Economic Dimensions Research Articles

Supporting sustainability assessment of building element materials using a BIM-plug-in for multi-criteria decision-making

The environmental crisis requires the immediate implementation of accurate and robust sustainable solutions throughout the building life cycle. Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA) is a scientifically recognised method that integrates the triple dimensions of the life cycle approach, and thereby enabling the evaluation of the performance of mitigation strategies implemented in building projects. However, implementing the LCSA in buildings is limited by the weighting of environmental, economic, and social dimensions to select the best option regarding the numerous materials available. In order to fill this knowledge gap, the paper aims to present the developed Smart BIM3LCA tool, which supports multi-dimensional assessment during the project´s early design steps. Automatic integration of the LCSA, a multi-criteria decision-making tool such as TOPSIS, and building information modelling (BIM), was developed to support the selection of building materials. The BIM plug-in was then validated through its application to a multi-family residential building to select the most sustainable materials during the project´s early design stage.

Decommissioning Offshore Wind Fixed Steel Pile Foundations: A Critical Review

Offshore wind has rapidly developed over the past three decades, with over 6000 fixed-bottom substructures installed in Europe alone as of 2022. Despite this progress, there has been limited focus on the end-of-life stages, particularly decommissioning, which is currently the default option. Sustainable offshore wind development hinges on effective decommissioning strategies for fixed-steel pile foundations. This review critically examines state-of-the-art pile-foundation-decommissioning methods recently tested in industry and academia, including partial-removal techniques like internal cutting and external cutting and full-removal approaches such as excavation and novel extraction methods. Key factors influencing decommissioning decisions, such as seabed disturbance, environmental impact, reuse potential, and cost, are discussed. Analyses reveal that current partial-removal strategies could render vast swaths of marine areas inaccessible for future development. In contrast, full removal through extraction may enable complete recycling and minimise post-decommissioning monitoring. However, significant knowledge gaps remain regarding novel extraction methods’ scalability, technical feasibility, and economics. Extensive research encompassing engineering, environmental, and economic dimensions is essential to develop holistic pile-foundation-decommissioning solutions that facilitate the sustainable long-term growth of offshore wind.

THE ROLE OF SUSTAINABILITY ACCOUNTING ON DECISION-MAKING: FIELD STUDY ON SUDANESE INDUSTRIAL COMPANIES

The article's goal is to explore how the economic, social, and environmental sustainability accounting components affect decision-making (DM) in the industrial sector of Sudan. This can assist companies in understanding and disclosing the benefits and drawbacks of their activities. The practical significance of scientific research is found in the way that the research conclusions will help to clarify sustainability-related concerns and reinforce Sudanese industrial businesses' dedication to them. Furthermore, there aren't many studies that address this subject in the context of Sudan.The results of the research show that the economic dimension has a positive impact on decision-making in the Sudanese industrial sector. It was also found that the social dimension plays a part in DM. On the other hand, DM Sudanese industrial businesses lack an environmental dimension. According to the study's recommendations, accounting regulators must develop guidelines and frameworks to help accountants measure and disclose sustainability information. Future research should continue to examine the impacts of sustainability development issues on Sudanese manufacturing firms to raise awareness of sustainability issues among accountants and management.

Investigating the Impact of Digital Leadership Dimensions on Service Economics Dimensions: An Empirical Study of Service Ministries in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

This study examines the influence of various aspects of digital leadership (such as digital culture, visionary planning, system design, empowering leadership, employee development, innovation, persuasion, and knowledge) on different dimensions of service economics (including innovative economic ideas, efficient use of economic resources, leadership behaviors, and economic learning) within service ministries in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. We used a quantitative technique to collect data from a sample of 475 workers involved in service ministries via the use of a survey questionnaire. We conducted a thorough study of the data using the method of multiple regression analysis. The findings indicate that the different components of digital leadership have a significant and advantageous impact on the variables associated with service economics. The research determined that digital culture, innovation, and employee professional development are the main characteristics that have a major impact on digital leadership. This study contributes to the current literature by providing empirical evidence on the relationship between digital leadership and service economics. Additionally, it offers practical suggestions for service ministries in Saudi Arabia to enhance their service economics via the implementation of effective digital leadership methods. Nevertheless, the study is subject to many limitations, including its cross-sectional design and its narrow emphasis on a particular environment. It is recommended that future research endeavors address these constraints.

