SRC’24 Conference Proceeding

 Seq

Title

Abstract

1

Fly Ash in Self-Consolidating Concrete: Performance, Sustainability, and Optimization with Specialized Machine Learning Application

This study investigates the influence of fly ash on the rheological and mechanical properties of self-consolidating concrete (SCC) containing volcanic aggregates. The research also explores the use of machine learning to optimize SCC mix designs and examines the role of fly ash in enhancing compatibility with liquid CO2 admixtures for sustainable construction. The findings demonstrate that fly ash significantly improves the flowability and resistance to segregation of SCC, while also enhancing compressive strength. Machine learning models, particularly Additive Regression, proved effective in predicting the plastic viscosity of SCC mixes based on constituent proportions, achieving a high correlation coefficient of 0.9527 and low error rates (Mean Absolute Error of 1.3337, Root Mean Squared Error of 1.6925). The study underscores the potential of fly ash in SCC to enhance both performance and sustainability in concrete construction.

http://dx.doi.org/10.12785/src/1571025153

2

Environmental and Economic Comparative Analysis of Green Roofs: The Case of Singapore and Bahrain

Integrating green roofs in buildings can reduce energy consumption for cooling. Green roofs also reduce the urban heat island and mitigate climate change. The significant case of green roof integration in Singapore can be reflected in Bahrain, considering both countries are Small Island Developing States, with high urbanization rates and limited land. The paper investigates environmental and economic benefits and drawbacks affected by the climate conditions comparing the hot and arid climate in Bahrain with the tropical climate in Singapore. Based on the SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis, a list of conclusions and recommendations are listed to maximize the environmental benefits of green roofs and reduce the economic costs related to installation, maintenance, and water consumption. Solutions may include the application of financial incentives and using treated wastewater.

http://dx.doi.org/10.12785/src/1571057895

3

Cloud Computing for Sustainable Development of Smart Cities

Urbanization is an unstoppable trend with the abundance of advantages it brings to a country especially in boosting economy and lifting overall quality of life. Despite significant benefits of urbanization, it brings challenges if not well planned and managed. Rapid urbanization without adequate management leads to environmental concerns as well as unsustainable energy consumption patterns. Urbanization is one of the key drivers to climate change due to increasing utilization of infrastructure, energy consumption, resources waste and emission of greenhouse gases. Therefore, sustainability is the key, and the future direction of sustainable urban growth is the development of smart cities. The development of smart cities, as the name suggests, deploys smart systems and technologies to support sustainable growth. As such, cloud computing play a critical role in development of smart cities to provide supports in terms of infrastructure and services. This research will delve deeper into the role of cloud computing in development of smart cities. This research proposes a suitable cloud architecture for sustainable development of smart cities.

http://dx.doi.org/10.12785/src/1571066680

4

A Conceptual Paper on Social Media Engagement and Customer Retention for a Financial Services Agency

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, social media platforms have become indispensable for businesses aiming to enhance customer engagement and cultivate brand loyalty. This conceptual paper explores strategies for improving customer engagement through social media, with a particular focus on Alpha Group, a financial services agency. Utilizing the Attention, Interest, Desire, Action (AIDA) Model as a theoretical framework, the study examines key challenges faced by the agency in leveraging social media to engage with customers. Issues such as low engagement on platforms like Facebook and Instagram are identified, attributed to gaps in digital marketing expertise and content management. Social media marketing can be seen as a closed-loop system where feedback from user interactions continuously informs and refines marketing strategies, fostering a symbiotic relationship between businesses and consumers. Through a comprehensive literature review and the creation of a conceptual model, this paper proposes targeted interventions to address these challenges and boost customer engagement. The insights provided are intended to enrich both academic discourse and practical applications in social media marketing, specifically within the financial services sector. Future research should test the proposed model across different business contexts and investigate the long-term impact of customer engagement strategies on brand performance.

http://dx.doi.org/10.12785/src/1571073703

5

Towards the Evaluation of Hydraulic Performance of Water Distribution Network by GIS and Hydraulic Model

