Sustainable Innovation Research Articles

Unveiling How Internal Control Foster Sustainable Green Innovation Ecosystem: Mediating Role of Environment Management Accounting Data Analytics

This study constructs and validates a theoretical framework that focuses on the correlation between internal control systems (ICS) and the sustainable green innovation ecosystem (SGIE). Furthermore, it aims to investigate the role of environmental management accounting data analytics (EMADA) as a mediator in the relationship between ICS and SGIE. The current study utilized a methodological approach consisting of three components namely a literature review, expert interviews, and a self-administered survey. The study used structural equation modeling to analyze the proposed model, which was constructed using statistical data gathered from a cross-sectional survey of 583 accountants working in public sector organizations (PSOs). The acquired observations underscored the interdependence and mutual reinforcement of the proposed dimensions. These observations provided guidance for PSO leaders to recognize and take advantage of chances to enhance their effectiveness in the green innovation implementation journey. They also helped in developing strong strategies to efficiently steer their digital transformation process. The work's detailed findings were crucial in enabling policymakers to establish rules and regulations linked to digitalization and green innovation.

Editorial: Desarrollo urbano y energía en el contexto de ciudades intermedias sostenibles

Sustainability-oriented urbanism proposes strategies to address environmental, social, and economic challenges in intermediate cities. Within the framework of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this issue of CienciAmérica highlights the importance of sustainability in cities. The energy transition of cities is necessary and represents an opportunity to promote sustainable investments, in line with SDG 7 (affordable and clean energy) and SDG 13 (climate action). Similarly, sustainable urban planning, in line with SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities), promotes the circular economy through proper waste management, thereby reducing environmental impacts and promoting economic sectors and job creation. On the other hand, education for a culture of sustainability, in line with SDG 4 (Quality Education), is essential to create a society that is aware and proactive in protecting the environment. This volume also includes sustainable technology, innovation and economic competitiveness, key aspects in the implementation of SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure). Finally, this edition calls on governments, businesses, organizations and citizens to work together to build a sustainable future, where sustainability and the economy are intrinsically linked to ensure the sustainable functioning of cities.

A Sustainable Innovation: Functionalization of Pasta with Methanol Extract of Turkish Red Pine (Pinus brutia Ten.) Barks

A Sustainable Innovation: Functionalization of Pasta with Methanol Extract of Turkish Red Pine (Pinus brutia Ten.) Barks

The Relationship Between Income Inequality and Economic Growth: A Comparative Case Study

This research explores the pivotal role of transformational leadership in fostering organizational innovation. Transformational leadership, characterized by its ability to inspire and motivate followers beyond their own self-interests, has been identified as a key driver of innovation within organizations. The study delves into the core components of transformational leadership—idealized influence, inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation, and individualized consideration—and examines how these elements contribute to creating a culture of innovation. Through real-world case studies of organizations like Apple Inc. and Cleveland Clinic, the research demonstrates the significant impact of transformational leadership on promoting risk-taking, learning from failure, and driving continuous improvement. Moreover, the study highlights the challenges and criticisms associated with transformational leadership, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to sustain innovation in the long term. The research concludes that as organizations face increasingly complex challenges in the 21st century, transformational leadership will remain crucial in driving sustainable innovation and organizational success.

Navigating Uncertainty: Evaluating the Pandemic's Impact on Warung Upnormal's Expansion Strategy

The COVID-19 pandemic presented significant challenges to the food and beverage industry, impacting consumption patterns and economic dynamics. This research aims to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the expansion strategy of Warunk Upnormal, one of the leading restaurant chains in Indonesia. This research employs a case study approach to explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the food and beverage industry in Indonesia. the pandemic led to a 40% decline in sales, necessitating adaptations like transitioning to take-away-only operations. While foot traffic gradually recovered post-pandemic, changing consumer preferences prompted the closure of multiple outlets. Financial strains exacerbated by the franchise model underscored the delicate balance between profitability and operational sustainability. Similarly, other startups like Kopi Kenangan faced challenges despite alternative business strategies. Roy Mandey of the Indonesian Retailers Association emphasizes the importance of adaptability and innovation in navigating volatile market conditions. Sustained innovation and a deep understanding of evolving consumer preferences will be crucial for future success in the post-pandemic landscape.

