Simulated annealing algorithm for facility layout problem with fixed machines and multiple process routes

[ENG] A good placement of facilities contributes to the overall efficiency of operations and may reduce the total operating expenses up to 50%. Due to the variety of considerations found in the articles, researchers do not agree about a common and exact definition of layout problems. In a general perspective, the researches on facilities location problem available in the literature are classified in two categories. In the first category it is assumed that the locations are known in advance and the problem is to assign facilities to different locations. In second category it is assumed that locations are not known preferment and must be determined in a continuous area. The problem studied in this paper refers to the first category

Heading towards an unsustainable world: some of the implications of not achieving the SDGs

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were conceived at the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development, held in Rio de Janeiro in 2012 (Rio + 20), and adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. They are part of a larger framework, namely the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Since then, many countries round the world have been engaging in respect of their implementation. The slow progress seen in the implementation of the SDGs, is in contrast with the many negative implications of not implementing them. This paper outlines the relevance of the SDGs, the barriers currently seen in respect of their implementation and outlines what is at stake, if they are not duly implemented. To accomplish this, a thorough literature review of contributions published in the field of SDGs in English between the years 2012–2020 was performed

Implementing Innovation on Environmental Sustainability at Universities Around the World

Innovation is known to be an important and influential factor in fostering sustainable development. Yet, there is a paucity of literature on the extent to which universities are successfully implementing innovation in this field. This paper addresses this gap, by examining the role of innovation in the field of environmental sustainability in universities, and by reporting on the results of an international study, in which examples of successful experiences and good practice were identified. The paper outlines the lessons learned from such examples, with the aim of motivating other universities to engage in this rapidly-growing field

Policy Mixes for Accelerating Zero-emission Vehicle Transition: Experiences in Quebec, British Columbia and Ontario

Many jurisdictions have adopted different policies to accelerate Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) transition. This study identifies, categorizes, and analyzes, through document analysis and expert interviews, various policies influencing the light-duty ZEV transition in the three-leading provinces in Canada, i.e., Quebec, British Columbia, and Ontario. To this end, two analytical frameworks are employed. The first one is used to categorize identified policies into four main categories, namely demand-side, infrastructure, supply-side, and institutional. The second analytical framework is applied to emphasize the ZEV transition from the creative destruction approach to discussing how provincial policies might influence socio-technical elements around the incumbent regime and the emergent niche. Findings show that the three provinces have collectively employed similar policy mixes. However, closer inspection of their specific policy instruments, policy strength, policy continuity, ambitions to phase out internal combustion engine vehicles, and transition to electric mobility along with their socio-political conditions show differences across the provinces.M.A.S

Digital transformation and sustainable development in higher education in a post-pandemic world

Digital technologies are now part of our daily lives, and the speed of their implementation and use has been accelerated as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Digital transformation, seen in the past as a problem, is now perceived as an important component in the future of sustainable development (SD), especially at higher education institutions whose operations have been adversely affected by the pandemic in many ways. The purpose of this paper is to analyse the subject matter of digital transformation and how it relates to a SD context. It reports on the results of a worldwide survey at higher education institutions, which identified some areas where the pandemic impacted and/or influenced their activities. The survey received 158 responses and a principal component analysis was performed to model the items associated with digital tools boosting SD, innovative business opportunities and ideas, and needs for improvement at HEIs. The results indicate that most part of the respondents developed digital skills and increased their involvement with e-learning and distance learning; however, more digital training is needed. Findings also support the role played by digital technologies in boosting SD at HEIs, and the role of institutions in promoting innovation through digital tools. Apart from an analysis of the extent to which the COVID-19 pandemic has contributed to digital transformation in an SD context in higher education institutions, the paper provides an assessment of trends and recommendations that may guide future developments in a post-pandemic work