Economic Dimensions Research Articles

Integrating Sustainable Development Goals into Urban Planning to Advance Sustainability in Sub-Saharan Africa: Barriers and Practical Solutions from the Case Study of Moundou, Chad

The accelerating pace of urbanization, coupled with changes in land-use patterns and the exacerbation of extreme climatic events—marked by heightened unpredictability and severity, particularly in regions of the Global South—necessitates a thorough reevaluation of urban governance and management frameworks. In response to these challenges, it is essential for strategies to integrate local socio-economic specificities while navigating the inherent complexities of these issues, leveraging contextually appropriate resources within a sustainability paradigm. In this regard, contextualizing and incorporating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into urban planning frameworks is crucial for advancing urban sustainability. However, significant obstacles hinder their effective integration at the urban scale, particularly in fast-evolving, resource-constrained settings. This study seeks to address this critical gap by systematically examining the barriers to SDG integration in urban planning within sub-Saharan Africa. For this purpose, Moundou, Chad, is used as a representative case study, reflecting both the challenges and opportunities of urban sustainability in the region. A hybrid methodology underpins this research, combining in-depth interviews with key development stakeholders, a detailed review of strategic documents aligned with the SDGs, and semi-structured questionnaires to capture diverse perspectives. The results reveal that the institutional dimension constitutes 38.46% of the barriers identified by stakeholders, with key challenges including limited capacity for long-term planning, a lack of expertise, and inadequate multisectoral coordination, among others. In addition, the economic and socio-cultural dimensions each represent 23.08% of the identified barriers, encompassing issues such as dependence on external funding, the high cost of green technologies, low public awareness, and resistance to change within communities. Finally, the data access dimension ranks last, accounting for 15.38%. To overcome these challenges, it is essential to implement mechanisms that strengthen institutional capacities, promote cross-sectoral collaboration, enhance public awareness, and cultivate a culture of adaptability and innovation within local communities. Furthermore, improving data accessibility and reinforcing financial mechanisms are vital to addressing these barriers comprehensively.

Особенности денежного обращения в концентрационных лагерях Третьего рейха на севере Германии: Нойенгамме, Заксенхаузен, Равенсбрюк

This article addresses the issues of monetary circulation in concentration camps during the entirety of the Nazi dictatorship in Germany (January 1933 – April 1945). Throughout this period, concentration camps were estab-lished both within and outside the state’s borders, serving to detain individuals deemed undesirable by the Reich, racially impure, and, with the onset of the large-scale war, military prisoners as well. The authors exam-ine the financial aspects of the Nazi camp system, highlighting issues such as currency replacement, the intri-cacies of currency production, the visual characteristics of monetary notes, and the methods of their acquisition and implementation. The primary focus is on three concentration camps located in northern Germany: Sach-senhausen, Neuengamme, and Ravensbrück. The article is founded upon universally recognized principles in historical scholarship, specifically objectivity and historicism, with a comparative method being employed as the primary approach. The analysis draws on secondary data and historical sources to elucidate the nuances of monetary practices in these camps. In investigating these financial practices, the authors aim to contribute to the broader discourse on the economic dimensions of the Nazi concentration camp system, providing insights into how monetary circulation functioned as a tool of oppression, as well as a means of survival for detainees in a highly controlled and coercive environment.

Effects of viewing digital environment images on college students’ positive emotions, nature relatedness, and environmental preference

