Economic Dimensions Research Articles

An Evaluation Framework of Industry 4.0’s Impact on SDGs and its Application to AI Reporting

Digital technologies of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) are key drivers of sustainable development. However, addressing the impact of I4.0 on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) requires overcoming the challenge of lacking suitable assessment tools. Despite sustainability reporting serves to assess how companies face sustainability challenges, communicate efforts, and promote a sustainable corporate culture, a critical need arises for a comprehensive tool that clarifies the impact of I4.0 technologies on the economic, environmental, and social dimensions of sustainability. This paper proposes a conceptual framework that builds on existing literature regarding how I4.0 technologies contribute to SDGs and leverages the recognized linking between SDGs and Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards to improve the reporting of SDG progress. Thus, the proposed framework identifies the GRI-based Key Performance Indicators necessary for a thorough understanding of how innovation stemming from I4.0, significantly impacts SDGs. Through a content analysis of sustainability reports of innovative companies in the electronic field, the study shows how the proposed framework can be applied in practice. Focusing on Artificial Intelligence (AI), the application case allows a comprehensive understanding of the transformative potential of AI solutions towards sustainable development.

Research on the efficiency and spatiotemporal evolution characteristics of agricultural green development in central cities of the Yangtze River Delta

IntroductionAgricultural green development (AGD) prioritizes sustainable growth by integrating economic, ecological, and social dimensions, aiming to harmonize agricultural economic development with environmental protection and social progress.MethodsThis study integrates the three-stage super-efficiency DEA-SBM model with the BP algorithm, creating an advanced DEA-SBM-BP model to overcome the shortcomings of traditional DEA in evaluation and management processes. The study further applies the Dagum Gini coefficient, kernel density estimation (KDE), and Moran’s index to assess and forecast the efficiency and spatiotemporal evolution patterns of green agricultural development in key cities within the Yangtze River Delta.ResultsThe analysis shows that AGD in the central city of the Yangtze River Delta is overall balanced; however, substantial variations exist among cities within individual provinces. Factors like macroeconomic conditions, workforce quality, and policy support play a crucial role in promoting the efficiency of AGD. Among these, macroeconomic development level has a negative impact, while labor quality and policy support exhibit bidirectional effects. Infrastructure construction, digitalization of agricultural economy, and rural security have become key factors in the green development of modern agriculture. The green advancement of agriculture in the central Yangtze River Delta region typically exhibits a marked clustering effect; however, the local clustering reveals a trend toward dispersed development.DiscussionDespite the emergence of new characteristics in agricultural production in China within the context of high-quality development, differences in resource endowments and economic structures among cities continue to be significant factors contributing to regional imbalances and changes in the agglomeration patterns of agricultural development.

Digital Transformation in the Agri-food Sector: A Comparative Analysis of Industry 4.0 Innovations by Italian Sustainability Leaders

The agri-food sector is a key actor in the Italian economy and plays a crucial role in rescuing and accelerating progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, diverse sustainability challenges including environmental conservation, economic volatility, political changes and regulatory constraints affect the agri-food company’s competitiveness and their ability to face global sustainability challenges. Exploiting digital innovation is then essential. By facilitating more efficient management of resources, reducing waste and improving supply chain transparency, digital innovations contribute to more sustainable, inclusive and resilient agri-food systems. This paper aims to understand the ongoing digital transformation of the Italian agri-food sector through a comparative analysis of innovative practices by Italian agri-food companies that are recognized as sustainability leaders. Among the Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies, sensors, blockchain, cyber security, and artificial intelligence appear to be the most adopted I4.0 solutions to help companies influence the social, economic and environmental dimensions of sustainable development.

ENHANCING BUSINESS SUSTAINABILITY THROUGH CSR: A CASE STUDY OF "BETTER LIVING IN MALAHING” IN THE PERSPECTIVE OF CARROLL'S PYRAMID

This study examines PT PKT's CSR initiative, "Better Living in Malahing," in relation to business sustainability and its alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The research underscores the critical role of economic responsibility and profitability in sustaining both social and environmental goals. Using a qualitative case study approach, the study delves into the implementation of the CSR program based on Carroll's Pyramid of responsibilities, encompassing economic, legal, ethical, and philanthropic dimensions. Data collection methods include in-depth interviews, observations, and document analysis. Findings reveal that the program significantly improved the quality of life for coastal communities in Bontang while simultaneously bolstering the company's reputation. Moreover, a strong correlation between corporate social responsibility and sustainable financial performance is identified. The conclusion emphasizes that integrating CSR into core business strategies is crucial for long-term sustainability. This research contributes by illustrating the necessity of well-structured, enduring CSR initiatives in supporting economic, social, and environmental dimensions of corporate operations.

