Economic Framework Research Articles

Incorporating Birch Bark Suberinic Acid Residue Powder into Structural Particleboards: Exploring Fractional Influence on Material Properties in Circular Economy Framework.

This study investigates the effects of suberic acid residue (SAR) additions on structural single-layer particleboard (like the P5 type, according to EN 312) properties, specifically the water absorption (WA), thickness swelling (TS), modulus of rupture (MOR), modulus of elasticity (MOE), screw withdrawal resistance (SWR), and internal bond (IB) strength. The results indicate that finer SAR fractions (1/0.25 and 2/1) reduce the WA after 2 h of soaking, while larger fractions increase the WA after 24 h, with only the smallest fraction meeting the TS standards. The MOR values (18.5-19.6 N mm-2) and MOE (3627-3811 N mm-2) remain largely unaffected by SAR additions, while the SWR shows minimal variation across various SAR fractions (203-209 N mm-1). The IB strength improves with SAR additions, peaking at 2.10 N mm-2 for the 5/2 fraction, though slightly decreasing with the largest fraction (8/5). A density analysis reveals an increased surface density with finer SAR fractions, benefiting the surface strength but reducing the core uniformity with larger fractions. These findings suggest that SAR-enhanced particleboards could be valuable in applications requiring moisture resistance, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and exterior cladding. Further research should explore optimizing the SAR concentration, combining it with hydrophobic agents, and examining its long-term stability under varying environmental conditions to enhance its structural performance for sustainable building applications.

3D Printing of New Foods Using Cellulose-Based Gels Obtained from Cerotonia siliqua L. Byproducts.

Carob pulp is a valuable source of cellulose-rich fraction (CRF) for many food applications. This study aimed to obtain and characterize a CRF derived from carob pulp waste after sugar removal and to evaluate its potential use in the 3D printing of cellulose-rich foods. Thus, the extraction of the CRF present in carob pulp (by obtaining the alcohol-insoluble residue) was carried out, accounting for nearly 45% dm (dry matter) of this byproduct. The CRF contained about 24% dm of cellulose. The functional properties (swelling capacity, water retention, and fat adsorption) related to this fraction were determined, showing a value of 5.9 mL/g of CRF and 4.0 and 6.5 g/g of CRF, respectively. Different gels were formulated with a total solids content of 15% wm (wet matter), using potato peel flour as a base and partially substituting with CRF (0% to 8% wm). The cellulose-based gels were characterized in terms of viscosity, water distribution (low-field Nuclear Magnetic Resonance), and printability, while the 3D printed samples were assessed for their textural properties. As the percentage of added CRF increased, the viscosity decreased while the water retention increased. Printability improved when small proportions of CRF (2% to 4%) were used, while it deteriorated for higher percentages (6% to 8%). The textural properties (hardness, adhesiveness, cohesiveness, and gumminess) showed significant changes caused by the addition of CRF, with gels containing 3% to 4% CRF exhibiting the most suitable printing values. In summary, this study demonstrates the significant potential of carob cellulose-based gel as an ingredient in the 3D printing of novel fiber-rich foods, contributing to reducing food waste and promoting sustainable practices within the framework of the circular economy.

Interplay of Chinese rare earth elements supply and European clean energy transition: A geopolitical context analysis

The European clean energy sector sources approximately 98 % of its rare earth materials from China. We examine Chinese rare earth supply's effect on European renewable energy, particularly solar and wind sectors from 1990 to 2020. Using the gravity model, we find a positive correlation between China's rare earth supply and European solar energy during bullish markets. A similar response is seen in wind energy during bearish markets, considering global and China-specific geopolitical risks. We also observe a negative correlation between China's economic growth and mineral supply to Europe, with European income growth having no significant impact. Additionally, multiplicative economic growth negatively impacts Chinese mineral supply. The study also reveals a positive link between oil prices, rare earth export prices, geopolitical risks, and China's mineral exports. Distance negatively affects supply dynamics in the wind model but not in the solar model. However, the originality of this study lies in its examination of China's role as a rare earth supplier for Europe's clean energy transition, integrated into a gravity model. Significantly, this research provides potential trade insights and formulates an economic policy implication framework to guarantee a steady supply of China's rare earths for Europe's green deal objectives, while addressing the associated geopolitical risks.