The hydraulic performance of the water distribution network system is crucial for ensuring efficient and reliable water supply. In response to increasing environmental and economic factors, there are various international standards and methods to evaluate the performance of water networks. On this basis, 70 types of research published internationally were reviewed to determine the best standards and methods for evaluating the hydraulic performance of Water Distribution Network (WDN). In the present study, the literature survey is divided into two main groups: methods and criteria. There has been a growing interest in evaluating and designing water networks, especially using integrated software simulators such as Geographic Information System (GIS) and EPAENT software, as well as GIS and WaterCAD. As a result, the study found that the most commonly used integrated software was GIS and EPAENT, with a usage percentage of 37.1%, and the least used was GIS and Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) at 1.4%.

http://dx.doi.org/10.12785/src/1571074436

6

Adoption of Fourth Industrial Revolution to Attain Efficiency and Sustainability: Thematic Analysis Approach

This article aims to investigate the adoption level of 4IR technologies to attain sustainability and efficiency in Saudi Arabia and the use of 4IR technologies to promote Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The challenges facing 4IR technologies in relation to sustainable development are examined, and the solutions to address these challenges are proposed. The advantages and challenges of adopting 4IR technologies are discussed, as well as their applications in promoting sustainability, socio-economic development, and training. The research methodology and the procedures used in the study are presented, including the research variables and the data collection method. Thematic analysis is used to analyze the data, and the results are presented in detail. From the thematic analysis, the major challenges are identified as the skills gap and maintaining a full picture of the business not the technologies. Many other challenges are also identified such as infrastructure requirements and training.

http://dx.doi.org/10.12785/src/1571075964

7

Optimizing Carbon Footprint in ICT through Swarm Intelligence with Algorithmic Complexity

Global emissions from fossil fuel combustion and cement production were recorded in 2022, signaling a resurgence to pre-pandemic levels and providing an apodictic indication that emission peaks have not yet been achieved. Significant contributions to this upward trend are made by the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) industry due to its substantial energy consumption. Need for further exploration of swarm intelligence applications to measure and optimize the carbon footprint within ICT. all causative factors are evaluated based on the quality of data collection, variations from each source are quantified, and an objective function related to carbon footprint in ICT energy management is optimized. Emphasis is placed on the asyndetic integration of data sources to construct a convex optimization problem. An apodictic necessity to prevent the erosion of accuracy in carbon footprint assessments is addressed. By pushing the horizon of swarm intelligence applications, a significant contribution to sustainable energy management is aimed. A significant contribution is made to the field by demonstrating that swarm intelligence can be effectively applied to optimize the energy consumption and carbon footprint within the ICT sector. By leveraging a novel formula to calculate emissions based on computational complexity, we were able to quantify the environmental impact of various swarm algorithms. The proposed model allowed for a comprehensive analysis, characteristics from the relationship between algorithm complexity and carbon emissions. Notably, simpler, stochastic models exhibited lower emissions, while more complex, hybrid models demonstrated higher computational and environmental costs. In summary, swarm intelligence can improve energy efficiency in ICT, but also underscore the importance of selecting the right algorithm based on the specific context of the problem.

http://dx.doi.org/10.12785/src/1571078575

8

Technological Innovations and Volatility Dynamics: Exploring the Interplay Between Clean Cryptocurrencies, Natural Gas, and Clean Energy

This study explores the dynamic volatility persistence and conditional correlations between clean cryptocurrencies (Cardano and Solana), the S&P Global Clean Energy Index, and Natural Gas. The intent is to understand the long-term and short-term relationships among these assets. The research employs a Dynamic Conditional Correlation (DCC) GARCH model to investigate the time-varying correlations and volatility persistence between the selected assets. The study illustrates that although the Clean Energy Index stabilizes rapidly, clean cryptocurrency and natural gas show significant, persistent volatility. Significant long-term correlations exist between various assets; Solana, for instance, has noteworthy volatility and strong relationships to Natural Gas and Clean Energy, indicating interdependent market dynamics. This study helps to improve our understanding of how clean and dirty energy assets interact regarding market volatility and correlation dynamics. The research holds special significance for decision-makers, financiers, and investors interested in the interplay of digital, clean, and dirty energy assets.