Construction of women's empowerment index for Bangladesh.

This study is dedicated to refining and enhancing the measurement model of women's empowerment in Bangladesh. Women's empowerment, a crucial and multifaceted aspect of societal growth, is often hindered by gender disparities. This is particularly evident in societies like Bangladesh, where women face inequalities in education, economic opportunities, and decision-making power. To address these disparities effectively, it is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of women's empowerment. Therefore, this study aims to refine and enhance the measurement model to capture the multifaceted nature of women's empowerment accurately. To gather data for this study, a structured questionnaire was administered to married women of reproductive age (15-49) in eight Mouza/Mohalla in Dhaka, Bangladesh. This unique approach allowed us to capture a diverse range of perspectives. We used thirty-three indicators across economic, socio-cultural, household, and psychological dimensions to measure women's empowerment. The sample data were then randomly divided for exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) to identify and validate a comprehensive multidimensional framework. Out of 625 respondents, only 36% of women worked, and ~39% married before age 18. Employing thirty-three items in EFA led to identifying eight critical factors (economic independence, control over household financial decisions, household decision-making, reproductive decision-making, freedom of movement, media exposure, positive self-esteem, and negative self-esteem). These factors, which explained 72.661% of the total variance in the data, provide a practical framework for understanding and addressing women's empowerment. Each component was then divided into two sub-dimensions to acquire a better understanding. The CFA indicated a good model fit for each dimension, and convergent and discriminant validity assessments were used to establish reliability and validity, further enhancing the practical implications of our findings. The results of our rigorous exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses not only confirmed the sample structures and internal consistency but also provided significant insights. The findings suggested an adequate fit for all CFA models, indicating the robustness of our measurement model. According to the CFA results, each dimension's variables are satisfactory, and all the dimensions can be combined to create a single index measuring women's empowerment. This comprehensive understanding of women's empowerment, with its specific dimensions and factors, equips policymakers and practitioners with the knowledge to develop a wide range of interventions appropriate to particular facets of empowerment, thereby fostering societal growth and gender equality.

AI-Enhanced Strategies to Ensure New Sustainable Destination Tourism Trends Among the 27 European Union Member States

The United Nations 2030 Agenda defines the priorities and aspirations for global development based on seventeen ambitious sustainable development goals encompassing economic, environmental, and social dimensions. Tourism plays a vital role in the list of actions for the people and the planet. While the tourism industry drives economic growth, its environmental and social impact is equally high. Sustainable tourism aims to reduce the damage caused by the tourism industry, protect communities, and guarantee the industry’s long-term future. These changes require tourists’ collective and concerted effort. The question arises whether tourists are willing to be more demanding about sustainability when looking for a destination. This study uses artificial intelligence to classify a new trend in European citizens’ search for sustainable destinations and to generate intelligent recommendations. Using data from the Flash Eurobarometer 499, we use a tree-based algorithm, random forest, to obtain intelligent citizens classification systems supported by machine learning. The classification system explores the predisposition of citizens to contribute to the three pillars of sustainability when choosing a destination to visit based on gender, age, and the region of living. We found that European citizens place little emphasis on the social sustainability pillar. While they care about preserving the environment, this competes with the cultural offerings and availability of activities at the destination. Additionally, we found that the willingness to contribute to the three pillars of sustainability varies by gender, age, and European region.

