FCT (DCEA) - Artigos em Revistas Científicas Internacionais com Arbitragem Científica
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- Dinner is served: how climate change interferes with olive oil productionPublication . Leal Filho, Walter; Luetz, Johannes; Dinis, Maria Alzira Pimenta; Nagy, GustavoThe Mediterranean region accounts for nearly 95% of global olive oil production. However, climate change - manifesting in intensified heatwaves, prolonged droughts, and increased pest prevalence - is undermining both the quantity and quality of yields. These disruptions threaten the livelihoods of rural producers and destabilize international markets. This article examines the complexities facing growers and outlines targeted mitigation strategies, highlighting the broader implications of climate change for a staple commodity relied upon daily by millions around the world. The analysis highlights interconnected climate impacts on agriculture, trade, and gastronomy, and identifies opportunities to enhance resilience through policy, agronomic innovation, and sustainable practices. It advances an integrated approach to Mediterranean food sustainability, linking agricultural adaptation with culinary heritage.
- University rankings and sustainable development: the state of the artPublication . Leal Filho, Walter; Trevisan, Laís; WAHAJ, ZUJAJA; Déda Araújo Nunes, Denner; Vasconcelos, Claudio Ruy Portela de; Dibbern, Thais Aparecida; Ruiz Vargas, Valeria; Iyer-Raniga, Usha; Anholon, Rosley; Novikau, Aliaksandr; Abubakar, Ismaila Rimi; Dinis, Maria Alzira PimentaPurpose In light of the growing emphasis on sustainability in higher education, this paper aims to explore the effectiveness of sustainability university rankings, specifically focusing on sustainable development (SD), to understand their impact on advancing universities’ sustainability goals and address gaps in practical implications and limitations. Design/methodology/approach This study examines sustainability rankings in higher education (HE) through document analysis. Chosen for significance, these rankings were evaluated for regional participation, criteria and the top 20 universities. The method involved scrutinising official ranking websites for diverse perspectives on sustainability. The results are classified into three categories: regional participation, assessment criteria and top universities in the latest iterations. Findings The findings show that sustainability rankings are widely spread, and their existence has led to an increased motivation for universities to further engage in efforts in the field of SD. This study offers suggestions for optimising the role of promoting SD principles and practices in HE. Originality/value This comprehensive assessment sheds light on rankings’ operations and success levels. It makes a significant contribution to the literature, providing an unprecedented overview of analysed rankings and on sustainability assessment and their impact. This analysis will be valuable for universities towards the integration of SD principles and practices into the HE environment.
- Exploring the imperative of education and learning for sustainable development: research gaps and pathwaysPublication . Leal Filho, Walter; da Silva Neiva, Samara; Vasconcelos, Claudio Ruy Portela de; Fritzen Gomes, Bárbara Maria; Sharifi, Ayyoob; Kozlova (Feldmane), Valerija; mifsud, Mark; Pace, Paul; Platje, Johannes; Dinis, Maria Alzira Pimenta; Da Cunha, Dênis Antônio; Erin Ann Hopkins; Lez Rayman-BacchusPurpose This paper aims to emphasize the significance of integrating sustainable development (SD) content into higher education institutions (HEIs) curricula. The focus is on identifying areas of research demand related to SD in teaching and learning programmes. Design/methodology/approach This study uses a comprehensive approach, combining bibliometric analysis and an original survey instrument tool. The research involves HEIs staff engaged in both research and teaching roles across 36 countries worldwide. Findings The findings of the study shed light on the challenges and gaps in incorporating SD into HEIs curricula. Insights reveal that researchers focusing on SD within teaching and learning programmes face a notable obstacle in the form of congested timetables. Research limitations/implications While providing valuable insights, this research acknowledges study design and methodology limitations. These limitations should be considered when interpreting the findings and planning future research endeavours in SD in HEIs. Practical implications The paper underscores the practical implications of the findings, emphasising the need to address congested timetables as a significant obstacle to sustainability education efforts. The practical insights aim to guide educators and institutions in enhancing the incorporation of SD content in their teaching programmes. Social implications The study’s social implications highlight the broader impact on society, emphasising the role of HEIs in shaping a sustainable future. Addressing the identified challenges can contribute to better preparing students for addressing real-world sustainability issues, thereby fostering positive social change. Originality/value This paper concludes by outlining essential measures to address identified challenges and gaps, emphasising the imperative of creating an environment that supports the integration of SD into higher education curricula. The findings provide valuable guidance for educators, policymakers and institutions seeking to enhance sustainability education efforts.