http://dx.doi.org/10.12785/src/1571080315

9

Educational Knowledge-Based System for Traffic Accident Analysis on Residential Streets: A Learning Tool for Transportation Engineering Students

Expert system techniques have been widely used in traffic accidents. They can perform much better than shallow models. However, Residential streets, particularly in low- and middle-income countries face numerous traffic safety challenges related to traffic accidents. Therefore, This paper proposes the development of an innovative system for controlling traffic accidents on residential streets using an expert system. Creating an educational system with a knowledge base that includes descriptions, causes, and solutions to these issues provides an effective way for Transportation Engineering students to learn about potential challenges they may face. This paper outlines the development and evaluation stages of an innovative system, including knowledge acquisition, representation, system building, and testing. The arithmetic mean for matching experts’ answers with the system’s outputs exceeded 4, with a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.917 and ICR, indicating excellent reliability. Additionally, end-user evaluations of the system revealed an overall assessment rating above 4, with a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.932 and ICR, again demonstrating excellent reliability.

http://dx.doi.org/10.12785/src/1571086852

10

Using Drones for Environmental Monitoring in Eco-Tourism: Preventing Ecological Harm

This study investigates drone technology for environmental monitoring with case studies of ecotourism and smart city benefits. Using a mixed-method approach combining first data from an online poll with secondary data from other worldwide case studies, the study evaluates public attitude and the value of drones. While some people worry about the negative effects of drones on the environment such noise pollution and disturbance of wildlife, the results show that most people are informed and in favor of this technology. Studies show that drones can change the management of urban and natural ecosystems by increasing the accuracy of data, reducing human engagement with natural surroundings, and more generally by This paper investigates the problems of employing drones for sustainable development projects and offers legal frameworks, public participation tactics, and specific recommendations for new ideas as solutions. Apart from defining the many strategic uses of drones in tourist management and urban development, this study assures ecological preservation and promotes environmental monitoring.

http://dx.doi.org/10.12785/src/1571087453

11

Utilizing Mushroom Baglog Waste for the Production of Charcoal Briquettes as an Alternative Energy Source

Mushroom baglog waste is an organic waste generated from mushroom cultivation, and its volume is quite substantial. This waste poses significant environmental risks if not properly managed, such as soil and air pollution due to decomposition, which produces methane gas. Innovative management of baglog waste can be achieved by converting it into briquettes, offering a sustainable solution for biomass energy production. This study aims to empower communities by transforming mushroom baglog waste into charcoal briquettes as an alternative energy source. Without proper management, baglog waste can have negative environmental impacts. This study employs a research and development (R&D) approach, identifying community needs for environmentally friendly energy sources. The methods used include training the community to produce high-quality briquettes from this waste, along with testing the product’s quality and economic viability. The best results indicated that the briquettes achieved a calorific value of 2,786 kcal/g, a moisture content of 13.98%, and a flash point of 167°C, making it an efficient alternative fuel. Additionally, the economic analysis indicated a break-even point (BEP) at 102 briquette units, with a benefit-cost ratio (BCR) of 1.47, signaling considerable profit potential. User acceptance testing, conducted using the System Usability Scale (SUS), resulted in an average score of 83.5, demonstrating high user satisfaction with the product. This research is expected to serve as a foundational step in raising environmental awareness and creating economic opportunities for communities through renewable energy innovation.

http://dx.doi.org/10.12785/src/1571088412

12

Fostering Innovation in Clean Technologies: The Role of Startups and Business Incubators in Driving Sustainable Environmental Solutions

