Household Sustainability Research Articles

On the economic sustainability of Russian households at a socially acceptable level

The paper is focused on determination and analysis of the thresholds for socially acceptable criteria of economic sustainability for households of different composition. The paper shows the key methodological aspects of determining the economic sustainability of households and its socially acceptable criterion. The main macroeconomic conditions for the formation of economic sustainability of households in Russia are also considered. Besides, the characteristics of employment for the people living in economically (un)sustainable households have been identified and analysed. The basis for the household economic sustainability, according to the authors, is self-sufficiency that enables using its own resources to support the socially acceptable level of consumption of socially significant goods and to accumulate savings subject to the resources’ limitations and social risks. The socially acceptable consumer budget is used as the criterion for identification of the household economic sustainability, including the specifics of the consumption of the main socio-demographic groups of the population (population of working age, pensioners, children) and savings in consumption due to cohabitation. Differentiating features of the threshold values for the households of different types are determined in the paper. It is shown that the threshold values of the criterion for economic sustainability of households per household member decrease as the number of minor children per 1 adult increases. However, the income position of such households worsens and, in conditions of unsustainability, the income deficit increases relative to the threshold value. It is revealed that there are no unemployed individuals among the people from economically sustainable households (unlike those living in economically unsustainable ones), while the situation regarding the share of the employed and the level of income from employment varies, depending on the composition of households, indicating different “strategies” for achieving sustainability of their households.

Effects of Sustainable Agricultural Practices on Income and Environmental Sustainability of Small Farm Households in Rural Pakistan

Effects of Sustainable Agricultural Practices on Income and Environmental Sustainability of Small Farm Households in Rural Pakistan

Effects of Altitude on Socio-economic Conditions and Environmental Sustainability of Farm Households in North Pakistan (A Case Study of Namli Maira, Hazara Division)

This research study was based on the effect of altitude on farmers’ socio-economic conditions in northern Pakistan. Based on the high altitude, the air is thinner and has less ability to retain heat, which makes these mountainous areas more vulnerable to environmental sustainability and climate change as a result of increased natural hazards in the region. Thus, by employing a multinomial regression model, we analyzed the data by taking categorical observations for transect1, transect2 and transect3. The findings of the study show that for both commercial and subsistence purposes, agriculture was the most prominent source of income in all transects, particularly in transect1. It also contributed the largest level of income in transect1; however, in the other two transects, private employment was reported to contribute the largest levels of income, respectively. Furthermore, transect1, based on the education of the households, has a significant and negative effect. Income from off-farm and income from agricultural practices also have significant effects. Moreover, transect2 and transect3 have significant effects on land cultivated and income from agricultural practices. This study recommends that the government should subsidize the agricultural inputs for those remote households that have been engaged in agricultural productivity since the beginning of the country’s existence. It will make those households much more food secure and provide sufficient earnings from these farms.

Social protection, food security and sustaining households during COVID-19: Experiences of single mothers residing in Umkhanyakude, South Africa

This study examines the relationship between access to state cash transfers, food security and the sustainability of single-mother households in the rural Umkhanyakude Municipal area in Kwa-Zulu Natal province, South Africa. We explored the socio-economic impact of COVID-19 and cash transfers as a primary contributor to the economic well-being of single mothers from low-income rural communities. We also focus on financial transfers from non-state sources such as non-governmental organisations, kin and non-kin support systems. The sustainable livelihoods framework provides an analytical tool to understand how cash transfers from the state enable single mothers to navigate challenges during the pandemic. Drawing on interviews with 16 women from a rural community in Umkhanyakude, we analyse the distribution of family income to meet household expenses and the survival strategies such as livelihood activities initiated by single mothers to sustain households. The challenges and constraints that limit their livelihood outcomes, such as menial state support and financial constraints to sustain their economic activities are highlighted. Three key themes are discussed in this paper: the socio-economic impact of COVID-19 on food security, cash transfers as a strategy for reducing food insecurity, and access to sustainable livelihood activities to reduce food insecurities. This paper contributes to understanding single mothers' roles as actors and beneficiaries of the South African social protection system. It highlights opportunities for various state and non-state agents to advocate and support self-initiated economic activities in single-mother households.

