental Internet of Things (IoT) prototype system and an Android application that facilitated people engagement on a university campus located in the UAE which typically exhibits hot climatic conditions. This paper showcases data driven insights obtained from this study, and in particular, how to achieve a balance between the conflicting goals of improving occupant comfort and energy efficiency. Findings from this study underscore the need for regular reassessments and adaptation. The proposed solution is low cost and easy to deploy and has the potential to reap significant savings through a reduction in energy consumption with estimates indicating around 50–100 kWh/day of savings per building and the resulting environmental impact. These findings would appeal to stakeholders who are keen to improve energy efficiency and reduce their operating expenses and environmental footprint in such climatic conditions. Furthermore, collective action from a large number of entities could result in significant impact through this cumulative effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, studies on the energy efficiency of manufacturing systems usually lack synthetic and systematic techniques. In this paper, a holistic framework is demonstrated in order to achieve more sustainable manufacturing, which covers machine-level, system-level and life-cycle-level energy efficiency techniques. Based on these, the mechanism of how energy consumption is affected by machining processes and system operation is analyzed to achieve a comprehensive decision on energy efficiency optimization. Four main topics are included in this paper: (1) Hierarchical sustainability goals and metrics for energy-efficient manufacturing; (2) Machine-level machining processes optimization for energy efficiency enhancement; (3) System-level innovations for efficient consumption management; (4) Life-cycle level energy flow modeling and energy recycling strategy. An automotive engine manufacturing system is taken as an example to build a concrete understanding of the application of the framework. Moreover, this holistic framework establishes the theoretical basis for promoting the energy efficiency of automotive engine manufacturing systems. Furthermore, the proposed techniques can provide decision-making support for achieving sustainable manufacturing in a wider scope of mechanical manufacturing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article, published in Frontiers in Energy Research, focuses on the topic of energy-efficient and energy-flexible buildings towards net-zero carbon emissions. It presents five research papers that explore innovative strategies and technologies for advancing energy efficiency and flexibility in buildings. The papers cover a range of topics, including predictive models for carbon emissions in the Chinese construction sector, multi-objective energy-saving optimization methods for residential buildings, climate mitigation options post-Paris Agreement, the impact of rural logistics on consumption in China, and the potential of digital twin technology in the built environment. The article emphasizes the importance of technological innovation, interdisciplinary research, and policy integration in achieving sustainable built environments. [Extracted from the article]

The aim of this paper is to investigate agricultural sustainability as a collective issue involving multiple rather than individual farms. Through the utilization of energy consumption as a proxy, we propose a novel methodology that evaluates the impact of farm consolidations on agricultural sustainability while accounting for resource preferences. Our approach incorporates the ordered weighted averaging (OWA) operator within an inverse data envelopment analysis (IDEA) model to identify post-merger farms that meet preset efficiency targets. We employ a DEA cross-efficiency (DEA-CE) procedure to select merger plans that maximize agricultural sustainability for each preference scenario. By analysing a case study of 43 tomato greenhouse farms in Biskra, northern Algeria, our findings demonstrate that mergers can significantly enhance agricultural sustainability, surpassing the potential of individual farms by a factor of over 15. Additionally, the adoption of the most sustainable merger plan can lead to energy savings of more than 69%. Irrespective of the preference scenario, substantial energy savings in machinery, fertilizers, diesel, and electricity ranging from 22.92% to 73.73% were observed. These results emphasize the strategic role of merger processes in promoting agricultural sustainability and optimizing resource utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the recent literature, energy efficiency got the attention of scholars due to its discouraging impact on CO2 emissions, which is considered the most prevalent greenhouse gas that human activities produce. Data reports that China is the leading CO2 emitting country across the globe, and still the environmental degradation is in progress. Thus, the current paper empirically investigates the impact of energy efficiency (ENEF), financial inclusion (FD), GDP, export diversification (EXD), and human capital index (HCI) on the environmental degradation of China over the period from 1988 to 2018. This study uses various time-series tests to empirically investigate the determinant of CO2 emissions, including normality tests, unit root tests, and combined cointegration tests. Besides, the long-run coefficients are analyzed via the fully modified ordinary least square (FMOLS), dynamic OLS (DOLS), and the Canonical Cointegrating Regression (CCR) estimators. The empirical findings reveal that all the variables are cointegrated in the long run. However, the coefficient estimate shows that ENEF and HCI significantly promote environmental sustainability. While GDP, FD, and EXD significantly promote environmental degradation by enhancing the CO2 level in the atmosphere. This study recommends practical policy implications based on the empirical findings: energy-efficient products and energy sources could be promoted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Buildings represent the largest potential for carbon reduction worldwide. This highlights the need for a simulation and optimization method for energy management. The