This book brings together a diverse set of studies exploring how technology, sustainability, and human behavior shape our rapidly changing world. From innovative engineering solutions such as advanced OTEC heat exchangers, CO₂-efficient solvent regeneration, and zero-carbon building strategies to analyses of aerodynamics and sustainable construction materials, the volume highlights the technical ingenuity driving global decarbonization.
Equally central is the role of digital transformation. Research on big data competitiveness, supply chain sustainability, digital currencies, and blockchain-enabled circularity reveals how emerging technologies are redefining economic systems and organizational performance.
Sustainability and environmental awareness appear throughout, reflected in studies on retail practices, digital media’s influence on environmental behavior, and global trends in sustainable tourism. Social and human dimensions are also addressed, including the housing challenges of displaced Sudanese communities and the evolving role of AI and photonics in education.
Together, these works offer a concise yet rich portrait of the innovations, challenges, and societal shifts shaping a more resilient and sustainable future.

Dr. Muhammad Nawaz Tunio is a research fellow under JESH programme of the Austrian Academy of Sciences at Center for Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Social Competence - aspire! - University of Klagenfurt under the supervision of University Professor, Dr. Erich Schwarz. Dr. Tunio holds a PhD in Entrepreneurship from Alpen Adria University, Klagenfurt, Austria, and Dr. Tunio is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Business Administration, University of Sufism and Modern Sciences, Bhitshah, Pakistan. With extensive academic experience at renowned institutions, he has published numerous research articles in top-tier journals, authored book chapters, and edited books with reputable publishers. Dr. Tunio has successfully secured research grants and actively contributes to policy discussions on entrepreneurship and sustainable business practices. He has trained entrepreneurs, SMEs, and professionals through various national and international programs. As a reviewer for several academic journals, he plays a key role in shaping scholarly discourse. His research focuses on entrepreneurial ecosystems, sustainable business models, and AI-driven innovation. Passionate about mentoring young researchers and entrepreneurs, he continuously advocates for knowledge-driven economic transformation.
Dr. Nisreen Alwan is a Professor of Environmental Health & Safety at the College of Health Sciences (CoHS) at Abu Dhabi University (ADU), UAE and the Advisory Board Chair at Vision Care Association, Lebanon. She is an expert in the field of food safety, food microbiology, environmental health safety, and freshwater ichthyology. Dr. Alwan received her BSc (2003) and MSc (2005) degrees in Biology from the American University of Beirut (AUB), Lebanon. In 2011, she obtained her PhD degree in Natural Sciences from Goethe University, Germany. Dr. Alwan has served on many administrative roles such as Dean of the School of Health Sciences & Acting Vice Provost at the Modern University for Business and Science (MUBS), Lebanon, and Associate Dean of Academic Affairs and Acting Dean of CoHS at ADU. She is leading collaborations with medical centers, hospitals, and organizations where she is a very active member in many community outreach activities.She has authored over 50 internationally published articles.
Dr. Constantine Andoniou is an Associate Professor of Education at Abu Dhabi University. With an extensive academic background, he holds a Bachelor of Education in Teacher Education, a Diploma in Education in Educational Psychology and Sociology of Education, a Master of Education in Philosophy of Education and Educational Sociology, and a Doctorate of Philosophy in Education. With teaching and leadership experience in higher education institutions across Europe, Australia, and the Middle East, Dr. Andoniou actively collaborates with international researchers and industry leaders to bridge the gap between theoretical advancements and practical implementations of AI and digital technologies in education. Dr. Andoniou’s research spans across information theory, postmodernism, digital learning theories, digital transformation, and the integration of educational technology in teaching and learning environments. His research focuses on AI integration in education, particularly in examining how artificial intelligence reshapes human cognition, transforms pedagogical practices, and redefines the role of educators. His current research focuses on developing a competency-based framework to equip educators with the necessary skills to integrate AI into their teaching methodologies effectively. A thought leader in digital media and metaverse technologies, Dr. Andoniou has contributed to pioneering research on the intersection of AI, immersive learning environments, and digital storytelling, with published works exploring the implications of digital and AI-driven ecosystems on education, communication, and knowledge dissemination.