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Books in Social sciences

The Social Sciences collection forms a definitive resource for those entering, researching, or teaching in any of the many disciplines making up this interdisciplinary area of study. Written by experts and researchers from both Academic and Commercial domains, titles offer global scope and perspectives.

Key subject areas include: Library and Information Science; Transportation; Urban Studies; Geography, Planning, and Development; Security; Emergency Management.

  • Human Factors in Traffic Safety for Highway and Traffic Engineers

    • 1st Edition
    • Alexei Tsyganov
    • English
    Human Factors in Traffic Safety for Highway and Traffic Engineers provides human factors principles and findings to allow nonexperts to consider the road user’s capabilities and limitations more effectively into the practice of design, operations, and safety. It provides data and insights on the needs, capabilities, and limitations of road users, including perception and effects of visual demands, cognition, and influence of expectations on driving behavior. It bridges the gap between human factors research and practical application, presenting complex psychological insights in an accessible manner.This book begins with Part 1 explaining the significance of the traffic safety problem and giving an overview of the importance of human factors in highway design and traffic engineering. Part 2 focuses on driver information perception and processing, including perception of depth and speed, driver’s visual search, how road users search for information, and how mental and information load affects drivers’ performance. Part 3 provides results of investigations of traffic crash causation and reviews major driver errors. Part 4 then describes key principles of road users’ considerations during highway design and traffic operation. Finally, Part 5 focuses on safety analysis and assessment and describes in detail the existing methods to evaluate human factors during safety assessments.This is a valuable resource for professionals in highway and traffic engineering, researchers, policymakers, urban planners, and students to understand how human factors contribute to traffic incidents and how to mitigate these through design and operational strategies.
  • Comprehensive Energy Systems

    • 2nd Edition
    • Ibrahim Dincer
    • English
    Comprehensive Energy Systems, Second Edition, Ten Volume Set provides a unique source of unified information that covers the entire spectrum of energy from production to utilization, including basic to advanced levels of content that address the critical issues that face humanity. This comprehensive book describes traditional and novel energy systems with sections on system design, analysis and assessment, from single generation to multi-generation, and theory and applications. In addition, the book also presents high-level coverage on energy policies and strategies, economic dimensions, environmental impact assessments, and sustainable development.High-lev... sections include Energy Fundamentals, Energy Materials, Energy Production, Energy Conversion, and Energy Management. For this second edition, existing chapters have been improved and updated with new information, knowledge, technologies and applications. New chapters and case studies have been added on topics such as Artificial Intelligence, energy trading, transport, transmission, consumption, and recent dynamics in the energy sector after COVID-19.
  • Net-Zero Transit

    The Future of Eco-Friendly Transportation
    • 1st Edition
    • Paul C. Okonkwo + 2 more
    • English
    Net-Zero Transit: The Future of Eco-Friendly Transportation thoroughly examines the possible future of environmentally friendly transportation, presenting creative approaches and tactics to attain a transit sector with no net emissions. The book explores the convergence of technology, politics, and consumer behavior to provide a comprehensive perspective on achieving environmentally friendly transportation worldwide. The authors illustrate the practicality and advantages of adopting environmentally friendly transportation systems through the examination of real-life examples and the analysis of data.The authors offer practical assistance for establishing sustainable practices in the transit sector by emphasizing successful efforts and innovative solutions. In addition, they provide valuable perspectives on possible obstacles and hurdles that may occur throughout the shift towards achieving net-zero emissions, as well as suggestions for effectively addressing and surmounting them. It uses theoretical analysis and case studies to explore the benefits and challenges of transitioning to a zero-net-carbon transportation system. The economic, social, and environmental impacts of transitioning to net-zero transit are discussed, including the role of government policies, public-private partnerships, and community engagement. The analytical framework of this book encompasses several scenarios, such as the implementation of carbon policy, carbon pricing, carbon offset programs, climate-conscious car-flight-marine pooling, climate-conscious car-flight-marine green gridlock, pedal-walking power progress, and future-proof transportation. It employs real historical datasets from different countries and regions across the globe to forecast future emissions from various transportation modes using a range of machine learning techniques.This book is an invaluable resource for legislators, industry experts, and individuals seeking to promote environmentally friendly transportation solutions and contribute positively to the environment. Its detailed analysis offers actionable insights to policymakers and stakeholders in the transportation industry, enabling them to make well-informed decisions regarding measures to reduce emissions.
  • Intelligent Urban Mobility