early design stage of buildings represents an important phase in which choices can be made to optimize design parameters. These parameters can focus on multiple areas, including energy and thermal comfort. This paper introduces the optimization of early-stage sustainable building design considering end-user energy consumption. It proposes an optimization model that integrates multiple layers, which consist of a parametric energy simulation, artificial neural network, and genetic algorithm. The proposed optimization model considers a single objective function to obtain the optimal design. The targeted goal is to obtain minimal energy consumption for residential buildings during the early design stages. Key design parameters of the building were identified for optimization and feasible ranges for them were obtained using genetic algorithms. Finally, the results of this paper include the identification of the optimal building design for the thermal comfort analysis and optimal energy performance. The model was applied to a case study in Egypt and the results showed that using the developed optimization model can lead to a 25% reduction in energy consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Automated machine learning (AutoML), which aims to facilitate the design and optimization of machine-learning models with reduced human effort and expertise, is a research field with significant potential to drive the development of artificial intelligence in science and industry. However, AutoML also poses challenges due to its resource and energy consumption and environmental impact, aspects that have often been overlooked. This paper predominantly centers on the sustainability implications arising from computational processes within the realm of AutoML. Within this study, a proof of concept has been conducted using the widely adopted Scikit-learn library. Energy efficiency metrics have been employed to fine-tune hyperparameters in both Bayesian and random search strategies, with the goal of enhancing the environmental footprint. These findings suggest that AutoML can be rendered more sustainable by thoughtfully considering the energy efficiency of computational processes. The obtained results from the experimentation are promising and align with the framework of Green AI, a paradigm aiming to enhance the ecological footprint of the entire AutoML process. The most suitable proposal for the studied problem, guided by the proposed metrics, has been identified, with potential generalizability to other analogous problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concept of sustainability, with a focus on energy, has emerged as a central tenet in addressing the mounting global challenges of environmental degradation and resource depletion. Indicators of sustainability focusing on energy are crucial tools used to assess and monitor progress toward achieving a more sustainable energy system. These indicators provide valuable insights into the environmental, social, and economic dimensions of energy practices and their long-term impacts. By analyzing and understanding these indicators, policymakers, businesses, and communities can make informed decisions, formulate effective policies, and steer their efforts toward a more sustainable energy future. These indicators serve as navigational guides, steering the world toward energy practices that support both present needs and the well-being of future generations. In this paper, the concept of sustainability and measurement indexes used are reviewed, focusing on energy factors. The focus of the discussion presented here is related to an assessment of the possibilities for improving energy efficiency and evaluating the indicators that are used to measure whether the desired levels of sustainability are being achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the importance of energy efficiency in the agricultural sector has become increasingly apparent. As the world faces challenges such as climate change, resource scarcity, and population growth, the need for sustainable and efficient agricultural practices has intensified. Energy plays a crucial role in agricultural production, from powering machinery and irrigation systems to processing and transportation. Therefore, understanding the scientific advancements and collaborative efforts in the field of energy efficiency in agriculture is essential for devising effective strategies, promoting innovation, and achieving global sustainability goals. The aim of this study is to provide insight into and a comprehensive overview of global publications on energy efficiency in agriculture and examine its scientific productivity. The paper explores the research areas and trending topics within the field, as well as the extent of collaboration among authors, institutions, and countries involved in this scientific domain. This investigation is crucial in order to address the current energy shocks and the numerous problems they generate, highlighting the importance of a holistic approach and the need for multiple regions to work together. Only by offering rapid and viable solutions can we effectively overcome this situation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The provision of sustainable housing should factor energy efficiency, the use of sustainable building methods and materials and address the current associated barriers. This consideration triggered an ongoing study in UK which has so far conducted a bibliometric analysis of 275 papers using the VOSviewer software. More papers have been published in the last 5 years compared to the previous 15, and the UK is less engaged in successful collaborations in comparison to other economically developed nations. The lesser use of innovation in the UK has been identified. Also, the uses of sustainable methods and materials in residential housing are not fully exploited for achieving energy efficiency. A future research direction emerging is the potential to study the combined impact of using innovative materials and methods to achieve greater energy efficiency in UK housing provision. Through technological innovations and the need to move from fossil fuels (for example, through the use of heat pumps) a new approach can move the UK closer to achieving net-zero in housing provision and operations.