- Towards more sustainable oceans: a review of the pressing challenges posed by marine plastic litterPublication . Leal Filho, Walter; Jelena Barbir; Julia May; Marta May; Julia Swart; Peter Yang; Dinis, Maria Alzira Pimenta; Yusuf A Aina; Sara Bettencourt; Patricia Charvet; Hossein AzadiMarine littering is a global challenge and a significant threat to a sustainable planet, requiring comprehensive and effective mechanisms to address it in a comprehensive manner. This study reports on a bibliometric analysis that has identified the extent to which the topic has been explored in the international literature, by focusing on geographical scope, the emphasis on (micro)plastic litter and on policy measures. Additionally, as a complement to the assessment of the recent literature on marine plastic litter, this study reviews some case studies, identifying some trends on how to cope with this problem. The findings underscore the imperative for heightened research efforts in the context of marine littering. The literature reveals that unsustainable practices, the absence of robust policies and inadequate enforcement substantially contribute to the prevalence of marine plastic litter. Consequently, urgent action is essential, demanding the implementation of effective policies and frameworks. Encouraging nations to transition towards marine sustainability, particularly in terms of prevention and environmental awareness, is of paramount importance. To pave the way for a cleaner ocean for future generations, this study not only highlights the root causes but also offers suggested solutions. These solutions serve as valuable insights for researchers, innovators and policymakers worldwide, charting a course towards a more sustainable and litter-free marine environment.
- The 15-minute city in Porto, Portugal: accessibility for the elderlyPublication . Guerreiro, Maria; Dinis, Maria Alzira Pimenta; Sucena, Sara; Pereira, Madalena Sofia Araujo; Silva, Isabel; Ferreira, Diogo; Silva Moreira, RuiThe concept of the 15-Minute City aims to enhance urban accessibility by ensuring that essential services are within a short walking distance. This study evaluates the accessibility of Porto, Portugal, particularly for the elderly, by assessing urban density, permeability, and walkability, with a specific focus on crossings and ramps. A five-step methodology was employed, including spatial analysis using QGIS and Place Syntax Tool, proximity assessments, and an in-situ survey of crossings and ramps in the CHP. The results indicate that while the city of Porto offers a dense and walkable urban environment, significant accessibility challenges remain due to inadequate ramp distribution. The data collection identified 80 crossings, of which only 60 were listed in OpenStreetMap, highlighting data inconsistencies. Additionally, 18 crossings lacked curb ramps, posing mobility barriers for elderly residents. These findings highlight the need of infrastructure improvements to support inclusive urban mobility. The study also proposes an automated method to enhance ramp data collection for broader applications. Addressing these gaps is crucial for achieving the equity and sustainability goals of the 15-Minute City model, ensuring that aging populations can navigate urban spaces safely and efficiently.
- Governance in the implementation of the UN sustainable development goals in higher education: global trendsPublication . Leal Filho, Walter; Abubakar, Ismaila Rimi; mifsud, Mark; Henrique, João Paulino Pires Eustachio; Albrecht, Clarissa Ferreira; Dinis, Maria Alzira Pimenta; Borsari, Bruno; Sharifi, Ayyoob; Levesque, Vanessa; Ribeiro, Priscilla Cristina Cabral; LeVasseur, Todd J.; Pace, Paul; Trevisan, Laís; Dibbern, Thais AparecidaGovernance is a key component for implementing sustainable development (SD) initiatives in university teaching, research, and projects. This line of thinking also applies to implementing the United Nations (UN) sustainable development goals (SDGs). Despite the role of governance in guiding processes related to the SDGs, few studies have examined these relations in an integrative manner in higher education. To bridge this knowledge gap, this study assesses the connections between governance and implementing the SDGs at higher education institutions (HEIs). Specifically, it relies on two main methods. The first is a bibliometric analysis, where the literature on the topic has been analyzed. The second method uses case studies from a sample of universities. The combined dual approach has identified the extent to which governance issues influence how these organizations perceive and handle the SDGs. The study provides valuable recommendations that may assist HEIs in implementing the SDGs with a due emphasis on governance.
- Managing ecosystem services in the Brazilian Amazon: the influence of deforestation and forest degradation in the world’s largest rain forestPublication . Leal Filho, Walter; Dinis, Maria Alzira Pimenta; Almeida Canova, Moara; Cataldi, Marcio; Costa, Giulia Angelina Silva da; Enrich Prast, Alex; Symeonakis, Elias; Brearley, FrancisThe Amazon rain forest covers an area of ~ 6.7 million km2 of South America; nearly 60% of it is in Brazil, while the rest is shared among eight other countries. This vast extent of rain forest is a globally significant ecosystem that provides numerous ecosystem services that benefit humanity including essential climate regulation, biodiversity conservation, and hydrological stability. However, deforestation and forest degradation have led to the loss of approximately 15% of the Amazon rainforest since the 1970s, primarily driven by agricultural expansion, illegal mining, logging, and wildfires. These pressures have triggered a cascade of consequences, including biodiversity loss, disruption of cultural and ecosystem services, depletion of carbon sinks, and severe alterations to the hydrological cycle. While initially manifesting at local and regional scales, these effects increasingly pose risks to global climate stability. We simulated deforestation scenarios (15%, 50%, and 100% forest loss) using the Community Atmosphere Model (CAM 3.1) to evaluate precipitation changes and atmospheric responses. Results indicate substantial reductions in regional precipitation, hydrological disruptions affecting agricultural productivity, and an increasing risk of the Amazon transitioning from a carbon sink to a carbon source. This underscores the urgency of policy interventions, including stricter environmental regulations, trade restrictions on commodities produced illegally or in deforested areas, enhanced Indigenous land protection, and international cooperation to mitigate deforestation and promote sustainable land use. Immediate action is necessary to prevent irreversible ecological and climatic tipping points.
