Economic Practices Research Articles

Towards a geographical political economy understanding of platformization

In the last ten years digital platforms have emerged as an important theme in academic discourse and various subdisciplines of geography and adjacent research areas. Whether in the fields of social media, urban transport, industry cloud services or gig work, platformization is therein often discussed as a more-than-economic phenomenon engaging in a conflictive relationship with public interest, sovereignty, regulation and the state. However, while the concept of the platform has become ubiquitous, the integration of and dialogue between various broadened definitions are less often practiced. In our short paper, we argue that for further addressing this intricate relation between platforms, power and sovereignty an engagement with the platform concept and its integration through a political economy understanding is key for two reasons: Firstly, an overarching concept of platformization transcending the political/economy binary is necessary to be able to problematize the reification of normalized economic practices lying at the heart of the phenomenon. Secondly, there is a pragmatic reason for developing a geographical political economy perspective on platformization as it can serve as a common ground for an engaged pluralism within and beyond the discipline of economic geography. Based on a systematization of existing definitions this paper therefore combines insights from political economy perspectives, urban platform research and research on platform labor to propose a working definition stimulating a reflection on the platform discourse thus far and strengthening strategical-relational thinking on platform power in future research.

Retraction Note: Energy transition and the role of circular supply chains: toward resource efficiency and sustainable economic practices

Retraction Note: Energy transition and the role of circular supply chains: toward resource efficiency and sustainable economic practices

Transitioning towards circular households: Exploring influential factors and constraints

The adoption of household circular economy practices is fundamental for sustainable consumption, yet this area remains underexplored, with individuals unaware of the societal impact they can make. While previous research has examined the drivers and barriers linked with the implementation of circular strategies in organizations, eco-industrial parks, and cities, there is limited understanding of the factors influencing household circular economy activities. Thus, the present work aims to identify what drives and inhibits individuals from fostering circular economy progress at the household level. This study is supported by a triangulation approach, combining an integrative literature review with the results derived from semi-structured interviews with householders. The literature review helped categorize the data obtained through the interviews, while outlining the existing theories. The findings of the interviews indicate that the drivers and barriers could vary between consumer stages – i.e., customer, user, end of life product holder. The householders can be negatively influenced by the lack of awareness, poor reputation, and a circular market offer with insufficient quality. The adoption process of circular economy-related practices depends on the attitude of each individual and can be driven by the possibility to reduce the cost of living, and the ability of the product to include digestible information, regarding its sustainability performance. Householders identified several recommendations that could promote circularity, such as implementing subsidies with reduced bureaucracy to alleviate initial financial pressures and improving transparency and disclosure of product sustainability (e.g., through a sustainability score). This research can capacitate policymakers and practitioners with insights into the factors that foster circular economic progress at the household level, outlining a structure tailored towards the desired consumer role.

Circular economy practices in international business: What do we know and where are we heading?

AbstractThe circular economy (CE) has gained the focus of scholars and policymakers as it is related to achieving sustainable development. Multinational corporations (MNCs) are adopting and implementing CE models, especially given their resources, global presence, and ability to share best practices across borders. However, a knowledge gap exists on how CE is practiced within the international business (IB) context. This study seeks to harmonize the existing literature on CE practices in IB using a bibliometric and systematic literature (content) review approach. Our findings of citation and network analyses using the co‐authorship, citation, co‐citation, bibliometric coupling, and co‐occurrence techniques provide the current situation as well as identify three trending research themes in the CE‐IB literature. The study also offers several potential avenues for future research.

Analysis of the Theory of Al-Maqāṣid asy-Syarī'ah in Sustainable Economic Development

Sustainable economic development has emerged as a critical challenge in our increasingly globalised world, where environmental degradation and social inequities pose significant threats to future prosperity. The urgency of this issue is underscored by recent reports indicating that over 1 billion people still live in extreme poverty, while climate change continues to exacerbate existing vulnerabilities. In this context, the theory of Al-Maqāṣid asy-Syarī'ah provides a relevant framework for addressing these multifaceted challenges, as it focuses on the preservation of human welfare and the promotion of social justice. Central to this theory are the principles of maslahah, which advocate for actions that yield the greatest benefit for society, thereby aligning economic activities with ethical and moral values. This article seeks to analyse the application of Al-Maqāṣid asy-Syarī'ah in the realm of sustainable economic development, underscoring its potential to foster holistic community welfare. Employing a qualitative methodology, this study will delve into pertinent literature, elucidate the research methods employed, and present the findings that emerge from the analysis. It is anticipated that the insights gleaned from this research will illuminate the significance of integrating Islamic principles into sustainable economic practices, ultimately contributing to a more equitable and environmentally sound future. By recognising the interconnectedness of economic, social, and environmental factors, we can pave the way for a development model that is not only sustainable but also just and inclusive.