Combustion of Pelletized Coffee Residues for Bioenergy Valorization Within a Circular Economy Vision

Coffee is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world; the European Union alone consumes about 2.5 million tons of coffee per year. Yearly, millions of tons of coffee residues are generated, becoming an attractive material for circular economy flows. This study explores the potential of utilizing pelletized coffee residues as sustainable bioenergy sources within the framework of a circular economy. The coffee residues, obtained from damaged capsules and pods from factories, were utilized in pure form or blended with sawdust at different percentages, then analyzed with respect to their physical and thermochemical parameters. The results indicate that unblended coffee residues exhibit favorable combustion properties with respect to heating value (18.84 MJ kg−1), but also high concentrations of N (4.14%) compared to the conventional pellets obtained from other agricultural residues. The blending with woody material negatively affects both durability and bulk density, but simultaneously promotes a reduction in ash content (3.09%) and N content (1.94%). In general, this study confirmed the findings of previous scientific reports, highlighting that at least 50% blending with low-nitrogen biomasses is necessary to reach the marketability of the product. In addition, this study highlighted the criticality in terms of durability that these mixtures confer to the final product, emphasizing that future research should focus on optimizing the combination of these factors to improve the properties of the pellet.

China environmental economics: A political authority approach and neo-marxist perspective in the emission trading system (ETS) implementation

The study focuses on the implementation of the Emissions Trading System (ETS) in China and its impact on the economy, using an environmental economic theory framework reinforced by the theory of political authority and neo-Marxist perspectives. The research find that The ETS policy has a long-term positive impact on the economy and the amount of carbon intensity. The Chinese government influence is very powerful and can ensure that all entities follow the rules of emissions trading, which facilitates policy enforcement. Emissions trading also provides an opportunity for the business world to invest and generate new ideas, which will produce better products in the future. The research argue that China is striving to align itself with global governance in order to secure its economic interests, employing a political authority approach as a component of the Marxist perspective. The study examines the decision-making process in choosing between the short-term and long-term impact on the Chinese economy following the implementation of the Emissions Trading System (ETS). The study uses qualitative research methodology, using secondary data from previous research.

Not All Costs Are Created Equal: What Are the Types of Costs and Why Do They Matter?

Value-based care models are healthcare economic frameworks that aim to prioritize and financially incentivize quality of care, provider performance, and patient experience. The focus on value-based care metrics will undoubtedly lead to a greater weight placed on economic analyses in arthroplasty. Authors of cost analyses in arthroplasty often use the term “cost” in ways that have vastly different underlying meanings. It is imperative that surgeons understand the different characteristics of cost data, where they come from, and how to interpret them. There are three types of costs: 1) costs to the healthcare providers; 2) costs to the payer; and 3) costs to society. In this review, we evaluate where each type of cost data comes from, what are the appropriate conclusions to be drawn from them, and examples of how they are used in the literature.

Performance Analysis of Regenerated Lithium-Ion Batteries in Their Second-Life

The electric vehicle market's rapid growth is projected to yield 3 million discarded lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries by 2040, equating to 125 GWh of energy [1]. Transitioning to a circular economy is essential to address this environmental challenge and reduce reliance on vulnerable supply chains. While lead-acid batteries are efficiently recycled, the lithium-ion industry lags in circular practices. Conventional recycling focuses on valuable element extraction, requiring reprocessing for electrode fabrication. Direct recycling preserves the cathode but damages the microstructure, demanding additional processing and heightening environmental strain [2,3]. In this study we perform a comprehensive study of regenerated batteries using an approach more consistent with a circular economy framework where a separator is layered with benign lithium material that can be activated on-demand to rejuvenate lithium inventory in a battery without electrode material degradation [4]. In this study, a series of commercial Li-ion LFP-Graphite cells were cycled in their first-life to 80% of the nominal capacity under different stress levels, where stress is a composite measure of depth of discharge and charge and discharge rate. These used batteries are then directly rejuvenated by electrochemically activating a coating of lithium oxalate material on the separator until the lithium inventory is fully replenished. The resulting (60+) rejuvenated LFP-graphite cells were subsequently cycled through a second lifetime under different stress conditions to evaluate and understand the performance of the cells in their second-life and the overall influence of first-life cycling conditions on second-life performance outcomes. Our findings support that whereas some conditions lead to almost equivalent cycling durations for the second-life cells, the key variable that dictates the second life performance is the damage accumulation and corresponding increased cell resistance occurring during the first-life. Specifically, cells cycled under higher first-life stress conditions, such as at higher rates, gave more favourable second-life performance than cells cycled under lower first-life stress conditions. The results presented provide detailed insights into the technological approach, challenges, and opportunities for the regeneration of used Li-ion batteries for second-life applications in a manner consistent with circular economy framework. Acknowledgements This work was supported by the funding received from Iowa Energy Center [Grant No. 21-IEC-007] References Baars, T. Domenech, R. Bleischwitz, H. E. Melin, O Heidrich, Circular economy strategies for electric vehicle batteries reduce reliance on raw materials, Nat Sustain, 4 (2021) 71-79. J. Baum, R. E. Bird, X. Yu, J. Ma, Lithium-ion battery recycling─overview of techniques and trends, ACS Energy Letters, 7 (2022) 712-719. Dobó, T. Dinh, T. Kulcsár, A review on recycling of spent lithium-ion batteries, Energy Reports, 9 (2023) 6362–6395.M. Fan, Q. Meng, X. Chang, C. Gu, X. Meng, Y. Yin, H. Li, L. Wan, Y. Guo, In Situ Electrochemical Regeneration of Degraded LiFePO4 Electrode with Functionalized Prelithiation Separator, Advanced Energy Materials, 12 (2022) 2103630.