PurposeThis study aims to investigate the impact of viewing different types of digital environment images on college students’ positive emotions, nature relatedness and environmental preference. This aimed to address the gap in empirical studies regarding the effects of digital environment images on these psychological constructs.Design/methodology/approachThis study used a three-group experimental between-subjects design. Participants (48 undergraduate students) were divided into three groups, each viewing a different set of digital images (nature, city or object). Pre- and posttest measures assessed positive emotions and nature relatedness, whereas environmental preference was measured after image viewing. One-way analysis of variance and post hoc Tukey’s honestly significant difference (HSD) tests were used to analyze the data.FindingsViewing digital nature images elicited significantly higher positive emotions, nature relatedness and environmental preference compared to viewing city or object images. In addition, environmental preference for the digital object group was marginally higher than the city group.Research limitations/implicationsThis study was limited by its relatively small sample size. Although further research is needed to investigate the underlying mechanisms behind the observed effects, this study provides valuable implications for education, economic dimensions and public policy initiatives, encouraging the development of pro-environmental attitudes and behaviors.Practical implicationsThe findings suggest that incorporating digital nature images into learning activities can promote positive emotions, nature relatedness and environmental preference among college students. This has implications for the design of digital learning environments, especially for those with limited access to natural environments.Social implicationsBy promoting positive emotions and nature relatedness, digital nature experiences can contribute to emotional well-being and potentially foster pro-environmental behaviors. This can have implications for promoting sustainable lifestyles and environmental conservation efforts.Originality/valueThis study provides original empirical evidence on the impact of viewing digital environment images on several psychological constructs. It highlights the potential of digital nature experiences as a complement to direct nature exposure, particularly for those with limited access to natural environments. These findings contribute to the growing body of literature on the benefits of digital nature experiences and have implications for various fields, including education, environmental psychology and human–computer interaction.

Research on Strategic Planning for Sustainable Development of Tourism

Aa significant component of the global economy, tourism has contributed to substantial economic growth while posing multifaceted challenges to sustainable development in environmental, social, and economic dimensions. This study systematically analyzes the environmental challenges faced by the tourism industry, such as overexploitation of natural resources, ecosystem degradation, climate change, and waste management; economic challenges, including the trade-off between economic development and environmental protection and the imbalance in resource allocation; and social challenges, such as cultural preservation, local community engagement, social impacts, and inequitable benefit distribution. To address these issues, the study proposes strategic planning for sustainable tourism development, including measures such as controlling resource exploitation intensity, strengthening ecosystem protection, developing strategies to tackle climate change, optimizing resource allocation mechanisms, promoting regional coordination, enhancing community participation, and ensuring equitable benefit distribution. By exploring sustainable development pathways, the research further integrates strategies like "Internet+Tourism," eco-tourism promotion, cultural-tourism integration, and the adoption of international experiences to support high-quality tourism development both theoretically and practically. This study aims to provide effective solutions and practical references for policymakers, tourism enterprises, and academic researchers.

Internet Access as a Basic Human Right: An Ongoing European Legal Debate?

The pervasive use of Information and Communication Technology has inevitably interfered with human rights worldwide. This persistent interaction has led to questioning the legal nature of Internet access itself: is it an autonomous right or an implicit right? This paper examines the relevant case law of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) and the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) in order to assess whether Internet access is today a basic human right. The Strasbourg jurisprudence stems mainly from applications based on freedom of expression and the right to education. The ECtHR applies the binary axiological test: the right for which protection is sought and the competing interest/right provided by the European Convention on Human Rights. So far, it has not explicitly recognised the right to Internet access but rather the Internet’s widespread usage and importance. The Luxembourg case law constitutes proof of the economic dimension of the Union since the CJEU applies a threefold test, depending on the piece of legislation basing the application, and takes a moderate approach to questions involving human rights. Thus, the complementarity of ECtHR and CJEU case law proves that Internet access rather facilitates the exercise of other rights than is an autonomous right. For this reason, limitations are assessed on a case-by-case basis according to the requirements associated with each conventional right’s specific restrictions.

Deriving a measure for the environmental quality of life of an ultra-dense urban setting

ABSTRACT Quality of life encompasses social, economic, and environmental dimensions, with environmental indicators posing challenges due to their diverse nature. This study proposes a flexible measure of the physical environment that considers individual preferences. The research focused on neighbourhoods in Hong Kong, representing various levels of urbanization and spatial distribution, with a fixed neighbourhood size to enable meaningful comparisons. Utilizing Geographic Information System and Remote Sensing techniques, the study analysed four domains of urban morphology at the neighbourhood level: education-health-recreation facilities, street patterns, land use diversity, and building density. Principal Component Analysis was employed to reduce the dimensionality of each domain and derive an Environmental Quality Sub-index (EQ-I). This index can be standardized and personalized based on individuals’ values and preferences. The EQ-I facilitates both quantitative and qualitative comparisons through visual representations. The study exemplifies a methodological approach to consolidating multiple variables into a single index, considering the differential weighting of preferences. The methodology employs direct and objective measures that can be adapted and replicated in other cities, providing standardized yet personalized scores for regional and international comparisons. The findings present valuable insights for policymakers and urban planners aiming to enhance the environmental quality of ultra-dense urban settings.