Building a Greener Future : The Role of Data Centers in Eco-Friendly Computing

This comprehensive article explores the critical issue of environmental sustainability in the rapidly evolving landscape of information technology, focusing on the substantial environmental impact of data centers. It delves into innovative strategies and technologies to create more sustainable and eco-friendly computing environments. The article covers key areas such as energy efficiency, renewable energy integration, green cloud computing, edge computing, circular economy practices, and AI-powered optimization. By examining these aspects, the article demonstrates how the IT industry is working to minimize its environmental footprint while meeting the growing demands of our digital world. It highlights not only the environmental benefits of these initiatives but also their economic advantages, showcasing how sustainable practices in computing can lead to significant cost savings and competitive advantages in the market.

Conservation and regeneration of architectural and urban heritage: The case of the Xinmalu historical site, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China

The current discourse about contemporary cities emphasizes the notion of heritage conservation and preservation as a catalyst for expressing local identity and accomplishing community development. This article uses the case of Ningbo City (Zhejiang, China) to interrogate different approaches to preserve and rehabilitate architectural and urban heritage. Over the past two decades, the identification, documentation, and preservation of deteriorating dwellings and the urban context of traditional cities have undergone an unprecedented cycle of transformation. The article explores the economic, social, and cultural practices that inform strategies for heritage conservation, with a particular focus on Ningbo’s experiences. The selected projects from the city’s context range from independent house restoration and rehabilitation to traditional markets and the preservation of its urban heritage core. In addition, the article provides insights into the complexities of the ongoing discourse surrounding the interpretation, evaluation, protection, and augmentation of heritage territories. It confronts questions such as how to encourage inclusivity and diversity in cities’ heritage zones and urban spaces, and how specific chapters of the past are chosen and reintroduced for suggested contemporary functions. The article also examines the cooperation between international organizations and local planning entities in shaping a vision for Ningbo’s heritage conservation and rehabilitation. The study concludes by summarizing the successes of projects in the Xinmalu Heritage District in Ningbo, which foster growth and community development without compromising the value of its heritage.

Circular economy adoption at the regional level: a neo-institutional perspective

ABSTRACT The lack of clear explanations about the impact of institutional pressures on adopting Circular Economy (CE) practices in regions is justified by the early stage of CE development. The conditions of CE implementation need to be explored to better understand the drivers of successful transformation. We employed a neo-institutional approach, which encompasses institutional isomorphism and regional absorptive capacity, to elucidate factors determining the extent of CE implementation at the regional level. We hypothesize that normative pressure leads to a more advanced adoption of new policy concepts. As a research method, we used content analysis and coding derived from institutional isomorphism and absorptive capacity, applied to all regional strategies in Poland between 2020 and 2021. The novelty of this study resides in its contribution to elucidating the regional implementation of CE concepts and discerning patterns of institutional adaptation. The study demonstrates that establishing a normative environment should precede the anticipation of adopting novel policy ideas.

ECONOMIC IMPACT OF PROJECT MANAGEMENT PRACTICES ON INNOVATION PERFORMANCE: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY IN TECH STARTUP ECOSYSTEM

Objective: In an age when competitive advantage needs to be sustained through innovation, especially in the very fast and dynamic tech industry, good practices in project management make a vital contribution toward successfully manoeuvring through the complexities of innovation projects. This study highlights the economic implications of project management on innovation performance within technology-based ventures, particularly in Saudi Arabia’s evolving tech ecosystem. Method: An empirical analysis of 372 responses using an SEM approach investigates the alignment of innovation objectives with project management practices by identifying key factors that contribute to innovation performance in an evolving tech ecosystem in Saudi Arabia. Results and Discussion: The research concluded that good project management practices can, to a high extent, enhance the innovative capability of tech startups, whereby the converted ideas can come into existence and be taken from the idea level to the marketplace. Research Implications: The practical implications of the research were to recommend ways in which tech startups and other firms can enhance their innovation performance by embracing best practices in project management. This implies that by coupling these economic practices with strategic innovation objectives, by fostering collaboration, and by managing resources and risks efficiently, organizations can substantially enhance their innovation capacity and ensure long-term success in competitive markets. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the growing body of knowledge at the border between project management and innovation and can contribute something new for both practitioners and policymakers within the tech environment.