Blue-Antifouling: Sustainable Innovation Against Biofouling in Naval Equipment

Blue-Antifouling: Sustainable Innovation Against Biofouling in Naval Equipment

Artificial Intelligence and the Great Reset: Impacts and Perspectives for Italian SMEs Business Model Innovation

The rise of artificial intelligence is fundamentally transforming the competitive landscape across various sectors, offering visionary enterprises new pathways to innovation development and to get a competitive edge. AI leverages data, analysis, and observations to perform tasks without hard coding, and benefits from self-learning and continuous improvement. We use Systems Thinking to frame how managers may adopt and integrate AI in business activities. We also investigate the motivations driving entrepreneurs to adopt AI solutions, and how they may impact on sustainable business model innovation, by administering a questionnaire to a sample of innovative Italian SMEs to get a comprehensive overview of the dynamics influencing AI adoption in business. This study sheds light on the intricate relationship between technology, sustainability, and corporate innovation. It offers both valuable insights for future research and for strategic managerial decisions on AI integration. Furthermore, it helps the development of innovative, sustainable business models in the evolving landscape of the Great Reset.

Design and evaluation of a blockchain‐based system for increasing customer engagement in circular economy

AbstractThe purpose of this study is to design, develop and evaluate a blockchain platform in the field of circular economy (CE). To achieve this aim, the research demonstrates the feasibility of designing a decentralised architecture and prototyping a distributed system to increase customer engagement in the transition toward CE. Building on previous research and leveraging on the design science research approach, the paper identifies the technical and managerial issues that must be addressed to adopt blockchain as an enabling technology in the CE domain. More in details, starting with the identification of circular sharing economy (CSE) processes, a conceptual framework was designed to evaluate how blockchain implementation has the potential to enhance the role of customers involved in CSE processes. As for the practical implications, the suggested conceptual framework reduces the knowledge gap between blockchain developers and corporate social responsibility specialists. To bridge the gap, it identifies future directions and practical guidelines for designing and implementing blockchain to support the digital and sustainable innovation of more circular firms and supply chains.

Examining the impact of climate change on cereal production in India: Empirical evidence from ARDL modelling approach

Agriculture sector is major sufferer of climate change both at a global level as well as at India level. Cereals account for about 92 % of India's total food grain output and climate change has a significant influence on the production of cereals. This study aimed to evaluate the long-term and short-term effects of climatic and non-climatic variables, specifically temperature, precipitation, cereal area, total cropped area, fertilizer consumption, and pesticide consumption, on cereal production in India. The study included annual time series data that covered the period from 1960 to 2018, covering a period of 58 years. Various econometric techniques were employed to examine these relationships. The validity of a long-term and short-term relationship among the relevant variables included in the study was validated by employing the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) technique and the Johansen cointegration test. The ARDL model's estimation outcomes reveals that input factors such as cereal area became a key factor in rising cereal production, as evidenced by its positive coefficient. Similarly, fertilizer consumption and precipitation had positive effects on production in the long run whereas total cropped area and minimum temperature has little influence over the results of production both in short run as well as long run. Furthermore, the long-term findings were also supported using econometric tools like Canonical Cointegrating Regression (CCR) and Fully Modified Least Squares (FMOLS). These methods confirmed that variations in cereal production in India were significantly influenced by both climatic factors and agricultural inputs and factors. The study emphasizes the urgency for policymakers to prioritize proactive measures aimed at reducing the adverse impacts of climate change on cereal production in India. This necessitates a comprehensive strategy integrating sustainable practices, technological innovations, and robust policy frameworks to ensure resilient agricultural sectors and sustainable food production.