The Evolution of Cameroonian Cooperation with the Soviet Union and the Russian Federation: A Historical and Geopolitical Analysis

This paper investigates the historical and evolving relationship between Cameroon and the Soviet Union and later, the Russian Federation, focusing on political, military, economic, and cultural dimensions. Positioned strategically at the crossroads of West and Central Africa, Cameroon has balanced longstanding ties with France against a growing partnership with Russia. Since the Soviet Union’s formal recognition of Cameroon's independence in 1964, Soviet support in education, infrastructure, and ideological alignment contributed to a foundational relationship grounded in anti-colonial and socialist values. Following the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, relations were reestablished with the Russian Federation, shifting from ideological alignment to pragmatic cooperation, particularly in defense and economic engagement. Key findings indicate that Russia cooperation with Cameroon cut across education, reciprocal visa exemption agreement for holders of diplomatic and service passports, food trade and military defense. The study uses a qualitative methodology, incorporating primary sources such as government records, treaty documents, and public statements, alongside secondary sources including academic articles and policy analyses. This approach allows for an examination of key historical milestones, the role of security concerns, and economic priorities that have shaped Cameroonian-Russian relations over the years.

Economic Value of Endangered Languages

In a world where more than half of the 6,500 languages are under the threat of extinction, this paper challenges the conventional view that language preservation lacks concrete economic benefits. Investigating the intricate relationships between monolingualism, cultural identity, and economic dynamics, it illuminates the diverse values that languages contribute to our global heritage. From communicative and emotional to ecological and scientific perspectives, the paper unveils the interconnectedness of linguistic diversity with biodiversity, influencing conservation efforts and ecological equilibrium. Case studies illustrate the economic implications of language loss in sectors like medicine, where traditional knowledge guides pharmaceutical development. Beyond direct monetary considerations, the exploration underscores the unexpected role of language in business, influencing international trade, collaboration, and workplace dynamics. Advocating for the economic value of investing in language resources, the article urges decision-makers to recognize the economic dimensions of endangered languages. The conclusion calls for a shift in perspective, positioning languages not merely as cultural assets but as vital economic factors. It encourages the integration of language preservation into national and international policies to safeguard global linguistic diversity.

Sustainability Indicators of Family Farming in a Rural Community in the Amazon Interior

Objective: The objective of this work was to measure sustainability indicators using the MESMIS methodology in the Colônia do Uraim community in Paragominas, state of Pará, aiming to show the sustainability level of this productive activity. Theoretical Framework: This section introduces the concept and foundations of the MESMIS Method (Marco para Evaluación de Sistemas de Manejo de Recursos Naturales Incorporando Indicadores de Sustentabilidad), which assesses the sustainability of agroecosystems through indicators. Additionally, it explores the concept of sustainable development and the importance of specific indicators to evaluate and strengthen sustainability in family farming systems in the Amazon. Method: The research adopts a case study approach in a community within the Amazon, focusing on nine family agroecosystems. The MESMIS method was used, applying questionnaires and direct observations to gather data from the producers. The analysis was based on identifying and measuring sustainability indicators in the environmental, economic, and social dimensions, which were scored on a scale from 1 to 5. Results and Discussion: The results show an intermediate effort in environmental conservation, primarily through reforestation, but reveal economic and social challenges, such as low diversification of activities and the need for technical support, underscoring the need for public policies adapted to the local context. Research Implications: The implications of this research encompass both the practice of monitoring sustainability in agroecosystems and the development of support policies for family farming. This study is particularly relevant for environmental conservation initiatives and local economic development, providing essential data to improve sustainable agricultural practices. Originality/Value: The study contributes to the sustainability literature by applying and adapting the MESMIS method to Amazonian family agroecosystems, highlighting local specificities. This innovative approach enables a critical assessment and offers recommendations that can influence policies and sustainable development strategies in the region.

Spatial benefit assessment and marine climate response of coastal zone in Fujian Province under cross-system influence.

To gain a scientific understanding of the cross-system impact of coastal zones and promote the sustainable development and protection of coastal areas, we constructed a spatial benefit evaluation system that encompassed both terrestrial and marine systems, focusing on the ecological, economic, and social dimensions. We employed the entropy method, moving average method, and Mann-Kendall trend test to quantitatively characterize the spatial benefits of the coastal zone in Fujian Province, China, and the evolution of the marine climate from 2005 to 2020. Building on this, the grey relational analysis method was applied to investigate the correlation between spatial benefits and marine climate and to explore the trends and magnitude of the impact of marine climate on spatial benefits. During the study period, the spatial benefits of the coastal zone in Fujian Province exhibited a fluctuating pattern of an initial increase followed by a decrease, with spatial benefits varying among cities. The role of the economic system in enhancing spatial benefits was not considerable. Changes in the marine climate aligned with the global warming trend, with the most considerable changes observed in sea level and tropical cyclone frequency and intensity, which are sensitive to human activities. There was a high degree of correlation between coastal zone spatial benefits and marine climate, with seawater salinity being most closely related to spatial benefits, while tropical cyclones showed the weakest correlation. The results of this study support sustainable development efforts in coastal zones.