Peran Tokoh Islam dalam Menumbuhkan Nilai-Nilai Moderasi Melalui Praktik Ekonomi di Madura

This study aims to see the role of religious figures through pesantren engaged in the economic sector. As an educational institution, pesantren have penetrated into various scientific fields, both in theory and practice, including in the field of economics. Pesantren led by a kiai in Madura have a very important role to be used as icons for the community in acting and behaving in everyday life. In economic practice, Islamic figures have been massively entrepreneurial to foster business awareness in their respective pesantren. Through this application, the economy in pesantren can grow independently in terms of funding to support the needs of their institutions. This study is a qualitative indicator with a sample approach in the form of library research (library research) collecting information in the form of books, journals, interviews, articles, news available in online media. The findings show that pesantren in Madura through economic activities have a wide reach in providing moderate understandings because Madura itself is a heterogeneous area. So that there is no discrimination against economic actors who are not the same in background as the general public in Madura. the application of moderation through real economic practices exists in Madura, because in terms of values, the key to moderation has been implemented in practice, especially in pesantren led by Islamic figures.

The Role of Transformational Leadership in Sustainable Business Growth

Supportable business development has turned into a basic part of corporate system in the present worldwide economy, driven by expanded familiarity with ecological, social, and administration (ESG) factors. The job of authority, especially groundbreaking administration, is crucial in directing associations toward economical practices. This exploration paper investigates how groundbreaking initiative, with its accentuation on vision, development, and morals, works with feasible business development by encouraging a culture of ecological stewardship, partner commitment, and long-haul benefit. Through a mix of hypothetical examination, contextual analyses, and subjective experiences, this paper gives a top to bottom comprehension of how groundbreaking initiative practices can drive maintainable results.

Enhanced photo-oxidation of hormones in water using biomass waste-derived hydrochar composites as photocatalysts

This study introduces a green chemistry approach to enhance the catalytic efficiency of metal oxides in photocatalytic reactions using agro-industrial waste. Specifically, rice husks and spent coffee grounds were utilized as carbon sources to produce hydrochars, which served as sustainable supports for ZnO and ZnFe₂O₄ oxides. This method promotes waste minimization and circularity by repurposing agricultural byproducts, reducing the environmental impact of traditional catalyst production. The hydrochars were synthesized through mild hydrothermal carbonization (250 °C for 4 h) and characterized by various physicochemical analyses. Their photocatalytic performance was evaluated using a 20 mg L−1 solution of conjugated estrogens under ultraviolet light (120 W cm−2) for 30 min. Composites with ZnO exhibited a significant increase in oxidation reaction rates due to enhanced porosity and an oxygen-rich structure. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) analysis revealed hydroxyl radicals (OH) as the primary agents, with photocatalytic efficiencies exceeding 83 % after eleven cycles. In toxicity tests, 4 mL of treated solution was applied to 20 Lactuca sativa (lettuce) seeds, kept in the dark at 25 °C for 7 days. Seeds exposed to treated solutions showed improved radicle elongation and germination rates compared to controls, except for those with coffee hydrochar and ZnO. This indicates effective degradation of toxic estrogens without harmful by-products. Overall, this work highlights the advantages of integrating green chemistry principles and circular economy practices, transforming waste into valuable materials to enhance environmental sustainability and catalytic performance.

Unveiling environmental excellence: the confluence of green Industrial Internet of Things, circular economy practices and dynamic capabilities in manufacturing firms

PurposeTo meet environmental performance (EP) goals, this study aims to identify the complex interaction between green Industrial Internet of Things (GIIoT), circular economic practices (CEPs) and dynamic capabilities (DC). This study analyzes how technological, operational and cultural compatibilities enhance GIIoT adoption.Design/methodology/approachData were collected from diverse Chinese manufacturing firms (n = 339) through a quantitative survey. The research model was proposed, and hypotheses were tested using structural equation modeling. Moreover, the robustness of the structural model is further tested using Fuzzy Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis and importance performance map analysis.FindingsThe empirical results indicate that higher organizational compatibilities boost GIIoT adoption and EP. DC was assessed as a higher-order construct to examine its mediation of GIIoT adoption and EP. DC positively mediates GIIoT adoption-EP. Similarly, CEP’s positive impact on EP, partially mediating the relationship between GIIoT adoption and EP, has also been proved.Originality/valueThis research bridges current understanding and contributes useful insights for fostering environmental sustainability inside manufacturing firms and advances the theoretical understanding of technology adoption, sustainable development and dynamic capacity theory. It illuminates the way forward to harmonize and successfully integrate technology, CEP and EP. This research advances the area and gives decision-makers practical advice for creating sustainable and technologically sophisticated organizations.