Exploring the Mediating Role of Innovation in the Nexus Between National Culture and Sustainable Competitiveness

This study examines the relationship between national culture, innovation, and sustainable competitiveness, addressing a critical gap in empirical research. This study engages in a rigorous investigation of the interconnections among national culture, innovation, and sustainable competitiveness, effectively addressing a significant void in the existing empirical literature. It offers a detailed and systematic analysis of the interrelationships among the three variables within the purview of an international economic framework. After conducting a comprehensive evaluation of data completeness and availability, it was determined that only 88 data points fulfilled the criteria for inclusion in the final sample. The analysis operationalizes national culture through Hofstede’s cultural dimensions, measures innovation using the World Intellectual Property Organization’s Global Innovation Index, and assesses sustainable competitiveness via Solability’s Sustainable Competitiveness Index, employing a quantitative path model across the selected countries. The findings reveal that national culture exerts a statistically significant, moderate influence on both innovation and sustainable competitiveness. Furthermore, innovation demonstrates a robust positive effect on sustainable competitiveness, indicating its crucial role in driving long-term national competitive advantage. Mediation analysis suggests that innovation partially mediates the relationship between national culture and sustainable competitiveness, though national culture retains a direct effect on competitiveness independent of innovation. These results underscore the multifaceted interplay between cultural and innovation-related factors in shaping national competitiveness. The study contributes to the literature by providing empirical validation of the complex interdependencies between these constructs and offers critical insights for policymakers focused on fostering innovation in alignment with cultural contexts to achieve sustainable competitiveness. Future research may explore additional mediating variables and employ longitudinal designs to further substantiate these findings.

Feminist Economics : A General Review

Feminist economics is a heterodox approach that challenges traditional economic theories by emphasizing gender inequalities and advocating for more inclusive analyses. This interdisciplinary field critiques the exclusion of non-market activities, such as childcare and domestic work, from conventional economic models. It argues that the omission of these activities results in substantial gender bias. Feminist economics has introduced new perspectives on economic success through the capability approach developed by Amartya Sen and Martha Nussbaum. This approach focuses on individuals' potential to achieve well-being and justice rather than merely economic output like GDP or income. Key concepts within feminist economics include household bargaining, measurement of unpaid work, and advocating for policies that support gender equality and social justice. The field also employs interdisciplinary data collection methods, such as time-use surveys and qualitative interviews, to gather more accurate data on non-market activities and their economic value. This study offers an exploration of the fundamental concept, theoretical and historical framework of feminist economics. It will also highlight the political implications of the field, examine its global influence, and explore its connections to other related fields. Additionally, the study will analyze future of feminist economics.

Redesigning quick commerce fresh and short food supply chains: circular economy strategies for sustainable last-mile operations