- Artificial intelligence and climate change: the potential roles of foundation modelsPublication . Leal Filho, Walter; Kovaleva, Marina; Ng, Artie; Nagy, Gustavo; Luetz, Johannes; Dinis, Maria Alzira PimentaArtificial intelligence (AI) is being developed fast and applied in several areas including education and healthcare with excellent potential for use in fields that require complex analytics, particularly in the case of climate change. Recent developments in AI, such as ChatGPT and OpenAI, machine vision technologies and deep learning, among others, may be deployed in various contexts, including climate change. Of specific interest is the role played by foundation models (FMs), which may help to augment intelligence on climate change and reduce the social risks of adaptation and mitigation initiatives. This article discusses the potential applications of FMs in climate change research and management and illustrates the need for further studies. FMs, built on large unlabelled data sets and enabled by transfer learning, offer versatility in handling complex tasks. Specifically, FMs can aid in climate data analysis, modelling future scenarios, assessing risks, and supporting decision-making processes. Despite their potential, challenges such as data privacy, algorithm bias, and energy consumption require careful consideration. The article emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary efforts to address these challenges and maximize the positive impact of FMs in mitigation and adaptation. AI, including advanced models like FMs, holds significant promise for addressing climate change challenges.
- Green correction facilities: lessons from case studies in sustainability in prisonsPublication . Leal Filho, Walter; Rocha Júnior, Valdemiro; Dinis, Maria Alzira Pimenta; Luetz, Johannes; Aver, Gisleine; Andrade Guerra, José BaltazarPrisons are inherently resource-intensive institutions, consuming substantial amounts of energy, water, and materials. The adoption of sustainable practices within these environments offers a significant potential to reduce carbon emissions, minimize waste, and conserve natural resources—thereby contributing to broader environmental goals. Initiatives such as energy-efficient lighting, renewable energy integration, and water conservation measures have demonstrated effectiveness in lowering operational costs and reducing the financial burden on taxpayers. Despite these clear advantages, research on environmental sustainability in correctional settings remains limited. In response to this gap, this paper explores the critical need for sustainability practices within prison systems, emphasizing the role of environmental stewardship in modern correctional management. By using an analysis of the literature and illustrative case studies, the study examines a range of initiatives designed to reduce waste, conserve energy, and support sustainable food production. The analysis highlights successful examples where eco-friendly practices have not only lowered operational costs but also enhanced rehabilitation outcomes for incarcerated individuals. Additionally, it provides an analysis of the challenges and opportunities associated with environmental sustainability in prisons and advocates the need for a comprehensive approach to correctional management that aligns ecological responsibility with prisoner education and community engagement. Ultimately, the findings suggest that adopting environmental sustainable practices can transform prisons into centers of positive change, benefiting both the environment, incarcerated persons, and society at large.
- Managing space debris: risks, mitigation measures, and sustainability challengesPublication . Leal Filho, Walter; Dinis, Maria Alzira Pimenta; Hunt, Julian; Abubakar, Ismaila RimiSpace debris consists of non-functional, human-made objects remaining in Earth's orbit or entering the atmosphere, creating significant challenges for space operations. Current surveillance systems track nearly 40,000 larger debris fragments, yet it is estimated that hundreds of thousands of smaller pieces and millions of tiny, untracked particles further contribute to the risk of high-velocity collisions. These objects threaten spacecraft integrity, satellite functionality, and the long-term sustainability of space activities. This review article investigates the hazards posed by space debris, providing an overview of its impact on satellite operations, crewed space missions, and orbital stability. It examines risk mitigation strategies, including the enforcement of stricter disposal regulations, advancements in satellite design for controlled re-entry or deorbiting, and the active removal of large debris objects. A structured approach to space debris mitigation is also explored, outlining a proposed four-step strategy: designing spacecraft for impact resistance, implementing advanced remote tracking and monitoring systems, integrating onboard detection and avoidance mechanisms, and developing impact mitigation strategies to minimize damage. Additionally, the importance of enhanced tracking technologies and international cooperation is underscored, as collective efforts are necessary to address this escalating issue. Increasing awareness of the growing risks and exploring practical mitigation strategies strengthens ongoing efforts to safeguard space activities and ensure the long-term viability of Earth's orbital environment.