Livelihood sustainability of small-scale fishing households: an empirical analysis of U Minh wetland, Ca Mau province, Vietnam

Livelihood sustainability of small-scale fishing households: an empirical analysis of U Minh wetland, Ca Mau province, Vietnam

Study on livelihood sustainability and rural revitalisation policy effects of poverty-eradicating households based on DID model analysis

Study on livelihood sustainability and rural revitalisation policy effects of poverty-eradicating households based on DID model analysis

Methodological approaches to the study of household financial sustainability

Introduction. The implementation of theoretical achievements of scientists in the study of household finances is preceded by the development of appropriate methodological approaches for conducting such research. However, a review of the literature has shown that scholars study mainly the methodology of household finances or their material embodiment - financial resources through the prism of using individual methods, without giving a general definition of the concept of methodology. Today, there is no consensus on the interpretation of the methodology of household finance research. This affects the overall development of this area of the financial system. This determines the relevance of developing methodological approaches to scientific knowledge of household financial sustainability The purpose of the paper is to continue existing research and develop proposals on methodological approaches to understanding the financial sustainability of households. During the study, analysis and synthesis were used as theoretical cognition of ensuring households’ financial sustainability. Results. The paper proposes dialectical, cognitive and institutional methodological approaches to the study of household financial sustainability. It is substantiated that the combination of such methodological approaches makes it possible to deepen the understanding of the concept of financial stability of households as a single whole, which is characterized by the interaction of external and internal. The process of external interaction takes place with the real economic and financial environment in which the household operates. As for the internal interaction, its essence is manifested through the peculiarities of the structure of the sustainability system, its composition and the interrelationships between the individual structural elements of the households’ financial activity. Conclusion. The proposed approaches make it possible to deepen the content of the concept of financial sustainability of households as a single whole, which is characterized by the interaction of external and internal. Taken together, the dialectical, cognitive, and institutional approaches discussed form the methodological basis for theoretical and practical research on the processes of ensuring household financial sustainability.

Evaluating the Impact of Technological Adaptation in Third-Party Logistics on Farming Household Sustainability: The Mediating Role of Supply Chain Robustness

Agriculture is recognized as a key determinant in the economic vitality of Sri Lanka. The prominent challenges faced by farmers include the pervasiveness of middlemen, insufficient storage infrastructure, substandard transportation between supply chain participants, and inadequate mechanization within the agricultural sector. This research primarily investigates the influence of Third-Party Logistics – including warehousing, distribution, and order fulfillment – on optimizing farmers' rewards, a process moderated by technology adaptation and mediated by supply chain robustness. The principal objective of this study is to explore and scrutinize the impact of logistics and its constituents on the optimization of compensations and additional benefits for farmers, which can be achieved by enhancing the supply chain through technological adaptation. To meet this objective, the researcher adopted a pragmatic philosophical position coupled with a deductive methodology. The research was conducted among farmers in the Northern Province of Sri Lanka. A sample of 180 farming households was chosen through a stratified simple random sampling technique that encompassed all Districts within the Province. An explanatory mixed method was employed as the methodological preference for the study, supplemented by a cross-sectional approach under the time horizon. The study's findings revealed that Third-Party Logistics positively impact reward maximization, and further demonstrated the moderating and mediating effects of technology adaptation and supply chain resilience. In conclusion, the paper presents recommended strategies, which include advancements in logistical practices and the implementation of updated technological solutions within agriculture. These recommendations could be adopted by farmers to maximize the monetary and non-monetary benefits.

Decoding the puzzle: exploring the factors influencing homeownership in Togo

Purpose This study aims to analyze the factors influencing households housing tenure choices in Togo. Design/methodology/approach The authors applied a rigorous econometric approach, using Harmonized Household Living Conditions Survey (EHCVM) data from 2018 and 2021 to construct a longitudinal panel, and Unified Basic Welfare Indicators Questionnaire (QUIBB) data from 2006, 2011 and 2015 to construct a pseudo-panel. Findings The study reveals that a household’s life-cycle variables like age of the household head, marital status, household size and place of residence, have a significant influence on homeownership. In addition, households in the highest wealth quartiles and used heads of household are more likely to own their home. Research limitations/implications Housing policies focused on improving the financial sustainability of low-income households and reducing the transaction costs associated with property acquisition are essential to promoting homeownership. Practical implications As part of the implementation of the Government Roadmap 2020–2025, the government has committed to providing 20,000 affordable social housing units, aiming to significantly boost the supply of decent housing. However, the findings of this study highlight the need for targeted subsidy programs for low-income households, particularly for female-headed households and those living in urban areas. These subsidies could cover part of the cost of purchasing homes. For middle-income households, it is crucial to develop suitable financing mechanisms, such as low-interest mortgages and loan guarantees. Given demographic pressures and the high cost of public housing programs, promoting self-build remains essential. This support should be accompanied by the provision of low-cost building materials and technical training in innovative, sustainable construction methods. Additionally, improved access to employment and land regularization are essential prerequisites for the success of these initiatives. Originality/value Research on the determinants of tenure choice is relatively limited in sub-Saharan Africa due to the unavailability of housing survey data. This paper proposes a case study of Togo, whose housing market characteristics correspond to most sub-Saharan African countries. Furthermore, this study applied two methodological approaches commonly used in dynamic analyses, thereby enhancing the robustness of the findings.

