FCT (DCEA) - Artigos em Revistas Científicas Internacionais com Arbitragem Científica
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- Decarbonising university operations: strategies and challenges for Higher Education InstitutionsPublication . Leal Filho, Walter; Aguiar, Alexandre de Oliveira e; Elahi, Muhammad Manzoor; Azam, Fardous Mohammad Safiul; Dinis, Maria Alzira Pimenta; Henrique, João Paulino Pires Eustachio; Mazhar, Muhammad Usman; Mazutti, Janaina; Gatto, Andrea; Etxano, Iker; Kounani, Aristea; Aina, Yusuf; Viota, MariaBackground: Universities have significant carbon emissions impact and face pressure to cut their operational carbon emissions around the world. This leads to growing interest of the academic and practice community in effective pathways for carbon reduction within higher education. In this context, the aim of the research is to investigate the strategies for decarbonising university operations and challenges being faced. Drawing from a mixed-method approach, a review of case studies, and a survey involving Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in nearly 40 countries, it explores the interconnectedness of awareness, cultural and political dimensions, internal institutional structures, and technical approaches in achieving decarbonisation goals. Results: The findings underscore awareness initiatives that enhance understanding of decarbonisation among educators and students in universities, and communities. The case studies as a review of experiences from diverse geographical regions illustrate varying strategies for carbon emissions reduction in HEIs, underscoring the adaptability of decarbonisation efforts across contexts. Additionally, cultural and political factors emerge as key determinants, requiring tailored strategies to navigate diverse contexts and garner public support. Finally, institutional structures, including financial constraints and regulatory barriers, and ageing infraestructure are identified as key barriers to effective decarbonisation efforts. Conclusions: The novelty of the paper resides on the fact that it highlights the need for integrating decarbonisation goals into institutional governance and planning mechanisms is essential for achieving long-term goal of net zero carbon and aligning with the global UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The study advocates for a holistic approach that considers social, economic, environmental and institutional dimensions in advancing decarbonisation within HEIs, rather than treating emissions as a purely technical issue. The effectiveness of decarbonisation measures is dependent on breaking down chronic structural and financial factors in the implementation, and is substantially supported by institutional practices that promote the engagement of all stakeholders and an open, transparent measurement of its impact. By addressing barriers, HEIs can pave the way for a sustainable and low carbon future while serving as catalysts for broader societal change.
- Climate change, planetary health and education in Africa: some case studies and perspectivesPublication . Leal Filho, Walter; Djekic, Ilija; Matandirotya, Newton; Donkor, Felix Kwabena; Ibrahim, Umar; Mbih, Richard; Kateka, Adolphine; Roeseler, Jasmin; Sharifi, Ayyoob; Dinis, Maria Alzira PimentaAfrica is a diverse continent with a rich cultural heritage, abundant natural resources characterised by a great vulnerability to climate change and several health inequalities. These inequalities are also observed in the provision of planetary health instruction. This paper explores the interconnection between climate change and planetary health education inAfrican universities. Also,the study examines the extent to which some African universities are handling the theme of planetary health education. The method used involved a bibliometric analysis of climate change and health, focusing on specific institutions and initiatives that illustrate the extent of planetary health education carried out in Africa till date. The results of the study suggested that themes related to planetary health are increasingly being studied in African universities. Also, the study notes that the term “planetary health” is scarcely used in the reviewed literature; and to make planetary health a common topic in university programmes, the theme needs to be given a wider recognition and attention. The paper concludes by outlining measures that should be implemented as part of public health programmes to be offered at African universities, which may help in enhancing the adoption of education on planetary health.