Advancing Sustainability Assessment of Renewable Energy: A Study on Indicator‐to‐Framework Methods and Associated Rule Mining

ABSTRACTDivergent sustainable development perspectives, mathematical model limitations, and varying scenarios contribute to uncertainty in assessing renewable energy sustainability. To tackle these challenges, this study conducts a comprehensive literature review, employs an analogy, and utilizes knowledge discovery techniques with an indicator‐to‐framework approach. Qualitative classification and rule mining elucidate the interrelationships among dimensions, indicators, and scopes, enhancing assessment coherence. The study identifies 227 indicators across five dimensions and nine scopes, highlighting key rules through Apriori algorithm. Strong rules, meeting a support threshold of 0.22, confidence of 0.7, and Lift of 2.512, underscore the significance of environmental, economic, social, and technological dimensions. Environmental indicators like CO2 emissions, NOX emissions, and SO2 emissions feature prominently. The harmonization of dimensions, indicators, and scopes streamlines research and mitigates ambiguities. Appendices augment rules with frequent indicators, enriching insights. This data‐driven methodology provides a practical solution to the complexities of selecting appropriate indicators for such assessments.

Barriers and Opportunities in Implementing Carbon Neutrality Goals in China’s Heavy Industries

The transition to carbon neutrality in China’s heavy industries is essential for mitigating global climate change, given the sector’s significant contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. This study systematically examines the multifaceted barriers and opportunities influencing decarbonization efforts in these industries. Employing expert-driven methodologies, including the Delphi method and the best-worst method (BWM), the research identifies and prioritizes critical challenges, such as the high upfront costs for renewable technologies, the technological dependency on coal, and the fragmented regulatory frameworks. It highlights transformative opportunities, emphasizing advancements in carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS), renewable energy integration, and strengthened carbon pricing mechanisms. The findings reveal the interaction between economic, technological, and policy dimensions, underscoring the need for coordinated interventions to overcome entrenched barriers. The study contributes to theoretical advancements by integrating expert insights with robust multi-criteria decision-making techniques and offers actionable pathways for policymakers and industry stakeholders to accelerate industrial decarbonization. These insights align with international climate objectives, providing a scalable framework for global sustainable transitions in energy-intensive sectors.

Customer experience and sustainability in social, environmental and economic contexts

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to introduce a new conceptual framework that integrates customer experience and sustainability across social, environmental and economic dimensions to facilitate sustainable development. Design/methodology/approach Sustainability is widely recognized from an industrial perspective; however, the relationship between customer experience and sustainability has been limitedly explored in the existing literature. An ethnographic study of two international retail chains has been undertaken, using illustrative case studies to assess the companies’ sustainability practices across social, environmental and economic dimensions. Findings This research emphasizes the importance of enhancing customer experiences to align sustainable practices with consumer expectations. The findings of this study indicate that social sustainability should be prioritized in consumer lives by maintaining high-quality living standards, while environmental sustainability should focus on creating experiences that encourage sustainable lifestyle choices. Economic sustainability should be operationalized by concentrating on mutually beneficial performance areas. Overall, companies must adopt a holistic approach that integrates the social, environmental and economic dimensions into sustainability practices to drive positive customer experiences. Originality/value This study examines the sustainability performance of retail companies across social, environmental and economic dimensions. This study introduces a novel approach to sustainable development through the customer experience perspective.