The paper examines the function of startups and business incubators in promoting innovation within the clean technology sector, tackling the issues of climate change, resource depletion, and environmental degradation. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, integrating quantitative data from surveys and qualitative interviews with industry specialists. The research indicated that startups affiliated with business incubators exhibited markedly superior success rates relative to those without such support. Consistent observations of key performance metrics, including enhanced revenue growth, patent applications, and augmented market penetration, were noted among incubated enterprises. The assistance offered by incubators, encompassing mentorship, networking opportunities, and strategic resources, was essential in surmounting financial and regulatory compliance obstacles. A supportive policy framework not only improved the efficacy of incubator assistance but also cultivated a more dynamic cleantech innovation ecosystem. The study highlights the critical functions of startups and business incubators in fostering innovation in clean technologies and promotes cohesive strategies to improve the support framework for cleantech entrepreneurs. The findings enhance the discussion on sustainability, highlighting the necessity of collaboration among stakeholders to foster a strong climate for innovation. Establishing startups and incubators as pivotal entities is essential for attaining global environmental objectives and tackling sustainable development issues.

http://dx.doi.org/10.12785/src/1571088487

13

Design and Manufacture of a Solar-Powered Electrical Energy System for Traditional Fishing Boat

Indonesia, as the world’s largest maritime nation, supports millions of traditional fishermen who rely heavily on diesel or gasoline engines, which contribute significantly to environmental emission and high operational costs. In response to these challenges, the adoption of renewable energy sources including solar power, presents a viable solution to reduce environmental impacts while optimizing the operational costs of fishing boats. This study adopts a Research and Development (R&D) approach to develop an energy system that minimizes dependence on fossil fuels and improves operational efficiency. Utilizing a 200 WP solar panel and a 200 Ah battery, the system can generate up to 864 Wh of electricity per day, supporting a DC motor with a 3 HP capacity for approximately 1.46 hours of continuous operation. The system achieved an overall efficiency of 58.1%, calculated based on the combined efficiency of the solar panel, solar charge controller, and battery. Testing and simulations conducted on a traditional fishing boat demonstrated optimal performance in meeting the electrical demands of the boat, showcasing the potential for solar energy to transform energy management in the fisheries sector. By employing this system, traditional fishermen are expected to enhance the sustainability of their operations and reduce carbon emissions.

http://dx.doi.org/10.12785/src/1571088506

14

Design and Performance Assessment of a Stove Fueled by Waste Cooking Oil based on FFEAS Technology: An Alternative Energy for SMEs

Waste cooking oil or used cooking oil is potentially carcinogenic waste and dangerous to human health if used for cooking repeatedly. If waste cooking oil is disposed of in the environment, it can harm soil structure by impeding water movement in soil pores. Therefore, the development of waste cooking oil stove technology designed using the French method can be a solution to utilize waste cooking oil as an alternative fuel. The results of this research are a stove design and device that can use used cooking oil. This stove uses abundant waste cooking oil with efficient and clean combustion results through the use of FFEAS Technology. This stove uses a floating wick and an excess air system which makes the combustion process easier. The performance of the stove being developed can be seen in several tests such as ignition combustion duration, required pressure, operational time, fuel consumption rate, sensible heat, and latent heat. The results of three tests that have been conducted show that the average ignition duration of the stove is 12 minutes, the optimal pressure is 4-5 bar, the fuel consumption rate is 8.34ml/minute, the average latent heat is 1,095.82 watts, and the average sensible heat is 132.48 watts.

http://dx.doi.org/10.12785/src/1571090542

15

Durability of Ecofriendly Roller Compacted Concrete Pavement

Roller Compacted Concrete (RCC) is a type of concrete that is compacted using a roller in the field, but to make test objects using a vibrator and has quite stiff properties because of zero slumps. The use of RCC concrete pavement has several advantages, strong, dense, and durable. RCC usually uses cement and water as a binder which increases carbon dioxide (CO2) into the environment. This study uses fly ash as a mixture of concrete and sodium sulfate for Ecofriendly Roller Compacted Concrete Pavement (ERCCP) immersion. This study uses cylindrical specimens 150 mm x 300 mm to examine ERCCP compressive strength using fly ash 0%, 10%, and 15%. The concrete curing in plain water and sodium sulfate solution, at the age of 14 days and 28 days. The optimum compressive strength result in ERCCP is 54.90 Mpa using 10% fly ash and 28 days in water curing. The lowest ERCCP compression strength was 36.22 Mpa at the age of 14 days with the addition of 10% fly ash in sulfate immersion. The highest modulus of elasticity is 1440.23 with the addition of 15% fly ash at 28 days. The concrete curing using sodium sulfate solution can reduce the compressive strength of ERCCP and the addition of fly ash affects the compressive strength of ERCCP.