The quest for social justice amid war: exploring the role of civil society resilience in Ukraine’s social justice and cohesion

Purpose Russia’s large-scale invasion of Ukraine has inflicted catastrophic consequences, profoundly impacting Ukrainian sustainability across the environment, society and economic dimensions. Despite these challenges, Ukraine’s civilian population has displayed remarkable resilience, emerging as a persistent stronghold amid the turbulence of conflict. In this study, the author has explored the key role of civil society in strengthening resilience and social justice during wartime. Design/methodology/approach This study uses a qualitative multi-method research design, combining a systematic literature review (SLR) and a single case study to understand and describe the phenomenon. The SLR provided a replicable, scientific and transparent conceptual framework, which the case study empirically validated and enriched. Additionally, the Delphi method gathered relevant insights from academic experts and Ukrainian nationals residing in the EU, enhancing this research. Findings This research revealed complex social dynamics and community resilience, highlighting various resilience-building efforts undertaken by voluntary organizations and emerging Ukrainian movements. The findings highlight civil society’s pivotal role in promoting resilience and addressing adversity to enhance social justice and unity in Ukraine. Specific contributions include countering disinformation, providing psychosocial support and mobilizing community efforts. Furthermore, the paper identified six key steps that epitomize societal resilience and formulated a conceptual model based on these steps. Originality/value This research offers a comprehensive and practical analysis of grassroots organizations’ efforts to sustain social resilience and unity amid war. It builds upon previous studies, extending their scope by providing empirical validation and offering new insights into civil society’s contributions to Ukraine’s defense and social cohesion. The study also explores the obstacles faced by civil society and the implications for Ukraine’s future sustainability and social cohesion.

Investigating the growth trends of LGBTQ Travelers in Thailand's Tourism Industry

This research identifies the growth trends of LGBTQ travelers in Thailand's tourism industry, trying to fill the important gap in the empirical knowledge about the impact this demographic and their preferences have. This study used an interpretive field study approach within a qualitative paradigm with interviews and participant observation in assessing motivations, behavior, and experiences of LGBTQ tourists within Thailand. This research answers some key questions about the scope of LGBTQ travel, growth patterns, how organizations are responding for inclusivity, and strategies to attract this market segment. Useful insights for stakeholders in the tourism sector will be sought from this study by analyzing the travel behavior and preferences, as well as emerging trends in tourism. These findings will contribute to the academic discourse on tourism inclusion but will also have real-life implications for the development of marketing strategies, improvement in destination management, and the development of a more tolerant society. This research, once and for all, is supposed to bring into focus a substantial opportunity lying in LGBTQ tourism in Thailand and is going to accentuate the pressing need for providing tailored inclusive travel experiences that would impress diverse desires and aspirations among LGBTQ people. Given that this exploration is necessary, it will foreground the economic, social, and cultural dimensions of LGBTQ tourism within the entire Thai tourism milieu. Conversely, by investigating the motivation for travel among the LGBTQ market segment, this research study will also highlight the unique experiences and viewpoints of LGBTQ tourists while adding to the increasingly complex understanding of this growing market segment. This study will also examine the barriers and challenges that LGBTQ visitors face while traveling in Thailand, and it will also investigate what can be done to make them feel welcome. Practical recommendations for effective targeting and catering to the vibrant market segment will be made by analyzing recent tourism trends and preferences of the LGBTQ traveler. Therefore, tourism by LGBTQ people can have economic impacts, cultural exchange, and tolerance of society. Additionally, extra insight into special needs and desires of tourists will be needed to complement fulfilling and inclusive experiences with which Thailand is establishing its reputation as an LGBTQ-friendly destination. This study will delve deep into the nuances and complexity of LGBTQ tourism in Thailand through an in-depth interview and participant observation study. A study of this nature would add to the growing body of knowledge in terms of the impact and preferences of this demographic and facilitate a more responsive and responsible tourism industry that would have great benefits for LGBTQ tourists and society in general.