Reviewing the impact of energy-efficient appliances on household consumption

This review provides a succinct overview of the review on the impact of energy-efficient appliances on household consumption: Energy-efficient appliances play a pivotal role in mitigating energy consumption and promoting sustainability in households. This review examines the significant impact of energy-efficient appliances on household consumption patterns and energy usage. The review begins by elucidating the importance of energy efficiency in mitigating climate change and reducing carbon emissions. It underscores how household consumption accounts for a substantial portion of total energy usage, making it imperative to explore the role of energy-efficient appliances in curbing energy consumption. Key findings reveal that energy-efficient appliances offer substantial benefits, including reduced energy bills, lower environmental impact, and enhanced comfort and convenience for households. Through advanced technologies and design innovations, these appliances minimize energy wastage while maintaining optimal performance standards. Moreover, the review delves into the diverse range of energy-efficient appliances available to consumers, spanning from refrigerators and washing machines to HVAC systems and lighting fixtures. It examines the energy-saving features and efficiency standards governing these appliances, highlighting their role in promoting sustainable consumption habits among households. Furthermore, the review evaluates the economic and environmental implications of adopting energy-efficient appliances. It explores how energy savings translate into cost reductions for households, contributing to economic resilience and financial well-being. Additionally, it analyzes the environmental benefits, such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions and conservation of natural resources, associated with the widespread adoption of energy-efficient appliances. Challenges and barriers to the widespread adoption of energy-efficient appliances are also scrutinized, including upfront costs, consumer awareness, and market availability. Strategies to overcome these challenges, such as financial incentives, public awareness campaigns, and regulatory frameworks, are discussed to facilitate greater uptake of energy-efficient appliances among households. In conclusion, this review underscores the transformative impact of energy-efficient appliances on household consumption patterns and energy usage. It advocates for continued efforts to promote the adoption of energy-efficient appliances through policy interventions, technological advancements, and consumer education initiatives, ultimately fostering a more sustainable and energy-efficient future for households worldwide.

The Impact of Wage Levels on the Quality of Employment and Economic Sustainability of Households

The problem of compliance of the wage level of employees with social standards of living standards, having undoubted regional features, is relevant for all subjects of the Russian Federation. When determining the wage of organizations funded from regional budgets, we believe they should proceed from the general methodological basis for determining its size. In the article is analyzed the situation with the wage level of employees in the sector of organizations, which is the main segment of Russian employment. It has been revealed that the level of wages most strongly affects its quality and is one of the main indicators of precarious employment. The peculiarities of the distribution of employees by wage level are revealed, depending on the level of qualification of employees and their working conditions, taking into account the forms of ownership and the size of organizations. Based on the author’s tools, the analysis of the impact of wage levels on the economic sustainability of households due to (not) achieving socially acceptable and higher standards of living is carried out. It is shown that for more than 80% of employees, the wage level currently does not allow to ensure such standards. A radical increase in the wage level is proposed based on the development of industry-specific social wage standards. This will improve the quality of employment: reduce the scale of precarious employment, link the level of wages with the qualifications of employees and their working conditions, taking into account the characteristics of sectors of the Russian economy, as well as significantly increase the economic sustainability of households.