http://dx.doi.org/10.12785/src/1571092866

16

Urban Regeneration a strategy of Nature Based sustainable Development: A case of Nabih Saleh Neighbourhood Public Spaces

This study examines the significance of regenerative in urban sustainability development projects in Bahrain, highlighting the considerable need for efficient, sustainable development approaches. The research employs a case study methodology, concentrating on Nabih Saleh Island, which has valuable characteristics and deserves a unique method of developing its urban spaces. Unfortunately, however, it is a place experiencing decline and a loss of its unique character. Research reveals that locals are discontented with the existing situation, underscoring the need for reform. A schematic design using regenerative solutions has been suggested and assessed based on community input and SBTool standards. This research illustrates that regenerative solutions are essential for attaining sustainable urban development in Bahrain. The findings highlight the need for creative strategies to rejuvenate declining neighborhoods and improve community welfare.

http://dx.doi.org/10.12785/src/1571093221

17

Three-Phase Induction Motor Noise Analysis and Fault Detection

The aim of this study is to mitigate the noise and identify the origins of electrical motor malfunction through the analysis of noise signals. At four different rpm ranges, i.e., 1470, 1998, 2015, 2650, and 2890 rpm; motor vibration signals were recorded. Each of the three phases will have its own set of measurements taken in two different modes from the current transformer: forward and reverse. Three Digital-to-Analogue Converters (DACs) connect LabVIEW to the motor, which makes data collecting easier. For precise data gathering, three separate apps were created. The MATLAB/SIMULINK filters out the flaws that were found by comparing the FFTs of the noise signals. Various measuring instruments were employed, and their outputs were compared to determine that the results were consistent. As part of this, there were two frequency analyzers-one for more precise measurements and another with a smaller range-and two current transformers with varying ranges. Data analysis from experimental testing was the backbone of the study, and the results were promising.

http://dx.doi.org/10.12785/src/1571093273

18

Analyzing the Impact of Paper Packaging and Online Food Delivery Service Apps on Sustainable Consumer Behavior — A Case Study in Indonesia

Indonesia, generating approximately 11% of global plastic waste, grapples with severe environmental challenges, further exacerbated by high vehicle usage-over 121 million motorcycles and 18 million cars contribute to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. This study examines how food packaging choices and online food delivery services impact sustainable consumer behavior in Indonesia. Using a quantitative research approach, data from 710 participants across diverse demographics were analyzed to uncover key insights into the environmental attitudes and behaviors of Indonesian consumers. Employing Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), the analysis demonstrates that trust in paper packaging and online delivery services, as alternatives to plastic packaging and traditional takeaway, significantly influences sustainable consumer behavior, achieving a model accuracy of 97.75%. Anchored in the principles of the circular economy, this study highlights how consumer preferences for paper packaging and digital delivery platforms can mitigate plastic waste and reduce traffic congestion, supporting sustainable urban living.

http://dx.doi.org/10.12785/src/1571093478

19

Implementation of Solar Photovoltaic and Solar Dish Concentrator-Based Seawater Desalination System for Meeting Clean Water Needs – A Case Study in a Drought Prone Area in Indonesia

This study explores the implementation of a solar desalination system using solar photovoltaic (PV) panels and a solar dish concentrator to address clean water needs in a drought-prone area in Indonesia. The system combines solar-generated electricity and concentrated solar heat to power a desalination device, converting seawater into potable water. During a seven-day trial, the device achieved an average boiler temperature of 405.9°C, enabling efficient water vaporization for desalination. The system produced 1300 ml of clean water every 30 minutes, totaling a daily yield of 23.4 liters under optimal sunlight conditions. Testing showed a pH reduction from 8 (seawater) to 6.1 (desalinated water), moving the water into a safer range for human consumption. Additionally, electrical conductivity dropped from 36 milliseconds to 400 microseconds, indicating a significant reduction in salinity. These findings demonstrate the system’s capability to produce clean water sustainably, supporting circular economy principles by reusing and optimizing renewable energy resources for water desalination in water-scarce areas.