ASSESSMENT OF SUSTAINABILITY PROGRESS INDICATORS IN THE WINE INDUSTRY

In the context of climate change, wine businesses face the challenge of adapting their business models to promote sustainable development. This requires a careful balance between the economic, social and environmental dimensions of their activities. To measure progress towards sustainability in the wine sector, it is crucial to develop a set of comprehensive indicators. This study aims to analyze sustainability indicators within the wine industry, as presented in current literature and existing research. The study highlights the importance of effective management of waste and by-products in winemaking to reduce environmental impact and create new economic opportunities. It presents a set of indicators for monitoring environmental, economic, and social dimensions of sustainability, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to ensure the viability and progress of the sector.

Supporting sustainable development (ESG) through the EFQM 2020 business excellence model

The concept of sustainable development includes a set of activities that constitute a holistic vision of development, which is a balance of environmental, social and economic dimensions. Business excellence models are tools that can support organizations in implementing the principles of sustainable development and serve to evaluate this process. However, these models are not always characterized by an integral approach, i.e. taking into account all three aspects mentioned. The aim of the article is to analyze the EFQM (2020) model in terms of its reflection of ESG sustainable development factors included in the European reporting standards (ESRS) and to propose possible modifications to the model. These changes should make it easier for organizations to orient themselves towards implementing sustainable practices in their operations.

Accelerating Benders Decomposition for sustainable food closed-loop supply chain network under uncertainty: a case study

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to address waste management in the food supply chain (FSC) through the integration of inspection processes in production and distribution centers under uncertain conditions, aiming to enhance sustainability across environmental, economic and social dimensions. The study introduces a sustainable forward and reverse FSC network using a closed-loop supply chain network approach to prevent the transfer of spoiled products, ultimately providing competitive advantages to stakeholders.Design/methodology/approachA robust multi-objective mathematical programming model is proposed, incorporating inspection processes to manage perishable products effectively. The model is solved using the Augmented Epsilon Constraint technique implemented in GAMS software, providing Pareto-optimal solutions tailored to decision-makers’ preferences. Furthermore, the methodology is applied in a real-world case study and solved with the Benders Decomposition algorithm to validate its practicality and effectiveness.FindingsThe proposed methodology effectively minimizes waste and enhances sustainability in the FSC by optimizing decision-making processes under uncertainty. The illustrative examples and real case study demonstrate the efficiency of the model and solution approach, highlighting the significant role of inspection in improving all three dimensions of sustainability.Practical implicationsThe study offers valuable insights into and tools for food industry managers to make informed strategic and tactical decisions. By addressing waste management through advanced supply chain modeling, the research helps organizations reduce costs, improve sustainability and gain a competitive edge in the market.Originality/valueThis research is novel in its focus on integrating inspection into the FSC network and addressing uncertainty through robust mathematical modeling. It contributes to the existing literature by demonstrating the impact of inspection on sustainability in FSCs and providing practical solutions for real-world implementation.

Sustainable Development in the Digital Age: Harnessing Emerging Digital Technologies to Catalyze Global SDG Achievement

The digital revolution, characterized by rapid technological advancements, presents a unique opportunity to accelerate progress towards the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This research explores the transformative potential of cutting-edge digital technologies—including artificial intelligence, big data analytics, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things—in fostering sustainable development across economic, social, and environmental dimensions. Our study employs a rigorous empirical approach to quantify the impact of digital innovation on SDG achievement within the European Union. Utilizing the Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI) as a comprehensive measure of technological progress, we apply structural equation modeling to emphasize the complex interplay between digital advancement and sustainable development indicators. A key focus of our analysis is the mediating role of economic performance, measured by GDP per capita, in the relationship between digital technology adoption and SDG progress. This nuanced examination provides insights into how economic factors influence the effectiveness of digital solutions in addressing global challenges. Our findings underscore the need for adaptive policies that harness the power of digital technologies while addressing potential challenges and ensuring inclusive growth.