Kunz and post-communist geographies of urban poverty in Romania

This article examines the spatial, social, economic, and civic dimensions of poverty in a post-communist Romanian city, focusing on the Kunz, an informal neighborhood in Timișoara. In Romanian, areas marked by concentrated poverty are pejoratively referred to as mahala, and internationally as, akin to the pejorative word, ‘slums’. This study sheds light on spatially concentrated poverty in post-communist cities through the lens of urban planning, citizenship, and environmental justice. Drawing on multiple research methods, the research reveals how environmental injustice is perpetuated by the lack of inclusive urban planning strategies, exacerbating existing poverty due to a continuous influx of impoverished populations from various regions. Exploiting legal uncertainties, these newcomers built homes without property deeds, subdividing older land plots. The strong socio-economic cohesion, basic urban infrastructure arrangements, temporary identity cards, and strong family ties within the community mitigate the fear of eviction from substandard housing. Economic crises generate a certain sense of security in the face of eviction as residents in these impoverished areas interpret crises as opportunities for safety. This sentiment prevails as substantial public investments are often delayed, reducing the likelihood of demolition and mass evictions, leaving the population nowhere else to turn.

Sustainable Livelihood in Post-Disaster Tourism: Lesson Learned from Merapi Tourism Site

This research aims to explore the practice of the Sustainable Livelihood Tourism Framework (SLTF) in post-disaster management in the Mount Merapi area, Sleman, Yogyakarta. The focus of SLTF achievement in this study encompasses ecological, economic, sociocultural, and institutional dimensions. Research on the SLTF has indeed become a significant focus in tourism studies. However, most of these studies are confined to a single research methodology, resulting in limited scope and a lack of comprehensive discussion. This study used a mixed-method approach with an explanatory sequential design. The study found that tourism positively impacts the increase of economic activities in the community. However, on the ecological side, tourism presence degrades environmental quality due to issues such as carbon emissions, industrial waste, climate change, the greenhouse effect, illegal logging, and illegal mining. Furthermore, other policies were identified, such as mineral water mining permits that degrade the environment and the establishment of landfill sites in the Kaliurang area, which spoils the natural beauty. Tourism practices also have a negative impact on institutional aspects, as the community perceives government policies as too complex and not meeting their expectations. Lastly, in the socio-cultural aspect, tourism preserves traditional values, as tourists tend to respect them. This mixed-method approach underscores the need for balanced strategies that address environmental concerns while maximizing economic benefits, improving institutional involvement, and supporting socio-cultural enhancement.

Effect of Women’s Involvement in Small and Medium-Scale Enterprises on their Economic Empowerment in Calabar, Cross River State

This study examined small and medium-scale enterprises and women’s economic empowerment in Calabar, Cross River State. It specifically examined the effect of women’s involvement in SMEs on their economic empowerment dimensions such as financial independence, skills development and business networking opportunities. The study adopted a cross-sectional research design. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain primary data from 337 female operators of SMEs in Calabar. The data were descriptively analyzed, while the study hypotheses were tested using simple linear regression in the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). After the analysis, it was found that women’s involvement in SMEs operations had a significant positive effect on their financial independence, skills development and business networking opportunities in Calabar. Hence, the study recommended that women in Cross River State should genuinely be supported with financial, technical and material resources to get fully involved in entrepreneurship through SMEs in order to improve their financial independence, ensuring self-employment, income generation, and asset ownership to support their families. It was also recommended that the Government of Cross River State and relevant stakeholders should introduce credible and fully-funded programmes that enable women to gain and improve valuable entrepreneurial skills to effectively engage in SME operations in order to attain sustainable economic empowerment. Additionally, the study recommended that stakeholders in the private sector, including industrialists, non-governmental organizations, and trade associations, among others should encourage female entrepreneurs to participate in networking events, professional associations, workshops and conferences in order to build valuable connections to grow their business.