    Decision Support Systems for Sustainable Transportation
    • 1st Edition
    • Muhammet Deveci
    • English
    Intelligent Urban Mobility: Decision Support Systems for Sustainable Transportation explores the role of technology in enabling greener, more accessible transportation in cities worldwide. This book provides insights into leveraging decision support systems to drive positive change by focusing on applied soft computing techniques, artificial intelligence, and algorithms for fuzzy systems. Researchers and professionals will find actionable information on mitigating congestion and emissions through sustainable mobility initiatives, which bridges the gap between theory and real-world practice.The book also offers technical guidance and expert perspectives on the application of decision support systems to evaluate and optimize planning for sustainable transit options. The book highlights innovative models and frameworks for analyzing mobility options and planning sustainable transport systems. It is an essential resource for researchers, graduate students, and professionals in transportation, urban planning, civil engineering, and decision sciences who aim to redesign city transportation to reduce environmental impact and carbon emissions.
  • Integrated Planning for Sustainable Resilient Regions

    • 1st Edition
    • Rui Alexandre Castanho
    • English
    Integrated Planning for Sustainable Resilient Regions explores the dynamic relationship between sustainable development and effective regional planning. With a focus on harmonizing the diverse elements of social equity, economic prosperity, and environmental conservation, this book offers a deep dive into the interplay among human activities, natural systems, and the landscapes they inhabit. Considering both theoretical foundations and real-world case studies, this book equips readers with the tools to navigate the complex challenges of our rapidly changing world. It examines how sustainable development goals can seamlessly integrate into regional planning initiatives, offering a roadmap for fostering resilient communities and landscapes.Through sustainability transitions, territorial dynamics, and community engagement techniques, this book offers fresh perspectives on urban planning, environmental science, and regional studies. This book resonates with a diverse audience, seeking to drive positive change through strategic and sustainable regional planning. From community engagement techniques to innovative policy frameworks, readers will find actionable guidance to transform theoretical concepts into practical and impactful development projects. By providing an essential bridge between theory and implementation, this book inspires meaningful conversations and actions that will shape the future of our regions, cities, and landscapes sustainably and harmoniously.From governments crafting policies that balance progress and environmental stewardship to architects and developers designing eco-conscious spaces, researchers, professionals, and students alike will find valuable information and practical tools to critically analyze the complex interactions among human activities, natural systems, and regional landscapes, fostering a holistic understanding of sustainable development within diverse regions.
  • Smart Infrastructure Management

    • 1st Edition
    • Shi Qiu + 3 more
    • English
    People and businesses rely on transportation networks every day, but what happens when critical assets fail unexpectedly or pollute our environment? Smart Infrastructure Management provides an interdisciplinary exploration of this intricate and dynamic landscape, enriching the theoretical and practical understanding of state-of-the-art technologies that can productively support various stakeholders in the decision-making process throughout the entire lifecycle of infrastructure projects.The volume examines the evolutionary trajectory, inherent challenges, and pivotal methodologies of modern infrastructure management, with a narrative that spans several domains to coordinate a fully integrated approach. Key topics include data collection and sensors, spatial modeling and simulation tools, asset management, preventative or predictive maintenance measures, computational techniques, cybersecurity, and decision support systems. The transformative impact of smart cities is also explored, emphasizing their role in enhancing infrastructure capabilities.With real-world case studies systematically featured to illustrate successful implementations and valuable lessons learned, this investigation appeals not only to researchers and students but also to professionals across diverse fields, ensuring that effective strategies are integrated into industry practices, which are essential for improving infrastructure capabilities in line with society’s ever-changing needs.
  • Technological Innovations and Industry 5.0