PurposeFresh and short food supply chains in grocery quick commerce (q-grocery FSFSCs), while valued for swift delivery, face challenges in sustainability, resource efficiency and scalability. This study aims to redesign the last mile of q-grocery FSFSCs by identifying and validating a framework of applicable circular economy (CE) practices. Furthermore, the study assesses the impact of these practices across various sustainability dimensions to understand their level of contribution to sustainable livelihoods and supply chain resilience.Design/methodology/approachThe study employs a multi-phase approach. First, an integrative literature review identifies CE practices and strategies. Second, a survey gathers data on the relationship between these practices and strategies and their impact on sustainability. Third, the framework is validated using the partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) method in WarpPLS 8.0. Finally, k-means cluster analysis in Tableau 2019.4 groups CE practices based on their impact across five sustainability dimensions: environmental, economic, social, resource efficiency and scalability.FindingsThe study validates a framework and identifies high-impact CE practices, such as waste reduction, sustainable packaging, sustainable sourcing, route optimization, sustainable processes and customer convenience. Medium-impact practices include energy efficiency, sustainable fleet, resale and redistribution and information flow. Low-impact practices cover composting, reverse logistics and appropriate storage.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings assist q-grocery companies to adopt CE practices and strategies that support sustainable livelihoods and strengthen supply chain resilience while offering policymakers guidance to promote circularity.Originality/valueThis study is unique in the exploration of the intersection of quick commerce, FSFSCs and CE principles, providing actionable insights for sustainability in the q-grocery industry.

Towards Zero Waste: An In-Depth Analysis of National Policies, Strategies, and Case Studies in Waste Minimisation

This review provides a detailed analysis of zero waste (ZW) initiatives, focusing on national policies, strategies, and case studies aimed at minimising municipal solid waste (MSW). It evaluates the environmental, social, and economic impacts of waste and explores the transition from conventional landfill reliance to sustainable waste management practices. Key ZW approaches, including circular economy frameworks and extended producer responsibility (EPR), are examined through case studies from countries such as China, Germany, and the United States. The review highlights advancements in waste-to-energy (WTE) technologies, the development of zero waste cities, and the critical role of policies in achieving significant MSW reduction. Additionally, it identifies key challenges such as infrastructure gaps and regulatory weaknesses and offers practical solutions to overcome these barriers. This study serves as a valuable resource for policymakers aiming to implement effective waste reduction strategies and enhance sustainable waste management systems globally.

Investigating Oman’s environment for startup opportunities

Entrepreneurship significantly contributes to national economies globally, including in the Sultanate of Oman, which is prioritizing its Oman Vision 2040. A startup ecosystem has developed to address market failures and rectify the oversight of entrepreneurship's role within the economic framework. The exploratory study aims to investigate and understand why Oman is appealing to entrepreneurs, as well as to examine the support provided by the country's startup ecosystem for emerging businesses. This paper also aims to investigate the opportunities and challenges within Oman’s startup ecosystem. It also seeks to assess how effectively Oman’s environment fosters entrepreneurship by enhancing market opportunities and alleviating the challenges and obstacles encountered by startups. The Omani government has introduced several initiatives to enhance the contribution of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to the economy. Oman has been motivated to develop innovative business concepts and new products through unique experiences and creativity. However, they lack the qualities of opportunism and proactivity needed to turn these ideas into successful entrepreneurial ventures. The challenges in Oman stem from a weak innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem, which significantly limits the ability of incubators to provide meaningful value. The primary challenge facing startup ecosystems is limited access to key resources that can improve the performance of firms. The research indicates a necessity for a cohesive environmental framework that unites the different components of entrepreneurship in Oman. The role of the government in fostering a positive entrepreneurial environment is crucial in encouraging the establishment of new startups in Oman. The Omani government has established various committees and annual plans to promote entrepreneurship. The presence of government support greatly enhances the viability of entrepreneurial ventures in Oman by offering robust support and management assistance will help ensure the sustainability of startups in Oman and their positive impact on the national economy. The policy should prioritize the development of the innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystem, while also enhancing the cultural framework that supports these initiatives, enabling incubators to operate effectively. Policymakers in Oman would prioritize the establishment of a supportive ecosystem aimed at fostering entrepreneurship, encouraging Omani citizens to embrace entrepreneurial initiatives.

Difficult decisions and possible choices: Rare diseases, genetic inheritance and reproduction of the family

This article sets out to explore the dilemmas present in the reproductive practices of people affected by rare hereditary diseases, focusing on the use of diagnostic tests and the practice of genetic counselling in Brazil. The development of technologies capable of mapping ‘genetic flaws’ prior to conception or in prenatal consultations has led researchers to consider how these technologies may be shaping contemporary subjectivities related to kinship and guiding reproductive decisions based on knowledge of our ‘genetic heritage.’ Genetic counselling has emerged in this setting as a modality of health knowledge and information capable of assisting people, especially women, in their reproductive choices. In Brazil, access to these technologies and their use has proven to be unequal and heterogeneous. I argue that the idea of ‘choice’ that permeates genetic counselling needs to be problematized by considering the social, cultural, economic, affective and moral frameworks in which women are inserted and that inform and/or determine their reproductive decisions. Based on this premise, I analyse how families ‘at risk’ of rare hereditary diseases deal with the idea of ‘genetic inheritance’ in relation to the ‘wish to have children’, and the impasses surrounding the idea of ‘informed choice’ when we evaluate this rhetoric in the context of the shortfalls in access to healthcare and the limits to reproductive justice in Brazil.