Are Medium-Sized Cities in China Shrinking from 2010 to 2020? An Empirical Analysis with a Multi-Dimensional Model

Urban shrinkage has emerged as a worldwide concern, which is increasingly prevalent in developing countries like China, particularly in medium-sized cities (MSCs). Compared to large cities and counties, MSCs find themselves in a national policy blind spot and have been neglected both in policy and research. Previous studies, based on population changes, have shown that urban shrinkage in China is not severe. However, urban shrinkage is not just about population decline, and it has not been adequately discussed from a multi-dimensional perspective. This paper adopts a multi-dimensional model, considering population, economy, and space dimensions to analyze shrinkage patterns in 164 MSCs in China from 2010 to 2020. Findings reveal that 6.1% of MSCs experienced population shrinkage, and 24.4% faced shrinkage in economic or spatial dimensions. Shrinking MSCs are spatially distributed in the Northeast as well as in the areas surrounding large cities. Industrial restructuring, job losses, and healthcare disparities contribute to urban shrinkage, and the impact of aging will be further felt. As large cities consistently attract population and resources and digitization has dramatically affected population mobility, more MSCs will shrink in the future. This paper contributes to the understanding of shrinkage of MSCs among scholars and policymakers, urging a shift towards more balanced and digital urban governance.

Sustainability Study and Management Scenarios of Rammang-Rammang Geopark, Maros Regency, South Sulawesi Province

Rammang-Rammang Geopark has become one of the growing tourist destinations. The need for research aims to understand the sustainability status and implement sustainable tourism management strategies and scenarios in the area. The method used in this research is a descriptive method with a quantitative approach. Rapfish and MICMAC were used as analysis tools. The results of Rapfish analysis show that the environmental sustainability and institutional status are relatively positive and well-maintained, but improvements need to be made in the social and economic dimensions of the community. MICMAC analysis showed that variables such as protection and rehabilitation of local flora, community participation, and integration of management programs significantly influenced the management system. Therefore, the combination of the two analytical tools formulates a management scenario to increase community participation, sustainable tourism education, coordination between management agencies and environmental management, and economic diversification through promotion, marketing, and digital campaigns on environmentally oriented tourism in a more serious geopark area to ensure the sustainability of ecotourism aspects.

Spatial dimensions of cultural economics

Spatial dimensions of cultural economics

Apple Pomace Integrated Biorefinery for Biofuels Production: A Techno-Economic and Environmental Sustainability Analysis

The combination of techno-economic process modelling and life cycle assessment is an integrated methodology that addresses quantitative operational data, and evaluates the emissions associated with any process under development. In particular, the valorisation of waste streams within the context of the circular economy could be considered a valid and promising approach, especially regarding techno-economic and environmental indicators. This manuscript aims to evaluate the integral valorisation of apple pomace from the processing industry into bioethanol, and vinasses (a byproduct of the distillation process) into biogas and digestate as biofertiliser. In addition to biogas production, lagooning and composting were considered as strategies for vinasse management. After the conceptual design of the process options was completed, the environmental profile of bioethanol production was estimated across different scenarios. When biogas production was integrated to reduce the biorefinery’s energy demand, the carbon footprint was 1.13 kg CO2eq∙kg−1. This footprint increased to values around four when lagooning and composting were used as vinasse management strategies. Although the economic dimension posed a significant limitation due to high investment costs, the eco-efficiency analysis showed that the scenario of the co-production of bioethanol and biogas is the best alternative. Despite the promising results, further research is needed to explore the recovery of additional co-products to develop a high-potential strategy for apple pomace.