    A Supply Chain Perspective
    • 1st Edition
    • Jyri Vilko + 3 more
    • English
    Technological Innovations and Industry 5.0: A Supply Chain Perspective provides a complete review of Industry 5.0, its guiding principles, and its possible effects on supply chains. Examining the difficulties and possibilities presented by the incorporation of cutting-edge technologies into supply chain management, it guides the reader through decision making to application.Robotics... artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and data analytics are increasingly changing how supply chains operate. This book presents the core ideas and potential impacts on, and risks to, supply chain structure. It includes analysis of the latest research as well as providing a sound understanding of relevant techniques and modeling for real-world advances. Evaluation approaches of decision support frameworks for circularity, sustainability, and supply chain performance are also included.This book is an invaluable resource for anyone seeking alternative solutions to address supply chain issues and meet sustainability and customer demands by leveraging advancements in technology.
  • The Sustainability Handbook, Volume 2

    The Body of Knowledge around Radical Sustainability Innovation
    • 1st Edition
    • Mark Von Rosing
    • English
    The Sustainability Handbook: The Body of Knowledge around Substantial Sustainability Innovation, Volume Two provides a comprehensive and holistic understanding of sustainability, bridging the gap between academic theory and business practices. Global climate change poses enormous environmental challenges, and societies across the world must adapt and innovate to further the goals of sustainability. The private sector must find new ways of doing business to align practices with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the international community. Using a conceptually structured framework throughout, the book examines the latest academic research to summarize what environmental, social, and economic sustainability means in different contexts.Using numerous specific case studies and insights from industry leaders, the book shows how to strategically integrate sustainability into the organization, with extensive focus on policies, incentives, measures, operations, production, consumption, and lifecycle management. For researchers, students, and businesspeople at all levels and sectors, this handbook is an essential reference of the latest sustainability tools and methodologies required to adapt and innovate towards sustainability.
  • Digital Twins for Smart Metabolic Circular Cities

    Innovations in Planning and Climate Resilience
    • 1st Edition
    • Simon Elias Bibri + 2 more
    • English
    Digital Twins for Smart Metabolic Circular Cities: Innovations in Planning and Climate Resilience explores the advanced convergence of smart city technologies, digital twin applications, smart urban metabolism, and circular economy principles. This comprehensive resource offers insights into sustainable urban practices and innovative approaches to address the multifaceted challenges posed by rapid urbanization, environmental degradation, and climate change. In a rapidly changing world, this book provides a detailed understanding of how digital twin technologies and smart urban metabolism frameworks can be applied to foster sustainable urban development. This holistic perspective bridges urban planning, environmental sustainability, and the transformative potential of digital twins.The book equips readers with practical insights and solutions to navigate contemporary urban development complexities. It is an invaluable resource for urban planners, environmental scientists, policymakers, and technology experts interested in sustainable practices. Through real-world applications, foundational theory, and forward-thinking strategies, it empowers readers with the knowledge to address pressing environmental and infrastructural challenges associated with the future of smart cities.
  • The Sustainability Handbook, Volume 4

    The Body of Knowledge around Disruptive Sustainability Innovation
    • 1st Edition
    • Mark Von Rosing
    • English
    The Sustainability Handbook, Volume 4: The Body of Knowledge around Sustainability Transformation provides a comprehensive and holistic understanding of sustainability, bridging the gap between academic theory and business practices. Aimed at those who have established a mature Sustainability Portfolio Management approach, Volume 4 goes beyond the why of Substantial, Radical, and Disruptive Sustainable Innovation, exploring how to capture and use Sustainability Drivers and Requirements. This volume naturally bridges the gap between the innovative ideas discussed in Volumes 1, 2, and 3, and their practical implementation.Globa... climate change poses enormous environmental challenges, and the private sector must find new ways of doing business to align their practices with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the international community. Using numerous specific case studies and insights from industry leaders, this handbook shows how to strategically integrate sustainability into an organization, with extensive focus on policies, incentives, measures, operations, production, consumption and lifecycle management. Volume 4 focuses on embedding these innovations into organizational processes, capabilities, culture, and strategy. It ensures that sustainability is not just a visionary goal but a tangible, operational reality, guiding businesses through the complex journey of integrating sustainable practices into their core operations.This book will be ideal for researchers, students and businesspeople at all levels and sectors who need a conceptually structured framework to understand what environmental, social, and economic sustainability actually means in different contexts.