This article reviews the accomplishments of studies in which optimization tools were used to develop energy-efficient and sustainable construction schedules. With the increase in global awareness of environmental issues, the construction industry has been forced to explore innovative techniques to make the building process more energy-efficient and sustainable. Project managers can use optimization tools in their scheduling procedures to address these issues in the early stages of the project. Therefore, this paper examines different optimization-based construction scheduling methods and their impact on schedule energy efficiency and the three key sustainability goals: economic viability, social equity, and environmental protection. Such a review has not yet been conducted to the best of our knowledge. This research aims to fill the gap and contribute to understanding advanced optimization tools that can pave the way to energy-efficient and sustainable scheduling practices. After a brief introduction, the background of optimization-based construction scheduling techniques that aim to improve construction management and incorporate these aspects into the decision-making process is explained. Then, these approaches are addressed in detail. It is determined for each study whether it adopted energy efficiency goals and which sustainability dimensions it considered within the proposed optimization model. The results of this study indicate a wide heuristic algorithms application for complex scheduling problems. Meanwhile, mathematical programming is still quite unexplored, especially methods that utilize algebraic modeling languages. This study provides a foundation for further research by addressing the current reach in development and possible knowledge gaps that could be researched in future studies. The paper also discusses the advantages and limitations of different approaches and illustrates the potential for utilizing these methods. Supported by the main review findings, conclusions and recommendations for further research are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a review of the adoption status of energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies is presented, specific to US residential buildings. Various technologies are reviewed and categorized as either their relative "higher adoption" or "lower adoption" rates within the US housing stock. More importantly, the review analysis investigates the main factors associated with their high or low adoption rates. Specifically, the paper provides a background of the historical progression of energy efficiency programs as well as sustainability certifications and standards for buildings. The review then analyzes specific building energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies applied to US residential buildings and their adoption rates. The review analysis indicates that building technologies are more frequently adopted for multiple reasons including requirements by codes and standards, incentives through green certifications, low implementation costs, and acceptance and popularity by the public. In contrast, technologies with low adoption rates have higher payback periods, are not required or highly incentivized through codes and certifications, have limited promotion about their benefits, or are not compatible with existing systems. By determining the reasons for the high and low adoption rates, mitigation options can be identified to increase the application of sustainable energy technologies in designing and retrofitting buildings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid growth of sustainability has created a plethora of options for expanding zero-energy buildings (ZEBs) and energy efficiency in all aspects of life. In recent years, there has been a rise in interest in ZEBs, and many countries have adopted ZEBs as future energy targets to promote the sustainable development paradigm. The primary goal of this paper was to conduct a bibliometric review of current research on ZEBs and energy efficiency. The first part of this paper identifies new knowledge gaps as well as practical demands in the field of sustainable development. Furthermore, bibliometric analysis was performed using the Scopus database (i.e., 2592 articles) and a screening process was undertaken, with the result being 252 papers. This study draws attention to a body of knowledge by reviewing trends and patterns, major research topics, journals, countries, new approaches, emerging trends, and future directions for sustainable development. This study is unique in that it provides a comprehensive, updated review of ZEBs and energy efficiency trends. Moreover, this study could help identify limitations for future policymakers, practitioners, and academics. The empirical section of this paper, through a case study, presents an example of a low-energy single-family building located in Poland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featured Application: To date, the 'values' associated with 'heritage buildings' have received little attention in designing technical interventions for energy efficiency. This may be due to a fear that modern interventions for improving energy performance clash with heritage conservation, especially conservation of original features. We argue that energy efficiency interventions and heritage conservation can co-exist if an in-depth understanding of people's heritage values and attitudes is obtained. This paper adds to our limited knowledge of residents' approaches to heritage conservation and energy efficiency. It does so by presenting the first study of its kind in Mexico's City Historic Centre (a World Heritage Site since 1987). The results reveal the type of heritage values that residents assigned to their buildings when seeking to achieve thermal comfort and energy efficiency in heritage buildings. With building construction representing one of the largest sectors responsible for the use of natural resources, retrofitting existing heritage buildings becomes a necessity, albeit a challenging one. The emergence of specific guidance on retrofitting heritage buildings has unveiled more than never the need to understand how residents negotiate, thermal comfort, energy efficiency, and heritage conservation decisions. The paper reports the complexity of the decision-making process of residents of heritage buildings in the Historic Centre of Mexico City regarding energy efficiency, intending to improve thermal comfort and reduce energy consumption while preserving heritage values. The study involved in-depth semi-structured interviews with users of heritage buildings that were thematically analysed, complemented by the monitoring of internal environmental conditions and system dynamics analysis. The results show that although the residents perceived the buildings' temperature as poor, passive thermal comfort actions (e.g., wearing more clothes and closing windows) were preferred against invasive retrofitting solutions for thermal comfort due to residents' resistance to a potential loss in the buildings' values and the high cost of changes. The degree of change necessary