Research on the Integration and Innovation Development of Digital Empowered Lifelong Education under the Background of Informatization

Under the impetus of the wave of informatization, lifelong education has ushered in unprecedented development opportunities. Firstly, digital technology has broken educational resources’ temporal and spatial limitations, achieved global resource sharing and provided learners with a broader learning space. Secondly, personalized learning models have emerged with the support of information technology, meeting the diverse learning needs of learners and improving learning outcomes. Finally, cross-border integration and innovative development have become important trends in lifelong education, promoting innovation and development of education models through integration with different industries and the application of emerging technologies. This study analyzes the current development status, challenges and future trends of lifelong education under the background of informatization and proposes corresponding strategies and suggestions to promote the sustainable development and innovation of lifelong education.

FinTech and economic readiness: Institutional navigation amid climate risks

The current climate change is declared as a global boiling point by the UN; businesses are facing increasing costs in maintaining their supply chains and production standards and are being urged to adapt and innovate for environmental transition. With the Industrial Revolution 4.0, FinTech has helped develop households’ and firms’ resilience against climate change. This study explores how businesses use FinTech to increase economic readiness to attract adaptation investments. This study hypothesizes that, at initial levels of businesses, FinTech adoptions are typically targeted to improve profitability while, as businesses mature, their FinTech adoption shows a transition towards sustainability. Following this, the role of institutions in regulating an ecosystem is to promote sustainable financial innovations. This study employs a 114-country panel data analysis to investigate these dynamics empirically. The estimation using Panel Quantile Regression showed that institutional quality can moderate the U-shaped FinTech adoption and business readiness relationship to expedite the transition under Sustainable Development Goal 9. This research sheds light on the impact of institutional quality on improving businesses’ ability to attract adaptation investments via promoting sustainable innovation. Outcomes offer valuable insights for policymakers, firms, and investors seeking to foster a more resilient economy.

Bridging green supply chain practices and environmental performance in Chinese semiconductor sector: With the role of energy efficiency and green HRM

The semiconductor sector of China, which is an essential part of the global electronics market, is experiencing significant pressure to adopt green practices. Therefore, this study examines the role of green supply chain practices such as customer environmental collaboration, green purchasing and sustainable innovation in environmental performance. By leveraging the integrated perspective of the resource based-view, natural resource-based view and ability-motivation-opportunity as a theoretical lens, the study evaluates whether green practices lead to better environmental performance. In this study, energy efficiency is explored as a mediator between green purchasing, sustainable innovation and environmental performance, revealing its part in reaping the benefits of green initiatives. Additionally, green human resource practices are assessed as a moderator to identify how supportive such practices can be to amplify the relationship between customer environmental collaboration and firm environmental performance. Leveraging a PLS-SEM methodology, the findings reveal that environmental collaboration with customers, green purchasing and sustainable innovation directly lead to superior environmental performance. The study identifies the crucial role of energy efficiency as a mediator as it helps reinforce the effectiveness of green practices. The proven role of green human resource management as a moderator underscores the need to integrate human resource management with environmental objectives. Policymakers could take guidelines from the study to develop policies related to enhancing environmental performance using effective green supply chain practices and green human resource management practices.

Synthesis of calcium sulfate whiskers via acidification exploiting FGD gypsum for improved binder properties

This research focuses on the synthesis of calcium sulfate whiskers using FGD (Flue Gas Desulfurization) gypsum as raw material through the acidification method and their utilization in gypsum binders. The acidification method using H2SO4 (1.5 mol/L) is distinguished by its sustainability and resource efficiency. The addition of Calcium Sulfate Whisker as an activator enhances the binder's properties by increasing its strength, durability, resistance to environmental factors, and overall structural integrity. The effects of different reaction parameters on the properties and microstructure of CSW have been studied. This research has the potential to bring about significant improvements in various applications, from construction materials to industrial products. Calcium Sulfate Whiskers act as pore fillers within the binder matrix which reduces the porosity and helps to decrease water absorption up to 12%. CSW is characterized by its needle-like structure, which provides an intricate network within the binder matrix. SEM images showed the strong interfacial bonding between the whiskers and the binder matrix, enhanced by the rough surface of the whiskers, which improves mechanical interlocking and adhesion. CSW demonstrates its potential as a highly active component in the binder. The whiskers facilitate efficient nucleation sites, accelerating the hydration reactions within the binder and enhancing the overall performance of the binder. CSW incorporation in the binder increases the compressive strength by up to 21.6% and flexural strength by 37%. The exceptional mechanical strength and efficient nucleation sites provided by CSW contribute to an increase in the workability of the binder and make it suitable for interior as well as exterior applications. These interconnected facets collectively position the project as a valuable and highly pertinent contribution, where sustainable innovation and improved material properties are of paramount importance. It potentially reduces the need for traditional additives with higher environmental impacts, making the binder formulation more eco-friendly.