- Cities and climate change: combining bibliometric trends and city-level evidence to understand the connections between urban resilience and adaptive capacityPublication . Leal Filho, Walter; Bichueti, Roberto Schoproni; Dinis, Maria Alzira Pimenta; Begum, Halima; O'Hare, Paul; Malakar, Krishna; Kouassi, Jean-Luc; Danumah, Jean HomianClimate change poses escalating challenges to urban systems, intensifying risks from extreme temperatures, flooding, sea-level rise, and socio-environmental inequalities. Cities are increasingly recognised as critical arenas for climate adaptation, where resilience and adaptive capacity shape the capacity to anticipate, absorb, and respond to climate-related impacts. This study maps research on urban resilience and adaptive capacity through a bibliometric analysis of Web of Science publications (2010–2023), identifying dominant thematic clusters via keyword co-occurrence and collaboration patterns via co-authorship networks. To connect research trends with practice, this study also reports on a qualitative meta-synthesis of twelve published city case studies from diverse geographic and socio-economic contexts. Explicitly linking bibliometric themes with city-level adaptation evidence, this study identifies areas of convergence (e.g., governance, nature-based solutions, and risk assessment) and persistent gaps, particularly in the operationalisation of social equity, participation, and maladaptation risks. The findings provide an integrated evidence base that may help inform future urban climate adaptation research and policy.
- Trajectories of circular economy in cities: key patterns and emerging pathwaysPublication . Aina, Yusuf; Almulhim, Abdulaziz I.; Salami, Babatunde Abiodun; Swart, Julia; Abubakar, Ismaila Rimi; Dinis, Maria Alzira Pimenta; Sharifi, AyyoobUrbanisation and escalating resource pressures have intensified the need for systemic approaches to sustainable development, positioning the circular economy (CE) as a critical framework for cities. This study reviews academic literature to examine current trends, challenges, and forward-looking strategies for CE implementation in urban contexts. Using a search process aligned with the PRISMA protocol, 668 peer-reviewed articles were analysed through inductive content analysis. The findings reveal that CE practices in cities are increasingly shaped by global sustainability agendas, particularly in relation to SDGs 9 to 12. The analysis identifies eight thematic clusters that characterise urban CE pathways: urban planning and the built environment, energy and mobility systems, waste and resource management, water and urban agriculture, citizen engagement, governance and regulation, technological innovation, and socio-cultural transformation. A conceptual framework integrating eight thematic clusters is presented, illustrating how cities transition from linear to circular systems through policy alignment, digital innovation, and multisectoral collaboration. Case studies from global urban centres illustrate strategies ranging from smart infrastructure and circular procurement to social inclusion and localised production, all of which enable CE advancement. These findings reinforce the view of CE as a multidimensional approach capable of fostering urban resilience, environmental stewardship, and inclusive economic growth.
- Sustainable generative AI and quantum computing: review assessment on the environmental impact of generative AI and quantum technologiesPublication . Esho, Esther Oreofeoluwa; Akinyelu, Andronicus Ayobami; Dinis, Maria Alzira PimentaThe rapid advancement of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) and Quantum Computing (QC) presents transformative opportunities, yet their high computational requirements raise concerns about their environmental sustainability. This comprehensive review examines the ecological footprint of both technologies, focusing on key metrics like energy consumption, carbon emissions, and resource depletion. Findings from existing studies consistently indicate that the impact of GenAI is mostly driven by the immense energy demands of large-scale model training and inference. Moreover, findings from the review reveal that the footprint of QC largely stems from the energy-intensive cryogenic cooling and rare material requirements of its specialized hardware. This paper benchmarks current approaches to environmental assessment, highlighting the important role of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) in providing a holistic view of the classification of environmental impacts across the entire supply chain, from manufacturing to disposal. This study proposes a range of domain-specific mitigation strategies, including algorithmic optimizations like pruning and distillation for AI, and cryogenic and material sourcing improvements for quantum systems. This study also proposes a framework for proactive, responsible innovation and identifies some gaps in the literature, such as the lack of standardized metrics and transparent reporting. There is a need to embed eco-conscious principles in the design of future technologies and highlight opportunities where these technologies can be used to handle broader climate challenges. The findings in this study can be used by policymakers, researchers, and industry stakeholders in aligning technological progress with global climate and sustainability goals.