Grassroots Solutions for Global Challenges: The Role of Self-Help Groups in Building Sustainable Livelihoods and Resilience to Climate Change in Nyakach, Kenya

The impact of climate change in developing countries such as prolonged droughts, flooding and erratic rainfall, among other effects are increasingly driving agricultural-dependent households into deeper poverty each year. Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive adaptation and mitigation strategies, involving both local and global efforts. Self-help groups (SHGs) are recognized as powerful instruments for the empowerment of vulnerable groups, particularly women, by providing access to credit and health information. They also play a crucial role in climate change adaptation and mitigation, which in turn enhances sustainable livelihoods for their members. However, this aspect has received limited attention in academic research. This study explores the nexus between SHGs, climate change mitigation, and sustainable livelihoods in Nyakach Sub County, a region where persistent poverty is exacerbated by recurrent climate shocks. A descriptive research design was employed, involving a sample of 384 respondents selected from members of 630 self-help groups (SHGs) in Nyakach Sub County, Kenya. The study's findings show that SHG members benefit from SHGs facilitated capital assets some of which that have not only led to reduced reliance on firewood, thus mitigating deforestation, but also facilitated a transition to alternative energy sources. This shift has enhanced their adaptive capacity to challenges posed by climate change. Furthermore, a significant correlation (rs=0.659, p=0.014) was observed between SHG-associated resources and competencies in climate change mitigation, as well as household sustainability. Additionally, collective action, such as participation in tree planting and trenching/water channelling to combat flood effects, showed a strong correlation with SHG-associated resources. Overall, the study concludes that SHG-linked assets and competencies play a vital role in enhancing climate change adaptation and the sustainable livelihoods of members. The study recommends increased emphasis on strengthening social capital within SHGs.
 

Livelihood sustainability of rural households in response to external shocks, internal stressors and geographical disadvantages: empirical evidence from rural China

Livelihood sustainability of rural households in response to external shocks, internal stressors and geographical disadvantages: empirical evidence from rural China

Household Sustainability Labour and the Gendering of Responsibility for Low Waste Living

This article explores the nature of domestic labour involved in sustainability transitions at the household level, with waste reduction as an exemplar. We draw on national survey data (N = 2717) from Australia, and qualitative data from a participatory action project working with 34 householders on experiments in low waste living. We found low waste living was challenging work mentally, physically and interpersonally and required information, skills and the resources of time and money. Waste reduction in households also required relational labour inside and outside the household. On the basis of existing literature and our findings we theorise that sustainability labour is comprised of five overlapping elements: physical, cognitive, relational, economic and political tasks. We argue that reducing waste is an example of sustainability labour that is led largely by women, as they work to change household practices and the systems in which these are embedded, towards a more sustainable future.

Modelling the system dynamics of household food, water, and energy nexus effects

The food-energy-water nexus (F-E-W) serves as a crucial resource for the sustainability of households, while the efficiency of resource use largely depends on our understanding and management of the nexus including all three factors. Limited research has been conducted on this topic thus far because of the increasing complexity of home technologies and data availability. This study develops an evidence-based system dynamics model for assessing the synergy and trade-offs of the household F-E-W. By applying the system dynamics (SD) methodology, the FEW consumption and generation originating from home appliances were modelled and simulated. The model was applied to an eco-house in Tokyo, and its efficacy was validated with one-year hour-based observations of a home energy management system (HEMS). The findings revealed that water-related and food-related energy use accounted for approximately 55% of the total energy use. In addition, water-related energy use showed high uncertainty, suggesting a management potential of approximately 24% for reduction, and was significantly correlated with household carbon emissions. Moreover, this result verified that the effective management of household energy consumption requires the adept manipulation of the diverse array of energy sources employed for air and water heating, while HEMSs could play a key role in implementation.

Prosumer behavior and the assessment of the level of sustainable development of households in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic in Poland

The aim of the article is to assess the sustainability of households and present the issue of sustainable development in the context of consumer behaviour in Poland on the basis of our own surveys. The research was carried out in July 2022 on a sample of 1112 respondents with a diagnostic survey using the CAWI survey technique. During the research, various types of prosumer activities of households were defined, but also their consumer behaviour was assessed in terms of its positive impact on sustainable development. On the basis of selected variables describing the consumer behaviour of households, three indices of the measurement of sustainable development of households were built – a general index and two component indices. Then, the results were analysed for correlations between variables describing household characteristics and indices describing their level of presumption. Statistical, descriptive and comparative methods were used. The study shows that the surveyed households are highly sustainable. The level of sustainable development of the surveyed households is positively correlated with the level of prosumption.