Importance–Performance Analysis of the Sustainability of South Penghu Marine National Park, Taiwan

Despite the growing global focus on marine protected areas, there is a dearth of research addressing the comprehensive sustainability of such areas. This study fills the gap by evaluating the sustainability of South Penghu Marine National Park (SPMNP) using importance–performance analysis (IPA) across 18 sustainability indicators, encompassing environmental, economic, and social dimensions. The results reveal that environmental sustainability was rated as the most critical, with top indicators including protecting ecological habitats and marine wildlife. Performance scores were generally satisfactory, though disparities between importance and performance were noted, suggesting areas for improvement. Notably, all sustainability indicators are significantly below the threshold performance target of 75%, indicating significant gaps in meeting public expectations. The analysis also highlights strong public support for both on-site and off-site management measures as key strategies to enhance park sustainability. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers and park managers aiming to improve the sustainability of marine protected areas.

Unleashing the Power of Civil Society: Examining the Impact of the Saudi Green Building Forum in Advancing Eco-friendly Construction in Saudi Arabia

This paper delves into the role of civil society in propelling green building practices, one key to a sustainable future. It focuses on the Saudi Green Building Forum (SGBF) “in Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council, since 2017” as a case study that illuminates how civil society organizations contribute to environmental stewardship, social equity, and economic prosperity in the construction sector. The concept of green building is traced from its origins through its global development, explicitly emphasizing notable examples from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Saudi Arabia. The paper reassures the audience by outlining the unique and robust alignment of SGBF’s initiatives and its support for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), underscoring its commitment to global sustainability. The study presents a descriptive analysis based on desktop research, illustrating the transformative impact of civil society in promoting sustainable construction practices through the SGBF. Key aspects covered include the historical evolution of the green building movement, successful implementations of green building standards, and the activation of civil society institutions and organizations in driving sustainability. The paper showcases SGBF’s strategies and projects as exemplary models of civil society’s contribution to greening the built environment and fostering a sustainable future in Saudi Arabia and beyond. The objective is to inspire by highlighting civil society’s far-reaching impact on the construction sector’s environmental, social, and economic dimensions of sustainable development.

Assessment of Conical Solar Stills Empowered by N-Replicated Partially Shaded PVT-CPC Collectors: Unveiling Exergo-Enviro-Economic Dynamics, Productivity and Cogeneration Efficiency

Abstract The economic and environmental dimensions play a pivotal role in evaluating solar still systems. The aim of this study is to evaluate the performance, efficiency, and viability of conical solar still integrated with multiple identical photovoltaic-thermal compound parabolic collectors (PVT-CPC) through comprehensive analyses of cogeneration efficiency, exergoeconomic and enviroeconomic factors, and productivity metrics. The results of this study were obtained through MATLAB programming, enabling accurate and detailed computations. The model has been validated at N=0 and N=1, showing strong correlation results: 0.96 and 0.97 for water temperature, 0.99 for yield in both cases, and 0.99 and 0.98 for glass temperature respectively. The system has achieved a total carbon emissions mitigation of 108.29 tCO2 based on energy and 12.44 tCO2 based on exergy while recording an annual yield of 2199.61 kg. The annual cogeneration efficiency, exergo-economic parameter, enviro-economic parameter, and annual productivity are 38.96%, 31.98 kWh/,1570.20 and 244.68% respectively. Furthermore, the obtained results have been compared with prior research and concluded that the exergoeconomic and enviroeconomic parameters for the proposed system are increased by 93.54% than the solar still with water cooled condensing surface and 94.71% than solar still containing partially coated condensing cover with thermoelectric cooling.