http://dx.doi.org/10.12785/src/1571093481

20

Bashilite and Mirai Malware Attacks Detection on IoT Devices Using Machine Learning

The risk of cyber-attacks on Internet of Things (IoT) infrastructure is substantial, especially with devices operating on existing network systems, such as those targeted by Bashilite and Mirai malware. Network forensics investigations necessitate the use of machine learning algorithms for effective classification and detection of these malware attacks. In a series of experiments, five algorithms were tested: Naïve Bayes (NB), Random Forest (RF), Decision Tree (DT), Neural Network (NN), and K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN). The findings indicated that the RF algorithm performed the best, with an average accuracy of 93.78%, recall of 86.3%, F1 score of 90.04%, and the highest precision at 95%. Furthermore, the RF algorithm is particularly adept at handling large datasets. This study suggests that the RF algorithm is an excellent choice for classifying and identifying Bashilite and Mirai malware attacks within IoT infrastructure.

http://dx.doi.org/10.12785/src/1571093544

21

Sustainable Water Production: Utilizing Peltier Elements for Atmospheric Water Harvesting

This study aims to investigate the viability of using Peltier elements as a sustainable solution to produce water from dehumidification of humid air over a cold surface. COMSOL-Multiphysics has been applied as a Computational Fluid Dynamics tool to simulate the physics of electric current, heat transfer in solids, laminar flow, and moisture transport in air. The effect of the weather conditions on the condensation process has been simulated by investigating the performance of the condensation at different two months, January for winter conditions and June for summer conditions. Additionally, the effect of the current change on the condensation process has been studied using four different currents 1, 2, 3, and 4 A. The simulation has been carried out for a period of 24 hours. For the weather effect, the condensation process is enhanced during the summer rather than during the winter conditions. For the current effect, as the current increases, the relative humidity decreases due to the increase in the air temperature, which depends mainly on the current value through the joule heating effect. The optimum current was found to be 4 Amperes, and it produced 7.98 L of condensed water.

http://dx.doi.org/10.12785/src/1571093617

22

Innovative Approaches to Seawater Desalination: Balancing Efficiency and Sustainability

Desalination has long been vital for providing clean water for consumption and agriculture. Recently, seawater desalination has emerged as a sustainable freshwater source, necessitating operational optimization. This project aimed to identify and optimize a suitable seawater desalination technology, selecting Reverse Osmosis (RO). The project involved designing, simulating, and optimizing the plant, followed by economic evaluations. Additionally, the integration of solar energy systems was analyzed for economic viability and CO2 emissions. Four alternatives were simulated to optimize a seawater desalination plant with a capacity of 500,000 m³/day, focusing on maintaining Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) below 300 ppm and specific energy consumption under 5 kWh/m³. The fourth alternative, deemed the best, achieved a TDS of 164.7 ppm and the lowest specific energy consumption of 4.33 kWh/m³. Economic analyses assessed the viability of ultrafiltration and desalination processes with and without 10% reliance on renewable energy. Two approaches were used: one excluding labor and land costs, and another including them. The first approach estimated the cost of producing 1 m³ of drinking water at BD 0.246/m³ without renewables, yielding a Net Present Value (NPV) of 373 million Bahraini Dinars. With renewables, the cost rose to BD 0.331/m³, with an NPV of 232.6 million Bahraini Dinars. The second approach, accounting for land and labor costs, calculated the cost at BD 0.252/m³ without renewables (NPV of 363 million Bahraini Dinars) and BD 0.3374/m³ with 10% renewables (NPV of 231.6 million Bahraini Dinars). Increasing renewable reliance to 20% raised the cost to BD 0.42788/m³ and reduced the NPV to 82 million Bahraini Dinars. Carbon footprint analysis showed lower emissions for the renewable-integrated design, with direct and indirect emissions of 1.6 and 0.72 kg CO2/m³, respectively, compared to the original design’s 1.79 and 0.78 kg CO2/m³.