for maintenance, renovation, and actions for improving the thermal comfort of a heritage building is related to values and to their preservation for future generations. The users' changes were limited to small-scale interventions in floors and ceilings while avoiding touching what they consider essential to preserve and protect (i.e., social and cultural values). Integrating the user into the decision-making process would enhance the long-term continuity and sustainability of retrofitting policies and guidelines, thus avoiding losing heritage-built stock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Additive manufacturing (AM) is one of the most sustainable manufacturing processes since it could build parts directly from a computer-aided design (CAD) model simplifying the production of complex geometries, and they are generally more environmentally friendly using only the exact amount of material. Despite this qualitative consideration, the quantitative convenience in terms of energy consumption has not yet been extensively investigated. In the present paper, a model is proposed to improve understanding of AM energy use by applying a novel classification system for machine components, generating, as a result, the characteristic parameters specific for each material and useful for estimating energy consumption providing a simple tool for the companies that would evaluate the technology convenience considering also the energetical component. The main outcome is represented by the characteristics parameters for the main materials used in the material extrusion process and an approach for evaluating the energy consumption a priori with a prevision error of less than 10%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The EU's energy transition strategy highlights the significance of developing innovative energy models to encourage the utilization of renewable energy sources in urban areas. Utilizing local urban biomasses, including food waste, sewage, and green waste, can contribute to the establishment of energy systems that harness bio-waste for energy generation, thereby promoting circular economy principles and urban metabolisms. This paper proposes using a pre-design tool (based on soft computing approaches) that incorporates an initial analysis of the multidisciplinary feasibility of such systems as an effective strategy and valuable support for preliminary studies. It focuses on validating three "biomass ratio" parameters, integrating urban morphology and district characteristics with the amount of bio-waste in a peri-urban district comprising multifamily buildings. These parameters can be incorporated into a pre-design tool that facilitates multi-criteria decision analyses, aiding the design of innovative models that promote renewable energy sources in urban areas. The findings suggest that synthetic parameters can guide initial considerations, but they may overestimate the energy potential and should be further investigated. Hence, future research should explore complementary strategies for estimating biomass energy potential and extend the application of this methodology to other types of districts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainability is one of the most multi- and inter-disciplinary fields of study, as it encapsulates three principle dimensions: social/ethical, economic and environmental. These dimensions can also be found within the context of climate change with similar implications. Whilst there is an understanding of the relationship between sustainability and climate change, there appears to be limited literature drawing upon this relationship, particularly from the perspective of energy science, and more specifically in connection to carbon emissions and energy management. On the other hand, all three issues – sustainability, climate change and energy (implications) – have already been the subject of legislation in different countries in varying capacities, though still, predominantly individually and lacking an integrated approach. For instance, the Climate Change Act (2008) legally binds the UK to achieving reductions in emissions of CO2, one of the greenhouse gases (GHG). In this paper, this Act is considered as a platform to depict the relationship propositions between sustainability and climate change via the lens of energy implications. This paper establishes the aspects of this relationship by employing graphical and numerical approaches, and exploring the potential of thermal insulation of the UK housing stock in contributing to achieving the legal carbon-cutting targets set by the Act. Using the UK housing sector as a case study, this paper demonstrates, via numerical modelling, that by even partly insulating the existing UK housing stock the 2020 target set by the Act was achievable for that sector. This case is presented as in retrospect. Links are clearly drawn between energy, sustainability and climate change (mitigation), showing how addressing climate change issues via energy management of the UK housing stock can directly and indirectly assist in meeting the sustainability agenda. The unique, conceptual, numerical model innovatively designed, developed and applied in this paper, can be reproduced to cater for other climate change targets and benchmarks, not only in the UK but also in other countries.

In this paper, we study the problem of traffic signal control in general intersections by applying a recent reinforcement learning technique. Nowadays, traffic congestion and road usage are increasing significantly as more and more vehicles enter the same infrastructures. New solutions are needed to minimize travel times or maximize the network capacity (throughput). Recent studies embrace machine learning approaches that have the power to aid and optimize the increasing demands. However, most reinforcement learning algorithms fail to be adaptive regarding goal functions. To this end, we provide a novel successor feature-based solution to control a single intersection to optimize the traffic flow, reduce the environmental impact, and promote sustainability. Our method allows for flexibility and adaptability to changing circumstances and goals. It supports changes in preferences during inference, so the behavior of the trained agent (traffic signal controller) can be changed rapidly during the inference time. By introducing the successor features to the domain, we define the basics of successor features, the base reward functions, and the goal preferences of the traffic signal control system. As our main direction, we tackle environmental impact reduction and support prioritized vehicles' commutes. We include an evaluation of how our method achieves a more effective operation considering the environmental impact and how adaptive it is compared to a general Deep-Q-Network solution. Aside from this, standard rule-based and adaptive signal-controlling technologies are compared to our method to show its advances. Furthermore, we perform an ablation analysis on the adaptivity of the agent and demonstrate a consistent level of performance under similar circumstances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]