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Construction involves the use of significant quantities of raw materials and entails high-energy consumption. For the sake of choosing the most appropriate solution that considers environmental and sustainable concepts, tools such as the integrated value model for sustainable assessment (Modelo Integrado de Valor para una Evaluación Sostenible, MIVES) used in Spain, plays a key role in obtaining the best solution. MIVES is a multi-criteria decision-making method based on the value function concept and the seminars delivered by experts. Such tools, in order to show how they may work, require application to case studies. In this paper, two concrete slabs manufactured with differing reinforcements during the construction of the La Canda Tunnels are compared by means of MIVES. The two concrete slabs were reinforced with a conventional steel-mesh and with polyolefin fibres. This research was focussed on the main aspects affecting the construction. That is to say, the environmental, economic, and social factors were assessed by the method, being of special impact the issues related with maintenance of the structure. The results showed that from the point of view of sustainability, the use of polyolefin fibres provided a significant advantage, mainly due to the lower maintenance required.

Sustainable electricity generation is one of the major current challenges for our society. In this context, the evolution of nanomaterials and nanotechnologies has enabled the fabrication of microscopic devices to produce clean energy from a great variety of renewable sources. To expand the possibilities of energy generation, we have designed and fabricated bioinorganic generators capable to produce electricity by conversion of chemical energy from renewable fuel sources. Unlike traditional generators, the systems described herein produce mechanical energy through enzyme-driven gas production which generates vibration and pressure that are thus converted into electricity by the action of a piezoelectric component properly integrated into the device. Our generators are able to produce an electric ernergy from different renewable sources like glucose, ethanol, and amino acids, attaining energy outputs around 250 nJ cm–2 and reaching maximum open-circuit voltages of up to 1 V. In addition, the produced energy can be easily regulated by adjusting both enzyme and fuel concentration which can tune the electrical output according to the application. The systems described herein propose a new concept for self-sufficient energy harvesting that bridges biocatalysis and piezoelectricity, where the energy production is based on the piezoelectric effect triggered by enzymatic action rather than on the enzyme-driven electron transfer that governs biofuel cells. Although the electric output is too low yet to be considered an alternative for energy production, this technology opens the door to power small devices. We envision the utilization of this technology in such remote locations where mechanical energy is lacking but there are chemical energy reservoirs. We would like to acknowledge Marie-Curie Actions (NANOBIENER project), IKERBASQUE foundation for funding F.L.-G., and the support of COST Action CM1303 Systems Biocatalysis. We also acknowledge HERGAR foundation for the funding. Peer reviewed

This work evaluates, for the first time, the possibility of producing multifunctional alkali-activated composites combining ultra-low density, low thermal conductivity, high acoustic absorption, and good moisture buffering capacity. The composites were prepared using cork as a lightweight aggregate. This novel material might promote energy savings and tackle the CO2 emissions of the building sector, while simultaneously improve the comfort for inhabitants (e.g. humidity levels regulation and sound pollution reduction). The composites apparent density (as low as 168 kg/m3) and thermal conductivity (as low as 68 mW/m K) are amongst the lowest ever reported for alkali-activated materials (AAM) composites and foams, while their sound absorption ability is comparable to the best performing AAM foams reported to date, but in addition these eco-friendly composites also show good ability to passively adjust the humidity levels inside buildings. The multifunctional properties shown by the cork – AAM composites set them apart from other conventional building materials and might contribute to the global sustainability of the construction sector. Peer Reviewed

The lack of real integration between the different dimensions of sustainability is highlighted in the literature as one of the main hindrances to lessening the environmental risks and impacts of large-scale development projects. This paper discusses a hypothesis concerning the problems of integration between the different dimensions of sustainability in socio-environmental research into such projects. Differences in modes of knowledge production and the relationships of these with prevailing social positions constitute the crux of the argument. Endeavours to improve translational knowledge and mixed research methodologies (seeking the semi-standardization of research processes) are put forward as approaches to overcoming the above-mentioned obstacles.

Throughout the 21st century, urban reports demand solutions to the obsolescence and aging process suffered by the existing buildings, due to the growth and expansion of cities that took place in the second half of the 20th century [...]

The 2008 financial crisis placed banks in the gaze of public opinion. Financial entities did not delay in reacting, intensifying their efforts in what had become known as sustainable banking, with the goal of counteracting the negative effects of their loss of reputation. Neither has the academic community delayed their reaction, with the rapid growth of scientific production around this topic. However, no review of this literature through qualitative methods or bibliometry exists. The work presented in this paper fills one of those gaps, setting up a statistical description of the principal features of sustainable banking research and carrying out an analysis about its knowledge structure via co-word analysis. The results show a rapid evolution of the topics addressed, highlighting studies about the consequences of banks’ sustainability programs on their competitiveness. Future trends point to the search for more complex models, the incorporation of new stakeholders in the analysis and the consideration of different contexts.