Implementation of sustainability in human resource management: A literature review

Orientation: Truly, organisations face the challenge of implementing sustainability in their daily activities.Research purpose: This article examines the ways in which sustainability has been implemented in human resource management (HRM).Motivation for the study: Sustainability has become increasingly important in organisations, particularly regarding HRM.Research approach/design and method: This study used qualitative methodology and collected data by means of an integrative literature review that retrieved appropriate and relevant journal articles from the Business Source Ultimate database, as one of the EBSCOhost databases.Main findings: The findings suggest that green human resource management (GHRM) was the most frequently implemented concept and was combined with rare cases of corporate social responsibility (CSR) implementation. Sustainable human resource management (SHRM) was seldom implemented.Practical/managerial implications: Interestingly, contemporary studies revealed the circular economy (CE) as an economic sustainability dimension in HRM, and likewise, the ascendance of sustainable development goals (SDGs) in HRM. Regarding the process of sustainability implementation in HRM, some links have been established between sustainability dimensions and HRM, but the incorporation of sustainability into HRM was not evident from the reviewed literature.Contribution/value-add: This article ends with a discussion of some insights for future research. Moreover, the selection of sustainability and HRM in this article was significant given that sustainability can contribute towards a way of addressing and solving environmental, social and economic problems associated with organisations’ activities that could be fixed by HR. This demonstrates the existing strong compatibility between sustainability and HRM because HRM could fit in each sustainability dimension.

SENTRA KULINER SEBAGAI PENUNJANG KEBERLANJUTAN WISATA SUNGAI KALIMAS SURABAYA

This study aims to identify the contribution of culinary centers to the sustainability of tourism in the area, which includes economic, social, and environmental dimensions. The research method used is a mixed-method approach with data collection through observation, in-depth interviews, and surveys of visitors and culinary business actors around the Kalimas River. The results of the study indicate that the existence of culinary centers around the Kalimas River in Surabaya has a positive impact, such as increasing income for local business actors, creating jobs, and strengthening local cultural identity through the presentation of typical foods. However, this study also found challenges in waste management and maintaining environmental quality that must be overcome to support the sustainability of tourist destinations.

The role of financial law in ensuring sustainable development in Ukraine: green economy and investments

This article explores the significance of financial law in promoting sustainable development in Ukraine, particularly with regard to fostering a green economy and managing investment processes. The modern global economy increasingly emphasizes the concept of sustainable development, which integrates economic, social, and environmental dimensions. A pivotal approach to achieving this goal is transitioning to a green economy, which focuses on conserving natural resources, reducing environmental harm, and ensuring the sustainable use of resources. Financial law plays a crucial role in this transition, as it provides the legal framework for regulating investment activities, implementing environmental taxation, and supporting ecological initiatives. To facilitate the green economy and attract investments aimed at sustainable growth, it is essential to develop a robust legal foundation. This article examines specific tools and mechanisms for sustainable development, drawing on both international and national practices. For Ukraine, striving to integrate into global economic systems amid economic transformation, the development of a green economy is of particular importance. However, the successful implementation of a green economy requires an effective legal framework that governs investment flows and upholds environmental standards. Given the unique challenges Ukraine faces in achieving sustainable development, particularly in the context of the ongoing full-scale invasion, the study of financial law’s role in this process is both timely and critical for shaping a holistic approach to green economic development. The study focuses on the role of state policy in creating a favorable investment climate for green economy projects, as well as the importance of international cooperation in implementing environmentally oriented initiatives. It examines the impact of financial and legal mechanisms on ensuring transparency and efficiency in resource utilization. The research also analyzes contemporary challenges faced by Ukraine in adopting sustainable development principles and outlines prospects for harmonizing national legislation with international standards.

Shaping sustainable perceptions: The role of metaphors in Olympic news discourse.

The dissemination of sustainable development concepts in large international events like the Olympics has garnered great attention. As a major international sports event, the Beijing Winter Olympics served as an important platform for showcasing China's sustainable development philosophy through its official news coverage. In this context, metaphor, as a powerful cognitive tool, plays a crucial role in shaping public perception and facilitating the dissemination of values by mapping concrete source domains onto abstract target domains. This paper constructs a critical metaphor analysis framework for sustainable development, analyzing the mechanisms by which metaphors map the concepts of social, economic, and ecological sustainability, and their multifaceted roles in conveying policy proposals, ideologies, cultural values, and social group behaviors. The findings indicate that metaphors effectively facilitate public understanding of sustainability by concretizing abstract concepts. In the social dimension, metaphors emphasize fairness, cultural diversity, and social solidarity; in the economic dimension, they highlight resource recycling, technological innovation, and industrial upgrading; while in the ecological dimension, the focus is on environmental protection and the harmonious coexistence of humanity and nature. Metaphors play a crucial role in shaping public perceptions of policy, reflecting specific values and socio-cultural contexts, facilitating cultural communication and understanding, and enhancing public responsibility and participation awareness.