- How cities are striving to cope with ever-increasing temperaturesPublication . Leal Filho, Walter; Dinis, Maria Alzira Pimenta; Fracassi, Umberto; Nagy, GustavoPurpose: This study looks at the growing trend of higher temperatures in cities during the summer months. This rise in temperature leads to various environmental and health issues. This research aims to identify the major risks posed by extreme heat, especially for vulnerable communities. It also evaluates how well the current measures in different cities around the world address this increasing problem. Design/methodology/approach: The research adopts a comparative analysis approach, examining and contrasting specific measures and strategies adopted across different cities worldwide to address rising urban heat. The study reviews existing literature and real-world examples from 2023 and 2024 to explore how cities are coping with extreme temperatures, focusing on solutions such as green infrastructure, early warning systems and water management strategies. Findings: The results reveal that, while some cities have made considerable progress in enhancing their heat resilience, including the implementation of urban greening and improved early warning systems, there remains a pressing need for more targeted measures to address urban heat effectively to strategically protect human well-being in a context where excess heat conditions migrate from exception to occurrence. The study emphasises that metropolitan areas and expanding megacities worldwide require comprehensive strategies to manage summer heatwaves and adapt to the impacts of a changing climate posing novel, compounded hazards to human health. Originality/value: This paper contributes to the ongoing discourse on urban heat resilience by highlighting the emerging patterns of extreme temperatures and their effects on public health and well-being. It underscores the urgency for cities to adopt adaptive strategies to cope with rising temperatures, offering insights into the potential trajectory of heatwaves in 2024 and beyond. The study provides a timely and relevant analysis of the global urban heat challenge, urging policymakers and urban planners to prioritise sustainable and effective interventions demanded by populations across the full complex spectrum of contemporary societies.
- Addressing climate change education: relevant contributions from universitiesPublication . Leal Filho, Walter; Sow, Baba Libasse; Perlin, Ana Paula; Mbah, Marcellus Forh; Costa, Cristina Amaro da; Azam, Fardous Mohammad Safiul; Dinis, Maria Alzira PimentaPurpose: This study aims to identify and describe the nature of higher education institutions’ (HEIs) engagement with climate change (CC) education, exploring their contributions to addressing the multifaceted challenges associated with the phenomenon. Design/methodology/approach: By using a dual methodological approach consisting of an expert-driven literature review with supporting cases, the study provides a novel perspective of university involvement in CC education, emphasising theoretical insights and practical applications. Findings: The study asserts that universities contribute significantly to CC education through the development of specialised teaching programmes, innovative research initiatives and the establishment of interdisciplinary collaborations. However, challenges abound, including limited financial resources, institutional inertia and the complexity of integrating CC topics across diverse academic disciplines. By fostering partnerships with external stakeholders, implementing innovative teaching methodologies and strengthening governance frameworks, universities can further enhance the effectiveness and reach of CC education initiatives. Research limitations/implications: While the study offers valuable insights, it acknowledges potential limitations, including the scope of example studies and the specificity of findings to certain institutional contexts, which impedes generalisation. Avenues for further research to understand university contributions to CC education have been advanced. Practical implications: The paper provides practical insights for universities to optimise their engagement in CC education, emphasising the mobilisation of student involvement and the promotion of transdisciplinary approaches, amongst others. Social implications: While emphasising the role of universities in CC education, the study underscores the broader societal impact of informed and engaged HEIs to drive positive change by instilling awareness and promoting sustainable practices. Originality/value: The findings offer original perspectives on the importance of university engagement in CC education and provide practical measures for optimising their contribution to a sustainable future via pedagogical, programme and strategic/whole institutional levels.
- Editorial: Global excellence in sustainability – EuropePublication . Dinis, Maria Alzira Pimenta; Süßbauer, Elisabeth; Kalogeras, Nikos; Sylvia, LorekEditorial on the Research Topic Global Excellence in Sustainability: Europe.