Sustainability in sustainability certifications in Thai hotel industry

Thailand is actively working to position itself as a sustainable tourism destination, with sustainability embedded within the nation’s tourism industry framework. Assessment and certification play pivotal roles, serving as essential tools that validate the implementation of sustainable management practices within the accommodation sector. This article explores the concept of sustainable tourism through the lens of widely adopted certifications in Thailand’s hotel industry. A content analysis was conducted to compare certifications based on the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) criteria. Furthermore, the study evaluated the efficacy of certifications in promoting the practical integration of sustainable tourism. To deepen the analysis, a thematic review examined the extent to which these certifications integrate principles of Environmental Management Systems (EMSs). The findings highlight a tendency of certification organizations to prioritize environmental aspects over economic and social dimensions. This suggests a need for better alignment in facilitating the holistic integration of sustainable tourism principles into certification practices.

Navigating remote work: the role of corporate social responsibility in boosting employee engagement

PurposeThis paper investigates the relationship between teleworkers' perceptions of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and employee engagement (EE) in remote work.Design/methodology/approachA quantitative research approach was used, involving a questionnaire distributed via convenience sampling. Data from 205 valid responses from teleworking employees in Spain were analysed using structural equation modelling to test the hypothesis regarding the association between CSR and EE.FindingsThe study found that CSR’s social and environmental dimensions positively impact EE among teleworkers. However, the economic dimension of CSR only partially influences EE in a telework setting.Practical implicationsThe findings suggest organisations can enhance EE during telework periods by focusing on social and environmental CSR initiatives. This approach can mitigate the reduced EE associated with remote work, improving organisational performance, productivity, satisfaction and employee well-being.Originality/valueThis study provides empirical evidence on the positive effects of CSR’s social and environmental dimensions on EE in a telework context, offering valuable insights for organisations navigating the post-pandemic landscape. Also, specific CSR strategies can establish a competitive advantage by fostering a motivated and engaged remote workforce.

Obliged tolerance: Power at the intersection of everyday peace and the intervention economy

This article explores the economic relationships of host and refugee communities in the context of international humanitarian interventions and their implications for everyday peace. It argues for an expanded understanding of power in everyday peace, incorporating an analysis of the interplay between international interventions, local power dynamics and everyday peace. It responds to the call for increased attention to the economic dimensions of peacebuilding, particularly at the local level. The article introduces the concept of obliged tolerance to explain some of the socioeconomic motivations for different actors in the intervention economy to engage in everyday peace processes. Those benefitting from the international intervention actuate less empowered community members to practice tolerance for peaceful coexistence which sustains the economic benefits derived from the intervention economy. The findings from research conducted in Lebanon indicate that humanitarian interventions shape a peace that primarily benefits affluent and influential actors, while marginalised individuals engage in everyday peace for survival and to pursue socioeconomic opportunities. By integrating an analysis of everyday economic interactions, this article highlights the role of power dynamics and economic motivations based on obliged tolerance in shaping everyday peace, challenging conventional notions of everyday peace as a social coping mechanism that people practice entirely voluntarily.

Intertwined precariousness and precarity: Disentangling a phenomenon that characterises Spanish youth

AbstractThe growth of non‐standard employment has emerged as a crucial factor that contributes to delays and difficulties in young people's transitions to adulthood. Previous studies have demonstrated the importance of multidimensional measures of precariousness. This paper aims to investigate the phenomenon of precariousness holistically, using an original database of respondents in Spain from 20 to 34 years of age. Using a mixed‐methods approach, we explore young people's understandings of precariousness and examine its key determinants and consequences. The findings illustrate the multidimensional nature of feelings of precariousness, with economic insecurity and work conditions being core elements. Our results point to precarity stemming from a combination of inextricably intertwined objective and subjective components, as well as work and economic dimensions.

2.M. Scientific session: Economics of Mental Health in the interplay between health systems and public health