Enabler of Madrasah Education: The Case of LGU-Supported Traditional Madrasah in General Santos City

This study explored the enablers of Madrasah education programs, focusing on locally-led efforts of the Local Government Unit of General Santos to support the traditional Madrasahs in the city, recognizing the vital role of traditional madrasah education in promoting religious and cultural identity as well as social cohesion. This research analyzed the key factors contributing to these educational initiatives' effective implementation and sustainability. A case study method approach was utilized, including surveys and interviews. The findings revealed several critical enablers, such as active community involvement, government assistance, and capacity building. This paper underscores the significance of the all-of-the-community approach in creating an inclusive educational environment that meets the needs of Muslim learners. Hence, the analysis concluded that contextual factors such as social, economic, environmental, and political dimensions affect the implementation of the traditional Madrasah in General Santos City. The study recommends the standardization of the traditional Madrasah Curriculum, considering the nuances of Muslim communities in General Santos.

Dampak Penerapan Kebijakan Tanggung Jawab Sosial dan Lingkungan (TJSL) Berbasis Pemberdayaan Masyarakat PT Kilang Pertamina Internasional RU IV Cilacap

Discussion related to the implementation of a company's Tanggung Jawab Sosial dan Lingkungan (TJSL) policy is often considered as a charity activity and does not have a significant sustainable impact. The Empowerment-based TJSL program is one option in implementing the TJSL program to have a more positive impact. This research is qualitative research with descriptive analysis. Primary data was obtained through field observations and interviews, while secondary data was obtained from relevant documents. The results of the study indicate that there is an impact of the implementation on the social, natural, economic and well-being dimensions. In the social dimension, a decrease in poverty rates of 0.26% has been achieved and four new groups have been formed that are involved in program activities. In the natural dimension, mangrove conservation efforts through planting 25,000 tree seedlings on 5.5 hectares of land have resulted in a CO₂ storage impact of 13,958.96 tons per year. The economic aspect contributes to increasing group income by Rp13,650,000 per month. From the welfare dimension, two practical guidebooks have been prepared as a reference for the community to understand the mangrove ecosystem and fisheries cultivation and make the program location a centre of excellence for other institutions to learn.

The Impact of Farmland Transfer on Urban–Rural Integration: Causal Inference Based on Double Machine Learning

Urban–rural fragmentation represents a significant challenge encountered by nations globally, particularly in both developing and developed contexts, during the modernisation process. This study examines the effects of rural land system reform on facilitating integrated development between urban and rural areas. The analysis of the impact of the 2010 liberalisation of the land transfer policy employs a dual machine learning model, utilising provincial-level data from China spanning 2005 to 2022, to address the limitations of traditional causal inference models while ensuring estimation accuracy. The findings indicate that the reform of the rural land system significantly enhances integrated urban–rural development, particularly in demographic, economic, and ecological dimensions. The mechanisms encompass the facilitation of extensive land and agricultural service operations, the development of new business entities, the migration of rural labour, and the enhancement of agricultural capital. Furthermore, notable disparities exist in the effects of reforms across various regions, particularly concerning urban–rural integration development and land transfer levels. The policy effects of land transfer exhibit a marginally diminishing trend. The influence of land transfer on urban–rural integration varies with economic development levels, demonstrating a nonlinear relationship, with the most pronounced effects observed in regions with moderate economic development. Additionally, the policy effects of land transfer differ based on geographic location. The impact of land transfer policies varies across geographic regions, with the central region exhibiting the most significant effect, followed by the north-eastern region, the western region, and the eastern region, which shows the least effect. This study provides a reference for advancing the reform of the marketisation of land factors, improving the efficiency of land resource allocation, and regionally and in multiple layers advancing the reform of the rural land system.