- Is carbon dioxide removal in the Arctic region really feasible?Publication . Leal Filho, Walter; Luetz, Johannes; Dinis, Maria Alzira Pimenta; Hunt, Julian; Nagy, GustavoThe Arctic region, warming at nearly four times the global average rate, is both an important carbon sink and a potential source of greenhouse gas emissions, especially due to thawing permafrost. Carbon dioxide removal (CDR) is increasingly recognised as a necessary measure to support global efforts to reduce emissions. This article examines whether, and under what conditions, large-scale CDR deployment in the Arctic is practically feasible. It also discusses the challenges associated with it. We synthesise peer-reviewed evidence on the performance of key CDR approaches relevant to high-latitude environments, including nature-based solutions (NbS), e.g. peatland restoration, blue carbon protection and afforestation, as well as enhanced rock weathering (ERW), ocean alkalinity enhancement (OAE) and direct air carbon capture and storage (DACCS). Across these approaches, the feasibility is constrained by permafrost dynamics, hydrology, ecological sensitivity, energy availability, monitoring and verification, and governance. Whereas some CDR methods offer potential climate benefits, most are characterised by considerable uncertainty and context-dependent trade-offs. None currently demonstrates unequivocal feasibility at scale under Arctic conditions. Beyond these technical and ecological constraints, we identify four clusters of socio-political barriers that further complicate Arctic CDR: governance fragmentation, geopolitical tensions, inadequate regulatory mechanisms, and uneven global deployment. A comparative assessment suggests that peatland restoration and blue carbon protection are the most immediately actionable options, whereas DACCS and OAE would require substantial new infrastructure and energy investment. The study concludes by outlining targeted policy and research priorities to address existing technological, ecological, and governance challenges, and to situate Arctic CDR within broader mitigation strategies without risking over-reliance or mitigation deterrence. The novelty of this paper lies in its analysis of the multiple variables that influence the viability of CDR. Overall, Arctic CDR appears technically possible but remains highly constrained, with its feasibility contingent on meeting stringent operational conditions, robust governance, and continued emissions reductions elsewhere.
- Automating city accessibility constraints mapping through AI‐assisted scanning of street view imageryPublication . Silva Moreira, Rui; Moita, Sérgio; Torres, José Manuel; Alberto Ribeiro Gouveia, Feliz; Dinis, Maria Alzira Pimenta; Ferreira, Diogo; Pereira, Madalena Sofia Araujo; Guerreiro, Maria João S.; Zhou, GuyueUrban environments often pose challenges for individuals with mobility impairments due to inadequate pedestrian infrastructure. In addition, the lack of accurate mapping of accessibility features limits the ability to monitor and address these constraints effectively. This paper introduces a framework for Automating City Accessibility Mapping using AI (ACAMAI), that is, provides an AI-assisted pipeline for the automated identification and geolocation of urban accessibility constraints using Google Street View (GSV) panoramas. The ACAMAI pipeline comprises two main stages: (i) training a YOLOv8 object detector to recognise accessibility-related features, such as curb ramps, missing ramps, obstacles and surface problems, in 2D sidewalk images; and (ii) scanning 360° GSV panoramas by extracting multiple perspective views to be analysed by the trained model. The model was trained on a combination of international (Project Sidewalk Dataset—PSD) and local (Porto Dataset—PTD) datasets, achieving high performance across classes, including 91% recall and 85% precision for curb ramps. In the panorama scanning stage, using a fine angular iterative step (2°) maximised the recall, reaching 90% for curb ramps and 93% for obstacles in a locally annotated dataset (GSV Panorama Porto Dataset—GSV-PPD). Although this improved detection coverage, it also led to a high number of redundant predictions, which contributed to a reduced overall precision. Finally, identified constraints are georeferenced and mapped onto OpenStreetMap (OSM), supporting scalable and inclusive urban planning.