The Evolution of On-Demand Platforms: Conceptual Framework, Regulatory Challenges, and Policy Implications in the Digital Economy

Digital platforms currently form the cornerstone of what is referred to as 'platform economics,' progressively assuming a central role in the city's economy, experiential landscape, and governance. On-demand platforms play a pivotal role in elevating the level of digital sophistication among citizens. This article extends the current research on on-demand service markets, aiming to cultivate an understanding of this nascent domain of digital platform business within the broader framework of the smart city. In the first section, we delve into various concepts related to on-demand service markets, outlining their distinctive features in comparison to traditional service markets, and elucidating the principal components of the on-demand digital platform economy. The second part of this paper employs bibliometric analysis to unveil, among other insights, emerging areas of interest, key works, and influential researchers in the field, as well as the countries and institutions where research on on-demand service markets is most advanced. This research endeavour may lay the foundation for the development of a theory pertaining to the provision of on-demand services within the context of the platform economy. Finally, the research extensively discusses regulatory challenges and public policy implications in the context of on-demand platforms, with a focus on worker protection, algorithmic transparency, and data security.

Assessing the impact of human activities on the health condition of the Lukosi River catchment using selected physico-chemical parameters as indicators of water quality

The Lukosi River catchment plays a crucial role in the economic and ecological framework of the country, serving as a major contributor to the Great Ruaha River (GRR). This study aimed to assess the impact of human activities on the health of the Lukosi River by analyzing key water parameters. Three sampling sites across the catchment were selected, and water samples were collected and analyzed using the American Public Health Association technique. A one-sample t-test was used to measure the significance of the difference between the measured water quality parameters and the water quality criteria established by the Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) and the World Health Organization (WHO). The results revealed mean values for various parameters: pH (8.67 ± 0.57), temperature (24.803 ± 1.361°C), EC (93.30 ± 3.34 mgL−1), BOD (14.85 ± 1.49 mgL−1), TDS (46.95 ± 1.55 mgL−1), total hardness (27.53 ± 1.28 mgL−1), DO (3.4 ± 0.53 mgL−1), turbidity (109.83 ± 40.99 mgL−1), NO2 (79.04 ± 0.73 mgL−1), Cu (6.07 ± 0.60 mgL−1), Ca (7.88 ± 0.36 mgL−1), Mn (0.16 ± 0.07 mgL−1), Cl (7.58 ± 3.97 mgL−1), F (0.12 ± 0.0008 mgL−1), SO4 (20.42 ± 4.12 mgL−1), Mg (1.92 ± 0.13 mgL−1), Zn (0.14 ± 0.11 mgL−1), Fe (3.56 ± 0.15 mgL−1), and NH3 (4.67 ± 0.51 mgL−1). Parameters such as DO, turbidity, NH3, NO3, and BOD significantly (p = 0.05) exceeded the permissible limits set by the TBS and the WHO. Furthermore, elements including Fe and Cu exceeded allowable limits. Moreover, the WQI was used to indicate that the water in the catchment is unsuitable for sustaining aquatic organisms and is unfit for domestic use. Household questionnaires and direct observations identified key human activities in the catchment: gardening (78.3%), agriculture (68%), livestock keeping (50%), sand mining (21%), and brick-making (21%). Less prevalent were car washing (7%) and fishing (4%). These findings underscore the urgent need for conservation efforts and sustainable management practices to safeguard the Lukosi River catchment (LRC).

The promise and perils of digital finance: evidence from crime rate in China

ABSTRACT This study explores the societal impact of the rapid global expansion of digital finance, employing China Household Finance Survey within a criminal economics framework. We found that the development of digital finance effectively alleviates the overall crime incidence, particularly in regions with higher mobile phone usage and lower proportions of older adults. The crime reduction effect correlates with the decline in cash transactions and the promotion of entrepreneurial activities. Moreover, variations exist in different digital finance services on property and non-property crimes. This empirical evidence offers valuable insights into the broader implications for countries experiencing unprecedented digital finance growth.