Barriers to circular economy adoption are diverse and some are business-model specific: Evidence from the Australian cheese manufacturing sector

Achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12.3, aimed at halving food loss and waste by 2030, requires private firms to adopt circular economy practices, which may include different types of circular business models (CBMs). This study examines four interchangeable CBMs—in-house (IH), third party (TP), joint venture (JV), and focal company (FC) models—focusing on the Australian cheese manufacturing sector and its liquid by-product, ‘whey’. Through semi-structured interviews with 43 participants from 42 firms, we analysed how barriers differ across CBMs. Some barriers are consistent across all CBMs, such as economies of scale and operational costs. Others are absent in one or two CBMs (e.g., capital costs in JV and competing priorities in TP), while some are unique (e.g., low or inconsistent demand in IH, payment expectations in TP, conflicting values or personalities in JV, and upstream product specifications in FC). Findings indicate that while IH models are feasible for all production scales with sufficient time and resources. TP models are suitable for firms with time constraints, provided there is agreement on compensation with the recipient. JV could work for firms lacking volumes or capital but require local collaboration and transparent business plans. Utilising existing infrastructure of firms already repurposing by-products can be effective but requires upstream firms meeting product specifications. By exploring multiple CBM options, the willingness to explore circular economy approaches increases markedly when considering multiple CBMs (79%) versus IH approaches alone (33%). This highlights the necessity for diverse strategies to achieve SDG 12.3, as a one-size-fits-all approach is insufficient. Firms may need to partner with others for repurposing, and those already repurposing can enhance efforts by enabling others to repurpose waste, though multiple pathways also increase potential barriers.

Exploring circular economy strategies of SMEs in the Italian tanning cluster of Arzignano: A multilevel perspective of reactive and proactive strategies

While the Circular Economy predominantly affects large companies and multinationals, its impact on Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) is an emerging research area. This research aimed to unfold the Circular Economy strategies implemented by SMEs within an industrial cluster context. Ten companies from the Italian tanning cluster of Arzignano were selected as case studies. Thematic analysis, pattern-matching, and multi-value Qualitative Comparative Analysis techniques were used to analyze primary and secondary data. Main findings revealed that CE strategies taken by the studied companies were characterized by the economic and efficiency benefits provided, such as resource-saving, waste management, energy use reduction, and materials selection for further recycling. SMEs' management is targeting compliance with environmental regulations/certifications, market pressures, and cost-benefit assessments, evidencing an adaptive behavior to external exigencies. Novel findings came from the meso level, such as a ‘symbiotic circularity’ strategy taken by two SMEs and their value chain for co-production, and the chain actions related to recycling, remanufacturing, and reusing wasted products by partner companies. A cascade chain of interdependent actions toward Circular Economy practices was also identified within the cluster level. Reactive and proactive Circular Economy strategies were identified in a multilevel framework.

Green supply chain management in the Southern Brazilian rice industry: A survey and structural analysis

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the influence of Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM) dimensions on the performance of an agrifood supply chain, with a specific focus on the rice industry in southern Brazil. The region's rice industry produces a substantial amount of biomass, fostering circular economy practices that align with both economic and environmental objectives. Using Structural Equation Modeling with Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS), this research analyzes data from a survey of 92 companies. The measurement model incorporates 21 input and 11 output indicators, organized into six constructs. The input constructs—green strategy, green innovation, and green operations—are instrumental in shaping industry competitiveness, the fourth construct. The output constructs measure results and reputation. The findings indicate that green innovation and green operations significantly enhance competitiveness, whereas green strategy exerts minimal influence. The scope is limited to the rice industry in southern Brazil. Practical implications include offering a strategic framework for agrifood industry practitioners to improve competitiveness by optimizing green practices within their supply chains. Theoretical implications suggest that while green strategy alone may not be sufficient to drive competitiveness, the integration of green innovation and operations can enhance it. The originality of this research lies in the development of a comprehensive measurement model for assessing competitiveness in agrifood businesses, which evaluates both operational outcomes and reputational impact.