The business case for sustainability: six takes on a cultural artefact

ABSTRACT The business case as the prime mover of business decision-making retains an iron grip on the public imagination and the business school curriculum. Recent studies suggest its influence may be exaggerated, and that its depiction as totalising is somewhat cartoonish. We survey the role and effects of the business case in corporate sustainability efforts. Rather than examining its validity or correctness, we approach the business case as a commonly employed cultural artefact. We argue that the business case is neither sufficient nor necessary for sustainable innovation, and examine how it operates as a fixation and impediment, as well as occasional enabler. We conclude by laying out paths for sustainability champions to innovate with and beyond the business case.

Integrating Blockchain Technology in Business Models for Sustainable Innovation

This research paper investigates the role of blockchain technology in sustainable business model innovation by proposing a comprehensive framework. The study addresses the following research questions: How can blockchain technology enhance business model components? What are the specific innovations enabled by blockchain technology? To answer these questions, a hybrid approach was employed. Initially, a thorough review of existing literature identified key components of business model innovation. Subsequently, a survey was conducted among technology experts to evaluate the applications of blockchain technology in these components. The analysis revealed five categories of innovation: macro-activities of the value network, micro-activities within the organization, governance, financial aspects, as well as sustainable innovation. Next, a novel conceptual model was developed to assess the impact of digital technologies on business model performance, and then it was evaluated using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Key findings indicate that blockchain technology significantly enhances data transparency, security, and efficiency capabilities, leading to improved innovation and increased sales volume. Practical implications include recommendations for organizations to prioritize investments in platform technologies, insight analysis, and sensor-based data collection to achieve sustainable business model innovation. The study underscores the importance of a holistic approach to integrating blockchain technology across all business model components to maximize its potential.

Conceptualising global cultural transformation—developing deep institutional scenarios for whole of society change

Abstract This paper aims to contribute to current efforts to improve methodologies to find more ambitious and integrated strategies to jointly pursue the Paris climate target and other Sustainable Development Goals. It suggests a means of further expanding the underlying societal perspectives in scenarios modelling through a model of deep institutional innovation for sustainability and human development (DIIS), which aims to reframe the narrative from sociotechnical transition to deep global cultural transformation. The paper posits the need for capturing irreversible transformation change through a fundamental reimagining of the key social institutions that together comprise contemporary societies. To illustrate the application of the DIIS framing to pathway scenarios an indicative scenario is offered to indicate the radical global cultural changes required to move to pathways capable of bringing about greater sustainability and human flourishing.

Polluting industries: Does green industrial policy encourage green innovation? Chinese perspective evidence

This study investigates the efficacy of green industrial policies in stimulating green innovation within China's polluting industries, over the period 2011–2022. Focusing on 30 provinces, we assess the dynamic relationship between green industrial policy implementation and innovation in environmentally detrimental sectors. Employing Difference-in-Differences (DID) and Propensity Score Matching DID (PSM-DID) models, we analyze comprehensive provincial-level data to quantify the impact of policy measures on green technological advancements. The results reveal a significant positive correlation between green industrial policies and the rate of green innovation, particularly in regions with higher pollution levels. These findings suggest that well-structured green industrial policies can serve as effective catalysts for fostering sustainable technological innovations in polluting industries. Policy implications highlight the necessity of targeted, region-specific approaches to maximize the potential of green industrial policies in promoting environmental sustainability and economic growth.