Abstract Mental health systems and services are essential components of the public health infrastructure, serving as frontline for prevention and intervention for health overall. Despite this, access to mental health services remains largely inadequate, with the OECD calculating that only about one in three people with mental health problems has access to quality treatment across 19 EU Member States. The economics of mental health play an important role in determining the allocation of resources, the accessibility of services and the overall effectiveness of interventions. Effective planning requires an understanding of population needs, service gaps and utilization patterns, in order to ensure equity and health improvement. In fact, the conceptualisation of the economic dimensions of mental health enables policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders to make informed decisions that optimize resource utilization and maximize societal benefits. The proposed workshop will build on previous activities of the EUPHA Section on Public Health Economics at EPH, including the recent establishment of a working group on the economics of mental health. The aim of the meeting is to promote the adoption of best practices and methodologies in the conduct of economic studies on mental health. As such, the workshop will provide an opportunity to discuss the unique challenges of economic evaluation in this field and to present relevant ongoing activities by members of the Section and other invited experts. Key messages • Mental health, its distribution and at-risk populations influence resource allocation and policy decisions within mental health systems. • Tackling inequalities in mental health is essential for promoting health equity and social justice, requiring evidence-based interventions and policy initiatives to empower marginalized communities.

Working on new applications: Use of economic evaluation in burden of disease estimates

Abstract Burden of disease (BoD) analyses provide policy-makers with useful evidence to prioritise policy responses to major public health threats. Increasingly, however, epidemiological data alone is not considered as sufficient to inform decisions, particularly when funding is allocated within a single government approach and different sectors compete for a larger share of the overall budget. Similarly, other funders, such as charities and foundations, may want to prioritise budget allocation between health and non-health objectives. In all these cases, traditional BoD analyses need to be complemented by economic evaluations. In its simplest form, the economic component may mean adding an assessment of the healthcare costs caused by the diseases in the study. A more comprehensive, though still with limitations, approach is to use monetary values to measure the extent to which individuals are willing to exchange their income - which can be spent on other things - for the health outcomes they experience. Finally, in its most advanced and comprehensive form, analyses can include assessments of a number of relevant dimensions, such as those in the OECD’s Better Life Index. The latter approach is also consistent with, and its results support the implementation of, a health in all policies approach. This presentation will look at traditional and innovative approaches that can be used to add an economic dimension to BoD analyses. After introducing the rationale and key methodological issues of each approach, the presentation will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each methodology and will identify areas where their use can be beneficial in guiding the decision-making process. Examples of the use of these methodologies in real-world analyses will also be presented to support the theoretical part of the discussion.

Examining the triple impact of eco-intellectual capital on the financial, social and environmental sustainability performance of SMEs in emerging economies

The way business has been conducted in modern times has traversed the need to achieve financial gains. Globally, it has become imperative for organisations to thrive competitively on the basis of ecologically conciousness and sustainability. Hence, the primary aim of this investigation is to determine how Eco-Intellectual Capital (EIC) influences the sustainability performance of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The study made use of primary data and employed a quantitative research approach using a survey for data collection. The main data collection instrument used was a structured questionnaire. Data for the study were solicited from a group of 500 employees and owners managing SMEs in Ghana. Data collected from the questionnaires were analysed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 24 and IBM SPSS AMOS (26.0) Graphics. The results showed that EIC had a favourable effect on the social and environmental dimensions of sustainability performance. On the economic (financial) dimension, however, the effect was not significant. Aside from magnifying Eco-Intellectual Capital and Sustainability Performance literature, this research study is one of the few that looks at how green human, structural and relational capital work together to improve the economic, social and environmental sustainability of SMEs in emerging economies.

Consumer Social Responsibility: A Systematic Literature Review

ABSTRACT While organizations continually focus on social responsibility, research and practice increasingly emphasize consumers’ role and importance in this domain. This study explores consumer social responsibility (CnSR) through a systematic literature review of 72 academic articles from reputable journals. The results indicate that CnSR is gaining research attention, as reflected in the growing number of publications. Most studies come from advanced economies, mainly the U.S., and researchers have predominantly used quantitative methods, though qualitative and mixed methods are in use. Content analysis reveals that CnSR is conceptualized around several themes, including economic, environmental, health, philanthropic, social, and ethical dimensions. Literature shows a shift in CnSR from firm-oriented (reactive) to self-oriented (proactive) responsibility. This study is limited to peer-reviewed academic articles published in English in reputable business and management journals, extracted from the Web of Science and Scopus databases. While the study provides valuable insights into consumers’ role in promoting social responsibility and their impact on society and the environment, it may not fully represent non-English perspectives or other disciplines. Business practitioners and policymakers can utilize this research to promote responsible consumption. Although earlier studies have explored aspects of CnSR, this study presents a systematic literature review.