Path analysis of social network factors influencing sustainable eco-city development in the northeast of Thailand

In Urban development, diversity respect is needed to prioritize and balance the urban development design for sustainable eco-city development. As a result, this research aimed to investigate the causal factor pathways of social network factors influencing sustainable eco-city development in the northeastern region of Thailand through a quantitative research approach. With the aim to survey insightful information, the analysis unit was conducted at the individual level with three hundred and eighty-three (383) samplings in Khon Kaen and Udon Thani provinces, including univariate analysis and multivariate analysis, using path analysis and multiple linear regression. The study results indicated that two pathways of social network factors influencing sustainable eco-city development were indirect influence factors. The indirect influence factor consists of information exchange, benefits exchange in the network, and members’ role in the social network. Additionally, the study revealed that the pathway has influences through social network types and the economic and social dimensions of sustainable cities (R2 = 0.330). Therefore, this study concluded that sustainable eco-city development should be implemented through community networks and economic and social network development for environmental development through social network types.

Overcoming Challenges in Scented Geranium Cultivation, Processing, and Marketing: Study from Northern Karnataka, India

Medicinal and aromatic crops play a pivotal role in the socio-cultural, economic, spiritual and health dimensions of India's rural population and have become an integral part of our culture and rituals. Karnataka is a major repository of aromatic and medicinal treasures of the country. The demand for aromatic plants in India surpasses the available supply, prompting the widespread commercial cultivation of major aromatic crops in various regions. Among these, scented geranium emerges as a vital perennial aromatic, cultivated for its leaves imbued with a captivating rose fragrance. The aromatic oil of scented geranium is increasingly replacing traditional rose oil and identified as one of the top 20 essential oils traded globally. The present study aims to identify challenges in cultivation, processing and marketing aspects of scented geranium in Northern Karnataka. Considering the area and concentration of scented geranium in the state, Belagavi district is purposively selected for the study. Primary data was collected through personnel interview of randomly selected geranium growers. The major challenges faced by the farmers in the production, processing and marketing aspects of scented geranium were analysed and prioritized through Garett ranking technique. Analysis of the data revealed that in production, high cost of planting material, lack of high yielding varieties and high wage rates, high cost of inputs and sensitivity of crop to heavy rains were identified as top five constraints. Whereas, in processing, significant hurdles were high working capital requirement, high capital investment in installation distillation unit and insufficient knowledge on operation of distillation units, low oil recovery and lack of efficient processing equipment. In marketing aspects, high price fluctuation, lack of marketing information and lack of competition in the market, non-existence of local market and lack of adequate demand in nearby area were identified as major challenges in the study area. Educating farmers in nursery management and implementing mechanization techniques, particularly for harvesting, are crucial for enhancing productivity and profitability. Additionally, training on proper storage and transportation practices is essential to maintain the quality of volatile essential oils. This comprehensive strategy promotes sustainable and economically viable cultivation of scented geraniums in the region.

Implementing an adaptive reuse on industrial buildings: a proposal for transforming Erbil’s Silo in Kurdistan-Iraq into a hotel

Industrial buildings, serving as markers of cultural heritage, connect our cultural identity from the past through the present and into the future. Unfortunately, many of these buildings lose their identity when they are converted into another function. Through the case study analysis (the Silo of Erbil City), a qualitative method is employed to examine design strategies and spatial transformations in recent adaptive reuse projects of existing structures. Through the literature review, this research investigates the importance of adaptive reuse and heritage buildings, underscoring their historical and theoretical underpinnings, and subsequently examines contemporary approaches to architectural criteria towards habitation for existing structures in the public, creative, and cultural domains. The study findings identify common fundamental elements of industrial heritage adaptive reuse and innovative design strategies applied in recent adaptive reuse projects, highlighting the potential to transform neglected or vacant abandoned buildings into urban open spaces. The study uses a comprehensive methodology involving case study analyses and diverse data collection techniques. The case study properties are the structural systems, natural lighting, and the surrounding open spaces. As a result, a hotel with a multipurpose hall, and a museum dedicated to the history of the Silo have been proposed, aiming at conserving the valuable heritage in this industrial area as well as providing an alternative perspective for the adaptive reuse of industrial structures in Erbil city. Finally, the implications of the research for the economic and social dimensions of urban development lie in understanding and promoting sustainable preservation strategies. This work is considered the first step for future research in Iraq, specifically in Kurdistan Region. The research concludes that the Silo of Erbil is one of the successful examples of the process of reusing buildings. It also concludes that less intervention in reusing a building can protect the building identity.