Analysis of Evolving Technologies and Impact of Smart Shipping on the Future Workforce in the Maritime Industry

Purpose: There is a shift in phase within the maritime industry toward smart shipping, where IoT and AI are used. The real question revolved around these technologies' impact on future employees in ships and shipping. The reason is to understand how this rapidly changing technological world affects these maritime professionals. Study design/methodology/approach: A systematic review was performed according to the system of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta−Analyses (PRISMA). The literature review aimed at analysing a comprehensive spectrum from academic publications to industry reports and white papers in order… The Smart Shipping case studies were studied to provide practical knowledge on the integration of IoT and AI in maritime operations. Findings: The resulting analysis was a diverse and changing technological environment, including blockchain, AI, IoT, autonomous vessels, and innovations that are driven by sustainability. The use of blockchain applications allows for achieving increased transparency, while AI-based developments bring improvements in navigation, logistics and maintenance. The introduction of IoT allows industries to transform via the collection of data in real time. Autonomous vessels offer both challenges and opportunities designed to impact seafaring jobs. Sustainability innovations aim at clean energies and more ecological applications. Smart Shipping case studies demonstrated various positive outcomes on the deployment of IoT and AI applications that are realised in terms of operational efficiency gains up to issues with workforce adaptation. Originality/value: The paper sheds light on the maritime environment as well as its potential impact on determining the future workforce. The strategies to deal with the changes, such as job role change, workforce adaptation strategy and overcoming challenges, should be considered essential. Whereas merits arising from technical development enable the companies to benefit as far as efficiency is concerned, missing opportunities for careers in seafaring imply that active measures to build workforce capacities have become inevitable. The paper ends with recommendations for policy-makers, industrial representatives, and researchers who can help take successful steps in the face of changing fields associated with technology use encompassing maritime operations.

Agrifood Sustainability Transitions in Firms and Industry: A Bibliographic Analysis of Research Themes

There is a growing consensus that the modern food system lies at the centre of the great challenges facing humanity and that urgent and profound changes are required in the way that food is produced, processed, distributed and consumed. This review analyses sustainability transitions within agrifood systems, focusing on the role of firms and industries as defined by the Sustainable Transitions Research Network (STRN). This paper conducts the first systematic literature review using bibliometric analysis to assess the current state of research on this theme. The findings reveal a significant increase in publications related to firms and industries associated with agrifood sustainability transitions. Furthermore, the focus of current research is geographically concentrated in the European Union. The review identifies four key themes in the literature, based on the co-occurrence of keywords. These are agriculture, innovation, governance, food systems and agroecology. The review identifies an increasing awareness of the role of farmers in driving sustainability transitions at the farm level. Furthermore, there is an increasing awareness of the interrelated characteristics of the agrifood system, which acknowledges the need for sustainable innovations to occur at multiple stages of the agrifood system. The review also shows that there is growing evidence that innovations can occur through disruptive as well as incremental innovation and highlights the importance of governance influencing transitions. The existing literature raises questions about alternative food networks as sustainable innovations, their potential for significant change in the established food system and the validity of their claims regarding food equity and environmental sustainability. A key theme emerging from the literature is an ecological perspective that identifies the complex biological processes and ecosystems that form an integral part of agricultural production. These findings provide a greater understanding of the current literature landscape of agrifood sustainable transitions relating to firms and industries and lay a foundation for future research.

Enhancing operational scale in SMEs through coopetition: Insights from the Portuguese ornamental stone industry

This study explores whether coopetition enhances scale determinants for SMEs, focusing on a case study in the Portuguese Ornamental Stone sector. The findings show that transitioning to coopetition networks positively impacts scale determinants in this sector. These improvements highlight coopetition's potential to drive operational efficiency, resource optimization, and market responsiveness, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 8, 9, and 12. However, the study's limitations include a specific focus on Portuguese SMEs and a limited data collection period, indicating the need for broader and longer-term research. Future research should extend to different sectors and regions, incorporate a broader range of KPIs, and consider external factors affecting coopetition outcomes. This would provide a more comprehensive understanding of coopetition's role in fostering sustainable growth and innovation in SMEs. This research contributes to theory by leveraging S-D Logic and open innovation to enhance coopetition, showcasing their practical application in SMEs.