Climate Risk Management among Smallholder Farmers: A Comparative Analysis of Flood-prone Alappuzha and Drought-affected Gondia in India

Climate change poses significant risks to agricultural systems worldwide, particularly in developing countries where smallholder farmers have limited adaptive capacity. This study examines the socioeconomic and demographic factors influencing climate risk management practices among smallholder farmers in two contrasting regions of India: the flood-prone Alappuzha district in Kerala and the drought-affected Gondia district in Maharashtra. Using data collected from 150 rice farmers, the research analyzes economic, social, technical, and physical dimensions shaping adaptive responses. Key findings reveal significant regional disparities in adaptive strategies. Alappuzha farmers exhibit greater resilience due to higher incomes, better compensation mechanisms, and stronger community networks. Their strategies primarily involve strengthening bunds, improving drainage infrastructure, adopting flood-resistant rice varieties, and relying on formal credit for support. Conversely, Gondia farmers face lower adaptive capacity, driven by limited access to credit, inadequate compensation, and weaker institutional support. Their climate risk management approaches include drip irrigation, planting drought-resistant crop varieties, and pursuing income diversification to reduce vulnerability. Education levels, access to insurance, and the use of localized weather information also play crucial roles in shaping adaptive capacity across both regions. The study underscores the need for targeted interventions to strengthen institutional support, expand educational programs, facilitate community networks, and improve access to localized weather information to enhance agricultural resilience to climate risks. These findings provide practical policy recommendations aimed at addressing region-specific challenges and leveraging local strengths to bolster adaptive capacity.

Migration and Economic Development: The Role of Migrant Flows in Shaping Turkey’s Emerging Economy and Uncovering Hidden Conflicts and Challenges

This research examines the economic impact of migration on Turkey's emerging economy, with a particular focus on the contributions of migrant remittances, labor market dynamics, and the socio-political challenges associated with large-scale migrant flows. By employing econometric models and field research, the study explores the relationship between remittance inflows and key economic indicators such as GDP growth, employment rates, and poverty reduction. Additionally, the research uncovers hidden conflicts and social tensions that arise from migration, including labor market inequalities and integration challenges faced by both migrants and Turkish workers. The project evaluates government policies, such as the EU-Turkey refugee agreement, and their effects on economic development and social stability. Field research in migrant-receiving communities reveals the complexities of labor competition and the social dynamics created by migrant dependency in sectors such as agriculture and construction. Findings highlight the need for inclusive migration policies that balance the economic benefits of remittances with the social integration challenges faced by migrant populations. This study also advocates for stronger labor protections and regulatory reforms to mitigate tensions and reduce exploitation in low-wage sectors. The research contributes to the broader understanding of migration’s role in shaping Turkey’s economy and provides insights for policymakers seeking to address both the economic and social dimensions of migration.

Basic personal values and vote choice in 20 European countries

Employing European Social Survey data (ESS Round 7) from 20 countries ( N = 20,464), we tested several pre-registered hypotheses regarding the associations between basic personal values—as conceptualized by Schwartz’ Values Theory—and vote choice in national elections. To operationalize vote choice, we relied on the Chapel Hill Experts Survey for expert ratings of party positioning on ideology, policy, and populism. Personal values, and particularly universalism, were associated with the cultural gal-tan (green-alternative-liberal vs. traditional-authoritarian-nationalist) dimension (8% shared variance) and the economic left-right dimension (4% shared variance). The associations with gal-tan were even stronger when the dimension was salient in the party agenda. Associations between specific policy positions (e.g., multiculturalism, redistribution) and values were very similar to those between values and ideology. Voting populist was weakly associated with lower universalism and higher security (1% shared variance). The associations were generally stronger among the more educated and in western European countries. Our results suggest that Universalism values could help explain why the “left” and the “gal” poles tend to go together and are also more generally consistent with accounts of political conflict and cleavage centered around cultural issues and rooted in values.