Integrating Circular Economy Practices for Sustainable Maritime Tourism Development in Bone Regency, Indonesia

This study analyzes the application of circular economy principles in the development of marine tourism in Bone Regency, Indonesia, using a qualitative case study approach involving local government representatives, community members, and tourists. Data was collected through in-depth interviews and field observations to understand the integration of circular economy practices, including waste management, resource reuse, and local community empowerment. Findings highlight both opportunities and challenges in implementing sustainable tourism, such as limited funding and infrastructure. However, effective practices, such as community-led recycling initiatives and government support in waste treatment, underscore the potential for circular economy models to enhance environmental sustainability and local economic benefits. The study concludes that a circular economy framework, supported by multi-stakeholder collaboration, can provide a path toward sustainable marine tourism, offering insights for policymakers and researchers aiming to balance environmental and economic goals in tourism development.

Building a Circular Economy for Lithium: Addressing Global Challenges.

As countries worldwide race toward a green transition, the demand for electric vehicles is surging, and with it comes a growing need for batteries. However, the push for increased domestic mining to secure these materials raises significant concerns about environmental sustainability. Even with stringent regulations, the environmental impact of mining can be profound, posing risks such as biodiversity loss, water pollution, and broader ecological damage. Furthermore, geopolitical tensions could arise as countries whose economic interests are threatened by these initiatives may react adversely. Local communities might also resist mining projects due to concerns over environmental degradation, health risks, and disruptions to their livelihoods. Given the critical importance of metals in the ecological transition, this challenge must be approached with the same urgency and global coordination as a pandemic response. Just as the world mobilized unprecedented resources to tackle COVID-19, a similarly robust approach is necessary to ensure the availability of critical metals for a sustainable future. This paper suggests potential pathways for academic, technological, and societal advancements within the framework of a circular economy for lithium, aiming to secure a sustainable supply of this essential resource.

Achieving a framework of the circular economy in urban transport infrastructure projects: a meso-scale perspective

Urban infrastructure development is one principal way people are transforming the natural world and their living conditions. It is important for humanity, but it can also cause major impacts to the environment, such as huge amounts of solid waste and CO2 emissions. Considering this, the circular economy (CE) is a promising alternative to the traditional “make, use, and dispose” linear economy model. However, as a strategy for sustainable development (SD), the CE is still in its infancy in the urban transport infrastructure sector. Therefore, this article aims to guide the implementation of CE during transport infrastructure projects. To achieve this goal, a literature review and case study were adopted as the research methods. After reviewing existing well-established CE frameworks, the iReSOLVE (implement, Regenerate, Share, Optimize, Loop, Virtualize, Exchange) framework is recognized as the most comprehensive one. Upon it, an analytical framework containing specific-related aspects of CE in urban transport infrastructure projects (which belongs to meso-scale) is proposed (coined as the 4Wh-iReSOLVE framework). The 4Wh means Who, When, Where, and What. The proposed framework offers insight into potential CE activities for transport infrastructure projects and assists in assessing the performance and impacts of CE of these projects to cover the gap of the neglected meso-scale. Ten circular viaduct project initiatives in the Netherlands are used as case analyses with the 4Wh-iReSOLVE framework. The results present the highlights of the circular viaduct initiatives in the Netherlands, with CE activities categorized into five groups (design-related strategies, general CE strategies, implementation, management, and related digital technologies and materials, as well as environmental sustainability). As verified by several experts of the projects studied, it can be concluded that the 4Wh-iReSOLVE framework is suitable for transport infrastructure project CE analyses and implementations. It can potentially be a suggested guideline in future policy documents.

Data and contemporary economics: role, paradox and development

PurposeA more accurate comprehension of data elements and the exploration of new laws governing contemporary data in both theoretical and practical domains constitute a significant research topic.Design/methodology/approachBased on the perspective of evolutionary economics, this paper re-examines economic history and existing literature to study the following: changes in the “connotation of production factors” in economics caused by the evolution of production factors; the economic paradoxes formed by data in the context of social production processes and business models, which traditional theoretical frameworks fail to solve; the disruptive innovation of classical theory of value by multiple theories of value determination and the conflicts between the data market monopoly as well as the resulting distribution of value and the real economic society. The research indicates that contemporary advancements in data have catalyzed transformative innovation within the field of economics.FindingsThe research indicates that contemporary advancements in data have catalyzed disruptive innovation in the field of economics.Originality/valueThis paper, grounded in academic research, identifies four novel issues arising from contemporary data that cannot be adequately addressed within the confines of the classical economic theoretical framework.