http://dx.doi.org/10.12785/src/1571094065

23

The Financial and Operational Impact of Remote Work on White-Collar Employees in India

The rise of remote collaboration tools and flexible work arrangements has immensely transformed organizations. While the benefits are evident, quantifying the financial and operational impact on organizations remains a significant challenge. This study addresses this critical gap by focusing on cost optimization and examining how innovative techniques might result in substantial financial advantages and operational improvements in an organization. Current challenges include effectively quantifying the financial effects of these changes while reducing potential drawbacks such as reduced team unity and communication barriers. This comprehensive approach ensures a thorough understanding of these modern practices’ financial and operational impacts on an organization. By utilizing advanced statistical methods and quantitative data analysis, this research thoroughly verifies the effectiveness of our approach. The results show that carefully thought-out frameworks can yield substantial financial returns that much outweigh initial tool and technology purchases. Through optimizing resource allocation, talent retention, and employee morale enhancement, this strategy sets the foundation for a sustainable future of work in which operational effectiveness and financial success are closely connected.

http://dx.doi.org/10.12785/src/1571094077

24

Nature-Based Solutions in Startup Incubation: Enhancing Environmental Sustainability through Innovation

Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) are sustainable methods that amalgamate natural processes with human requirements to tackle environmental challenges such as climate change, biodiversity decline, water security, and ecosystem degradation. These initiatives provide economical and ecologically sustainable solutions via interventions such as reforestation, wetland restoration, and the construction of urban green infrastructure. Nonetheless, NbS has substantial obstacles like as budgetary constraints, regulatory intricacies, and challenges in scaling. Startups and business incubators are essential in promoting NbS by encouraging creativity, tackling obstacles, and amplifying sustainable solutions. This research employs qualitative interviews with entrepreneurs, incubator administrators, environmental specialists, and policy advisors, with quantitative analysis of nature-based solutions businesses in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and waste management. The results indicate that incubator support markedly improves startup performance, scalability, and environmental sustainability, with incubated businesses surpassing their non-incubated counterparts in innovation, financing, and environmental effect. The report advocates for more investment in green-oriented incubators to enhance the NbS ecosystem and facilitate the wider implementation of sustainable environmental solutions.

http://dx.doi.org/10.12785/src/1571094099

25

Investigating the Performance of Microfluidic-Based Chemical Absorption Technology for Carbon-Dioxide Capture

As atmospheric CO2 levels rise, traditional capture methods face challenges, prompting interest in microfluidic systems for improved mass transfer efficiency. This study explores the removal of carbon dioxide using a diethanolamine (DEA) solvent and a combination of methyl diethanolamine (MDEA) with DEA in a specially designed T-shaped microchannel. Employing the central composite design method with Design Expert 13 software, the research investigates the effects of operational variables such as temperature, amine concentration, volume percentage of amines, gas flow rate, and liquid flow rate on carbon capture efficiency in the designed microreactor. The results indicate that all parameters, except temperature, significantly impact absorption efficiency. While increasing amine concentrations initially enhances CO2 removal efficiency, higher concentrations eventually lead to diminishing returns, negatively affecting overall absorption performance. Similarly, increasing the liquid flow rate improves removal efficiency up to an optimum point; beyond this point, further increases in liquid flow rate result in decreased efficiency. Higher gas flow rates are shown to negatively affect CO2 absorption. Under optimal conditions, CO2 removal efficiency exceeded 99.99%, with remarkable mass transfer coefficients of 283.2 and 253.7 (kmol/(m³ h kPa)) for DEA and MDEA + DEA, respectively. These findings highlight the transformative potential of microchannels, particularly the T-shaped serpentine microreactor design, in significantly improving the volumetric overall gas-phase mass transfer coefficient compared to traditional mass transfer devices, providing an innovative approach for efficient CO2 capture.

http://dx.doi.org/10.12785/src/1571095050