Green marketing horizon: Industry sustainability through marketing and innovation

The UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) emphasize moving the manufacturing sector towards adopting environmentally friendly practices. Manufacturing industries play a critical role in the economic growth of a country; however, they are also associated with directly affecting the environment. Due to limited resources, shifting towards sustainable practices is difficult. The current study examines the effects of green marketing (GM) practices through eco-innovation (EI) to improve the sustainable performance of Pakistan's manufacturing industries. Furthermore, this study also intends to test the moderating effect of circular economy practices on the direct relationship between green market practices and eco-innovation. Responses from 201 professionals working in manufacturing industries were gathered and subjected to structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis to investigate the direct and indirect relationships between the variables in the conceptual model. The results indicate that the green market and eco-innovation have a noteworthy direct impact on SP. Nevertheless, green marketing practices favorably affect sustainable performance by mediating eco-innovation and the positive moderating role of circular economy practices. The current study is relevant for advising managers and policymakers about the potential advantages of supporting sustainable solutions.

가정과교사의 발달단계에 따른 좋은 수업에 대한 인식

The purpose of this study is to examine home economics teachers' perception and practice of good instruction according to teacher developmental stages, and to explore what efforts and supports are needed for good instruction. For this purpose, total of 6 home economics teachers were interviewed in depth by selecting 2 people from each development stage: adaptation stage, growth/development stage and mastery stage. Data were interpreted through analytical memo writing, initial coding, in-depth coding, and categorization. The results of the study are as follows. First, teachers in the ‘adaptation stage’ strive to break away from the fantasy of teaching skills. Teachers in the ‘growth/development stage’ continue to think in order to create good instruction with their own teaching style. Teachers in the ‘mastery stage’ constantly struggle to move for good instruction based on a firm curriculum identity. Second, They all think that the direction of good instruction is to be faithful to the essence of home economics education. Good instruction is reorganized to focus on a compositional perspective and connect with the lives of students. Third, In order to teach good instruction, home economics teachers need to make efforts to expand ‘teacher agency’. Forth, What is absolutely necessary to continue good instruction is the solidarity of home economics teachers. They need support to build solidarity. This study is expected to be a starting point to revitalize various discourses about the direction and practice of good home economics instruction in the future.

경차 브랜드의 헤드라이트에 적용된 디자인 조형성이 소비자 만족도 및 구전의도에 미치는 영향

Design is an important factor in the compact car market beyond economic feasibility and practicality, especially headlights that determine the first impression of the vehicle and greatly influence the brand image. The purpose of this study is to analyze the effect of design formativeness applied to the headlights of compact car brands on consumer satisfaction and word-of-mouth intention. To this end, case studies and empirical studies were conducted on major domestic compact car models, and structural equation model were used for the data collected through the survey. As a result of the study, it was found that formative factors such as form, size, and space of compact car headlights had a positive effect on consumer satisfaction, and this satisfaction led to positive word-of-mouth intentions of consumers. On the other hand, the material factor had no significant effect. This result suggests that compact car manufacturers should emphasize visual elements and move toward improving the consumer experience when developing design strategies. In addition, it was confirmed that there is a need to strengthen strategies to promote positive word-of-mouth by efficiently allocating design resources. In conclusion, in order to secure competitiveness in the compact vehicle market, a strategic approach that considers design originality and technical efficiency at the same time is needed, and it will be important to consider customized marketing strategies that consider the characteristics and strengths of each vehicle.

Exploring Religious Harmony Through Dalihan Na Tolu: Local Wisdom in Peacebuilding in Indonesia

This study aimed to investigate the dynamics of religious harmony and the strategies employed by Muslims and Christians in Mandailing Natal to build cohesive relationships through the indigenous cultural framework known as Dalihan Na Tolu. This study employed a qualitative descriptive method. Data collection was carried out through in-depth interviews, participant observation, and a literature review. Data analysis followed the Miles and Huberman model, which includes data presentation, data reduction, and conclusion drawing. The findings showed that the Muslim and Christian communities worked together to build peace and nurture religious harmony in Mandailing Natal. The cultural practice of Dalihan Na Tolu has long served as a foundation for accommodating the multicultural Mandailing society in fostering religious harmony and peace. The role of Dalihan Na Tolu could be seen in three aspects: socio-religious, economic, and customary practices. In these aspects, Muslims and Christians respected each other, fostered cooperation (gotong royong), and adopted a moderate and inclusive attitude towards diversity in their daily lives. Maintaining interfaith harmony through the cultural practice of Dalihan Na Tolu in Mandailing Natal is a crucial social modality that can contribute to peacebuilding and serve as a relevant strategy for preserving religious harmony in multicultural societies.