Household Sustainability During COVID-19: Investigating Shifts in Food, Water and Energy Consumption Behaviours in Bayelsa State, Nigeria

This comprehensive study investigates the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on pro-environmental behaviours within Nigerian households. It extensively reviews literature exploring various models and theories, including Chernovich’s model and the Protection Motivation Theory (PMT), to understand the intricate factors influencing household eco-friendly conduct. Employing a correlational study design, the research utilized both probability and non probability sampling techniques to gather data through self-administered questionnaires from households in Yenagoa city, Nigeria. Findings revealed a significant increase in pro-environmental behaviors during the pandemic-induced lock down. Statistical analysis highlighted a notable rise in actions such as conserving energy, minimizing water usage, and reducing food waste. The study observed heightened household efforts in shutting off electrical appliances, adopting water-saving measures, and practicing better food management during the lock down period. Analysis of Household Conservative Behaviors (HCB) before and during the lock down showed a marked increase in eco-friendly actions, signifying the pandemic’s positive influence on environmental consciousness. Recommendations stemming from this research include advocating for awareness campaigns, financial incentives, community engagement, educational integration, policy advocacy, and continuous research to sustain and enhance pro-environmental behaviors. The study underscores the importance of crisis-preparedness strategies integrating sustainability considerations and tailoring interventions to diverse cultural contexts. These efforts aim to foster a culture of sustainability, promote awareness, and encourage proactive engagement in eco-friendly practices among Nigerian households, particularly during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic and in everyday life.

Sustainable urban homes? An assessment proposal in a community in the southeast of Mexico

[Introduction]: The sustainability of homes is one of the most significant challenges today. Activities that accelerate environmental degradation are developed on them: poor disposal of urban solid waste, excessive consumption of electricity and water, and use of fossil fuels, among others. [Objective]: To determine the level of sustainability of urban households in the municipality of Macuspana, Tabasco, Mexico. [Methodology]: 370 urban households representative of the total number of urban dwellings inhabited in the city were evaluated, with a confidence level of 95 %. A Sustainability Assessment Framework for Urban Households (MESHU) created from the selection, measurement, and percentage ratio of social, economic, and environmental indicators is proposed. 30 sustainability indicators divided into the following attributes were evaluated: self-management, adaptability, environmental culture, coexistence and productivity. [Results]: The sustainability level of the homes was 45 %. In summary, they are pretty sustainable. [Conclusions]: The sustainability evaluation of urban homes allowed an approximation of the reality of the practices and use of natural resources in daily life. At the same time, it is evident that homes have a culture toward sustainability.

Stavovi domaćinstava na Kosovu i Metohiji prema održivom razvoju

This article investigates the attitudes and preferences of households in three municipalities (Štrpce, Gračanica and Kosovska Mitrovica) in Kosovo and Metohija in relation to sustainability issues. For the purposes of the paper, a survey was conducted, in which data were collected by questionnaire from a total of 81 representatives of households from three municipalities. Through a comprehensive analysis of the results of the survey, the key factors affecting the sustainability of households were investigated, the challenges and obstacles faced by households in the implementation of sustainable practices were identified, and guidelines for improving sustainability were also proposed. The key conclusions point to the need for an integrated approach in promoting sustainability, which includes education, infrastructure investments, political incentives and support for households in order to create a sustainable society that protects the environment and promotes a better quality of life for all residents.

Defining sustainable home renovators in Australia

Home renovation is a global phenomenon, where households seek to remodel, reconfigure, and retrofit their home. While often a response to the material conditions of a dwelling, such as decay and damage, renovation also as emerges as a practice central to identity creation, sense of home, and leisure. Importantly, improving household sustainability is increasingly driving renovation activities, as governments and households seek to reduce the environmental impact of residential dwellings. Drawing on data collected from a national survey developed by the authors, this paper explores sustainable renovation practices in Australia. The paper provides a three-level analysis of home renovators. First, the paper profiles recent renovators. Second, the extent to which sustainability was considered by recent renovators during the renovation process is investigated. Third, the relationship between personal values placed on household sustainability and the sustainable renovation practices are explored. The analysis reveals that sustainability is an important renovation driver. However, sustainable renovation practices differ between groups of homeowners, with educated and wealthy homeowners most likely to undertake sustainable renovation. Further, those with a stronger commitment to household sustainability are the most likely to include expensive sustainability technologies as part of their renovations. However, it is younger households, who are less committed to the principles of household sustainability, that are most likely to access government subsidies to support the inclusion of these technologies as part of their renovation. The different profiles and actions of these renovator groups reveal a series of challenges and opportunities for governments seeking to promote household sustainability.